I Messenger 2-4-22

I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 22 FEBRUARY 4, 2022

January 2022

PRIME Person of the Year:

SUPERB Deion Sanders WOMEN

I Messenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110

BIG MAMA SAID:

JOB WELL DONE, RECOGNIZE GOD HAD A PURPOSE FOR YOU, HOLLYWOOD

Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR editor@myimessenger.com www.myimessenger.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marva Sneed EDITORIAL TEAM Anthony Council Chelle Wilson Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

Free - Take One

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION MB Distribution

.EWSSTANDS IN

Rowlett AT .EWSSTANDS IN esquite d,Rowlett ardson Mesquite chardson .Dallas

Free - Take One

editor@texasmetronews.com

Editorial submissions

& E.Dallas

450-13971 Year 1 Year Subscription $45.00 3)(903) 450-1397 Subscription $45.00

I Messenger

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.

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

Hollywood Hernandez with Terry Allen

By Terry Allen When any of us completed a chore, task or assignment, my grandmother, Lucille “Big Mama” would publicly tell us that we did a good job then she would also tell her sister circle when we were standing in their presence.

She believed that giving a person her roses while you were alive was way important.

She took that familiar stance where she would gather with the voice and that familiar stance--placing her hands on her hips and looking at us as she spoke the words, “Job well done.” We all knew what that meant. Praise and recognition had an important role in our house.

She clearly used her biblical foundation, anchored by. “Matthew 25:23: His lord said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.”

Big Mama reminded me that I should view any position of authority as an opportunity to help the people under you, and view your position of subservience as an opportunity to submit to your authority, just as Jesus submitted to the Father’s authority.

Either way, you can be Christlike, because Jesus was both master and servant to different people. “Carry each other’s bur-

2

dens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). I saw that in my friend, Hollywood I have witnessed this amplified by my friend, colleague, prayer partner, fellow homeless advocate, media team member, journo buddy, Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez, a true storyteller of all the news that readers and listeners love for him to talk about. You were blessed if you ever hung out with Hollywood.

I had the opportunity to hang out with Hollywood for over three decades from K104 to Texas Metro News to every red carpet and film festival in the area.

To describe Hollywood’s presence and his effect on his audience is like trying to tell you how secret sauce is made-impossible!

You would have to be in the room to see his compassion, humor, dedication, steadfastness and so much more. I can honestly say I loved Michael Cantu a.k.a. Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez. He had the best social capital ever. It is a badge of honor to know him. Earth is a richer place because of his impact.

What a great servant, community icon was given to our world in Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez. I know he is getting his confirmation right now, just like Big Mama gave me mine.

“Job well done” Hollywood! Thanks for living on the planet at the same time as me! myimessenger.com

INSIDE

QUIT PLAYIN’

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

For as long as I have been Black and good-looking (my whole life), there has always been talk about a Black/ Brown coalition. These days, it seems like urban American folklore, but it ain’t so far-fetched when you come from where I come from.

Life isn’t fair. I think we do our children a disservice when we tell them that they can expect fairness. It is expecting others to have a moral compass and to do the right thing. The reality is that we live in a world that has different scales of justice that do not apply to us all.

p9

myimessenger.com

p15

3

JOE BELL One of our local pioneer Black journalists died recently, and his passing sent my mind on a journey back in time. An equivalent of the biblical “so great a cloud of witnesses” took over my brain as I rummaged through memories of scores of Dallas-Fort Worth-area Black pioneer...

p24

February 4, 2022

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Committed and making a difference I am so excited about this year’s Person of the Year.

A good friend who is not a football fan questioned the choice. She said she didn’t like football.

So what, I told her. I’ve been taking a knee for years!

Also, I am from Jersey, so give me baseball or basketball any day!

Now, while this year’s choice wasn’t because he was a football player, we can’t deny his legacy. Yes, he is Black history; someone who has done so much for football and baseball, and today he is doing so much for college football and HBCUs overall.

This year’s Person of the Year is Deion Sanders, who is better known as, “Coach Prime.”

As the coach of Jackson State University’s football team, he is elevating all HBCUs because he’s addressing systemic issues that have led to the disenfranchisement of HBCUs and the people who choose to attend.

Sure he’s constantly trending and people are speculating about his motives, but I am looking at the heightened awareness, the challenging of the status quo, the pride on the February 4, 2022

faces of proud alumni and supporters, the increased enrollment at HBCUs and more.

for one of us is a win for all of us. They also know that not only athletes are looking at JSU and other HBCUs. Stu-

Deion Sanders

HBCU presidents are praising Coach Prime, and rightfully so. In conversations with several presidents, I have yet to hear a negative comment. Those presidents realize that a win

I MESSENGER

dents of all disciplines are recognizing that the ice is the same.

More and more students are opening their eyes, ears and yes, hearts, to HBCUs. And more corporations are

4

realizing the benefit of investing in these schools and the students.

Which brings me to my truth.

It’s like the 9th Wonder of the World has been unveiled and the energy is exciting.

It’s great to see and hear Mr. Sanders talking about the benefits of HBCUs. Yeah, he’s saying what so many of us already know and I hope he doesn’t let up.

The beauty in it all is that he is fearless. He realizes that faith and fear cannot occupy the same space. He also realizes his value and uses it for the benefit of others.

Coach Prime is following in the rich tradition of coaching greats like A.S. Jake Gaither and Eddie Robinson. He’s building character in those around him through life lessons and hard truths.

Just watch him in action.

He knows that to whom much is given, much is required; and he also knows that if you raise the bar, offer challenges and build a foundation on faith, you’re on the way to success.

Coach Prime is lifting as he climbs and for this, and so many other reasons, he is our Person of the Year. myimessenger.com

PRIME Person of the Year:

By Edward Hill

Texas Metro News

Deion Sanders

When former Dallas Cowboy Deion Sanders was hired as head coach at Jackson State University, you could line up the list of doubters like mile markers from Texas to Mississippi.

Everybody, it seemed, had an opinion.

The biggest question?

Whether the NFL Hall of Famer, called “Primetime,” would use JSU as a ploy, a stepping stone toward a more lucrative coaching gig.

Nevertheless, JSU Athletic Director Ashley Robinson had a vision, albeit an out-ofbox one: She wanted to re-energize a once proud program that produced 93 NFL players and four Pro Football Hall of Famers - Lem Barney, Walter Payton, Robert Brazile, and Jackie Slater.

Problem was, JSU had not had a winning season since 2013 nor a conference title since 2007.

The ultra-confident Sanders, who had never coached on the college level, but also had never failed athletically in his life, saw the light.

He wanted to change lives and shake up college football.

“God called me to Jackson State,” Sanders said upon his hiring in September 2020.

“Why not? Isn’t this the time?

Isn’t this the moment? Isn’t this what’s needed?

“It’s a match made in heavmyimessenger.com

For times like these, we need Coach Prime!

The Person of the Year - Deion Sanders

en. This is a God move.”

That was 17 months ago.

Sanders has delivered on his promise.

Jackson State University is a champion again. The Tigers hold the 2021 Southwestern

Credit: The Dallas Morning News

Athletic Conference title and an undefeated conference record. They fell short of becoming the undisputed No. 1 HBCU football program in the nation after losing to Mideastern Athletic Conference

5

champions South Carolina State in December’s Cricket Celebration Bowl.

It was Sanders first full season as head coach.

Sanders is fresh off winning the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) Eddie Robinson Award, which goes to the top college coach in the nation. His son, JSU quarterback Shedeur Sanders, won the Jerry Rice Freshman of the Year Award, which recognizes the leading Division I athlete in the country.

For sure, “Coach Prime” has led the world outside of HBCU athletics to pay attention to Black College football: Last fall, ESPN launched unprecedented coverage of HBCU games.

National mainstream newspapers and magazines wrote more stories in one year arguably than ever before of HBCU coaching moves, recruiting activity, addition of new sports programs and of million-dollar donations that level the playing field between Black College programs and those at predominantly white institutions.

Sanders’ move to coaching has even upped the appeal among other former NFL February 4, 2022

athletes to lead HBCUs programs.

Since Sanders’ appointment, former Dallas Cowboy Eddie George took over Tennessee State University’s program. And, Hue Jackson, who previously coached the Cleveland Browns, was named last month to lead Grambling’s storied program.

On Jan. 4, Prairie View elevated former Houston Oiler Bubba McDowell from interim to head coach of the Panthers.

Sanders has created the “Deion effect” on the coaching landscape at HBCUs. But he’s not done with influencing the broader landscape of college football.

“We’re not finished by all means,” Sanders said. “We want to be dominant. We want to finish. Right now, we’re in the middle of the sentence. We’re trying to get to the exclamation mark, slowly, but surely.”

Still, speed has been a hallmark of Sanders.

A former track star in high school and at Florida State, Sanders set the NFL Scouting Combine record for the 40-yard dash in 1989, breaking the mark in “Primetime” fashion.

He walked into the stadium, ran a 4.27 without stretching, then sprinted out of the building.

Sanders was picked by the Atlanta Falcons as the fifth overall pick in the 1989 NFL draft, embarking on a 14-year career that included Super Bowl titles with the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers. Sanders ended his career regarded as the best cornerback in NFL history and one of the greatest two sport and multi-dimensional players of all time.

