I Messenger 3-19-21

VOL X NO 27 MARCH 19, 2021

I MESSENGER Black Press Week focuses on

BLACK BUSINESSES

Paul Brock

Pluria Marshall, Jr.

Hon. James E. Clyburn

IMessenger 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 news@texasmetronews.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER 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 MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio

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

March 19, 2021

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INSIDE

Faithful Utterances

Quit Playin’

The Last Word

I have met some of the most brilliant individuals.

And yet, they are stuck. They are in their own way without realizing that God has already won the battle and has done the work. Yet, we can easily get distracted by trying to solve for problems that were not intended for us to address.

As you travel down Hwy 75 North to Exit 4B, you cannot help but notice Caruth Haven. Dallas historians made a permanent mark of the old Caruth family and its plantations. But the story of a little Black boy born on February 12, 1862, to a Black woman and a White worker has, to this point, been less notable.

The Souls to the Polls movement encourages African American church attendees to get out and vote. The churches that promote this movement cannot, because of their 501-c-3 status, endorse candidates.

They can, however, emphasize the gospel of social and economic justice and preach the gospel of civic participation.

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March 19, 2021

MY TRUTH

by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Rep. Sherman files legislation on transparency of catfish mislabeling Truth in advertising is important and it is time out for those merchants who play “dumb” as they serve an inferior and less expensive product; without passing on the savings to the consumer.

In a conversation with State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109), the deception by businesses needed to be addressed.

After all, how could the word “catfish” be in the name of your business and

you don’t serve “catfish?”

Which brings me to my truth.

This week, I received the following notice: “Next time you order catfish from a restaurant menu thank State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109) if House Bill 928 passes this legislative session.

Rep. Sherman’s House Bill relates to the sale and identification of Swai fish, since currently restaurants are not required to label Swai fish; resulting in restaurant and food service providers many times mislabeling it as catfish.

“I believe in the transparency of proper labeling in regard to the type of fish a consumer is being served when ordering a meal or buying a product,”

Rep. Sherman said.

“Swai fish, also known as Pangasius or Basa, is a type of fish that is often used to make fish fillets. It is a less expensive catfish substitution and I believe consumers have a right to know what they are being served.

Rep. Carl Sherman

Swai fish has, over the years, been sold under the false identity of as many as 19 various types of fish. It is usually farmed in crowded, large scale fish farms and imported from Asia.

“I also have concern with the type of farming being done regarding Swai fish since the methods used to farm elicit envi-

Louisiana Catfish

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Swai

ronmental concerns as well as a disturbing mercury level that questions health safety.”

With this bill being passed consumers will not have to worry about the current mislabeling of Swai fish and can be assured what they order, or purchase is indeed the product they are receiving.

To watch the procedure of this House Bill follow the Public Health committee at https://house.texas.gov/video-audio/

WELL, WELL, WELL! All, I can say is thanks to Rep. Sherman. Not trying to put people out of business, but am trying to get them to do the right thing!

Also, check out what I had to say about Swai, three years ago! https ://texasmetronews. com/718/cheryls-world-catfish-v-swai/ myimessenger.com

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March 19, 2021

Get out of the way FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

I have met some of the most brilliant individuals.

And yet, they are stuck. They are in their own way without realizing that God has already won the battle and has done the work. Yet, we can easily get distracted by trying to solve for problems that were not intended for us to address. We don’t know the part we are to play and so we become stressed, discontent or in some cases envious of others because we don’t know how they do it. We become overwhelmed with taking responsibility for so much that was not designed for us to even deal with.

Recently, I found myself feeling discombobulated and quietly in my spirit I heard that I wasn’t responsible for everything. I was not taping into the power that was already available to me through God and others that have been placed in my path. We end up exhausted and stressed out because we are fighting on fronts that are not our territory. When we are surrounded on every side, we usually go into either fight or flight mode and take matters into our own hands.

When we do that, we are truly setting ourselves up for not only mental health issues but physical health challenges that impede us from being all we were designed to be. We are also leaving God out of March 19, 2021

the equation. We can become fixated on others and not focused on what we do, the role we are called to play, and ultimately, how God can use us if we are willing and available vessels.

In 2 Kings 6:8-23, Elisha, a prophet, was obviously in constant and in a consistent relationship with God. Through this relationship, the Holy Spirit shared with him the plans of the enemy.

the Syrians, Elisha would also know that the king was going to attempt to kill him as well.

Realize that if God’s hand is on you, you don’t have to worry about your enemies.

God will protect you if you are in a position of listening to God and making time for that which is most important.

