I Messenger 6-10-22

I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 40 June 10, 2022

Black Music Month

Dallas Artist Spotlight:

Nia Simone

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 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.

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

District 4 - As We Are Now OUR VOICES

BY CAROLYN KING ARNOLD

April 2022, Dallas home prices were up 12.6% compared to last year, yet Dallas has a severe shortage of housing, more to the point affordable housing.

Two stated City of Dallas housing goals; End a severe shortage of affordable housing and overcome patterns of segregation and concentrations of poverty” in Dallas.

A consulting firm, hired to shed light on this major concern stated; City leaders must take significant action and be prepared to spend “significant dollars” if they are serious about building adequate affordable housing and reducing “stark racial disparities” in housing for Dallas residents.

The City of Dallas has incorporated equity into its budgeting process, but money, a significant amount of money tied to an earnest commitment is needed to get residential housing below I-30, more directly in District 4 elevated to ground zero to get to the starting point of step one. To that end is “As We Are Now”. District 4 Affordable Living Opportunities Update; Home Repair Activity Update: The Home Improvement and Preservation Program (HIPP) continues to deliver rehabilitated

2

and reconstructed houses throughout District 4, • 10 completed since 2021.

• 11 currently under construction.

• 8 of which are reconstructions.

• 7 more in the pre-construction phase.

Texas Heavenly Homes Development: In the Tenth Street Historic District, the American Rescue Plan Neighborhood Revitalization Program (ARPA) has begun.

(The Bottom)

• 4 homes have been completed and sold.

• 2 of the homes are affordable, per the agreement signed in 2021.

• 8 of the 10 THH has submitted permits for addresses in Phase I • 5 addresses have received approval.

• 3 are in process.

• 2 lots that are pending permit submission.

• 1 Home has been constructed and closed.

• 4 Homes have been constructed, awaiting closing.

Golden S.E.E.D.S. Development: • Construction to start

June 13th on 11 total properties allocated under phase1.

• 4 lots are awaiting final permits.

• 4 lots are addressing floodplain concerns.

Infrastructure: • Phase1: 1.5-milliondollar infrastructure has officially been completed on Denley, May Hall and Moore.

This includes new lighting, sidewalks, broadband to activate the housing development and properties being pulled out of the flood zone.

• Phase 2: Currently in process, public works and notice has been submitted. The next step is procurement to obtain a contractor.

• Construction is expected to start in Fall 2022.

• Phase 3: Now in motion, public works will start working with the engineers.

Affordable housing isn’t a luxury it’s a must on District 4’s way toward improving our quality of life.

This is a brief overview of what’s taking place in District 4. My next article will address the more than $7.9-million dollars in federal funds approved for a planned affordable housing community.

Together we will transformer today’s District 4 into a thriving district where jobs, community pride, respectable affordable housing and the essentials of quality of life are common place for all residents. myimessenger.com

INSIDE

QUIT PLAYIN’

THE LAST WORD

THE BLACK CARD

I am the greatest. I said that before I even knew I was. – Muhammad Ali 1967 was turning to face spring and three impressionable boys were fully engaged. Me, Michael Jackson and Prince were all around eight. James Brown had the three of us dancing to a new smash hit...

Students everywhere are anticipating, or already experiencing, their summer vacation. It means freedom from daily classes and the opportunity to break, “chill,” and perhaps attend a summer program for many. We know, however, that there is knowledge erosion over the summer...

If Lucille “Big Mama’s Allen had lived her prime during this new digital season, then her rules of thumb taken out of her playbook would be trending every week. It would be a bestseller. Today, she would say, “My Baby Boy, (that is what she called me), be very aware...

p6

p18

p20

Groundbreaking held for Judge Charles R. Rose Community Park

The Trust for Public Land and Dallas Parks and Recreation commemorated the start of construction for the Judge Charles R. Rose Community Park in the Highland Hills neighborhood Tuesday. The groundbreaking took place at the future home of Judge Charles Presentation made to Mrs. Charles Rose by Dallas City R. Rose Community Park at 3200 Simpson Stuart Rd, Dallas, TX 75241, with family members and other dignitaries, including Mayor Eric Johnson, and Judge Rose's daughter, State Rep. Councilman Tennell Atkins Credit: Rose Family Toni Rose in attendance.

myimessenger.com

3

June 10, 2022

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Stay tuned...

Sometimes the best laid plans are disrupted. You can plan and mark your calendar, but then guess what?

Life happens!

That’s right. You map out your life, sometimes in a vacuum and other times, with the help of friends or loved ones. It seems perfect, easy to achieve if you take certain steps.

It sounds easy and you are confident; that is…until life happens.

Which brings me to my truth.

I wasn’t trying to come up with something I planned to be doing into another century. I was living for the moment.

I asked for friends to help me fulfill a need.

I had a mission: raise funds to help our youth go to college, participate in educational programs and grow.

First Chuck D of Public Enemy gave his support, followed by comedian Dick Gregory (who came almost every year prior to his death in 2017).

I’m talking about “Cheryl Smith’s Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon,” usually held in June.

In addition to providing scholarships, internships and fellowships, we even bought a suit for a young man to wear to his high school graduation.

Can you imagine graduating with honors and not having anything to wear to the ceremony?

Well, the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation has fulfilled similar needs for over 25 years. In addition to fundJune 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

ing trips to journalism conferences/ conventions from Seattle to D.C. and Milwaukee to Baton Rouge; a student in Sen. Royce West’s Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program received a scholarship for the past 25 years — the Dr. Betty Shabazz Academic Excellence Scholarship— and aspiring journalists received over $50,000 between

Although we haven’t had the bowl-a-thon since 2019, we did have the Healthy Living Expo at the African American Museum on Dr. Martin Luther King Day last January and we were able to provide scholarships through that effort. the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists scholarship program and Urban Journalism Workshop.

Usually our biggest fundraiser, the celebrity bowl-a-thon, is held in June and people from all over come to support. With major corporate and community support this much-anticipated event was always a success.

We are grateful to the “leaders,” celebs and media; as well as the community

4

members who participated.

In spite of COVID-19, we have still awarded scholarships and provided internships.

Although we haven’t had the bowla-thon since 2019, we did have the Healthy Living Expo at the African American Museum on Dr. Martin Luther King Day last January and we were able to provide scholarships through that effort.

I asked someone when were they going to open up a facility and they said “when COVID is over!”

I told them that would be a long time, because the way things are going, COVID is part of our reality as other epidemics have become.

Our communities have been in a state of pandemonium for a long, long time. We must survive COVID-19 and we must continue working for our future.

As far as the Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon goes; we’re looking forward to gathering again, one day.

In the meantime, let’s continue supporting our youth. Please give today.

I’m calling on everyone who cares about our future, all who have participated in the past, previous scholarship winners or benefactors, let’s all continue to lift as we climb!

And stay tuned right here because we will be inviting you back out again soon and we are prayerful that we will see your face in the place! myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

5

June 10, 2022

Ali – The Greatest - Round One “What’s My Name?”

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

I am the greatest. I said that before I even knew I was.

– Muhammad Ali 1967 was turning to face spring and three impressionable boys were fully engaged. Me, Michael Jackson and Prince were all around eight. James Brown had the three of us dancing to a new smash hit; “Papa’s got a Brand New Bag.” Meanwhile a potent hurricane was predicted for Houston, Texas.

This “pretty” poet/pugilist self-named Muhammad Ali publicly rejected his government name, Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. Later, I learned that Clay was named for a powerful and prestigious abolitionist. His parents plotted to emblazon destiny on young Cassius’s conscience by naming him for greatness. B But Ali realized that he could not call himself “The Greatest” with a carefully selected “slave name.”

1967 was a year of wonderment for me. The Vietnam War was televised and I was petrified that I might someday be drafted. The War, though I studied it intimately and daily, was confusing as I had it proffered to me by Walter Cronkite.

If all of Vietnam was a hazardous battleground, what was a “Demilitarized Zone?” So peace is possible, but the body bag business is booming?

Nothing made much sense to me after JFK was killed three miles from my front door…Nothing!!

I switched channels to find sportscaster Howard Cosell; a man whom I admired and trusted for one reason…

Cosell defended fully the rights of the June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

former Cassius Marcellus Clay to be called whatever the hell he wanted.

Be leery of the “America the paradise” historians who will whitewash Ali and recast him as some sort of candy-assed, highly celebrated conformist, readymade for a “Wheaties” box. Ali didn’t earn that coveted cereal-box cameo until 1999, after the Olympic torch.

Before Ali became an “acceptable Negro,” most White folks and a lot of Negroes hated him. To this crowd his first

names were uppity, loudmouth, troublemaking and a few other invectives, but they all agreed that his surname was Nigger.

From Clay to Ali, he grew up in an environment that was hostile, hurtful and humiliating to his race. Save that Kumbaya ‘ish!

Black America’s eyes and ears affixed on Houston, Texas. More ears than eyes because televisions were a middle-class luxury. Houston rocketed to fame by landing NASA. Ali’s outspoken arrogance would be

6

tested at the “8th Wonder of the World; The Astrodome.” The Astrodome was the first enclosed football arena and earned Houston a significant amount of tourism.

Muhammad Ali entered the ring intent on delivering a resounding ass-whipping to his opponent and his haters. He paced the ring keeping constant eye contact.

He looked at six-foot-six inch Ernie Terrell like he was a midget. During the pre-fight hype, Terrell mocked the name change, currying favor with Whites and Black Christians who despised Ali, Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam.

But watching, I thought Terrell had talked about Ali’s mama. In our community “The Dozens” will get you hurt quickly and seriously; with or without gloves and a protective cup.

Throughout the contest I could see Ali constantly mouthing something to Terrell, but couldn’t make it out. Camera angles and close-ups were not nearly as refined then, but Ali allowed him to stay conscious long enough to finish this speech he was spitting.

A few days later I learned that the whole while he brutalized Terrell, he was asking him “What’s my name?

What’s my name boy?

Terrell finally had to say his name.

My middle daughter, Alison was named partially for Ali, because the name Ali means “Greatness” around the world.

Ali is “The Greatest” because he named it and claimed it. Ali made Black beautiful and us proud and was the progenitor of a movement.

Ali whipped his non-believers and made them acquiesce. Greatness requires bearing the sacrifices that come with your beliefs.

BTW…What’s your name?

Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

7

June 10, 2022

Be the lifeline patients need.

Give blood or platelets.

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

8

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

Call 1-800-RED CROSS, use the Blood Donor App, or visit RedCrossBlood.org

myimessenger.com

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!

––--

myimessenger.com

9

June 10, 2022

Free Summer Tech Program Seeks Dallas Teens From Staff Reports

A technology program that teaches high school students STEM-based skills is coming to Dallas.

Charlotte-based Youth Technology Apprenticeship Cohort (YTAC) taught hundreds of students and recent high school graduates digital skills such as coding and video game design which has changed the course of their professional lives.

Many who have completed the program went on to land paid internships with major companies like Bank of America, Wells Fargo and LendingTree. Others were able to find employment in select fields with starting salaries of $55,000 a year.

“YTAC has helped hundreds of high school kids from around the country see a new future,” said Tariq Bokhari, executive director of Carolina FinTech Hub,

which runs YTAC. “This is about finding folks that don’t have opportunities and getting them excited about a new door that once they open, they learn a whole new world exists.”

YTAC is in such demand, it’s expanding to 14 cities, including Dallas. High school students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply at https://stiegleredtech. org/ytac. The deadline is June 13.

Glenn Heights’ Leaders Take Public Safety Seriously, Outfit Officers With Devise For Improved Safety And Transparency GLENN HEIGHTS – The leaders in the City of Glenn Heights take public safety and transparency seriously.

Last Friday the city’s entire team of police officers were outfitted with Axon 3 body cameras.

Glenn Heights Director of Public Safety Keith Moore said this new advanced technology is a win for everyone.

“The goal with the City of Glenn Heights, as it pertains to public safety, is always providing our public servants the latest and best technology,” Moore said. “It is important to capture all the information to be able to do our job as efficiently as Glenn Heights’ residents expect.”

The Glenn Heights Police Department realized that when Axon upgraded their technology recently it was time the city upgraded their technology too. Moore presented the device to the Glenn Heights City Council and City Manager with an explanation of the significant changes the new device offers. These changes include an integration system that allows an officer’s body camera and car camera to synchronize, the current system does not. The new system also saves the officer time in not having to return to the station after each incident to remove the camera and place it in a docking station to synchronize the data. The new body camera has the ability to activate when an officer draws a taser or their duty weapon, and it will also turn on another officer’s camera if he reports to a crime scene with his camera off. The new camera also allows the dispatch center to monitor officers in real time for safety when needed and allows other unit’s updates before responding.

Moore said while the new camera is the latest techJune 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

nology, one of his favorite features is the real time map, which makes every camera trackable.