He starred on offense, defense and special teams in the NFL. February 4, 2022

Coach Prime and players talk to media after Orange Blossom Classic victory

Sanders was talented enough - and daring enough - to also play nine seasons in Major League Baseball - all at the same time. He is the only man to have played in both a Super Bowl and World Series and the only one to attempt to play in both MLB and an NFL game - both on the same day.

His speed, charismatic per-

Jackson State, Sanders assembled the highest-rated class in FCS history with 19 transfers and 11 of the nation’s top recruits, including his own son, Shedeur, a four-star quarterback who initially committed to Florida Atlantic University, but flipped to join his father.

Last year, Sanders dropped two bombs.

“I'm a straight shooter. My coaching staff did a phenomenal job on even getting it to that point so that I can come in and be me,” Sanders said.

“But we just shot it straight. We just really ain't promised nothing that we can't make happen.” sonality, work ethic and resistance to allowing others to tell him “no” all are foundational; they comprise his core values.

Sanders has been impactful at Jackson State both as a coach and recruiter. The latter could create long-lasting reverberations across all of college football.

Shortly after arriving at

I MESSENGER

The first one came on Dec. 15 when Suwanee, Ga. cornerback Travis Hunter, ranked as the nation’s No. 1 recruit in the class of 2022 by 247Sports.com, switched from Florida State University, Sanders’s alma mater, to Jackson State.

“Florida State has always been a beacon for me,” Hunt-

6

Credit: Cheryl Smith/TMN

er said in a statement on Twitter. “I grew up down there.

That’s where my roots are and I never doubted that I would play for the Seminoles.

“It’s a dream that is hard to let go of, but sometimes we are called to step into a bigger future than the one we imagined for ourselves. For me, that future is at Jackson State University.

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities have a rich history in football,” Hunter continued. “I want to be part of that history; and more, I want to be part of that future.

“I am making this decision so that I can light the way for others to follow, make it a little easier for the next player to recognize that HBCUs may be everything you want and more,” he wrote. “I look forward to working with the iconic Deion Sanders.”

Fans of Florida State and other predominantly white institutions immediately flooded the rumor mill: Sanders paid Hunter with a name, image and likeness (NIL) deal through Barstool Sports, a company Sanders works with, the critics crowed.

The reality, however, is that major college programs myimessenger.com

across the country all are using the new NIL rule to lure recruits; and, in effect, it levels the playing field for small schools and players, who now can financially benefit from their own brands. They no longer need so-called “name brand” institutions.

For his part, Sanders shot down the accusation. Hillariously.

“We didn’t pay,” Sanders said on ESPN of the rumors surrounding Hunter’s flip to Jackson State. “We ain’t got no money! A million and a half? I heard a million and a half and I heard Dave Portnoy from Barstool. That’s the biggest lie I’ve ever heard.

“You know what that is?

That means we kicked your butt. We took what was ours and now you gotta make up an excuse,” he said. “Ain’t nobody get no million and a half. I wouldn’t pay my son a million and a half. How am I gonna coach a guy making more than me?”

Instead, Sanders recruited Hunter by being honest and upfront, he said.

“I’m a straight shooter. My coaching staff did a phenomenal job on even getting it to that point so that I can come in and be me,” Sanders said.

“But we just shot it straight.

We just really ain’t promised nothing that we can’t make happen.”

Hunter’s commitment proved merely to be the beginning.

On Jan. 8, Sanders dropped a second bomb on the college football recruiting world.

St. Louis receiver Kevin Coleman Jr., one of the topranked slot receivers in college football’s class of 2022, picked Jackson State over Miami, Florida State, Oregon and USC during the Adidas All-American Bowl broadcast on NBC. myimessenger.com

Photos by The Clarion-Ledger

7

February 4, 2022

He did so without ever visiting Jackson State.

“I see everything he [ Sanders] is doing and I want to be a part of it,” Coleman told Sports Illustrated All-American’s Matt Solorio. “Coach Prime, to be coached by a person who has done it before.

Why not? He can teach me.

He did it on both sides, he did it on special teams and he is a great person with great character.

“And of course his son’s the quarterback; so it will be a lot of passes. Things are about to change and I’m going to recruit more guys here.”

Some HBCU outsiders have struggled to see the allure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities - and why young athletes want to play there, even if the coach is a former NFL player.

Sanders is sharpening this view: He’s changing the future with an eye to the past.

For decades, HBCU athletic programs thrived: They were unmatched, particularly during segregation, in funneling Black athletes to pro sports teams.

With the onset of integration in the 1970s , many Black athletes began joining larger,

better funded and predominantly white university athletic programs which, among other things, had television contracts.

HBCUs, with their state funds and limited recruitment budgets, found themselves struggling to compete with the promise of such programs.

In fact, in the 2021 NFL draft, no player from an HBCU was drafted. Only one was drafted in 2020, and none were picked in nine separate drafts since 2000.

Sanders vows to use his spotlight to uplift his program at Jackson State and all the rest

of the Black college football programs in the nation.

“These guys can play,” Sanders said. “And it’s my opportunity and my task to put the light on the mantle on top of the Christmas tree and allow it to shine because these guys have tremendous gifts. They really do. They just need an opportunity.”

What Sanders has done so far in recruitment and media spotlight could be the great revival of HBCU football. If it works, it might be his greatest feat yet.

And that would be a mission accomplished.

Photo by Cheryl Smith/TMN

Photos by The Dallas Morning News

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

8

myimessenger.com

A Black Brown Coalition!

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

For as long as I have been Black and good-looking (my whole life), there has always been talk about a Black/ Brown coalition. These days, it seems like urban American folklore, but it ain’t so far-fetched when you come from where I come from.

Michael Cantu, otherwise known by his brand name, Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez lost his final skirmish with cancer the other day. His life is replete with evidence that Blacks and Browns, from the ghettos to the barrios; live, love, eat and internalize a lot alike. Both of our cultures have been taught as minorities to make a dollar outta 15 pesos!

Hollywood Hernandez made the sojourn and transition from Beaumont to Dallas look easy. After “spinning the 1’s and 2’s” at Lamar University in the late 1970s, he crept into the back door of Dallas radio and dee-jayed late nights at KKDA-FM or what you know now as K-104!

It is pivotal that anyone who does not know much about Dallas’ Black history understands what KKDA-AM built prior to planting a frequency modulation (FM) tower in Cedar Hill, Texas. myimessenger.com

Hyman Childs, the owner of KKDA-AM, has been a friend to this community for almost 50 years now. Childs has, in my opinion, always been considerate and respectful of our culture.

From Willis Johnson’s “Thunder Thighs” competitions to his “Dear Crooner,” episodes, KKDA became the glue that held us together in the community. Before the emergence of Facebook and the likes, the station bonded us socially, politically, and culturally.

Where else could you hear a foul-mouthed, fun-loving personality like Millie Jackson? Or John Wiley Price openly plotting the demise of the White power structure nightly? KKDA hoisted the revival tent for “Cousin Lenny,” who was the only prominent Black radio voice in Dallas over at KLIF 1190 AM for years.

In 1981 Hollywood moved to Dallas to do “overnights” and spent 11 years at K104, which became a virtual powerhouse. At one point, Hollywood earned the midday time slot and handled fill-in duties for legendary morning jock Tom Joyner.

It was that spot where Michael honed his skills and worked with national talents like Vanessa Williams, Barry White, and comedian Steve Harvey.

(What you know about Steve Harvey and his club VuCuRae near Camp Wisdom and Cockrell Hill in

southern Dallas?) #history According to one writeup, Hernandez had a stellar career. “During Hollywood’s career at K104, the station was named Billboard Magazine Urban Station of the Year (1986) and rose to #1 in Dallas/Fort Worth (1987). In 1992 Hollywood Hernandez moved to The Touch format at ABC Radio Networks. He also spent five years as program director and morning host on ABC Radio Networks’ Classic R&B format.”

Hollywood Hernandez

Tom Joyner gets most of the talk time, but KKDA was chocked full of talent for more than 30 years. Hyman Childs had a knack for letting Black folks run his Black station, and the rest is Black history.

Hollywood joins a list of historical firsts you may not know. Warren Epps, Yvonne St. John, Joycelyn Johnson, Nanette Lee, Valerie Moore, Sam Putney, Willie Mitchell, Greg Street, Chris Arnold, and Skip Murphy.

9

That list also included but is not limited to air personalities like DeDe McGuire, Skip Cheatham, Michael Spears, Gary Saunders, aka “White Gary,” and more.

But none of those names has a more loving or sustained relationship with this Black community than Hollywood Hernandez. Michael was a loving father, a thoughtful friend, a doting date, and a classy human being.

He drove in his lane and never swerved to get into anyone else’s. He was comfortable with his brownness amid our blackness.

As a stablemate with him under publisher Cheryl Smith and her news conglomerate, I loved the brother. Michael had a winsome smile and a warm demeanor. Mike was that type of beautiful spirit that few meet more than once in the span of a lifetime.

Michael Hollywood Hernandez brought us into his world and immersed himself in ours.

Farewell, my brother. You were and will always be an example of what a Black/ Brown coalition can be in this nation!. Si se puede…

Together!

Tu tienes un pedcaito de mi corazon. (You have a piece of my heart!) #corazon #hermanos Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

February 4, 2022

VOTE

VOTE February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

10

myimessenger.com

Your Ad belongs here, Contact: 214-941-0110

February 4, 2022

11

myimessenger.com

A ward W inning

Sunday Brunch B U F F E T

M a k e Yo u r R e s e r v a t i o n s TO DAY !

97 2 - 2 9 6 - 0 4 0 3 What product do you offer to your customers?

Put your products on your customer’s phone.

PHOTOS CAN DRIVE MORE TRAFFIC INTO YOUR BUSINESS “IT’S A WIN WIN BUSINESS APPROACH” Why choose us?

E-mailing photos has proven to be a better effective way to get your product's information to a specific group of customers. Our innovative system allows your company’s logo to be delivered to your customers within seconds. Your business contact information is stored until the customer removes the image. Customer enjoy taking photos. ✓ Your business branding with a customer photo is a great concept. ✓ If your customers have a cell phone, why wouldn’t you use the services. ✓ Our goal is to drive more customers to your business.

Our service prices is $550.00, mpoc2 will set up our innovative system with a camera, lights and a photo of your business information is printed on each picture and sent to the customer’s phone. Call and arrange an intital meeting today at (972) 684-0855.

We offer that system that send your products information.

Distribution channel on the internet.

Your channel will have your company information and its logo in –their phone.

Call today, don’t delay MPOC2 PHOTOBOOTH & PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES 2837 DUSK LANE (972) 684-0855 WWW.MPOC2.COM Email:mpoc2photobooth@mpoc2.com

Wear the masks, wash your hands and show love!

––--

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

12

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

13

February 4, 2022

Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive Returns Your dress is their dream.

SM

Donate to the Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive benefiting Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas to make prom dresses available to teens served by the nonprofits, Feb. 1-28.

Your gently used formal dress could make a teen’s prom an unforgettable experience. Comerica is proud to be partnering with Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas to make prom dresses available to teens served by the nonprofits. By dropping off your gently used dress today, you’re giving someone else a very special tomorrow.

Stop by your nearest participating Comerica banking center to donate a new or gently used, cleaned prom dress, Feb. 1-28. All sizes, shoes, purses and accessories are welcome.

For more information, visit comerica.com/promdress.

Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive Drop-Off Locations: NorthPark Banking Center 8850 Boedeker St. Dallas, TX 75225 214.890.5106

Forest-Inwood Banking Center 5200 Forest Ln. Dallas, TX 75244 214.692.7031

Cole-Fitzhugh Banking Center 3202 N. Fitzhugh Dallas, TX 75204 214.599.0162

Preston Center Banking Center 8225 Preston Rd. Dallas, TX 75225 214.692.6795

Parker-Premier Banking Center 3310 Premier Rd. Plano, TX 75023 972.422.7102

MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER.

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

Lovers Lane-Devonshire Banking Center 5647 W. Lovers Lane Dallas, TX 75209 972.587.3430 CB-479310-02 01/22

14

After a one-year hiatus, Comerica Bank will host its seventh annual Prom Dress Drive, benefitting Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas, during the month of February. Six Dallas-area Comerica banking centers, including its newest location Lovers Lane-Devonshire, will serve as drop-off locations for new or gently used, cleaned formal dresses and accessories.

Donations will benefit local teens, who otherwise may not be able to afford formal attire and experience the high school tradition of prom.

Comerica has donated close to 5,000 – 4,980 to be exact-- dresses to Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas over the last six years.

For more information, visit comerica.com/ promdress.

WHAT: Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive Benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas & Dallas CASA WHO: Comerica Bank colleagues, customers and individual donors WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 1–Monday, Feb. 28 WHERE: Participating Comerica Banking Centers Cole-Fitzhugh (3202 North Fitzhugh; Dallas) Forest-Inwood (5200 Forest Lane; Dallas) Lovers Lane-Devonshire (5647 W. Lovers Lane; Dallas) NorthPark (8850 Boedeker Street; Dallas) Parker-Premier (3310 Premier Road; Plano) Preston Center (8225 Preston Road; Dallas) myimessenger.com

When life isn’t Fair…

You. Got. This FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Life isn’t fair. I think we do our children a disservice when we tell them that they can expect fairness. It is expecting others to have a moral compass and to do the right thing. The reality is that we live in a world that has different scales of justice that do not apply to us all.

There are disparities that surround us. A recent case reminds us that no matter the strides that have been made for the sake of justice, there are still too many occurrences of inequity.

For example, Carla Campbell-Jackson, a former State Farm claims section manager stated that the insurance company retaliated against her for reporting racist and discriminatory behavior.

In February, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued a determination of reasonable cause over Campbell-Jackson’s claims. The commission found Campbell-Jackson was “harassed due to her race and discharged in retaliation for complaining about harassment.”

As a Black woman, I have had numerous experiencmyimessenger.com

es of mistreatment because of my race, my gender, and even age. Data proves that this isn’t just a one-off occurrence. According to leanin.org, “Black women are paid less than white men— and white women.

On average, Black women in the U.S. are paid 37% less than white men and 20% less than white women. “Black women enroll in college at higher rates than men overall and—most notably—at higher rates than white men. But the gap is largest for Black women who have bachelor’s degrees and advanced degrees—35% less than white men on average.

Even in the same job, Black women get paid less than white men. Black women ask for promotions and raises at about the same rates as white women and men—yet the “broken rung” still holds them back at the first critical step up to manager. For every 100 men promoted to manager, only 58 Black women are promoted.”

These inequities are not only unfair but unacceptable. There are several scriptures on injustice and the mistreatment of others. Yet, what do you do when you are the one who is mistreated, overlooked, and harmed by the decisions of others who can not see past your difference?

• Own your feelings. You

15

have the right to be angry, frustrated, and hurt. Yet, do not allow your anger to cause you to do something that’s unproductive and hurts you more. Ephesians 4:26 says “And “don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry.” Express how you feel but do not stay there… do something with your anger that is productive and transformative.

• Find your tribe and share your story. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2 (NIV)) Do not carry the burden alone but allow those who care for you to be there for you. So often, we internalize pain instead of releasing it. Let it out so you can let it go.

• Seek wise counsel. “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) Make sure you are not just involving your Amen corner but seek those who have experience and can offer insight as well as options.

• Try to find a resolution and if that does not work, you do not have to remain in a place that will not accept you. “And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house

or city, shake off the dust of your feet.” (Matthew 10:14) • Ultimately, put your faith and trust in God to lead you. God’s word must be your source for direction and comfort. “I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?” (Psalm 9:10)” • Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6-8) God says repeatedly, be strong and courageous…so you got this!

God has a place for you—it might be the same place or a new one. You will be victorious, and you will win! “So, let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessings if we don’t give up.” (Galatians 6:9) As I often tell my daughter, bet on you. Never give up on you and do not ever give up on God! Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

16

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

17

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

18

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

19

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

20

myimessenger.com

Wear the masks, wash your hands and show love! myimessenger.com

21

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

22

myimessenger.com

192ND CIVIL DISTRICT COURT

ACCESS, JUSTICE AND EQUALITY FOR ALL www.shelby192forjudge.com

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR BY THE TRACIE M. SHELBY FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN, TREASURER ROBIN STEVENS

February 4, 2022

23

myimessenger.com

Death of Joe Bell spurs gratitude for Black trailblazers

By Norma Adams-Wade One of our local pioneer Black journalists died recently, and his passing sent my mind on a journey back in time.

An equivalent of the biblical “so great a cloud of witnesses” took over my brain as I rummaged through memories of scores of Dallas-Fort Worth-area Black pioneer journalists whose names are foreign to generations of newcomers.

Joseph “Joe” Bell, who died Dec. 15 at age 92, was among that mighty cloud. The time seems right to pay homage to the collective memory of the “cloud” as I acknowledge Bell’s place among them and the footprints he left.

I called on pioneer Ken Smith, one of the cloud members, to help me verify key factors about the era these pioneers occupied, how they came to be among the cloud, and why remembering them is important to local history. I will talk about Smith later in my retrospective from my own personal local-Black-media archives. But first, a tribute to Bell.

A native of Alabama, a graduate in education from the Tuskegee Institute and a summer Fulbright Scholar at the University of Colorado, Bell spent 21 years as an executive at KDFW-TV (Channel 4) in Dallas. He was the original executive producer of Insights, which was among the nation’s first public-access TV shows.

The Federal Communications Commission required such programming in order to guarantee ethnic audiences’ free access to the public airwaves during the 1970s and ‘80s, when integration efforts were ballooning in February 4, 2022

various fields. Among Dallas-area Latinos, Rene Castilla was a trailblazer who hosted Que Pasa?, another early public-access TV show.

In 1972, before turning 43, Bell was an up-and-coming middle school principal in Dallas ISD when he was tapped to become the district’s first Black assistant principal at an all-white school, Hillcrest High. A chance to become minority affairs director at KDFW arose, however, and DISD Superintendent Nolan Estes gave Bell a leave, leaving the door open for a return if the Channel 4 job didn’t pan out. It did.

Dozens of Black journalists paved the way decades ago as the news media was striving to widen its access to minority audiences.

Joseph "Joe" Bell

Bell oversaw various liaison duties between KDFW and the city’s Black community. In 1980, at age 51, he was the behindthe-scenes executive producer when the long-running minority affairs show Insights first aired.