“Police departments across the nation are operating under an increased level of transparency and we are no different,” Glenn Heights Deputy Police Chief Nick Bristow said. “The citizens have a right know what we are doing. I think if you polled the officers here in Glenn Heights or anywhere, most of the officers are going to embrace this technology and be glad they have the device.”

10

A day after the cameras deployed, Bristow had the chance to use the new technology while sitting at his home and watching an officer on a call.

“I was able to see exactly what the officer was doing, and it gave me a lot of insight, it was very helpful,” Bristow said. “The fact that city leaders are investing in this technology – even as a smaller agency and a smaller city – will help our officers function and perform at the highest level.”

If you would like to speak with Moore or Bristow about the improvements the Axom Body Camera 3 has on safety and transparency in the City of Glenn Heights, please let me know and I will facilitate a time to accommodate your needs.

About the City of Glenn Heights: The City of Glenn Heights was incorporated in 1969 and is located along IH-35 East. A hospitable, business friendly and rapidly growing community divided between- Dallas and Ellis counties, Glenn Heights has a total area of 7.2 sq. miles. myimessenger.com

GSU selects Haitian-American journalist to launch its Africa and diaspora studies center The Haitian Times www.haitiantimes.com

By Michel Cleverley FRENCHBURG — Georgia State University has selected Edvige Jean-François, an award-winning Haitian-American journalist and former CNN producer, to be the executive director of its new Center for Studies on Africa and Its Diaspora (CSAD) on the Atlanta campus.

Jean-François, starting July 1, will promote conversation about the African diaspora and its historical and cultural impact worldwide. The center, focused on scholarship related to understanding the diaspora and its global contributions, was founded in 2020 by a group of interdisciplinary faculty members.

Born in Port-au-Prince,

Edvige Jean-François, the newly appointed executive director of Center for Studies on Africa and Its Diaspora at Georgia State, is an alumna of Hamilton College and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Credit: Hamilton College

Jean-François’ family left Haiti when she was seven years old but she has returned many times. The journalist will offer useful insights from her cov-

erage of the White House and extensive overseas travel — including Africa, the Middle East and Hong Kong.

She worked as a journal-

ist and TV producer for more than 20 years. During that time she earned over 20 awards, nominations and commendations. Among these were a Peabody Award for 2008 presidential primary campaign and debate coverage and eight Emmy Award nominations, both regionally and nationally.

Jean-François also won a CINE Golden Eagle Award from New York Association of Black Journalists for her 2010 coverage of the earthquake in Haiti.

“As someone who has lived and traveled across continents, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the impact that the center can make on both Atlanta and the world, while also serving as a bridge for awareness, education and empowerment,” Jean-François said in the university’s statement.

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

11

June 10, 2022

West: Senate Special Committee must consider common-sense gun regulations

Last Wednesday, June 1, State Senator Royce West (D-Dallas) was appointed to the newly formed Texas Senate Special Committee to Keep All Texans Safe by Texas Lt. Governor Dan. Patrick.

The Special Committee, created by the Lt. Governor at the request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, is charged with examining issues surrounding school safety in the wake of the deadly Robb Elementary School massacre in Uvalde, Texas, during which 19 innocent children and two fourth grade teachers were brutally gunned down by an 18-year-old, using a military-grade, assault rifle.

He thanked the Lt. Gov. for his appointment to the Select Committee, while challenging fellow senators and committee members to look past ideological differences and make a serious effort to examine all causes and factors that contribute to mass shootings.

"It is imperative that we have an honest discussion as it relates to the intent of the 2nd Amendment, now within the context of military-styled assault rifles that are in the hands

of civilians; and too many times in the hands of those who should not have them," said Senator West.

"Other areas that should be explored include mandatory cooling-off periods before the completion of certain firearms purchases and the fact that the majority of Texans and Americans support universal background checks.

"Further, the hardening of schools alone is not a panacea for preventing the loss of lives connected to school shootings," he West said. "Without a discussion about common-sense gun regulations, my concern is that we will issue a report that does little to provide guidance as we head into the 2023 Legislative Session and more importantly, does even less to make parents feel they can safely send their children to school or have the freedom to frequent the public venues that's ingrained into all our lives."

Sen. West, formerly a Chief Felony Prosecutor for Dallas County, authored a bill to ban assault weapons during his first Legislative Session in 1993. He has been an advocate for com-

mon-sense gun regulations for nearly 30 years, writing and supporting bills that require trigger locks, would close gun show loopholes and prohibit straw purchases of guns for

Sen. Royce West

people who cannot legally buy them. Mental health, along with school security, he adds, are rightly component parts of a healthy discussion with the inherent goal to protect all Texans but should not define its limits.

"Mental health, another issue that I have worked on for years, must be part of the dialogue, including addressing the mental health needs of students who have been removed from the classroom for behavioral problems and those with truancy is-

sues," Senator West said, noting that classroom removals and truancy are known early indicators of possible mental health issues among students.

According to the senator, funding currently included in the state budget also needs to be evaluated for its effectiveness, including those expended as part of the School Safety Allotment and for the Texas School Safety Center.

"While funding has been appropriated by the Legislature for hardening schools, it still may require voters to approve bonds for the additional security measures to be put in place," Sen. West said.

"School safety, target hardening and mental health dialogue absent earnest discussion about the role that the proliferation of guns has in our society will not get us to a solution that will help ensure the safety of students and school personnel."

The senator said he is looking forward to having discussions with fellow Committee members and colleagues, "Our mission must put politics aside and focus on saving lives."

The Definition of Insanity FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW I’ll never forget an uncle of mine who was just different. He lived in the world on his own terms. For many, he was eccentric. Despite some of his interesting clothing June 10, 2022

choices and his nomadic ways, he was someone I adored. I didn’t see him regularly but when he did show up for a visit, it was always a treat to hear a colorful story that for some would be make believe but for me, it was an opportunity to learn more about this relative who was not traditional by any standards. He always so loving and supportive even when he

I MESSENGER

shared stories about his pursuit of angels and gold. At the time, mental health wasn’t something so prevalent and because we didn’t have the language to understand his condition, he was always labeled as crazy. I was never embarrassed of him because in being embarrassed, I was basically taking ownership for his life and decisions knowing I didn’t have the

12

ability to change him. I loved my uncle dearly because of who he was.

It wasn’t until later in life that I began to understand that his way of life often caused conflict for others.

They wanted him to be something he couldn’t become. He was never going to get a professional career as a banker, but his odd jobs allowed him See INSANITY , page 47

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

13

June 10, 2022

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

14

myimessenger.com

LEBRON JAMES MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST ACTIVE NBA PLAYER TO BECOME A BILLIONAIRE Because Of Them We Can https://www.becauseofthemwecan.com/

By BOTWC Staff James has come a long way in a short time, born to a 16-year-old single mother in Akron, Ohio who struggled to make ends meet. He would move nearly a dozen times in three years before being thrust into the spotlight as one of the biggest high school basketball prospects of all time. At 18, his good fortune changed, James striking his first deal with Nike in 2003. The partnership paid off and after a career full of highlights, Nike inked a lifetime deal with James in 2015 that rakes in tens of millions every year.

Now an 18-time NBA allstar, 4-time NBA champion, and 2-time Olympic gold medalist, James has only missed the playoffs four times in the last 19 seasons, clocking in last year as the second-highest earning athlete in the world, soccer superstar Lionel Messi coming in at number one. Now the 37-year-old has reached another career milestone, Forbes ranking him as the first active NBA player to become a billionaire. Apparently, it was something James has been manifesting for a long time.

“It’s my biggest milestone.

Obviously, I want to maximize

myimessenger.com

my business. And if I happen to get it, if I happen to be a billion-dollar athlete, ho. Hip hip hooray! Oh, my God, I’m gonna be excited,” James told GQ back in 2014.

Well, he must be celebrating because he has officially accumulated a net worth of more than $1.2 billion in pretax earnings. The majority of it

He’s just a kid from Akron! partner with the Blaze Pizza chain where he is an investor.

He’s also done similar deals with companies like Lyft and smart gym company Tonal.

James’ SpringHill TV and movie production company also has a lot to do with his

Lebron James - first NBA Billionaire

is coming from his income off the court, endorsements with brands like AT&T, Pepsi Co, and Walmart contributing to that wealth. Another key component is that James has been an astute businessman, negotiating for equity in the brands he partners with in addition to an endorsement. In 2015, James turned down an endorsement with McDonald’s worth an estimated $15 million to instead

accumulated wealth. In 2020, James and business partner Maverick Carter announced the company alongside a secured $100 million investment. Last year, James made history as the first Black partner of Fenway Sports Group, becoming part-owner of the Boston Red Sox. That same year, Fenway and Epic Games also bought into Springhill, which helped the compa-

15

ny produce the $163 million box office grossing hit Space Jam: A New Legacy, and the HBO documentary What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali. His estimated billion-dollar fortune is broken down into a few categories; The Spring Hill Company, which houses James’ Robot Company marketing agency, Uninterrupted and SpringHill Entertainment, earning James about $300 million. Fenway Sports Group, which James earned a stake in by trading in his minority stake in Liverpool F.C., earning him an estimated $90 million, his real estate portfolio which includes at least three different estates for an estimated $80 million. Blaze Pizza also brings him in around $30 million, plus cash and other investments which total more than $500 million and include his $121.2 million made on the court last year. Also, his shares in publicly-traded company Beachbody and sports nutrition company Ladder, which he co-founded with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2020 for $28 million in stock.

Congratulations, LeBron!

You did it!

Photo Courtesy of Kevin Winter/Getty Images

June 10, 2022

‘What Are We Doing?’

OUR VOICES BY MARIAN WRIGHT EDELMAN

The funerals for the 10 Black community members who were murdered while grocery shopping in Buffalo on May 14 are not even over — but it happened again.

This time, children. Thursday should have been the last day of school and the start of summer vacation for teachers and students at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

Instead, on May 24, 19 fourth graders and two of their be-

Senate floor hours after the shooting. Sen. Murphy was the Congressman representing Newtown, Connecticut when 20 first graders and six adults were shot to death at Newtown’s Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012, so he is no stranger to responding to indescribable tragedies.

He is also no stranger to watching many of his colleagues respond to gun tragedies by defiantly refusing to take action to protect children, not guns.

On Tuesday, Senator Murphy asked all of them: “What are we doing?”: “Just days after a shooter walked into a grocery store to gun down African American

a problem as existential as this?

This isn’t inevitable. These kids weren’t unlucky. This only happens in this country. And nowhere else. Nowhere else do little kids go to school, thinking that they might be shot that day. Nowhere else do parents have to talk to their kids as I have had to do about why they got locked into a bathroom and told to be quiet for five minutes just in case a bad man entered that building. Nowhere else does that happen except here in the United States of America. And it is a choice. It is our choice to let it continue . . .

“What are we doing? Why are we here? What are we doing?”

O God, forgive our rich nation where toddlers and school children die from guns sold quite legally.

O God, help us never to confuse what is quite legal with what is just and right in Your sight. loved teachers were shot to death in their classroom. They were murdered by a shooter who had legally purchased two AR-style rifles and 375 rounds of ammunition starting on May 17, the day after his 18th birthday. As our colleagues at the Children’s Defense Fund-Texas put it, “The only thing extraordinary about yesterday’s tragedy in Uvalde is how ordinary it is.” What a shameful indictment of our nation’s failure to act and protect children.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) struck a chord with millions of Americans as he spoke passionately on the June 10, 2022

Credit: kat wilcox on Pexels.com

patrons, we have another Sandy Hook on our hands. What are we doing? There were more mass shootings than days in the year. Our kids are living in fear every single time they set foot in the classroom because they think they’re going to be next. What are we doing? Why do you spend all this time running for the United States Senate? Why do you go through all the hassle of getting this job, of putting yourself in a position of authority, if your answer is that as the slaughter increases, as our kids run for their lives, we do nothing. What are we doing?

Why are you here if not to solve

I MESSENGER

What are we doing? Politicians who immediately say things like “now is not the time to politicize this” almost inevitably actually mean “it will never be the time.” Too many of these leaders have no intention of taking any steps to prevent this. They do not want to act. They are not going to stand up to the gun lobby. They are not willing to protect children instead of guns.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz had both been scheduled to join former President Donald Trump among the featured speakers for the National Rifle Associa-

16

tion (NRA)’s national convention in Houston on May 27. In 2015, Governor Abbott said on Twitter: “I’m EMBARRASSED: Texas #2 in nation for new gun purchases, behind CALIFORNIA. Let’s pick up the pace Texans.” Following the mass shootings at a Texas church in 2017, a Texas high school in 2018, and the back-to-back mass shootings in El Paso and the Midland-Odessa area in August 2019, Texas lawmakers responded by making it easier rather than harder to buy and carry guns in their state. Texas has now been the site of four of the nation’s 10 deadliest mass shootings, including the deadliest mass shooting at a place of worship, the deadliest mass shooting at a military institution, and, after the murders of these 19 children and their teachers, the second deadliest school shooting. Does this make Governor Abbott proud?