A young Rochelle Brown — Dallas native and 1971 graduate in broadcast film arts at Southern Methodist University — had worked for a while on the East Coast, then in 1978, at age 29, returned home to join KDFW as community affairs director. Bell

I MESSENGER

and Brown launched Insights with Brown as on-air host.

Among public-access shows, Insights enjoyed one of the nation’s longest runs — 29 years — before its last broadcast, June 21, 2009, when Brown was 60. Bell had retired in 1994 at age 65.

Recalling Black media pioneers from the 1970s and ‘80s, Smith and I abandoned our count when the number began to exceed 70 individuals in all broadcast and print areas — including reporters, anchors, producers, photographers, camera operators, advertising agents, and executive managers and editors.

24

“Yes, the new generation needs to know who blazed the trail for them,” Smith said. “But we who lived through those times have to ask ourselves, ‘Did we pay enough homage to the ones who came before us?’ Legacy-building calls for intense research. Did we do enough?”

Tempted as I am to name a few of those pioneers, I must resist. But here are the main public-access shows of that era: Insights, KDFW-TV (Channel 4). With trailblazing journalists Joe Bell and Rochelle Brown.

Opportunity Line, WBAPTV (Channel 5). The host was local Black entrepreneur Cullen E. McCoy, the last owner of The Dallas Express, the historic Black weekly that was published from 1892 to the mid-1970s. The show aired from 1968 to 1974.

What About People, KTVT-TV Chanel 11). Jerry Thomas, the silky-voiced Fort Worth native and 1950s KNOK-AM radio veteran, began hosting this show in 1963, the year President John F. Kennedy in Dallas and civil rights activist Medgar Evers in Jackson, Miss., were assassinated. The well-liked Thomas interviewed former Presidents Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter on the multicultural community affairs show. Thomas worked at Channel 11 for 26 years before leaving in 1989.

Black Forum, WFAA-TV (Channel 8). Ken Smith followed trailblazer Gene McIntyre as host and producer of this community access show targeting African Americans. Smith also led community ascertainment efforts, querying Blacks about their information and entertainment wishes. After leaving media, Smith was a corporate communications director, strategic planner, real estate investor, community economic development advocate, and founder/ director of the nonprofit Revitalize South Dallas Coalition.

News Addition and On the Record, KERA-TV (Channel 13).

Two of many different shows, documentaries and community discussions hosted by veteran media executive Bob Ray Sanders.

There is way more to this story. Maybe one day we will revisit it. myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

25

February 4, 2022

ZAN WESLEY HOLMES JR. COMMUNITY OUTREACH CENTER PRESENTS IN CONVERSATION WITH MARC MORIAL , NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE Title Sponsor:

Roland Parrish and Parrish Restaurants Ltd.

Honorary Chairs: Details:

www.zwhjcoc.org or email inconversation@zwhjcoc.org for additional information.

Register:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-in-conversation-withmarc-morial-national-urban-league-tickets-231719046907.

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

26

myimessenger.com

Maladjusted Madness of Dr. King THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

From the third Monday of January, the federal holiday commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, through the end of February, Black History Month, Dr. King will be quoted, lionized, referenced and deified by the kleptomaniacs who sample Dr. King as blatantly as hip-hop artists sample classic Motown.

He will be taken out of context, a moral giant whose words are often distorted by the moral midgets who can only quote one or two lines from his “I Have A Dream” speech.

As the battle around voting rights rages in the United States Senate, there are likely those who have forgotten how dedicated King was to voting rights and how often he risked his life for the right to vote.

As people celebrated Dr. King’s birthday on Jan. 17, few will remember how long it took for the day to become a holiday. Thousands thronged to Washington, D.C., every cold January from King’s death until Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” song propelled the federal holiday from a concept to a reality in 1983.

How many remember the warrior Congressman John Conyers, the indefatigable leader who rallied folks to advocate for a holiday, also tirelessly introducing reparations legislation every congressional session from 1989 until his 2017 myimessenger.com

retirement from the House of Representatives?

Many now view the King holiday as a day off work, not a moment of civic reflection.

Some retail establishments even make a sale date out of it. On Jan. 17, the King holiday, USA Today listed “the 48 best MLK Day sales to shop right now.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Turning the King holiday into the ultimate capitalistic playground captures our nation’s ambivalence with King.

While he struggled to free people from the predatory capitalistic bondage of the “thingification” of life, many in our country have embraced his legacy as another shopping opportunity.

As long as we embrace only the surface King, we can smooth out his edges, ignore his passionate opposition to the Vietnam war, forget his searing criticism of poverty, and turn him into a kumbaya King. King elevated the “creative maladjustment of a nonconforming minority in a country that encourages conformity.”

He spoke of this maladjustment, often, in his speeches, about preferring to be a “drum major for justice” than a follower of consumer trends.

He spoke of the “audacity,” the temerity, the nerve, the sheer madness of believing that in a capitalist economy, people could eat, learn and thrive.

King’s commitment to maladjustment was partly his dissatisfaction with the status quo, but some psychiatrists suggest that his embracing maladjustment may also have had to do with the several depressive episodes he had. It takes nothing from his legacy but instead elevates it when we speak of the depression that King may have experienced.

He attempted suicide twice as a teen and was occasionally hospitalized for nervous exhaustion, which Tuft University professor of psychiatry Nassir Ghaemi suggests is evidence of manic-depressive tendencies. He explores King and other leaders in his book, “A First-Rate Madness: Uncovering the Link Between Leadership and Mental Illness” (Penguin Books, 2012).

In 1967, some of his inner circle spoke to Dr. King about his depression and suggested he seek help. But with the FBI racist psychopath J. Edgar Hoover bugging his offices and bedrooms, King could not be sure of confidentiality, even from a trusted therapist.

Further, there was such stigma about mental illness that vice presidential candidate Thomas Eagleton was dropped from the McGovern

27

ticket when his bouts with depression were made public.

Imagine the derision King might have encountered when, at the nadir of his popularity (with 72% of whites and 55% of Blacks disapproving of him), he sought help for mental health. Today, mental health professionals estimate that as many as 5 million Black men experience depression.

Most do not seek help. We need to see Dr. King as brilliantly accomplished and marvelously human, with all the imperfections that come with humanity.

To be maladjusted is to be discontent. Activists are, by nature, discontent. They want our nation to be better, to be the democracy it pretends to be. They want our country to be fairer, to provide opportunities for everyone, not just the wealthy. Dr. King’s dear friend Rev. Joe Lowery said, “to achieve social change, you have to be maladjusted. All of the leaders of the movement were a little crazy, including Martin.”

We must embrace Dr. King and his maladjusted madness in all of its complexity. We must examine the burden of leadership, the mental health challenges so many leaders face, and the ways we must prioritize self-care even as we struggle for social and economic justice. It is not the kumbaya King, but the brilliantly imperfect one, that ought to be our role model.

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

February 4, 2022

The Exceptional Artist WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE

By Dr. E. Faye Williams

Actors, poets and graphic/visual artists are engaged in a continual quest to touch the hearts, minds and souls of their audiences. It’s a daunting challenge and, if successful, leads to respect, admiration and adoration.

I can’t imagine that when writing the poem “A Dream Deferred,” Langston Hughes could recognize the lasting impact it would have on our society. Many in the civil rights community say that “A Dream Deferred” was the inspiration for what’s considered one of the greatest speeches in the history of the nation, Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Nor can I imagine that when writing the play “A Raisin in the Sun,” Lorraine Hansberry knew that the line she took from Hughes’ poem could so powerfully communicate the emotions of a people.

When I played Ruth Younger in a Grambling University production of “A Raisin in the Sun,” I never imagined meeting Ruby Dee, the actress who played that same role in the initial production.

February 4, 2022

She congratulated me for participation in the play and remarked that, based upon the person I had been described to her, she would want to play me in a production about my life!

We both agreed that “A Raisin in the Sun” was a timeless expression of the challenges — then and now — of many Black families.

Sidney Poitier escorted the Black community to a wide variety of places and experiences and, as the “only” Black male lead in Hollywood, afforded white America the privilege of understanding the Black community with more than the typically held monolithic viewpoint.

One would be mistaken if he/she were naïve enough

One would be mistaken if he/she were naïve enough to think of Mr. Poitier as just an actor. While he was an actor par excellence, he was much more than that. He is known as a principled gentleman who, in selecting roles, only chose those roles that served to elevate the image of the Black male.

All of the actors performed excellently, but central to the story was the character Walter Lee Younger and central to the expression of his character was the powerful portrayal

by Sidney Poitier.

Over 60 years later, viewing his portrayal of Walter Lee still evokes a torrent of emotions from the bonds of experience and an understanding of traditional challenges.

In his characterization of Walter Lee and a myriad of others in his long career,

I MESSENGER

to think of Mr. Poitier as just an actor. While he was an actor par excellence, he was much more than that.

He is known as a principled gentleman who, in selecting roles, only chose those roles that served to elevate the image of the Black male.

His Academy Award-winning role as Homer Smith in “Lilies of the Field” is just one of numerous roles that rejected and reversed the Hollywood standard of portraying Black men as shuffling, stumbling and

28

bumbling buffoons. Admittedly, although I’ve not seen all of his films, but I can attest to the fact that I’ve never seen him perform in a film for which he had reason to be ashamed or that caused me to leave a theater with a sense of embarrassment or regret.

In a time when “successful Negroes” were reluctant to upset the status quo, Sidney Poitier was front and center in support of and participation in protesting racial discrimination.

He not only loaned his professional reputation to the struggle, he gave financial support. Undoubtedly, he understood that Black people and those of color were bound in circumstance and that even their greatest achievements were diminished by the imposition of contrived limitations.

He has undoubtedly earned the disdain of many who recognize his contributions to the “leveling of the playing field” and who, because of his efforts, are less secure in their whiteness.

Paraphrasing the words of his “In the Heat of the Night” character Virgil Tibbs, with respect and honor, we call him Mr. Poitier!

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

29

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

30

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

31

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

32

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

33

February 4, 2022

Superb Women January 2022

LIBBIE T. LEE Libbie is a recognized professional in nonprofit management, business development, grant writing and fund development. She has exceptional capacity in community development and building and maintaining strong working partnerships

CLAUDIA FOWLER Claudia Fowler is engaged and focused as she stays on top of the issues in her community.

BBA from Northwood University, and executive MBA with honors from Grand Canyon University and she is currently a doctoral student, pursuing a degree in intercultural/multicultural and diversity studies from Biola University.

As executive director of The Golden SEEDS Foundation, Libbie Lee brings her commitment and passion to the Bottom community and is energized with the opportunity to be a part of the transformation of this historic neighborhood. As a Dallas native, born and raised in South Dallas, she has witnessed the many destructive things that have happened over the years, and is now part of the community change that is coming. A graduate of LIncoln High School in Dallas, she is dual degreed, graduating from Huston Tillotson University and earned an MBA from Amberton University. She is also the managing director and principal of LTL International, a human resource and business management company.

SHERRYE E. WILLIS Sherrye E. Willis’ mission is to propel leaders to unlock their greatness from the inside out.

Founder and President of Alliance for Greater Works, in 2001 Sherrye answered a call to serve organizations working in under-resourced communities. She’s also the author of Launching Greater Works: Turning a God-Inspired Vision into a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit, which details her founding journey and offers inspiration and practical advice to help leaders turn their visions into a reality. Previously she was executive director for Esping Family Foundation. Sherrye received her February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

ANDREA SANDERS Andrea Sanders leads by example. As she climbed the corporate ladder, she found time to serve her community.

A native of San Antonio, Andrea Sanders began working for Oncor almost 25 years ago and served as the Dallas Manager for Customer Operation where she carries out Oncor’s strategic point of contact for municipal, legislative and escalated customer issues with the City of Dallas. She also worked as the Weatherization Director at Houston Sheltering Arms and as an Energy Training Specialist for Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Andrea served as a chairman of Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Oak Cliff Chamber.

She is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Dallas and 2013 graduate of Leadership Texas.

34

Claudia Fowler made history when at the age of 26 she was elected to the Wilmer Hutchins ISD School Board, becoming the youngest African American to hold this post. She has served as President/CEO of the Joppa South Central Coalition for Neighborhood Redevelopment, Inc., and as a member of Mayor Mike Rawlings’ Grow South Advisory Council. Formerly the Community Liaison at Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas; Claudia received her BA degree in Accounting from Bishop College, where she was secretary of her class. A member of the Top Ladies of Distinction and a 2016 Unsung Hero of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Claudia also hosted the radio show, Queen of Community Conversation and she’s listed in Who’s Who in Black Dallas.

ROBIN E. HUTCHISON GORDON Robin E. Hutchison Gordon participated in Ramsey Solutions Financial Coach Master Training and she has an impressive resume in non profit management and leadership.

Robin E. Hutchison Gordon hails from Saint Paul, Minnesota and is financial coach for Gordon Financial myimessenger.com

Coaching. She served as president and chief executive of the Can! Academy Education Foundation, Inc. She also has served as executive development director for Texas Can Academies and executive director with the Todd Wagner Foundation and After School All-stars. She was a volunteer with AmeriCorp and served as an executive board member of Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America. She has also served as a volunteer with Lone Star Casa and Rockwall County Helping Hands Food Pantry. Robin received a Bachelor of Science degree in early children education and family studies and a Masters of Science degree in recreation and leisure management.

former long-time government employee working as an employment counselor for the Texas Employment Commission, she also held several positions for the city of Dallas. Mollie is the recipient of numerous awards including the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s 2020 Publisher Lifetime Achievement Award. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Society/Psychology from the University of Denver, after attending Spelman College for a year. A mother and grandmother, Mollie was born in Dallas and graduated from Lincoln High School. She is a 50+ year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

CARMEN GUTTER You have to be compassionate and committed to do the work that Carmen Gutter has been doing for quite some time.

ATTY. TONYA TARPEH She’s every woman - smart, compassionate, loving and dedicated. Atty. Tonya Tarpeh serves on the Board of Directors for the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Single Mothers Interchanging Love, Empathy and Support (S.M.I.L.E.S.), and The IMPACT Movement.

During Carmen Gutter’s career she has managed as many as 85-90 cases simultaneously. She has experience in writing policy, enforcing compliance and leading teams both professionally and personally. She currently works at Dallas County Juvenile Department as a re-entry specialist and she has been a child protection investigator for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. A graduate of Florida A&M University with a BA in Criminal Justice and Corrections, Carmen has also enjoyed stints at Safe & Sound Inc and Wisconsin Department of Corrections.

MOLLIE BELT Mollie Belt has received numerous awards for her civic work and commitment to community service, as well as the publisher of the Dallas Examiner.

Attorney Tonya Tarpeh is a partner in West and Associates LLP. A graduate of Superman College, she received her Juris Doctor Degree from Temple University Beasley School of Law in 1995 and was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar; then in 1997 she was admitted to the Texas State Bar. She has also earned a Professional Certificate in Municipal Finance from The University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy in 2017.

Her legal experience includes serving as an Assistant Regional Attorney for the Texas Department of Human Services, an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas, and private practice. A health enthusiast, Tonya is the loving mother to her two daughters and an active member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Mollie Belt has been a newspaper publisher for almost 36 years. She has served as the 1st Vice Chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association and vice president of the Texas Publishers Association. A

THE REV. FRANCES CUDJOE WATERS, J.D. Talk about servant leader, businesswoman, scholar, and more, that’s Rev. Frances Cudjoe Waters, JD. Rev. Frances Cudjoe Waters, J.D. is the Founder and C.E.O. of FCW Consulting and the African American Renaissance, L.L.C. A highly-regarded Educational, Diversity and Organizational Strategic Consultant.

Rev. Dr. Frances serves as Chair of the Dallas Task Force on Confederate Monuments Born in the Bronx, New York, she graduated with honors from Stanford University and Harvard Law School and has served as

myimessenger.com

35

an Associate Pastor in the United Methodist Church.

She currently serves on the Executive Board of the SMU (Southern Methodist University) Meadows School and on the Education and Engagement Committee of the Dallas Museum of Art. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and a proud wife and Jack and Jill mom.

THE HONORABLE NICOLE COLLIER When elected in 2013, she became the first woman to represent House District 95, in Tarrant County, and in November 2018, Rep. Nicole Collier was re-elected to her fourth term in office.

The Honorable Nicole Collier is a respected attorney, small business owner, grandmother and mother of three who has spent her life working to obtain the American Dream. As a single mother of two before finishing high school, she was bolstered by both her faith and family to continue her education all the way through law school and beyond. Rep. Collier graduated from the University of Houston and the Texas A&M University School of Law. Rep. Collier is also a partner at West & Associates, LLP, specializing in commercial and general litigation, employment law, public finance and school law. Whether its legislation banning e-cigarette cells, Affordable Care Act, creating opportunities for HUBs or voter suppression, Rep. Collier is on the job, all the time!

HONORABLE CAROLYN KING ARNOLD Yes, the Honorable Carolyn King Arnold wears a lot of red. Some might say it is because she is a Delta while others say she is on fire for her community, her people, and the world.

The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold was first elected February 4, 2022

including the NAACP, Habitat for Humanity, Urban League, Young Professionals, National Action Network and the African American Read-In. SHARON JONES-SCAIFE The talented Sharon Jones Scaife is focused and using her many talents to have a positive impact on youth.

to the Dallas City Council in May 2015, besting several opponents to win the seat outright without a runoff, garnering 51% of the vote. The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold has resided in Dallas for more than 40 years and worked as an educator in the Bishop Dunne Catholic School and Dallas Independent School District School. In addition to teaching, she has also been actively engaged in the community fighting for civil rights, social equity and the pursuit of justice. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southeastern Oklahoma University, a Masters of Education from the University of North Texas and the Doctorate of Divinity from Grace International Seminary. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, her hands are full as she addresses several issues including: supporting local businesses, improving the quality of life for citizens, making the City safer; all while governing during a pandemic.

HONORABLE SHAUNTE ALLEN An advocate for children, Councilwoman Shaunte Allen is passionate about building stronger communities and educational systems.

KRISTEN PRICE A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Kristen was initiated into the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter and is now a member of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter.