Or will this shooting finally be enough to lead some of our elected politicians to new choices?

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for children and teens in our nation.

A child or teen is killed with a gun every two hours in America. More preschoolers under 5 are killed with guns than police officers in the line of duty each year. In a nation where nearly all voters support common-sense gun safety legislation like universal background checks and two-thirds of voters support a nationwide ban on the sale of assault weapons, it doesn’t have to be this way.

What are we doing?

Edelman is founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund.

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

17

June 10, 2022

Summer Vacation, Reconsidered THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Students everywhere are anticipating, or already experiencing, their summer vacation. It means freedom from daily classes and the opportunity to break, “chill,” and perhaps attend a summer program for many.

We know, however, that there is knowledge erosion over the summer, especially for students who don’t continue to read or learn.

Race matters here. Lower-income parents often can’t afford summer programs.

In other cases, they count on older children to be caretakers for their younger siblings, which means they may have to forego opportunities for continued learning.

There are year-round learning or staggered learning opportunities in a few school districts. However, students are “off” from late May or early June to August or September.

Some parents aggressively seek summer programs to keep their children intellectually engaged. Others face significant barriers to keeping their children involved in the learning process.

Parents must be encourJune 10, 2022

aged to find summer learning experiences for their children. More importantly, we need to reconsider this notion of summer without learning.

Some schools assign summer reading lists, but to the extent that learning is interactive, reading in a vacuum may not be optimal for enhancing education. It’s better than nothing, but why such a low bar?

Why aren’t school districts more forcefully providing summer opportunities?

The achievement gap is real, and it starts before children are enrolled in school and continues through higher education.

Upon preschool enrollment, data (sometimes disputed) suggest that young white children are exposed to 30 million more words than young Black students. Other exposure gaps are cultural (who goes to museums, cultural performances, or libraries), physical (involvement in sports), and social.

These gaps show up when students take standardized tests or are measured against prevailing cultural “norms.”

Learning has to be both year-round and lifelong.

This isn’t just about students but also about the adults who guide them.

When was the last time you read a book, checked out a museum, or expanded your horizons? You can’t

I MESSENGER

18

encourage your children to be lifelong learners unless you are one yourself.

Still, it is time for us to think about these summer vacations. The notion of having summer off comes from an agricultural model where young people had the summer off to help their parents harvest crops.

With the number of family farms plummeting, children aren’t needed to work in agriculture. From my perspective, they are needed to be in classrooms, libraries and museums.

Rethinking education means spending money, though, and as our national student body has become more diverse, there seems to be less interest in spending money on education.

Higher-income parents can pay for the supplemental education programs that their children need. Lower-income parents scramble for opportunities and have to balance their economic situation with their children’s learning needs.

There are lots of objections to reconsidering summer vacations. Parents with several students worry about coordinating schedules if calendars are changed, and different children are off at different times.

Teachers, who savor their summers off, wonder about the financial implications of a more extended school year. And culturally, we

are all used to the model of “summer off,” and it will take some adjustment to change that.

Other countries do more with education and achieve better results. Nearly everyone (98%) 15-24 years old in Costa Rica can read.

That country spends 8% of its GDP on education, compared to 6.4% in the United States. Worldwide, students spend between 175 and 220 days a year in school, with the United States hovering at the lower end, with about 180 days a year.

Our K-12 education is often lacking, especially for students of color. Why aren’t more people speaking up more forcefully about educational access?

The hybrid education introduced by COVID could be a model for summer education. At the very minimum, it provides us with some of the alternatives we need to consider if our nation is educationally competitive.

The traditional model isn’t working, and it exacerbates the achievement gap.

If we genuinely believe that “children are our future,” we must reconsider the concept of a two- or threemonth summer vacation and implement year-round learning.

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

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

19

June 10, 2022

BIG MAMA SAID:

YOU NEED TO CALL A SPADE A SPADE AND END THE GAME! THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

If Lucille “Big Mama’s Allen had lived her prime during this new digital season, then her rules of thumb taken out of her playbook would be trending every week.

It would be a bestseller.

Today, she would say, “My Baby Boy, (that is what she called me), be very aware of someone who appears helpful and belonging but they are really very dangerous and powerful with no skin in the game. You have to call a spade a spade, baba” Lucille “Big Mama” Allen wanted us to know that no matter, that the Okey Doke is real. FYI, the term, “okey-doke,” means some sort of trick, game, scam, attempt to fool, shortchange, deceive or mislead; which was re-popularized by President Obama. He had a Big Mama too!

She said to reduce the hidden agenda and call a spade and make sure you are dealing with individuals that have “skin in the game,” meaning dealing with those who have cultural history and a vested interest and expertise.

Big Mama said that would June 10, 2022

reduce you from being swindled; hood-winked; backstabbed by hidden agendas or novices unaware of the impact of our culture and activity history.

Now you know that the mainstream’s dictionary defines calling a spade a spade as to speak plainly

vil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois wrote in his famous 1919 editorial “Returning Soldiers” about the struggles of African American men: “We stand again to look America squarely in the face and call a spade a spade. We sing: This country of ours,

The Oxford English Dictionary says the first appearance of the word spade as a reference to blackness was in Claude McKay’s 1928 novel Home to Harlem. without hidden and false pillars. But what happens when a perfectly direct phrase takes on a more indirect and disguised meaning over time?

To be clear in this reference, a spade was not an item in a deck of cards but a gardening tool. That being stated, the early usages of the word “spade” did not refer to either race or skin color.

Yet in our intrinsic cultural experience, Politicians and commentators have also frequently used the expression. After returning to the United States after World War I, the scholar and ci-

I MESSENGER

despite all its better souls have done and dreamed, is yet a shameful land.”

In the late 1920s during the Harlem Renaissance, “spade” began to evolve into code for a Black person, according to Patricia T. O’Connor and Stewart Kellerman’s book, Origins of the Specious: Myths and Misconceptions of the English Language.

The Oxford English Dictionary says the first appearance of the word spade as a reference to blackness was in Claude McKay’s 1928 novel Home to Harlem.

In this new post-George

20

Floyd moment we have created the new DEI teams in corporate America and they are denying the community a seat at the table again.

I have had many conversations with multiple veteran and crucial community leaders and organizations that are being denied a seat at the table because with the new DEI leadership who mostly do not have, as PR pro Pam Purifoy would say, “no skin in the game,” are denying traditional and impactful initiatives.

They are refusing any continued engagement in pivotal partnerships and engagements that are masterfully branding unions between culture and commerce. Many culture-centric events and programs are being taken out of marketing consideration and placed in a DEI inbox to be denied.

So, what does all of this mean for people who want to, well, “call a spade a spade?”

I urge caution. Be aware of the false barriers and outcomes in the DEI movement.

BIG Mama is shaking her head!!

Terry Allen is an NABJ awardwinning Journalist, PR professional and founder of 1016 Media, the charity - City Men Cook and Dallas Chapter President of NBPRS-DFW

myimessenger.com

Tulsa Mass Shooter Targeted Black Doctor at Saint Francis Medical Building

Dr. Stephanie Husen was among the victims

By Deon Osborne Associate Editor The Black Wall Street Times

A south Tulsa hospital descended into chaos last Wednesday evening after hundreds of Tulsa police officers responded to a mass shooting in which five people died, including the shooter, who police say was a “Black male estimated to be 35 to 40 years old” who killed himself after the shooting.

Around 4:56 p.m., officers arrived at the Natalie Medical Building on the Saint Francis hospital minutes after receiving a call that there was an active shooter, police told reporters. According to Tulsa Deputy Police Chief Eric Dalgleish, myimessenger.com

Shooter targeted Dr. Preston J. Phillips

the shooter was armed with a rifle and a handgun, though his identity hasn’t been identified. Officers did, however, say that he is a “Black male.” Notably, it is legal to open carry a rifle in Oklahoma up until the moment someone uses it to kill.

Preston J. Phillips, MD is one of the few Black doctors in Tulsa compared to the number of White doctors, in a city that orchestrated a massacre against Black residents of Greenwood and the destruction of Tulsa’s only Black hospital in 1921.

Since the shooter is also Black, many have questioned why The Black Wall Street Times mentioned

21

his race. Considering the widespread racial disparities in Tulsa, in Oklahoma, and in the nation, the loss of even one Black doctor is felt keenly in the Black community.

Tulsa Police have released the identities of the deceased: Dr. Preston J. Phillips, Dr. Stephanie Husen, receptionist supervisor Amanda Glenn and William Love were killed. The shooter shot and killed himself following the attack.

According to Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin, who spoke with CBS News, the gunman had recently undergone back surgery and called the clinic repeatedly complaining of the pain. Dr. Preston performed the surgery.

June 10, 2022

“We have also found a letter on the suspect which made it clear that he came in with the intent to kill Dr. Phillips and anyone who got in his way,” Franklin said. “He blamed Dr. Phillips for the ongoing pain following the surgery.”

According to City Councilor Jayme Fowler, who represents the district in which Saint Francis resides, the shooter entered the hospital and allegedly told multiple people to clear the area and that he was looking for a Dr. Philips.

“The shooter could not find this physician, and that elicited, you know, his behavior at the shootings,” Fowler told CNN. Elected officials release statements Meanwhile, police roughly 50 miles away in Muskogee, Oklahoma say a bomb threat at a home there is connected to the Tulsa mass shooting at Saint Francis.

According to 2 News Oklahoma: The Muskogee Police Department says they got a tip from Tulsa police about the possible bomb on Park Place North near Country Club. Investigators did not find an explosive device but the home is still a subject of the investigation.

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum arrived on the scene of the shooting in Tulsa Wednesday evening and asked for the community to pray for and support the victims, their families, and hospital staff, calling the hospital workers “heroes.”

Oklahoma Republican Governor Kevin Stitt, who signed a bill in 2019 that allowed for residents to buy a gun without a permit, also released a statement on Wednesday.

“What happened today in Tulsa is a senseless act of violence and hatred. Sarah and I are praying for the families of those who lost their lives and for those who were injured. I am grateful for the quick and brave actions of the Tulsa Police DepartJune 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

We are sincerely thankful for the quick response by the Tulsa Police Department, first responders and EMS agencies. And, our deepest gratitude extends to the members of our own Saint Francis family who cared for their own during this incident. ment and other first responders who did their best to contain a terrible situation. I have offered Mayor G.T. Bynum any state resources that may be needed, and I ask all Oklahomans to come together in support of the Saint Francis Health System community and to grieve with those whose lives have been forever changed.”

Assault-style weapon purchased on same day of shooting Oklahoma clearly has some of the most relaxed gun laws in the nation. The assault-style weapon found on the scene was purchased the same day of the shooting, three federal sources briefed on the situation said. The handgun was purchased on May 29. Both the rifle and the handgun were classified as semiautomatic weapons.

“It was just madness inside, with hundreds of rooms and hundreds of people trying to get out of the building,” Tulsa police Capt. Richard Meulenberg said.

On the federal level, President Biden has recently tried to combat gun violence by targeting the purchases and sales of ghost guns, unserialized and untraceable firearms that can be bought online and assembled at home. It’s unclear, however, if any current federal law or executive order would’ve pre-

22

vented this latest mass shooting.

The White House released a statement on Wednesday: “President Biden has been briefed on the shooting in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The White House is closely monitoring the situation and has reached out to state and local officials to offer support.”

The mass shooting at Tulsa’s Saint Francis medical complex comes amidst over a dozen mass shootings around the country since a gunman killed 19 children and several adults at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas on May 24, just one week prior.

Saint Francis released a statement Wednesday evening asking for prayers: Saint Francis Health System is grieving the loss of four members of our family. As a faith based organization, the only recourse we have at this moment is to pray while we navigate this tragedy.

Out of respect for the families, we are not commenting on or releasing names of those lost or injured at this time.

We are sincerely thankful for the quick response by the Tulsa Police Department, first responders and EMS agencies. And, our deepest gratitude extends to the members of our own Saint Francis family who cared for their own during this incident. myimessenger.com

Biden’s Executive Order on Policing a Necessary Step Forward TO BE EQUAL

BY MARC MORIAL

“Our criminal justice system must respect the dignity and rights of all persons and adhere to our fundamental obligation to ensure fair and impartial justice for all. This is imperative — not only to live up to our principles as a Nation, but also to build secure, safe, and healthy communities.

Protecting public safety requires close partnerships between law enforcement and the communities it serves. Public safety therefore depends on public trust, and public trust in turn requires that our criminal justice system as a whole embodies fair and equal treatment, transparency, and accountability.” — President Biden, Executive Order on Advancing Effective, Accountable Policing and Criminal Justice Practices to Enhance Public Trust and Public Safety In the two years since Minneapolis police murdered George Floyd, police have killed more than 2,000 people in the United States — even more in 2021 than in 2020. Black Americans remain nearly three times as likely as whites to be killed by police.