A native of Marvell, Arkansas, Sharon Jones Scaife is the fourth of 15 children. Following her older siblings, she attended the University of Arkansas in Little Rock where she earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design/illustration. A widow, mother and grandmother, Sharon is a graphic artist who spent almost a decade at Jones Custom Products. She is the owner of SJS Graphic Arts, an accomplished author, and a magazine publisher; which led to her founding Coffee Creek Media Group; an independent, family-owned company. A member of Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, NIBA (New Image Business Associates), AfricanSisters.com, American Business Women Association (ABWA), and the Parenting and Genesis of Praise Ministries at Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church.

KIM BIZOR TOLBERT Beautiful voice, beautiful personality and a commitment to service and taking care of business; that’s Kimberly Bizor Tolbert.

Shaunte Allen is a councilwoman for the City of Glenn Heights, TX and a professor at Tyler Junior College. A former lecturer for the Borough of Manhattan Community College/CUNY and former department chair and professor at Dallas CollegeCedar Valley, she attended W.W. Samuell High School.

She holds a bachelors degree in literary studies and a Masters degree in secondary education. Re-elected in November 2021, she is serving her second term.

Councilwoman Allen has an extensive background in volunteerism with several groups and programs, February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

years with North Texas Tollway Authority in executive positions and before that as Assistant Director of Finance and Administration and Assistant to the City Manager for the City of Dallas. Kim received a BA in Political Science and Government and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Texas; with the help of the prestigious Patricia Roberts Harris Public Affairs Fellowship. She was also a contract manager for the State of Texas HHHS.

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert is Chief of Staff to the City Manager where she directs operations and administrative affairs of the City Manager’s Office.

Hailing from Tyler, TX, previously she spent almost 15

36

Kristen Price is a graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree and she later earned a Masters of Science Degree in Human Relations and Business from Amberton University. She is a member of MetroTex Association of Realtors and she has served with numerous other realty organizations.

Kristen began her real estate career with Keller Williams Realty, Lake Cities in 2004 and in 2009 she opened Hylton Homes Realty, LLC; specializing in all aspects of residential real estate. She earned her ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) designation, GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation, MRP ( Military Relocation Professional) certification, PSA (Pricing Strategy Advisor) certification SFR (Short Sale Foreclosure Resource Specialist Certification), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist) designation, TAHS (Texas Affordable Housing Specialist) certification and the, TRLP (Texas Realtor Leadership Program) designation.

NANETTE LEE Nanette Lee is funny, talented and she can cook!

Described as a radio personality, stand-up comedian and celebrity cook, Nanette Lee is the life of the party; putting a smile on everyone’s face. A Dallas homegirl, Nanette Lee attended A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School where she studied drama and theatre arts.

She later attended Dallas County Community College, Nanette was part of the historic Skip Murphy and Company Team that woke listeners up on weekdays myimessenger.com

as a Partner with The Cochran Law Firm Texas with offices in Dallas and Houston, TX.

with dogs, laughter and a wealth of information. Also the host of Phat Tuesdays, Nanette is always engaged in the community.

MALLANE SCOTT Mallane Scott has dominated as a realtor so she’s ready for these challenging times!

Mallane “Lanee” Scott says her true passion is finding the right fit for clients and getting them in their dream homes. A real estate broker with Lanee Scott Realtors, Mallane Scott has more than 20 years of experience as a realtor and she also worked as a senior oversight/operation manager for Vendor Resource Management, as an analyst for Electronic Data Systems. A South Oak Cliff High School alum, she attended Dallas County Community College and then attended Northwood University. Lanee ranked in the Top 500 Agents in RE/MAX Texas 2015 and 2016 • REMAX PLATINUM CLUB 2016 and 2017.

CHASTITY HYLTON As a young agent in a crowded field, Chastity Hylton said her clients come to her because she is knowledgeable and up to date with this technological innovations.

Chastity Hylton is a Real Estate Agent with Hylton Homes Realty. “I go above and beyond to ensure my clients are making an informed decision and bring my outgoing personality and a positive attitude throughout every stage of the transaction,” she said. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University. Shortly after graduation, she began her career in law enforcement and obtained a Texas Peace Officer license. She also had an interest in real estate and In December 2019 she myimessenger.com

became the first fully licensed agent at Hylton Homes Realty; also using her law enforcement background to provide information on safety tips and what is legal in the state of Texas.

DEBRA KAYE HOARD JONES We celebrate Debra Kaye Hoard Jones’ life. We are saddened we didn’t salute her prior to her transitioning, because she was definitely superb!

Nicole R. Taylor is a first-generation college student who received a BS degree in Accounting from Clemson University and a law degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law. A wife and mother, Nicole is a breast cancer survivor. In 2019, she and her family hosted the “Cheers to More Breast Cancer Survivors!” gala that raised money for single mothers battling breast cancer. If Nicole is not with her family, she devotes her time and resources to her lifetime commitment to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she currently serves in leadership on the National, Regional and local levels.

ALYSON RAE LAWSON You may remember this member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for her overwhelming victory in the on-line competition sponsored by 7-Eleven that ended with her opening her first store in Arlington, TX.

Debra Kaye Hoard Jones graduated from Pinkston High School and entered the Xerox Corporation Marketing Education Center, working in Customer Service in-house and in the field. Late in the 70s, Ebony Fashion Fair announced their annual lineup to 49 cities highlighting a ‘Size 14 Cover Girl Model’. Dallas was very proactive. Debra Kaye was the first professional full figure model for The Kim Dawson Modeling Agency and the rest is history. In the Ester Davis Showroom, she was tops in sales with buyers, specialty boutiques and classic ladies-of-distinction. She worked for State Rep. Helen Giddings for many years and was recognized for her work serving communities and solving problems.

Debra Kaye’s work as a DIFFA Board Member brought new light to the organization and her beloved African American community was the beneficiary of her style and expertise.

ATTY. NICOLE R. TAYLOR Nicole R. Taylor is the President and Managing Attorney for The Taylor Law Firm, P.C. and also serves

37

A graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, Alyson Rae Lawson has a Master’s Degree in Professional Accounting and an MBA from Texas A&M University - Commerce. While at Hampton, she was Vice President of Texas Pre-Alumni Organization, a member of Women’s Caucus (Student Government Association), and Hampton University Women’s Golf Team. Alyson worked as a Manager of Budget and Financial Reporting for the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board, Manager of Business Analysis for GSFS Group, and Store Manager for 7-Eleven. A motivational speaker, Alyson is a multiunit Franchisee under RaeLawson Enterprise.

February 4, 2022

SHERRI DOLL RICHARDSON Talk about the best manicure in the world…

Sherri Doll Richardson’s hands are like magic and will soothe your soul. She’s a licensed massage therapist, whose hands are a treasure.

Program in instructional leadership at the University of North Texas in Denton. She also attended several sessions of the Summer Changes Everything National Conference at Johns Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning. Before joining the board, Bernadette was a community liaison to the district.

Bernadette attends Concord Baptist Church and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. TRUDY BULLARD Trudy Bullard is the VP of Sales and Client Relations for 24 Carat Speakers. In her free time, she also teaches and loves to dance; including swing, step, salsa and line dancing.

With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to her specialty, Sherri Doll Richardson LMT is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. She previously worked at Doll’s House of Beauty and now she is the CEO of Ash Britt Jene’ CELEBRITY SPA and Salon; where she is the spa director and celebrity lifestyle coordinator to the stars.

Fun-loving and also focused on building her empire, she is also a life member of the NAACP. A graduate of Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth. Sherri Doll attended Tarrant County College, Seymours Modeling Agency and Wendy Wards School of Modeling. She also graduated from BTC and ATI NRH. BERNADETTE NUTALL The Honorable Bernadette Nutall loves children and is passionate about buildign a better education system. She is definitely a servant leader.

A wife and mother, Bernadette Wright Nutall, is co-founder and executive director at Circle of Support, Inc.. Hailing from Killeen, TX, she graduated from Killeen High School and Sam Houston State University.

Bernadette has a B.A. in business administration and she attended the Certificate of Competence Training February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

September 11, 1992. She is a living example of a survivor as she has dedicated her life to helping others. Her goal is to inspire women to believe that simple surviving is not enough; they too can deal with their misfortune and loss and develop the strength to soar. She studied at Amberton University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Business Administration. She also worked at Mobil Oil Corporation.

LINDA JONES Linda Jones love life! The talented writer and speaker is captivating and authentically genuine.

Check out her writings and teachings!

The youngest of five and a first-generation college student, Dean’s list scholar and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Trudy Bullard earned a BS degree in Advertising with a minor in Business Administration and was initiated into the Epsilon Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She has three decades of sales and training experience, key account management and creating and implementing diversity, equity and inclusion strategies in the animal health, automotive financing, educational, technology, medical devices industries and nonprofit organizations. Trudy has also received multiple awards for her leadership and sales performance including: Rookie of the Year, Top Performer and multiple President Club recognitions. Trudy is an avid reader, music lover and thoroughly enjoys taking long nature walks with her dog, Drake.

PHYLLIS J. BEDFORD As president and CEO of the Leslie K Bedford Leadership Academy, Phyllis J. Bedford has enriched so many lives.

Hailing from Neches, TX., Phyllis J. Bedford is the author of “A Personal Journey ‘Finding Wings with Shattered Pieces’” and she offered a free series, “You Too Can Soar,” inspiring women to thrive in difficult times. Phyllis lost her only daughter to violence on

38

Veteran journalist Linda Jones also is known as a “writing doula.” She coaches writing sessions that help individuals effectively put their joyous and sad thoughts and feelings on paper. One of her trademarks is helping individuals write their own obituary… and…use journaling as healing for grief. Linda is the founder of A Nappy Hair Affair. Hailing from Akron, OH. where she went to South High School, she studied journalism and Black Studies at Kent State University.