Yet many in Congress still refuse to act.

President Biden’s executive order on policing, issued on the anniversary of Floyd’s murder, incorporates several elements of 21 Pillars for Redefining Public Safety and Restoring Community Trust, the National Urban League’s own plan for enhancing public safety and restoring trust between communities and law enforcement. myimessenger.com

The executive order, which directly affects about 100,000 federal law enforcement officers, sets forth a model for state and local law enforcement agencies and uses carrots and sticks and incentives to encourage those agencies to make the same kind of reforms. It represents a measure of meaningful change and a critical acknowledgment of the pervasive systemic racism that has shattered the trust between police and communities of color.

But it is no substitute for the broad federal legislation we have sought, or for the full implemen-

ful protesters without provocation in what a federal judge called “the sad tale of officers, clothed with the awesome power of the state, run amok.” A recent study of Chicago Police found that their misconduct is a group phenomenon, involving more than 1,000 “deviant, even criminal” officers, that inflict outsized harm in communities of color. And in Kansas City, officers are accused of excessive and deadly force against Black and Brown Kansas Citians, constitutional violations, and discriminatory patterns and practices.

President Joe Biden signs an executive order on police reform in the East Room of the White House on May 25, 2022, the second anniversary of George Floyd's death.

tation of our 21 Pillars in every community across the nation.

On June 9, I’ll join Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City, for the latest stop in our 21 Pillars Tour, which already has included events in Louisville, Kentucky, Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago.

In each of these cities, trust between the police and the communities they serve was broken.

In Louisville, the officers who shot and killed Breonna Taylor in a botched raid escaped consequences after prosecutors misled a grand jury. In Columbus, police used physical violence, tear gas and pepper spray against peace-

23

The 21 Pillars centers on five key themes that are fundamental to the protection and preservation of life, dignity, trust, and safer communities: collaboration, accountability, changing divisive policies, transparency, and elevated standards for hiring and training police. The Tour is aimed at familiarizing communities with the plan’s objectives, amplify the issues and concerns relevant in each city, and advocate for policy solutions.

With the incorporation of several elements of the 21 Pillars into President Biden’s executive order, the plan already is having an impact. Key provisions of the order

include: • Bans on chokeholds and carotid restraints by federal law enforcement officers except where deadly force is authorized. (Pillar 10) • New federal standards and training for use of force. (Pillars 4, 9, and 20) • Restrictions on the use of noknock entries by federal law enforcement officers. (Pillar 10) • Creation of national law enforcement accountability database. (Pillar 14) • Requirement for the use and activation of body-worn cameras by federal officers, and policies that provide for expedited release of footage. (Pillar 15) • New models and federal funding available to innovate new responses to persons in crisis, as an alternative to police intervention (Pillars 4, 9, and 21) • Restrictions on the transfer of the weapons of war to police departments (Pillar 12) • New screening and training tools to counter bias, and strengthen investigations of law enforcement agencies that violate civil rights … so that all persons can have faith and confidence in the equity and fairness of the criminal justice system (Pillars 18, 19, 20, and 21) Social parity, economic empowerment, and civil rights cannot be achieved in a world of unjust policing.

President Biden’s Executive Order, guided by the principles outlined in 21 Pillars, can be the basis for safer, more effective, and community-centered law enforcement across the nation.

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

June 10, 2022

National NAACP Lynches Its Own

Those affected by recent national NAACP actions.

OUR VOICES DR. JOHN E. WARREN

A “lynching” has been defined as the illegal killing of a person or persons without due process of law.

While most of the lynchings in America have been racial terrorism in nature, with Whites killing Black men, women, and children by this method, it appears that the National NAACP (National Association For the Advancement of Colored People), has moved from fighting such illegal actions to committing them against their own members. According to the Justice Coalition, a coalition of NAACP members seeking redress of the issues of the National Organization illegally taking over branches and state organizations, the National Organization has taken action against no less than 52 branches, chapters, and individuals throughout the country.

Recently, the second president of the City of San June 10, 2022

Credit: NAACP Justice Coalition

Diego NAACP Branch was suspended for a three-year period.

The reason given, “She didn’t put the Nationally appointed Administrator of the Branch on the bank accounts”, even though no reason was actually given in writing for the receivership, as required by the National organization’s Constitution and Bylaws. Where there was the filing of a complaint, there was supposed to be a statement of the allegations and the opportunity to respond. This was not done.

Members protested, just as they have done in other states, but to no avail.

It appears that the motivating force is to get hands on whatever dollars have been raised, regardless of the volunteers and tireless hours contributed by local members in support of the organization as a whole.

During this whole period of allegations, the San Diego Branch and members of the community repeatedly asked the national office for a list of charges and the opportunity to respond, upon

I MESSENGER

24

learning of the appointment of the Administrator. There was mention of a special election when no formal complaints were filed within the Constitutional requirements of time, following the last election.

The now former Branch President and Executive Committee members met with the Administrator.

They provided answers to all questions raised.

No National response, nor response to months-long requests for a hearing until the Grievance Committee, just a few weeks ago, called President Maxwell to a hastily arranged hearing.

That hearing excluded local member observation for more than an hour before being told their presence would serve no useful purpose.

Mrs. Maxwell was subsequently notified that she has been suspended for three years because she did not put the Administrator’s name on the Branch checking account.

It is interesting that while Mrs. Maxwell’s pleas for Due Process went unanswered; the actions against the North Carolina NAACP Chapter resulted in a Parliamentary Opinion dated December 18, 2021, concerning the North Carolina state election of Officers on October 23, 2021. Please read the following excerpt from that opinion: “Although the pandemic of COVID-19 initially led many to make exceptions to rules – we must also keep in mind that democracy, dignity, and freedom must be upheld. Using the principles of the democratic processes to educate and take all lawful action to further these objectives include appeal, reconsideration, and repeal of rulings against democratic principles. Those actions must be explained when See NATIONAL NAACP, page 31

myimessenger.com

“Just Pray About It”-Changing the Narrative around Mental Health in the Black Community

By Chante Gamby Contributing Writer

While May is Mental Health Awareness month, many people are not aware of what mental health is, and why it is important to each person, family, and community. According to SAMHSA’s 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, “Sixteen percent (4.8 million) of Black and African American people reported having a mental illness, and 22.4 percent of those (1.1 million people) reported a serious mental illness over the past year”.

People not included in this count can include those who experience mental health issues but lack a diagnosis due to lack of access to mental health services and also those who feel like they need to stay silent about their mental health due to the stigma of mental health in the black community.

While we may not know the actual number of people in the black community who live with a mental illness, we can understand why so many African-Americans may experience a threat to balance within their mental health. Recent studies have shown that it is highly predictable that blacks will experience some type of mental health distress due to trauma and the many forms that may take, such as systemic racism, generational trauma, etc.

However, because mental health is sometimes seen as a weakness within the black community, many individuals find themselves in a space of trying to figure out how to deal with it on their own, from emotional eating, alcoholism, and drug use, to name a few, which may further exacerbate both mental health and physical health issues.

So, how do we address this? First, it is important to understand what mental health is. Mental health is comprised of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

It impacts how we perceive ourselves and the world around us.

It also impacts how we communicate somyimessenger.com

cially, inclusive of work, family, and church contexts. In this context, every human has mental health, just as we all have physical health-mental health does not mean mental illness.

Like physical health, when our mental health is properly attended to, we often tend to feel a sense of overall satisfaction within our lives.

It does not mean that life is no longer stressful, but we find that the stress is manageable and does not overwhelm us. We can make decisions about our lives with a sense of clarity and are also able to enjoy certain aspects of our lives.

We are also able to create and sustain mutually supportive relationships and a sense of purpose in our lives.

When our mental health is ignored, it can lead to illness, which can often be seen within the sustained conflict in relationships, difficulty in making decisions in one’s life, and lead to an overall dissatisfaction with our lives.

This illness can come from multiple sources such as genetics, trauma, etc., just like a physical health illness. For some, it can also lead to death.

So, what can we do about this? To begin with, we need to challenge common messages about mental health in our communities.

While spirituality is an important part of maintaining mental health, telling someone that they should “just pray about it” is not enough. Typically, we don’t just pray when

25

we have a physical health ailment and believe that it will miraculously go away.

Instead, we engage in lifestyle changes, take medication if needed, and seek additional support from professionals. Similarly, our mental health may require those steps as well.

If you feel like your mental health is suffering, reach out to mental health organizations such as Therapy for Black Girls, Therapy for Black Men, and Innopsych to talk to a mental health professional.

Secondly, search for spaces that normalize mental health. Organizations such as Chicago-based Coffee, Hip-Hip and Mental Health (CHHMH) and the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) regularly hold events where you can go and learn about mental health so that you can define mental health for yourself, and find support from others. Spaces like these can also help you create change that can help you maintain your mental health, such as exercising, journaling, and engaging in other self-care activities.

Finally, start to build your own healthy support team. Let people know how they can support you and consider asking them how they might like to be supported.

If you find that you do not have anyone that you feel safe discussing your mental health with, consider joining a support group.

Organizations like Safe Black Space offer healing circles to create black-centered support around cultural and racial trauma.

Above all, know that you are not alone.

The narrative around black mental health is changing as more of us are engaging in our own healing process and seeing the benefits of owning our mental health, instead of letting others define it for us.

Owning your own mental health means that you are creating your own narrative, which helps us heal and not only strengthen ourselves, but also our friends, families, businesses, and communities.

June 10, 2022

Iotas Celebrating 85 Years of Service Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc., Psi Chapter, along with National President, Dorothy White; National President-Elect, Charlotte Berry; National Secretary, Tanesha E. Mosley; Southwestern Regional Director, Rosetta Davis; and Past National President, Lillian Parker; celebrated its 85th Anniversary at the Hilton Dallas Lincoln Centre.

Iotas on the dance floor

National President Dorothy White and past Psi Chapter President Daphne Hornbuckle

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

26

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

27

June 10, 2022

Nena's Finds 215 W. Tyler St. Gilmer, Texas 75644 (903) 680-3333

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

28

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

29

June 10, 2022

National NAACP cont. from page 24 the organization” seems to counter its ideals.”

Those affected by recent national NAACP actions.

Photo: NAACP Justice Coalition Clearly, the San Diego Branch was not afforded the Due Process being given to the North Carolina Branch, when the San Diego issue was supposedly already before the National Organization.

Letters and newspaper articles concerning the San Diego Branch were sent to the homes of all the Nation-

June 10, 2022

al Board Members as well as Mr. Derrick Johnson, as National President.

It is especially interesting that Mr. Johnson would ignore such concerns as those raised by San Diego and other California Branches when one considers that he was brought under scrutiny in 2013 by the Mississippi Secretary of State for the mingling of funds from his One Voice non-profit organization with that of the Mississippi State NAACP while he was State President.

I MESSENGER

That state audit revealed, according to documents made available at the time by then NAACP member Kathryn Perry, that Mr. Johnson’s 2012 Form 990 for his One Voice charity, paid him $120,000 as Executive Director.

The audit also revealed that Johnson received $1.78 million in revenue but had an operating loss of $122,581. That same year, the organization spent $164,500 on travel; $548,684 on salaries; and $539,733 on consultants.

While reimbursements were supposedly made to

30

clear things up, one must ask how Mr. Johnson went through this personal ordeal in Mississippi, yet he was not concerned about issues affecting his branch members as National President of the NAACP. It appears that now might be a good time for the national NAACP to take a close look at its leadership as well as its Board of Directors.

Today’s need for the NAACP at all levels of the organization is too great during these difficult times.

Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

myimessenger.com

Call issued to Support Black Businesses Buy Black!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

When Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, announced 100 Days Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the movement. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses. and we decided that the struggle continues and we must also. So enjoy reading about more Black-owned businesses and please support.

FOWL LANGUAGE “WE SPEAK DELICIOUS FRIED CHICKEN”

214-456-7890 Email: order@fowlspice.com Fowl Language is owned by Tony Woods.

His Grandmother, Margaret “Morgie” Woods, would sit on the front porch with Tony in Swann, Texas.

They would be shelling purple hull peas and getting ready to prepare Sunday dinner which always included her tasty fried chicken. She taught her grandson how to prepare the unique blend of spices and herbs for the chicken along with many other recipes. Fowl Language is a family-owned and operated business.

Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Visit: https://fowlspice.com/ or call to order these delicious seasoning blends. myimessenger.com

THAT ORANGE FOOD TRUCK

214- 456-7890 info@thatorangetruck.com Hitting the streets daily, THAT ORANGE FOOD TRUCK is a premier Food Truck that provides quick and delicious food on the go. Whether you’re in need of a delicious bite or just don’t have time to sit and eat, they’ve got you covered. They don’t take any shortcuts when it comes to food and service. In doing so, they are able to offer customers high-quality food on the go at reasonable prices. If you’re feeling tired, out of all of the options, the choice is simple. Choose the best Food Truck in town. Follow us and find out where they’re parked next! Visit www. thatorangetruck.com.

BAILEY’S FURNITURE

Joe and Ruth Burks founded Bailey’s Furniture over 50 years ago. Under the leadership of Charles Edward Bailey, the company flourished. It initially began as an antique furniture store in the Dallas area. To cater to the increasing desires of customers’ needs, Bailey’s Furniture has incorporated design services into its home furniture store offerings. For information call (972) 283-3152, check out www.baileysfurnituresite. com or stop by 3910 W. Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas.

HEROES LOUNGE

It’s time to celebrate with HEROES LOUNGE, celebrating 12 years and every Saturday its DFW’s Official Reggae Night! We start the turn up at 4pm w the DJs and $3 Drink specials! *NO COVER Til 8p! LIVE BANDS @7p! feat D’Ras & Sharac Band! Lyrix, Robbie & Guests. Come join the best party in the metro area!

31

You can call ahead and reserve a free tableThere are 5 DJs, featuring Reggae, Dancehall, Afrobeats, Soca, HipHop, Latin & More with a full menu and full bar, so you can dine in or get your order to go. They call it “the coolest venue in the city.” Heroes Lounge (formerly on Greenville Ave) is situated right outside the nucleus of Downtown, by Love Field Airport at 3904 N. Stemmons Freeway.

SOUTH DALLAS SMILES

Masks are coming off and some of us are ready, but some of us would benefit from a visit to South Dallas Smiles at4432 Malcolm X Blvd. Just give them a call at 214-565-4330 South Dallas Smiles Dental is a general dental office that has been performing all types of preventive dentistry. Dr. Demetra Jones does extractions, both simple and surgical, as well as root canals and crowns.

It’s important to note that even if you do not have any teeth, South Dallas Smiles can get you to smile again by replacing missing teeth using partials, dentures, and bridges. There’s so much more. Give them a call and share your beautiful smile.

WINFRED PARNELL, MD.

Dr. Winfred Parnell’s patients absolutely love him! A graduate of Florida A&M University and the University of Florida School of Medicine, Dr. Parnell is a founding partner of Carlos & Parnell, M.D., P.A., and has been an active partner since 1981. Dr. Parnell devotes a great deal of time with a vigorous community outreach initiative that addresses quality of life issues, particularly for women. He specializes in obstetrics, annual exams, gynecology, infertility, and gynecologic surgery. It’s important to note that Dr. Parnell pioneered robotic surgery at Medical City Dallas. He See BUY BLACK BUSINESS, page 47

June 10, 2022

Briefs Wilmer Recognized In The National Texas Economic Development Guide WILMER, TEXAS – The City of Wilmer was recently recognized in the 2022/2023 Texas Economic Development Guide by Site Selection Magazine https://siteselection.com/cc/texas/2022/digital.html#page=1.

The City received recognition for its outstanding growth in the area with a number of national facilities eyeing Wilmer as an excellent location to move distribution headquarters.

While it was stated that Houston was a huge market for growth in 2022, the real star regarding the location of incoming

national logistic hubs is the Dallas-Fort Worth area, topping the state with 187 projects.

“This area has reaped the benefit of outstanding growth along with our neighboring cities seeing three of the top 10 projects since the beginning of 2021,” said Sheila Petta, Mayor of City of Wilmer. “We are thrilled to be part of the expansion in the southern sector of Dallas, and we have many plans ahead to continue to facilitate future growth.”

Wilmer’s main growth spurt will come from Walmart’s $420 million, 1000-job

project that has chosen the small city as its new home. While there is no completion date for this project, the progression of

CONGRATS TO: JBJ Management receives MWBE Advocacy Award from the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber

these national hubs to the Wilmer area certainly means change to the small community. The guide also indicated that in 2022 Dallas-Fort Worth surpassed the market’s previous record high of under construction activity of 54 million square feet, which was the total at the end of 2021.

The City of Wilmer invites you to register for Nixle alerts by texting “75172” to number 888777. The City of Wilmer invites you to “like” the City on Facebook.com/cityofwilmer and follow us at twitter.com/welcometowilme1 and Instagram.com/cityofwilmer.

FOR YOU - MEN !

In observance of Men’s Health Month, Father’s Day and Juneteenth, Litehouse Wellness is hosting “Meditation for the Brothas” on Saturday June 18th, 12-2pm CST at the Daisha Board Gallery in Dallas.

Sherri Doucette, Exec Dir of Litehouse Wellness, will lead a guided meditation

accompanied by DFW-based cellist (Booker T alum) Jordan Jones. Also there will be light bites and time to network and experience the featured artwork by BIPOC and LBGTQIA artists.

Event is free. Here is the registration link and images. https://meditationforthebrothas.eventbrite.com

FOR YOU - WOMEN ReflectUS Texas Leadership Council for ReflectUS is a nonpartisan nonprofit aimed at equipping more women for political leadership on all levels of their political aspirations.

The Fellowship is a sixmonth program designed to engage civically-minded women towards political leadership. This year we are excited to double the number of women being accepted into the Fellowship. Each cohort will include capacity-building workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities led June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

32

by ReflectUS Coalition.

Boost your confidence in your political journey through the seminars, relationships, and tools our state and national networks can provide in the “It Begins Here” Fellowship program.

This is a nonpartisan paid fellowship - we pay you to attend, learn, develop skills and network to further your political aspirations. Application deadline is Thursday, June 30, 2022. More info at: https://reflect.us/fellowship/ myimessenger.com

Briefs

What A New Study Tells Us About SIDS And Safe Infant Sleep Practices Michelle Caraballo, M.D. Pediatrics

Alandmark study has provided new insights into a potential cause of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

The study found that 26 infants who died of SIDS had relatively low levels of an enzyme called butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in their blood at birth compared to infants who died of other causes or survived past age 1 year, which is considered the end of the SIDS risk window.

It’s long been thought that babies who die from SIDS may have differences in their nervous system that make it difficult to wake up if they stop breathing in their sleep. BChE plays a key role in producing an important neurotransmitter in the brain’s arousal pathway. If BChE activity is low, the brain is less able to send out signals for the baby to wake up and take a breath.

The study involved BChE levels from more than 700 newborn heel-stick blood tests at birth but not at the time of death. So, we don’t know whether or how the levels may have changed over the weeks or months after birth.

While this was a relatively small study, the results are statistically significant and should be further researched.

The overall death rate from SIDS has not improved in more than 20 years, since early educational campaigns were launched to alert families about safe infant sleep practices.

Approximately 1,250 deaths due to SIDS still occur each year in the United States. Many more infant deaths occur from accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed due to unsafe sleep environments.

The only proven risk-reduction method for SIDS today is using safe inmyimessenger.com

fant sleep practices. While we still have much to discover about the root causes of SIDS, we know that five practices can significantly reduce a baby’s risk of sudden death during sleep.

Practice safe sleep habits with your baby There are some SIDS risk factors we can’t control. Males are more at risk

on a firm, flat surface. An adult bed, couch, or armchair is too soft and increases the risk of SIDS or accidental suffocation.

Keep your baby’s sleep space free of other items. There should be nothing in the crib other than your baby.

No pillows, crib bumpers, or stuffed animals. This goes for blankets, too,

than females, as are babies born prematurely or with low birthweight, but creating a safe sleep environment can significantly reduce the risk of SIDS. UT Southwestern pediatricians recommend following the infant safe sleep guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which include: Always place your baby on their back to go to sleep for all sleep periods, including naps. When they get old enough to roll over to their side or stomach, it’s OK to let them stay like that, but they should always be placed on their back. You don’t have to stay up all night flipping them over!

Put your baby to sleep in a space designed for infant sleep. This could be a bassinet, crib, or pack-and-play enclosure. We want your baby to sleep

which they can pull up over their face.

Dress your baby in a sleep sack to keep them at a comfortable temperature.

Offer your baby a pacifier at bedtime and nap time. We don’t fully understand why, but it has been shown that pacifier use can reduce the risk of SIDS. If your baby doesn’t want it or spits it out later, that’s OK. As with their rolling over, you don’t need to stay up all night putting a pacifier back in their mouth.

Your baby should share your room, not your bed. Sharing your room with your baby for at least six months can reduce the risk of SIDS by about 50%.

Sharing a bed, however, increases the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation.

Several non-sleep-related practices

33

also proven to reduce the risk of SIDS are: Breastfeeding Eliminating or minimizing your baby’s exposure to secondhand smoke Keeping your baby up to date on vaccinations Related reading: 5 baby room-sharing tips to reduce the risk of injury and SIDS Next steps in SIDS research If a low BChE level proves to be a causative factor in SIDS, the next step would be translating that information into clinical settings. BChE level screening might not be a surefire way to predict SIDS risk – many infants in the study with low BChE levels at birth survived past 12 months of age.

Screening BChE levels will serve families only if a treatment for low BChE levels can be developed or a strategy can be identified to prevent SIDS in babies deemed to be at risk.

Right now, it remains unclear how to apply the findings from this study to help protect infants from SIDS, so we are not recommending checking BChE levels routinely – at least not yet.

Even if a successful screening/treatment program is established, it will be important for parents to continue safe sleeping practices to prevent avoidable infant deaths. A perfectly healthy baby, even with normal levels of BChE, can still suffocate in a soft mattress, pillow, or blanket.

Today, the risk of SIDS is never zero for any baby. Giving a baby a safe place to sleep is the only known way to reduce the risk. Talk with your pediatrician about your child’s sleep environment – we can help you create a safe space that works for your family.

To schedule a visit with a pediatrician, call 214-645-8300 or request an appointment online.

June 10, 2022

NOW BOARDING. Step aboard DART, and start your summer of travel on the right foot. We offer fast and convenient service to DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field, every day of the week.

Plan your trip at DART.org/airports

Flying from DFW Airport?

ORANGE LINE to DFW Airport Station

Flying from Dallas Love Field?

LOVE LINK from Inwood/Love Field Station

Wear the masks, wash your hands and show love!

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

CMYK

34

myimessenger.com

Black Music Month Dallas Artist Spotlight: Nia Simone

By Eva D. Coleman

Lifestyle & Culture Editor

In June, we celebrate Black Music Month. With Black music being the basis for music of all forms, it penetrates our ears year-round.

There’s unmistakably no denying the influence. Oh, no. Not at all!

When Revolt Summit 2021 “Be Heard” Talent Competition winner Nia Simone entered the room during a recent listening party in Dallas for her debut single, “Oh No, Not Me,” her petite frame did not match the vocal prowess later displayed. Her sultry and mature sound is grand, and had friends and supporters swaying and singing along.

“Oh No, Not Me” is an anthem of empowerment available on all music platforms. Nia Simone shared that she and her mentor Ms. Keiara collaborated on the title, which is from the song’s hook.

“It was just right to say, ‘Oh no, not me, this isn’t me,’” Nia Simone said. “I know who I am. I know my worth.”

Nia’s father, Donald Thompkins known around Dallas-Fort Worth as DJ Don Juan, proudly served as the music maestro for the listening party event, beaming with so much pride to play his daughter’s song. It was truly a family affair as Nia’s mother floated throughout the crowd, encouraging supporters to buy t-shirts emblazoned

Nia Simone

myimessenger.com

35

June 10, 2022

Photos by Eva D. Coleman

Artist Nia Simone with supporters and friends at Dallas listening party

with “Oh No, Not Me” across the front. She watched as her daughter captivated the entire lounge area of Aloft Dallas Downtown.

“Nia’s been on stage all of her life and we just really affirmed her at a very young age, we realized, ‘This girl has something special, this is different,’” LaTara Thompkins said.

She spoke about recognizing Nia’s gift, supporting her vision and creativity, all while helping her remain grounded.

“One of the things that we’ve shared with Nia all of her life, ‘You don’t have to be on the red carpet to be walking in your gift.

There’s room for your gift. Your June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

Nia Simone's father Donald DJ Don Juan Thompkins

Nia Simone's mother LaTara Thompkins

gift will make room for you,’” Ms. Thompkins said. “Just letting them realize everything isn’t about glitz and glam and teaching them how to be humble, grateful and thankful while supporting their direction and where they’re going.”

Nia Simone was born and

raised in Dallas, Texas. Before capturing the attention of Diddy and many other industry greats, she found her stride at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts of which she is a proud graduate.

“Going to Booker T., collaborating with other artists, and

36

myimessenger.com

Artist Nia Simone strikes a pose at pool table during Dallas listening party

Artist Nia Simone with supporters at Dallas listening party

Eva D. Coleman with Nia Simone

myimessenger.com

even vocal teachers and private teachers; I knew this was what I wanted to do when I worked with other ensembles and different artists, and collaborating with them just made me realize, I want to do this forever,” Nia Simone said.