A member and supporter of the National Association of Black Journalists and the D/FW Chapter, she previously worked at the Sun-Sentinel, Detroit News and Dallas Morning News. Check out her WEB SITE: thewritingdoula.com and follow her on TWITTER: @ manelock PHONE: 214-803-3920 myimessenger.com

KASSANDRA THOMAS She’s beautiful, fun-loving, compassionate, smart, resilient and loyal. Kassandra Thomas is about family and she lives each day to the fullest.

as a morning show producer, midday personality and news talk producer. In addition to Radio One Dallas, she worked for Service Broadcasting (K104 and KKDA), KVIL-FM and KRLD-FM. For Cindi B, it’s all about connecting with her listeners and making sure they have fun while they’re listening. Ever since she came to Radio One Dallas in 2012, she’s consistently been the life of the party. You might have also heard here at numerous events, including for Black Women’s Wall Street Networking; most recently.

TARSHA POLK HEARNS Tarsha Polk Hearns is the Marketing Lady! An advocate, author, entrepreneur, and personal brand strategist, Tarsha believes in empowering women and minorities to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Kassandra Thomas is an entrepreneur who manages her country singer/songwriter daughter. Hailing from Miami Beach, Florida, this business-minded super strategist is the president/owner of Kassandra Entertainment and chairwoman of Noble Hart Library.

She is about the business of taking care of business and Kassandra not only manages careers, she does it with style and grace while also looking good and having fun! Marketing, styling, negotiating contracts, scheduling, public relations and more; she knows the entertainment industry and how to take care of business.

CINDI BARKER In her spare time, Cindi Barker (Cindi B) likes to volunteer for a number of different community events across the Metroplex. A proud grandmother, she works wonders in the kitchen. She’s a joy to be around -- sincere, honest and loving.

A graduate of Eastern Hills High School, Cindi Barker (Cindi B) hails from Fort Worth and attended Tarrant County College and University of Phoenix. Cindi B has been in radio for over 25 years (all in the Dallas/Fort Worth market). She started her career working with the legendary Tom Joyner on his top-rated morning show. Over the course of her career, Cindi has worked myimessenger.com

and Director of Corporate and Community Relations for DCCCD. A former vice president of operations for Howland PR, Inc., Rose really made an impact! Talk about a consummate professional who is organized, strategic and just brilliant, Rose has also worked at the American Heart Association, operated Event Logistics by Rose, Inc., and also worked as a Mary Kay Consultant.

KIMBERLY SIMS A long-time member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Kimberly Sims is the Director of Public Involvement at HNTB and she has worked as Director/Vice President, Public Engagement for OCG PR; as public information officer for the City of Dallas and as a PR specialist for the American Red Cross.

In need of a public speaker, executive coach or marketing consulting, call Tarsha Polk Hearns. Currently the director of the LiftFund, she manages the day-to-day operations of the center; including grant management, strategic programming and providing guidance and connections to resources and funding solutions for small business owners. Since May 2003 she has been known as the Marketing Lady - the person you want to call on if you want to create a unique and irresistible brand. She has taught at Brookhaven Community College and she’s also an authorized and certified by Constant Contact to present seminars and webinars on email marketing and social media marketing. Tarsha graduated from Old Dominion University with a BS Degree in Occupational and Technical Studies and she received her MBA in Marketing and eBusiness from the University of Phoenix.

ROSE BLAIR Rose Blair is highly-respected for her level of professionalism and service. She is an absolute joy to work with because she takes care of business.

Rose Blair is the Director of Dallas Metropolitan Small Business Development Center for Dallas County Community College District. Previously she has worked as a Project Management Manager for Capital One, Coordinator of Grant Management and Compliance

39

A graduate of Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and a Masters degree in Business Administration, Kimberly attended Trinity High School. She also participated in the Graduate Marketing Certificate Program at SMU’s Cox School of Business. A member of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church where she held several positions, Kim is celebrating her 25th year as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She’s a mother and a grandmother. Among her numerous honors, she was named Member of the Year, WTS International, Dallas/ Fort Worth Chapter and she is a recipient of the Pride Communications Award - 35Express Project. Kimberly enjoys: Reading, traveling and performing community service. Even as a college student when she interned at the Dallas Weekly, Kimberly has exhibited the highest level of professionalism and excellence.

February 4, 2022

Briefs Delta Sigma Theta joins the NCNW in celebrating Cole and Daley Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated congratulates Soror Johnnetta Betsch Cole on a successful tenure as the 7th President and Chair of the Board of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). After a storied career as a noted anthropologist, educator, museum professional, author and international voice on diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion, Soror Cole has decided to step down from her position as NCNW’s President and Board Chair to focus on her personal life effective February 1, 2022.

Since being elected in November 2018, Soror Cole has brought her unique energy to the organization whose mission is to lead, advocate for and empower women of African descent, their families, and communities. Under her leadership, NCNW has heightened its engagement with social justice issues. Additionally, the organization has become more inter-

Dr. Johnetta Cole

generational, including an extensive tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for prospective students. She also presided over a critical pivot from in-person to virtual program delivery early in the pandemic. Using her vast network, Soror Cole

Emmitt Smith and UNT-Dallas to provide opportunities in Oak Cliff Dallas Cowboys great Emmitt Smith was joined by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, State Sen. Royce West, Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold, UNT-Dallas President Bob Mong and others to cut the ribbon on the new innovation center in Oak Cliff, across the street from the VA Hospital.

Congresswoman Johnson, Emmitt Smith, Councilwoman King-Arnold and Sen. West cut ribbon

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

40

helped to bolster the 86-year-old organizations’ profile, prestige, and philanthropic support during her tenure.

As a Golden Life Member of our sisterhood, Soror Cole also made significant contributions to Delta Sigma Theta over the years. She most recently served on the National Board of Directors from 2017-2019 as Co-Chair of the National Arts and Letters Commission and was instrumental in creating the Pride in Our Heritage initiative.

In accordance with NCNW’s policies, Dr. Thelma T. Daley will assume the role of President and Chair of the Board of NCNW until the organization’s bi-annual national elections occur later this year. Soror Daley, Delta’s 16th National President, currently serves as one of the Vice-Chairs of NCNW and has been an active member of the organization for many years.

The National Council of Negro Women is an organization that remains

near to Delta Sigma Theta’s heart, having been founded by Honorary Member Mary McLeod Bethune in 1937. In 1957, Dorothy Height, 10th National President of Delta Sigma Theta, was selected as the President of NCNW – a position she held until 1997, when she became chair and President Emeritus. Today, Delta Sigma Theta is proud to be one of NCNW’s affiliate organizations where we partner on numerous programs, including the recently announced Good Health WINs initiative.

Congratulations to Soror Cole on your stellar service at NCNW and to Soror Daley as you assume the role of NCNW’s 8th President and Chair of the Board. We are so proud of all you have done through your work with the National Council of Negro Women.

Your efforts have paid homage to the legacies of Soror Height and Soror McLeod Bethune.

TSU School of Business Advisory Council appointee Dallas business and community leader Ahmad Goree has been appointed to serve a three-year term on the Texas Southern University’s Jesse H. Jones School of Business Advisory Council.

As a council member, Goree will play an important role in advising on strategic, operational, and financial direction of the school.

Goree is a native of Dallas and currently works at the US Small Business Administration overseeing economic development activities across 72 Texas counties.

He has served as an adjunct professor of government at Mountain View College and senior aide for business and commerce to State Senator Royce West.

He most recently was honored by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce (the oldest Black Chamber in the nation) as its 2021 A. Maceo Smith Emerging Leader and was also a 2021 40 under 40 honoree by the Fort Worth Business Press.

Read more about the TSU’s Business Advisory Council here: http://www.tsu. edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/ jesse-h-jones-school-of-business/aboutjhj/advisory-council/index.html

TSU Regent Ron Price, TSU President Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, and TSU Business Advisory Council member Ahmad Goree

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

41

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

42

myimessenger.com

A ward W inning

Sunday Brunch B U F F E T

M a k e Yo u r R e s e r v a t i o n s TO DAY !

97 2 - 2 9 6 - 0 4 0 3

myimessenger.com

43

February 4, 2022

Metro Community Calendar powered by February 2022 Celebrating the rich heritage and ancestry of Black People 4 Shades of Black at South Dallas Cultural Center, 3400 South Fitzhugh Avenue, Dallas. Presenting six works by talented arts professionals, as we commemorate a range of Black experiences through the fluidity and power of movement and sound. 7 to 9 pm. Tickets: https:// bit.ly/33Krrc3

5 Patton Oswalt Live: Who’s Ready to Laugh?

Majestic Theater, 1925 Elm St, Dallas. 7 to 11 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3HHVZcE

Black History Pop Up Shop by Latoya Shelby Pop up shop for small business owners! Networking & Shopping Event. Come out & support us! 1 to 5 pm at Paez Event Center, 1425 Justin Road Ste 700, Lewisville.