In speaking about challenges new artists face, The Clark Atlanta college sophomore advises those entering the industry to avoid seeking perfectionism.

37

“Everything is not going to be perfect. You’re going to have to work on it, and, as much as they say practice makes perfect, it doesn’t, it just gets you better and better and better,” Nia Simone said. “Just try not to be such a perfectionist as an artist because you will eventually go through milestones and obstacles throughout your journey.”

While “Oh No, Not Me” is smooth and will have you proclaiming your value, Nia Simone hopes the song inspires others to keep moving forward in remembrance of who they are.

“I hope they walk away feeling empowered, strong, knowing that they know their worth, they know who they are and just know they are worth everything,” she said.

Follow Nia Simone on instagram at real_niasimone, TikTok, YouTube and Twitter at realniasimone.

June 10, 2022

Cryptocurrency in Haiti: The technology behind it The Haitian Times www.haitiantimes.com

By Jo Haselhoef WISCONSIN — “It is worth nothing. It is based on nothing. There is no underlying asset to act as an anchor of safety.” So said European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde about the value of cryptocurrencies, during a May 12 television interview, as the crypto market took a nosedive.

While the cryptocurrency market sent the economic sector into a tailspin, Haiti’s actual yam vendors — featured in some proponents’ visions — continued to sell their vegetables. Few of these vendors have access to financial services, a place to put their savings, a way to take out a loan. Some advocates of financial system reform in Haiti look to cryptocurrency as the technological and financial revolution that can provide that change.

But is cryptocurrency or the technology behind it — blockchains — the right solution and at what cost? These are the questions splitting proponents and opponents of cryptocurrency in Haiti into divergent camps.

“A blockchain network,” said Iwa Salami, co-director of the Centre of FinTech at the University of East London, “is very useful for any financial system, particularly if we’re looking at the fear amongst investors of investing.”

“For example, in foreign direct investments — in countries such as Haiti, the June 10, 2022

Cryptocurrency mining machines — the mother of digital assets.

Credit: Federico Parra for Getty Images

lack of transparency, a lot of times, is a problem for many investors. So, the adoption of blockchain technology and a financial system like this really has the potential to give those investors reassurance.

They will be able to see where the investments are going and how the investments are being used.”

Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology To fully evaluate the potential for crypto in Haiti, it helps to understand that cryptocurrency is built on a blockchain — a series of ledgers or databases, time-stamped and linked together. A network of computers manages

a blockchain — not a single centralized system as in a database. Like using a Google doc or other collaborative document, everyone can see what’s happening in a blockchain.

“Some blockchains have no cryptocurrency,” said Raul Zambrano, an international development expert who researches innovation and technologies that can enhance access to public information.

Hyperledger, for example, is a blockchain platform used by businesses such as IBM and Walmart.

“They don’t want to get involved in the crypto stuff. It’s too complicated — it’s too risky, because of the prices

Inside Russia’s largest Bitcoin mine, 2019. Even if cryptocurrency became popular in Haiti, it would be created where electricity is readily available and inexpensive.

Credit: Andrey Rudakov/Bloomberg

I MESSENGER

38

and the expectations,” he said.

Blockchain has been used successfully in Haiti in certain instances as well. One mango supply chain project — overseen by the Haitian Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with World Bank funds — illustrated that products grown and processed in Haiti can be sold and shipped to the U.S. profitably. The agricultural project was declared a success when participating mango farmers earned 7.5 times more than before.

Notably, the participants were paid in gourdes, not cryptocurrency.

“You can actually deploy blockchain in Haiti without crypto,” Zambrano said. “You can have a blockchain for farmers who want to trace food from country to table.

That’s blockchain. You don’t need crypto for that at all.”

Crypto systems require energy, a lot more than other systems Concerns about cryptocurrency’s use swirl around transactions — how long they take, the cost and the amount of energy they consume.

Using Bitcoin, the average transaction takes 10 minutes, though that rate can vary widely. The average cost of a Bitcoin transaction as of May 23 was $115.52. Meanwhile, every single Bitcoin transaction — even buying a latte — consumes more than $100 in electricity, according to Fortune magazine.

“You have Visa. [It] can do 10 million [transactions] per See CRYPTOCURRENCY, page 50

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

39

June 10, 2022

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

40

myimessenger.com

SLUTTY VEGAN NOW VALUED AT $100M AFTER FOUNDER PINKY COLE RAISES $25M IN SERIES A FUNDING Because Of Them We Can https://www.becauseofthemwecan.com/

By BOTWC Staff Aisha “Pinky” Cole opened her first restaurant, Pinky’s Jamaican and American restaurant, in Harlem in 2014. A grease fire would cause her to lose everything, the budding entrepreneur switching gears to take a job as a casting director in Los Angeles, eventually traveling to Atlanta to continue in her role.

In 2018, she would take another stab at the restaurant business, coming up with the idea for Slutty Vegan, quickly launching the plant-based burger joint out of a shared kitchen space.

“The next thing I know, there’s about 300 people standing outside, trying to pick up their orders,” Cole recalls.

Business took off and Cole quickly opened up a food truck before opening her first brick and mortar location in 2019, creating a brand that would wow customers and keep them coming back.

“When you walk into the doors of Slutty Vegan it’s like coming into a sanctuary of fun.

We’re yelling at you. We’re dancing. We got Hip Hop music busting through the speakers...,” said Cole.

Since then, Cole has grown the brand immensely, the vegan burger chain opening multiple locations across Atlanta and offering even more products from kettle chips and Vegan dip, currently on shelves in Target. Cole also has a shoe deal and a cookbook on the way.

Cole said she’s excited to have a brand that resonates so much with customers. While people have tried to convince her to change the name to make it more appealing to a wider audimyimessenger.com

ence, Cole said the brand is authentically her.

“I’m raunchy, I’m racy, I’m organic, and more importantly, I’m real,” she said.

Now the restaurateur has closed a new Series A fund to the tune of $25 million, making the four-year-old brand valued at $100 million. Led by Slutty Veg-

I’m in the line and I’m looking at the line. That’s what pulls me in. And, as they say, I was ‘Sluttified.’ I was hooked ever since,” recalled Dennis.

The mission of New Voices is to really support Black women entrepreneurs in growing their business, which in Cole’s case, is something Dennis thinks can

Slutty Vegan by Aisha “Pinky” Cole

The brand is only four years old! an chief revenue officer, Jason Crain, Cole says the funding is amazing but she’s most excited about the possibilities down the pipeline with her lead investors; Sundial Brands founder Richelieu Dennis and restaurateur Danny Meyer.

Dennis came on board through his New Voices Fund, a growth equity initiative he launched in 2015 with the goal of helping Black women scale their businesses. He first heard of Slutty Vegan through word of mouth, eventually standing in one of their long lines just to try Cole’s food.

“It’s that really, really great food that put Slutty Vegan on my radar…They kept encouraging me. So, I went to see her.

transform the vegan restaurant industry and the Black community as a whole.

“It’s about partnering with these incredible entrepreneurs and their businesses to drive real scale and growth and create wealth for those founders.

And that’s what Pinky has done here and continues to do. This new round of investments will rapidly transform not just the vegan restaurant industry but will drive an incredible amount of health initiatives and food options for the Black community that may not have existed yet,” Dennis explained.

Meyer, who is the engine behind some Michelin-starred restaurants and popular fast food eatery Shake Shack, said

41

he first became aware of Cole just last August, when she partnered with Shake Shack CEO Randy Garutti for a one-time “SluttyShack” pop up at a location in Harlem. Meyer said his first thought was “What the hell is that?” But like many, it didn’t take him long to get sold on Cole.

“I had never seen vegan food presented in such a fun way.

Leaders are often defined by the degree to which people want to follow them, and I saw people following the leader,” said Meyer. “[Meyer] has proven that you can scale a business, and it can be unique. I got the Michael Jordan of food on my team,” Cole told reporters.

The goal is to use the latest round of funding to expand the stores beyond Atlanta, Cole looking at cities like Brooklyn and her native hometown of Baltimore. She’s aiming to “build a billion-dollar brand” and while she recently had a baby with her partner, Cole has no plans on slowing down anytime soon.

By the end of this year, Cole has plans to open 10 more Slutty Vegan locations, with another 10 slated to open in 2023. She’s also looking to hire a chief operating officer and a chief marketing officer to the team.

“I’ve got a fear of failure. What entrepreneur wouldn’t? But you know what that fear does?

It keeps me on my toes. It keeps me on my grind. I want to know that when Pinky is long gone, what I’ve created will continue to live on.”

If anything, Pinky is showing other entrepreneurs what can happen when you bet on yourself.

Photo Courtesy of Sterling Pics/Forbes June 10, 2022

THIRD GRADE ARIZONA ELEMENTARY STUDENTS AWARDED FULL-RIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COLLEGE Because Of Them We Can https://www.becauseofthemwecan.com/

By BOTWC Staff Students at Bernard Black Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona thought they were arriving for a regular school assembly. That’s when they received the surprise of a lifetime, school officials announcing that all 63 third grade students would be awarded full-ride scholarships to college.

The scholarships are courtesy of the Rosztoczy Foundation, a local nonprofit that operates a College Promise initiative aimed at sending students to college. Eligible students must graduate from Bernard Black Elementary and attend a high school in the Phoenix Union High District.

If they do that, then they have the option to attend a university in or out of state with no tuition cap completely free of charge, Rosztoczy trustee Tom Rosztoczy explained.

Rosztoczy and his wife launched the College Promise program back in 2011, helping 84 students from the Michael Anderson School in Arizona attend college in 2012. Rosztoczy said he was inspired by his father, a Hungarian immigrant who moved to New Jersey looking for opportunity.

When offered a job at the rate of $55 a week, Rosztoczy rightfully asked for more money, citing his Hungarian degree in chemistry. It was then that his father was told that the maximum amount he could make without an American college degree was $65 dollars a week.

June 10, 2022

His father turned down the job but went on to pursue a doctorate degree instead.

The Rosztoczy Foundation aims to make the dream of college come true for as many students as possible, beginning with elementary-aged children. Through the help of family members, the foundation was able to fund another

of the recipients of the first round of scholarships. Since then, she’s graduated as valedictorian at Desert Edge High School and is now pursuing her degree at Grand Canyon University. Erika admits that the College Promise program motivated her to put even more emphasis on her studies.

the scholarships. The foundation is currently working with the district to iron out details for future scholarship offers that may help additional students, proposing that students meet or surpass the national average on a standardized test in order for the foundation to renew their offer.

“They can earn a college

It was a surprise of a lifetime!

Students at Bernard Black Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona

round of third grade students, those at Bernard Black being chosen as the lucky few.

“The kids and their parents have time to re-think their future with respect to education and then get academically prepared. We also wanted them to be old enough to understand what this means.

Third grade felt right last time, so we just did it again,” Rosztoczy told reporters.

Erika Delgado was one

I MESSENGER

The scholarships include tuition, room and board for eligible participants. Currently, the going rate for college is about $25,000 to $30,000 annually for a state school.

However, that number may increase over the next several years and the foundation has accounted for that. There is no way to tell just how much the nonprofit will contribute to the students’ education but there is no monetary limit to

42

scholarship for a large number of students if they can get them to perform academically. This also greatly enhances the chances that the current kids will be academically prepared,” said Rosztoczy.

Congratulations to the third grade class at Bernard Black Elementary School!

Photo Courtesy of the Rosztoczy Foundation/Roosevelt School District No. 66/ Facebook

myimessenger.com

Metro Community Calendar powered by June BLACK MUSIC MONTH PRIDE MONTH 9

GARY OWEN | STAND UP @ ADDISON IMPROV COMEDY CLUB Tickets - improvtx. com/addison/comic/gary+owen

Dallas Southern Pride has added rapper, songwriter, and record executive, Yo Gotti, as a headliner for its Juneteenth Unity Weekend celebration, June 16-19, 2022. Yo Gotti will perform at the Mega Party on Saturday, June 18 alongside Dallas’ own superstars Erica Banks and Yella Beezy. The Mega Party will start at 10 p.m. and will be held at Amplified (10262 Technology Blvd E, Dallas, Texas)

18

1889: Hattie McDaniel, stage and screen actress

22-25 National Newspaper Publishers Association Annual Convention, New Orleans, celebrating 195 years of the Black Press.

24 From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Dallas City Hall Plaza - A Free event and open to the public; the “Giants Shoulders on Which We Stand Memorial” and Interfaith Prayer and Praise Celebration.

10

NTheknow’ Presents The Cigar Lovers Friday Mixer at 5pm @ TK’s in Addison, 14854 Montfort Drive

11

The Ultimate Holistic Festival 2022, Mind Body Spirit at Armstrong Park, 100 James Collins Blvd. in Duncanville. Sponsored by the Global Holistic Movement and you can reach them at theultimateholisticfestival@ gmail.com. For more info, www.Globalholisticmovement.org

African American Museum’s 33rd Texas Invitational Black Rodeo at Fair Park Coliseum, Tickets on sale $10 and up

Send your calendar items to editor@texasmetronews.com

The Juneteenth Tennis Exhibition has family fun for everyone. The second annual event will be held at Kiest Tennis Center in Dallas.

16

19

Happy Father’s Day Happy Juneteenth

Red Bird Lane, Dallas. For more info, contact Bro. Michael Dade or Bro. Abron Young ThetaMuSigma1914@gmail.com

25 Verna H.E.L.P. Seventh Annual Empowerment Prayer and Living Legends Brunch from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Royal Oaks Country Club honoring these living legends nominated for their legendary efforts in making a difference in our community and the lives of others: Margie Aguilar, Co-Founder ISP Studios; Tim Brown, NFL Hall of Fame and Heisman honoree; Attorney Paul Coggins, Partner of Locke Lord and former U.S. Attorney; Lauriston Crockett, CEO of Genostim Labs; Felecia Frazier, Founder and Executive Director of Chocolate Mint Foundation; Charles Haley, former Dallas Cowboys player and NFL Hall of Fame inductee; Ashlee Hunt Kleinert, CEO of D Magazine and Ruthies Food Truck; Libbie Terrell Lee, Executive Director Golden S.E.E.D.S. CDC; Roland Parrish, CEO of Parrish Restaurants; Rosie Stromberg, Dallas Jewish Historical Society; Carolyn Toliver, Benefits Counselor of Community Council of Greater Dallas; and Rev. S.M. Wright II, Pastor of People’s Baptist Church and President of S.M. Wright Foundation.

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.

July 19

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.

Kendell & Mary Beck Scholarship Gold Tournament at the Golf Club of Dallas, 2222 W.

myimessenger.com

43

June 10, 2022

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by JUNE

17

Dallas Juneteenth Festival

Lofty Spaces 816 Montgomery St Dallas, TX For vendor Info contact Ms.Clara 832-461-6729 Tickets on eventbrite

Black Music Month LGBTQ+ Pride Month 10 Taste of Dallas -- Taste Tour - Friday 12:00pm to 9:00pm, Saturday 11:00am to 9:00pm and Sunday 11:00am to 8:00pm at Dallas Market Hall, 2200 North Stemmons Frwy, Dallas, TX 75207 Locally Crafted, an all-inclusive, 21+ yrs and older only, limited ticket culinary sampling experience featuring 50+ craft brews & wines from Pegasus City Brewing, Turning Point Beer, Manhattan Project Beer Co., Matchbook Wine, Reddy Vineyards, and more complemented with delicious tasting from favorites like The Mitchell, La Onda, Nuri Grill, Meso Maya, Will Call Bar, Grazing Locally with Amor Y Queso and much more.

12

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter 12th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament benefitting the Alpha Merit Group, Inc. Shotgun Start 8am at the Golf Club of Dallas, 2222 W. Red Bird Lane, Dallas A complimentary respite for the Brothas, courtesy of Litehouse Wellness and Daisha Board Gallery at 12pm. Brothas, join us for a unique meditative experience curated by Sherri Doucette of Litehouse Wellness. You’ll enjoy light bites, art and a guided meditation accompanied by DFW’s dopest cellist Jordan Jones at the Daisha Board Gallery that showcases work

by BIPOC and LBGTQ+ artists.

18

Line up at 5000 Dolphin in Dallas. Ride ends at Kiest Park.

Texas Black Invitational Rodeo at the Fair Park Coliseum, 1438 Coliseum Drive.

Doors open at 6p.m. and Rodeo

19 Juneteenth and Father’s Day Nick Cannon Presents: MTV Wild N OUT, Dos Equis Pavillian, Dallas

starts at 7p.m.

Black Violin: Impossible Tour

AT & T Performing Arts Center 8pm - 10 pm Tickets link: www.attpac.org/on-sale/2020/black-violin

GUNAA-Metro DFW Chapter presents A Day at the Races with special guests: GSU President Rick Gallott, Athletic Director Dr. Trayvean Scott and Head Coach Hue Jackson, 1-6:30 pm at Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie, 1000 Lone Star Parkway. www.gsumetrodfw.com

Elite Experience Events

CITY MEN COOK

at African American Museum

20

Happy birthday Jamille Bradfield North Texas Juneteenth Celebration Powered by: Elite News, Heal America, Stand Together Foundation Golf Tournament - Fair Park 3809 Grand Avenue Dallas, TX 75210 10am - 8pm Free event Tickets on eventbrite

20-24 Dallas Metroplex Musicians’ Association’s William S. Mitchell Sacred Choral Music Workshop, to convene Monday through Friday, June 20 - June 24, 2022, 7:00 P. M. until 9:00 P. M. The Concert will be held Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 4:30 P. M. Pearly Gate Baptist Church will host this endeavor. It is located at 6021 University Hills Drive, Dallas, Texas 75241, Dr. Thomas J. Payne, Senior Pastor, and Dr. Robbie Moore, Pastor.

Send your calendar items to editor@texasmetronews.com

14 Melanin Manifest Presents: Pull Up and Register to Vote Brunch, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM 4 The Culture Studio, 115 N Carroll Ave, Dallas, TX 75226 Free event with Brunch, Live poetry and 3 DJs. https://www.melaninmanifestival.com/events/pull-up-andregister-to-vote-brunch

7 PM – 10 PM Stand-Up Comedy and R&B show* From $19 · Arlington Music Hall

16 AT&T Performing Arts Center presents An Evening with

Soledad O’Brien Martin: The Reunion will air on BET+ featuring Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell, Carl Anthony Payne II and Tichina Arnold and paying tribute to Thomas Mikal Ford who suffered an anuerysm and died in 2016.

June 10, 2022

Stedman Graham Lecture Series at 1125 E. Berry in Fort Worth at The Warehouse.

4pm

I MESSENGER

44

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

45

June 10, 2022

www.grandpasecret.com

June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

46

myimessenger.com

The Definition of Insanity cont. from page 12

to take care of himself and live in a house he owned. I remember other relatives placing a standard on him of what they thought he could be if he only did x, y, or z. They were frustrated and yet, their feelings never changed my uncle, never changed who he was or the life he chose. It was ultimately a waste of energy, but it was also an unwillingness to accept that everyone is not the same. Having those expectations of others is unfair to them but also to ourselves because we don’t get to enjoy who they are because of a false narrative we’ve created about who they should/ could/would be.

It’s interesting that we serve

a God who created all types of people who are different in so many vast ways. God never saw diversity as a problem and yet, as humans, we are constantly on this rampage of trying to diminish others, find ways to categorize people as other to make ourselves feel more important, special, or elevated. When God created the earth and everything in it, he saw that it was good: “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). It would be wonderful if we allowed ourselves to see the good in others instead of always finding fault, focusing on what’s wrong, and trying to assimilate people into becoming what we think is best.

Condemnation is dangerous.

It creates an opportunity for us to believe that we are better than others and to develop a standard based on our thinking. If we are not careful, we will identify what’s wrong with everyone else instead of taking the time to see our own faults, failures, and limitations. We become what Jesus said about the Pharisees: “whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness” (Matt. 23:27) We become hypocrites and not of any use to those we are around. We end up leading with judgement instead of love.

Strangely enough, we do this to God. We place unrealistic expectations not only on others but on who God is and should be in our lives

based on our limited lens and life experience. When you choose to make your view so small, you also limit God from becoming huge in your life and the life of others.

Changing ourselves is difficult. It’s insane that we then want to change people to become like us. Allowing God to be in control is the key. We would have a lot more peace and joy in our lives if we allowed God to be in charge instead and yet, we keep doing it. Now, that is truly the definition of insanity.

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.

Black Businesses cont. from page 31 has impeccable credentials and has also served as a member of the Board of Trustees, Medical City Dallas; Board of Managers for Parkland Hospital and Associate clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Located at 7777 Forest Lane in Suite 560 in Dallas, he can be reached at 972566-4862.

BPEN TV

Black Premier Entertainment Network--.BPENTV and CFN TV are the first Black-owned and operated Digital Broadcast Television Channel in Dallas Ft.Worth, providing socially responsible programming that caters to the general audience, with a special focus on a broad and diverse Black American audience.

Owner and CEO Vertron Lowe had a mission and a goal to create a media presence that will become a highly sought after destination for high-end retailers, advertisers, and underwriters who are looking to reach this demographic. KWDA Channel 30.8 DFW. Check it out! Get the APP.. myimessenger.com

INDIGO DENTISTRY

Dr. Kera Collier is the dentist you want, so visit Indigo Dentistry in Cedar Hill. She’s a member of the National Dental Association and the International Dental Implant Association. Dr. Collier takes pride in offering Quality Dental Care in a comfortable atmosphere.

She says come to Indigo Dentistry, “where everyone deserves to smile! Check her out at www.indigoDDS. com, or call 972-779-0300. Indigo Dentistry is located at 918 E. Pleasant Run Road, Suite 120.

BAM’S VEGAN

Bam’s Vegan serves a variety of grab and go products, smoothies, nachos, and more. 100% vegan.

Open Thursday - Sunday 12-5pm and located at 2301 N. O’Connor Road #C in Irving, TX. There’s also a Bam’s cookbook! Visit the online selection of books and products. You can also book catering services. www. bamsvegan.com.

47

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

June 10, 2022

Removing Pituitary Adenomas With An Endoscope And Expert Teamwork Acentury ago, the father of modern neurosurgery Dr. Harvey Cushing helped us understand the function of the pituitary gland – the pea-sized gland that sits on a bony cavity at the base of the brain and helps regulate functions such as blood pressure, growth, and body temperature.

Dr. Cushing pioneered surgical approaches to reach and remove pituitary adenomas (non-cancerous tumors) from the tiny-but-mighty gland, and his technique, which ultimately required opening the skull, remained the gold standard until the last few decades.

Modern neurosurgery is much less invasive. For most patients, we can remove a pituitary tumor by accessing it through the nose. Endoscopic skull-base tumor resection allows for faster recovery, reduced pain and discomfort, and fewer potential complications. UT Southwestern’s specialized pituitary adenoma team performs two to five of these procedures each week.

Pituitary adenomas are considered brain tumors, but they are almost exclusively benign (non-cancerous).

Left untreated, however, the tumors can grow and cause life-altering symptoms such as vision changes, low blood pressure, fatigue, menstrual irregularities, and diminished sex drive. While no specific cause for pituitary adenomas has been identified, they account for 10% of all brain tumors and occur more frequently in women.

Skull-base tumor treatment requires the combined expertise of otolaryngologists June 10, 2022

U.T. Southwestern Medical Center Brad Marple, M.D. Associate Dean Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat specialists), such as myself, and a neurosurgeon. We also work closely with our colleagues in endocrinology, neurology, ophthalmology, and radiation oncology to ensure all of our patients’ needs are met from the moment symptoms arise.

Discovering a pituitary adenoma Despite its modest size, the pituitary gland plays an important role in nearly every

or, if it’s pressing on the optic nerve it may cause double or blurred vision, even temporary blindness. If the adenoma pushes on the pituitary gland itself, symptoms can include low blood pressure, fatigue, weakness, symptoms of hypothyroidism, menstrual irregularities, and a decreased sex drive.

If the tumor secretes hormones, the symptoms depend on which hormones are being released. The most common

UT Southwestern laryngologists and neurosurgeons combine expertise to remove pituitary adenomas using endoscopic skull-base surgery, reaching the tumor through the nose and without having to open the skull.

part of your body’s function.

It’s often referred to as the master gland because it directs other glands to release essential hormones.

So, when a tumor begins to grow on your pituitary gland it can create a range of symptoms, which differ based on whether the tumor is pressing on nearby structures or if it is secreting a hormone. (In some cases, the tumor may be asymptomatic.)

Pressure from a growing adenoma can cause headaches

I MESSENGER

hormones related to pituitary adenomas include: • Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): These tumors stimulate the production of cortisol, leading to Cushing’s disease (named after Dr. Cushing).

Symptoms may include rapid weight gain, excessive sweating, easy bruising, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, absent or missed menstrual periods, impotence, and reduced libido.

48

• Growth hormone: Symptoms may include enlarged hands, feet, nose, lips, or ears; heart problems; joint pain; and increased body hair.

• Prolactin: Overproduction of this hormone can cause a decrease in normal levels of sex hormones, leading to irregular or absent periods, milky breast discharge, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction.

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Overproduction of this hormone can cause weight loss, rapid heart rate, hair loss, fatigue, weakness, and excessive sweating.