7 Artist Exhibition and Community Roundtable: “From Generational Trauma to Generational Healing” Exhibition runs Feb. 7-12; Roundtable is Thursday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Museum’s Rotunda FREE. Reservations required: 214-403-5726

Valentine’s Pop-Up Expo + Day Party at Illusion Event Center, 1201 W Camp Wisdom Rd, Suite 340C Dallas. Enjoy some great music, eat some good food and sip on some tasty drinks while you shop and socialize. This event will have some of DFW’s best small business owners.

1-5 pm.

17

Miss Dee’s Kitchen by Award Winning Producer/Director Snoop Robinson at TBAAL, 1309 Canton St. 8 pm. Tickets: http://snooprobinson.com/index.html

Women, Words, and Wisdom: Songs by Black Female Composers - Fort Worth Opera. Fort Worth Opera’s smash-hit Black History Month concert, A Night of Black Excellence: Say It Loud - Songs of a Revolution. 2 to 3:30 pm at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3AunwMn

Valentine’s Chocolate & Wine Walk McKinney.

Drink wine, eat chocolates, and shop Downtown McKinney with your GALentines or your sweetheart at the Valentine’s Chocolate & Wine Walk in Historic Downtown McKinney. 12 to 6 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3GPKCQ1

11 Galentines Day: Candle-Making Party! by The CandleLIT Experience. Galentines Day is all about celebrating your love for the ladies (gals) in your life or self-love. 8 to 10 pm at SOAR Creative Studio, Uptown Dallas. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3tQmRDR

Chocolate Galentines Brunch. Get super cute, grab your bestie, or come alone and join us for a Chocolate Galentine’s Day Brunch at Thirsty Cupcake, 502 South Old Orchard Lane, #Suite 134, Lewisville. 11 am to 2 pm. Tickets: https:// bit.ly/3tTnIDQ

14 EARLY VOTING BEGINS - THROUGH Feb. 25

Seventh Annual Carter G. Woodson Luncheon.

Cosponsored with the W. Marvin Dulaney Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Guest Speaker: Ms. Tisha Crear, owner of vegan restaurant Recipe Oak Cliff 12:00 p.m. in the Museum’s Solarium $15 on site; $10 virtual. Reservations required: 214-948-2004

6

12

The undisputed Queen of Comedy, Sommore, is set to rule the stage as she hosts the Festival of Laughs at Texas Trust CU Theatre in Dallas at 8 p.m. on February 11. Sommore will lead the evening with some of comedy’s most talented and sought-after entertainers, including Arnez J, Don DC Curry, Tony Rock, Tommy Davidson, D. ELLI$ and Griff!

Stephanie Mills and The Whispers perform at the Music Hall at Fair Park.

Tickets available at the Music Hall Box office.

17 Women, Words, and Wisdom: Songs by Black Female Composers by Fort Worth Opera. Fort Worth Opera’s smash-hit Black History Month concert, A Night of Black Excellence: Say It Loud - Songs of a Revolution. 2 to 3:30 pm at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3AunwMn

19 BBW Presents A Black Diamond Affair Grown & Sexy by Beautiful Black Women, Inc. BBW hosts a casual Black DIAMOND Affair you do not want to miss. Ticket price includes entry, food, drink (BYOB) & live entertainment. 4 to 9 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3qTZszv The B.A.C. 2 BLACK FEST (Black Arts Centennial) by Infinite Arts Movement, celebrating over 100 years of Black Arts through music, poetry, dance, and supporting Black Owned Businesses at Frisco School Of Music & Performing Arts, 9360 Preston Rd. Frisco. 7 to 10 pm. Register/Tickets: https://bit.ly/3rHHlf9 The World According to Andrew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646200-0459 on Andrew’s World.

Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining!

Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am. CST Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews, @ fnsconsulting, and YouTube Live @ docshepspeaks.

26 Erykah Badu at The Factory In Deep Ellum by Music Concerts

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459.

16

Tyler The Creator performs at Dallas American Airlines Center

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

44

myimessenger.com

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by FEBRUARY 2022 AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH 1

Journey through African American History, by Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission. By popular demand, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission will present and encore presentation of The Arkansas African-American History Makers Virtual experience moderated by legendary Hip-Hop announcer, M.C. Lyte. @AMLKC on Facebook. 12 pm. the QR Code ASALH’s Black History Month Festival Opening. Online event by Association for the Study of African American Life and History.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History hosts its second annual virtual Black History Month Festival. The opening session will describe the month-long celebration of the 2022. 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/33CnKFu 1902 - Poet Langston Hughes born. Died May 22, 1967

2 Understanding Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Webinar, Online event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live @ MindspringMentalHealthAlliance. 12 to 1 pm, CST. Vision Night 2022 Online event by Friendship-West Baptist Church. Join for a Vision Night 2022 recap of 2021 and cast a vision for the New Year! 7 to 8:30 pm Streamed on www.friendshipwest.org.

2009- Eric Holder became 1st Black US. Attorney General.

3

Moving Together UNAPOLOGETICALLY BLACK Therapeutic Yoga 13 for Black people.-- Online event by Oya Heart Warrior. 4:30 to 5:30 am CST. Free UNAPOLOGETICALLY BLACK Yoga for Black Joy 20 Banned Black Films you need to see. 15 years of African & Radical Self-Care. Reg: https://bit.ly/3tQ7Y4r Odysseys. Online event by Black History Walks. Selection of banned Black films screened by the African Odysseys film programmed over the last 15 years with facts, statistics, and 5 7 reasons. 11am CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/33OuPCC Meet the Candidates sponsored by the Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chap- Texas Election 2022 - Virtual Candidate Forum. Register at: ter of Delta Sigma Theta haulyp.org/eventsmfor the Virtual Meeting at 6:30 - 8:00 PM 14 Sorority. The virtual 1966- Emmett L. Ashford became the 1st Black umpire in the Candidates Forum can major leagues be accessed by scanning

Panel–Reviving the Black Cooperative Intentional Community Movement -- Online event by Reviving the Black Cooperative Movement. 6 to 7:30 pm. Reg: https://www.ic.org/event/reviving-black-ics-panel/

8

Protecting Voting Rights: History & A Call to Action - A panel discussion with be live-streamed at 2pm CST as part of the Denton Black Film Festival. For more information, go to https://dentonbff.com

6

SOYP ‘22 Southern Region: Virtual Event of the Year at 6:30 PM 8:00 PM. Register at: https://hopin.com/events/soyp22

9

Texas YP Game Night!. Register at a https://aaultxyp.

Understanding PTSD Trauma impacts everyone differently, deeventbrite.com pending on the nature of the trauma, presence or lack of social supports, participation in treatment, and coping mechanisms.

11 Online event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live Towards a Black Historical Consciousness in Teaching Black @MindspringMentalHealthAlliance 12 to 1 pm History. Online workshop by School Outreach at The New York Public Library. While Black history is a popular subset of history education, most learners uncritically engage with the subject leaving major gaps in how we understand Black people’s history and culture. 8 to 9 am CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3KBl2Aq

12 Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity, Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Held at Balch Springs Civic Center, 12400 Elam Rd. For ages 5 and up. 10 am to 1 pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/3v1bDem

GET YOUR COVID VACCINE AND BOOSTER SHOT at Resurrection Chicago Classics: Black History Month. Online event by Chica- Body of Christ Church, 2349 Cedar Crest Blvd., Dallas 1909 - NAACP was founded go Literary Hall of Fame. Our Chicago Classics series continues with a themed program celebrating Black History Month. Women of Color Devotional “Get Together” 1st Sunday EveHost Jarrett Neal. 6 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3KAJ92g nings by Urban Spirit Publishing and Media Company. Readers, Join UNCF and the Dallas Mavericks writers, and editors of the Women of Color Daily Devotionals in celebration of African American for a great time at our monthly “Get Together” Info: www.urHeritage Night at 7:30pm.

4 banspirit.biz 6 to 7 pm.

The Dallas Mavericks play Los Ange2007 - Tony Dungy -1st Black NFL coach to win a Superbowl les Clippers and halftime entertainment is Texas Southern Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band. Also from 5:30, visit the Jack Daniels Old No. 7 Club for the pregame mixer presented by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey and hosted by DJ Steve Nice. https://mavs.spinzo.com/ mavs-vs-clippers-2022-02-12-RVHPD?group=african-american-heritagenight-fcyb

myimessenger.com

EARLY VOTING BEGINS - THROUGH Feb. 25 15

45

16 1959 - Actor, Rapper Ice T born

17 Mutual Survival: Black-Jewish Relations in the 21st Century.

Online event by Wassmuth Center for Human Rights. Phillip Thompson, Idaho Black History Museum, discusses the crucial collaboration of Blacks and Jews during the 20th and 21st Centuries. 7 to 8 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/356GXzc 2020 - Actress Ja’Net Dubois died - Born 8-5-32

18 I Am Not Your Negro - James Baldwin - Film History Livestream by Washington DC History & Culture. 7 to 9 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3AnAprG VOTE BY MAIL APPLICATION DUE!

19 1992 - John Singleton became 1st Black film director to receive an Oscar nomination (Boyz N the Hood).

February 4, 2022

February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

46

myimessenger.com

www.grandpasecret.com

myimessenger.com

47

February 4, 2022

ARRESTED

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority.

We’re talking about a community.

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477 February 4, 2022

I MESSENGER

48

myimessenger.com