Pituitary adenomas are usually diagnosed with an MRI scan, though large tumors can sometimes be seen on a CT scan. The tumor also can be diagnosed through blood tests for hormone levels.

Some pituitary adenomas don’t cause symptoms and if they’re discovered incidentally on an MRI or CT scan, we may watch them closely without recommending removal.

Other pituitary adenomas may be treated with medications or targeted radiation therapy (Gamma Knife).

However, if the tumor is growing, compressing important structures, or secreting hormones, it most likely will require surgery to remove it.

Related reading: What women need to know about common benign brain tumors myimessenger.com

Endoscopic pituitary adenoma surgery Removing a small or average-sized pituitary tumor requires a team of experts and takes place in several stages: approach, removal, and reconstruction. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, more than half of pituitary adenomas are diagnosed when they are 5mm or smaller in diameter, or about the size of pencil eraser.

After you are put under general anesthesia, an otolaryngologist will access the tumor by inserting two small, lighted tubes (endoscopes) into the nostrils and through the sphenoid sinus, a hollow space in skull behind the nasal passages and below the brain.

Once we reach the pituitary gland, the surgeons will work in tandem – the otolaryngologist often operates the endoscope to illuminate the adenoma and provide visibility while the neurosurgeon uses crafted instruments to see around corners in the narrow areas of the skull base to resect, or cut out, the tumor.

Then, we remove the tumor through the nose and make sure the healthy tissue in your nasal structures and sinuses is as undisturbed as possible.

This sequential surgery takes about 3 to 4 hours. The surgeons will place temporary packing material in your sinuses to hold the healing tissue in place. We will remove it approximately a week after surgery.

Tumors that cannot be completely removed endoscopically will sometimes require additional treatment like focused radiation.

Targeting tumors with precision radiation Brain tumors that cannot be completely removed endoscopically will sometimes require additional treatment like focused radiation using the advanced Gamma Knife technology.

Recovering from pituitary adenoma surgery Patients typically stay in the hospital three or four days after surgery, so we can ensure

the pituitary gland resumes normal functioning. Most patients do not need strong medications to control the pain after surgery. However, the sinuses may be sore or uncomfortable due to the temporary nasal packing.

A pituitary adenoma, shown here on a CT scan, is a brain tumor that arises from glandular tissues. They are almost exclusively benign, or non-cancerous.

Recovery from the minimally invasive procedure is usually excellent, and you can return to normal activities and work relatively soon after leaving the hospital. In some cases, there may be spinal leakage during surgery, which

means you may need to take it easy a little longer to allow that to heal fully.

You’ll likely need to return at least once a year for an MRI to make sure the pituitary adenoma has not returned. If the tumor caused hormonal deficiencies, you may need ongoing care and supplements from our endocrinology team.

UT Southwestern’s Comprehensive Skull Base Program treats a large volume of pituitary adenomas each year – a condition seen only rarely in most centers – so our team is able to provide patients with customized, multidisciplinary care using the latest technology available.

Endoscopic skull-base surgery is a huge leap forward from Dr. Cushing’s pioneering work in the early 1900s.

Today’s patients can live long, healthy lives after pituitary adenoma removal – with a fast and safe recovery following treatment.

To visit with a pituitary adenoma expert, call 214-6458300 or request an appointment online.

Retired US players beat Cap-Haitien team 69-64 The Haitian Times www.haitiantimes.com

By Oldjy Francois and Onz Chery CAP-HAITIEN — A team of former NBA players defeated the city’s All-Star University 69-64 in an exhibition game at a sold-out Gymnasium Champs de Mars.

“It felt good to win but I was kind of rooting for you guys,” Jermaine Taylor, SportsPower International shooting guard and ex-Houston Rockets player, told The Haitian Times after the game. “They fought back hard and the crowd was into it.

Their players were really good.”

SportsPower International myimessenger.com

Cap-Haitien’s All-Star University players and staff members posing for a picture with SportsPower International players and staff members.

Credit: Oldjy Francois for The Haitian Times

is a non-profit organization based in Baltimore, Maryland with the mission of changing “the lives of people who are hurting” through basketball.

During its four-day trip in CapHaitien, SportsPower scouted the city for a potential project, hosted a basketball clinic May

28 and played the exhibition game May 29.

SportsPower’s team is made of retired players from the NBA, Europe and college basketball.

All-Star University’s team consisted of some of the best college and Innovation Bas-

49

ketball Okap (IBO) professional players in Cap-Haitien.

“We were defending our country, especially CapHaitien,” said Séjour Cox, from Université Notre Dame D’Haïti (UNDH).

All-Star head coach Wesly Jérôme said he is satisfied with how SportsPower International was welcomed in CapHaitien and congratulated his players for putting on a good performance.

“I’d like for the people to come watch basketball while it’s getting a little better,” Jérôme said. “I want the country to have true basketball camps.”

June 10, 2022

Cryptocurrency in Haiti cont. from page 38 second — and they don’t spend any energy,” Zambrano said. “Not as much as Bitcoin.”

“The vast computing power needed to create, or mine, new bitcoins has driven up energy bills for residents and businesses,” led a September article in Chicago’s Booth Review.

Researchers at the University of California at Berkeley analyzed public records of electricity prices and usage, as well as Bitcoin prices. Their study demonstrated that, because of Bitcoin mining’s power usage, households paid an additional $165 million per year in energy costs, while businesses paid an extra $79 million.

Since its transactions are so costly, unless cryptocurrencies move to a different method of processing transactions, Zambrano said, crypto will simply be a financial asset, not something to address services — such as buyer-seller transactions or remittances — in Haiti.

“We don’t have unlimited resources

when it comes to energy,” Zambrano said. “In the age of climate change, you cannot just put high stakes for people to spend millions of kilowatts to approve 1,000 transactions. That doesn’t make any sense to me.”

Potential for abuse rampant Dash is another cryptocurrency being introduced for potential use in Haiti. It was designed to improve Bitcoin’s perceived flaws.

“Dash has kind of positioned itself as a digital whole, the store of value,” said Ryan Taylor, a financial advisor to Dash Investment Foundation. This means it’s focused on being a digital cash used for actual transactions, he noted.

“That means being scalable. It means being inexpensive,” Taylor said. “Transactions on Dash’s network are within about 1.4 seconds.”

Dash, energy-wise, has blended elements meant to make it more energy ef-

ficient, according to Taylor, and to give it security and speed.

However, in “DASH Cryptocurrency: Complete Guide,” from Bit Degree, an online educational platform focusing on digital skills for the workplace, one section looks at how abuses can take place. According to the guide, it’s easier to evade taxes if the government doesn’t know who’s performing each transaction.

“Because Dash cryptocurrency transactions are anonymous and untraceable, it has become a preferred coin for illegal trades,” says the guide.

Tech still too nascent for complex uses Overall, today’s platforms, including Hyperledger, still have limitations. Blockchain is akin to artificial intelligence in the 1950s, said Zambrano.

“AI was basically nothing in the 1950s.

It took 60 years for AI to become what we see today, because the ideas of AI were ahead of the times,” he explained. “I’m waiting for the next generation of blockchains — so they could be more scalable, more efficient, use a different protocol for approving transactions.”

Hundreds of women screened on Women’s Health Day in Haiti The Haitian Times www.haitiantimes.com

By Murdith Joseph PORT-AU-PRINCE — A social assistance organization screened hundreds of women for cervical cancer and other conditions to mark International Day of Action for Women’s Health in Haiti.

At the Union for Haiti (LPH) mobile clinic on May 28 in Girardo, Pétion-Ville, about 200 women from numerous Port-au-Prince area towns had arrived by 11 am. They were screened for cervical cancer and vaginal infections, and received medicines and birth control pills. The women also received a package each of rice, beans, oil and other food items.

June 10, 2022

“The mobile clinic has a positive impact on women who do not have access to health care,” said Guirlène Boucicaut, coordinator of LPH. “Some of the results…showed that several women have problems in their cervixes.”

Free mobile clinics represent a relief for many in Haiti because a lot of residents are not able to pay for healthcare in hospitals or it is not available in their neighborhoods. An increase in strikes in hospitals recently have also prevented them from fully functioning.

“We are doing our best to come to support the most vulnerable,” Bourcicaut said. “It’s not an easy task, we are doing everything ourselves with no support or funds.”

I MESSENGER

50

A member of Union for Haiti giving two elderly women medicines during a mobile clinic in Port-au-Prince on May 28, 2022, which was International Day of Action for Women’s Health.

Crrdit: Murdith Joseph for The Haitian Times

myimessenger.com

Haitian or not? Cultural “gatekeeping” online and offline The Haitian Times www.haitiantimes.com

By Leonardo March BROOKLYN — When news broke about Karine Jean-Pierre, the recently-named White House press secretary, questions about her identify as a Haitian-American took aback some people who thought her ethnicity fairly obvious. In one TikTok video, several commenters said they are doubtful because she was born in Martinique.

Jean-Pierre was born in Martinique of Haitian parents and raised in France before her family moved to New York.

In the end, one comment on the thread stood out for summarizing how many second-generation Haitians feel about the culture.

‘Doesn’t matter where you have that baby they stil. Going to be %100 haitain [sic],” user janiamathieu posted.

Such exchanges bear exploring as the Haitian presence expands throughout the globe, Haitian-Americans, Haitian-Canadians, Haitian-Dominicans, Haitian-Chileans and other hyphenated diasporas grapple with their sense of identity, while exploring the implications of their own diasporic experiences. Conversations about who’s Haitian abound on social media threads, bringing to digital spaces dueling perspectives that have raged offline for generations.

Debates that are repeated across other national groups and rooted in a concept called gatekeeping.

On Puerto Rican Twitter, for example, runner Jasmine Camacho-Quinn’s identity was questioned because the 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist, who myimessenger.com

As the Haitian presence expands throughout the globe, Haitian-Americans, Haitian-Canadians, Haitian-Dominicans, Steve Baboun is a Haitian artist of Syrian heritage who Haitian-Chileans and other hyphenated diasporas engage with has navigated various sides of identity making, as their own sense of identity.

Credit: Leonardo March queer, as Haitian, and as arab.

Credit: Leonardo March

represented Puerto Rico, doesn’t speak Spanish. After Naomi Osaka’s 2018 US Open victory, The Japan Times took to the streets to ask Japan residents what makes someone Japanese.

Fueling the debates is the question: How are transnational identities, or those connected to a parents’ home country, developed and validated?

It’s a phenomenon experts call a form of gatekeeping, used to decide what someone’s nationality or identity should be. For example, declaring that those who do not speak Haitian Creole are not Haitian.

Steven Baboun, a Haitian artist of Syrian descent who grew up in Port-au-Prince, knows a thing or two about identity. To him, identity is a “fluid undefined idea.”

“You can’t tell somebody who they are,” said Baboun, 26, who also identifies as queer. “I don’t speak Arabic. I haven’t gone to Syria in so long. I can’t pitch in conversations happening on social media. So does that make me less of a Syrian? Does that make me less Arab? For me? I say no.

It is still who I am culturally, bloodwise.

At the same time, because of

his Syrian features, Baboun is not seen as Haitian.

“Just for my appearance alone, I would get my identity gatekept,” he said. “But when I open my mouth, and when I talk about my country, and I talk about what I do, and I speak Creole and I kind of prove myself, they’re like: ‘oh, ok.’”

Language can function as the key that allows access to metaphorical and literal cultural spaces. It can also function as a gate that keeps the person out of these spaces.

Haitians who travel back to Haiti can find this experience shocking, as their feelings of home can clash with the reality of their experiences.

“I have students who come to my class, who cry, who tell really painful stories about growing up or painful stories of their visit back to Haiti,” said Wynnie Lamour, founder of the Haitian Creole Language Institute, an educational space for learning Creole. “And a lot of it is tied to the language, because language is the quickest way to connect with the people anywhere.”

Various factors prompt transnational Haitian living between two homes —host country and

51

cultural home— to speak or pass on Creole, or not. These could include stigma at the host country, parents that want their children to assimilate, or a disconnect with their parents’ world.

Back in February, a Twitter user by the name @antdonalson15 posted: ‘Being Haitian and not speaking Kreyol must be painful as hell.’

Replies to the tweet varied from laughing memes, jokes and digital nods of agreements.

One Twitter user replied : ‘We should focus on teaching those who don’t speak it well or at all instead of shaming them cause then they really won’t speak it.’ [sic] Lamour understands that viewpoint well. Some of the transnational Haitian students who approach her for courses have struggled with a life of shame and sadness due to the disconnect created by now knowing creole.

“It’s a hard pill to swallow,” said Lamour, “being told that you don’t speak Haitian Creole well enough. But you didn’t grow up in a space where the language was spoken all around you. So why would you speak Haitian Creole?”

June 10, 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 June 10, 2022

I MESSENGER

myimessenger.com