Instead of taking matters into his own hands knowing the king wanted to kill him, Elisha trusted God. His next step

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We don’t know the part we are to play and so we become stressed, discontent or in some cases envious of others because we don’t know how they do it. “

This required Elisha to be present and create time to hear God to know God’s plans for his life--not just the big things but down to his daily interactions. Through positioning himself to listen by dedicating time to hear God, Elisha was able to tell the king of Israel the plans of the Syrian king to destroy their country. The King of Syria could not understand why his plans were thwarted and thought there was a spy in the camp until one of his men shared that Elisha was the one who knew everything. Instead of the king realizing that if the Holy Spirit told Elisha the plans of

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was critical and important for us to note: He wasn’t afraid.

He wasn’t anxious. He prayed knowing and believing that God would show up: 15 When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked.16 “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 17 And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.”

Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses

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and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 18 As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, “Strike this army with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked.”

The soldiers that went blind are like many of us. God has given us sight but our desire to do what we think is best keeps us stuck and unable to really see what is going on around us. We are going in circles, lost. When you feel surrounded on every side, is it a result of you being in the way or are you truly stepping back to hear God? Do you believe that God will fight your battles, give you insight and allow you to win?

If not, being stuck and blind will become common and you will miss out on what God has for your life. Elisha could have tried to figure it out and it could have gone in a completely different direction.

He didn’t. He realized something I recently mentioned to a friend, if it is God’s will, then it is God’s bill. Pick your battles and chose to position yourself with God first and everything else will work itself out when you get out of the way of YOU and know your position.

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.

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From Caruth to Cooper!

QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL As you travel down Hwy 75 North to Exit 4B, you cannot help but notice Caruth Haven.

Dallas historians made a permanent mark of the old Caruth family and its plantations. But the story of a little Black boy born on February 12, 1862, to a Black woman and a White worker has, to this point, been less notable.

A full 11 months before the Emancipation Proclamation would become law Marcellus Clayton Cooper came into the world. America declared freedom in January 1862, but it would be June 19, 1865, before Texas recognized Abraham Lincoln’s decree. Texas has a long and storied tradition of denying the civil rights of its non-white citizens.

Cooper spent his childhood on the Caruth Farm, matriculating at public schools in East Dallas. These segregated campuses were near Black settlements around White Rock Lake. Sometime during his teens, he moved to Springfield, Missouri, to live with his father. While in Springfield, he finished high school and later moved back to Dallas.

A Dallas Morning News article published on September 29, 1891, stated that Sanger employees gave Cooper “a gold-headed cane in token of their appreciation on the eve of his departure” to attend dental school. Cooper left Sanger Brothers Company and moved to Tennessee to study at the Meharry Medical School myimessenger.com

in Nashville, the first medical school in the South for Blacks.

M.C. Cooper became the first Black dentist in Texas at age 34 and opened an office on Commerce Street. Cooper was active in his community and continually supported Black organizations and establishments. He was a member of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce and invested in the Lewis Dry Goods Store, the first Black-owned downtown department store.

He also helped establish Penny Savings Bank, the first African American bank in Dallas, and he served as a Superintendent of Sunday School

Paris Webb

vanced dental students in Dallas, Aggies will always be there to help our fellow Texans,” Chancellor John Sharp said.

“Dr. Cooper’s legacy continues to thrive within our dental students. I know they would have made him proud.”

The clinic is a product of funds from a $2.4 million anonymous donation, along with an additional $2 million endowment that will help pay for operating expenses. The Delta Dental Foundation provided equipment through a $780,000 donation.

The College of Dentistry will work with Frazier Revitalization, Parkland Health & Hospital System, the City of Dallas, and the Dallas Independent School District to develop and coordinate services. Outreach will include mentoring high school students interested in dental careers.”

In his keynote address to the nation in 1963, Dr. King foretold this day. He said, “I have a dream that one day the sons

Dr. M.C. Cooper

at Bethel A.M.E. Church. His final practice location was in the Knights of Pythias Temple in Deep Ellum.

The M.C. Cooper Dental Society, founded in Dallas in 1954, is named in Dr. Cooper’s honor, as is Cooper Street in South Dallas. Cooper died in 1929. And now Texas A&M has named a free dental clinic at 4570 Scyene Road in South Dallas, for Dr. Cooper. Texas A&M highlights his accomplishments in a recent article.

“Whether it’s undergraduates in College Station or ad-

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of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit together at the table of brotherhood.”

We can be proud that today, you can leave the Caruth Haven exit, head South on Highway 75, drive 11.2 miles and see the newest marker in Dallas’ history. The slave owner and former slave have never sat together in life, but they will in perpetuity.

That may not mean much to most, but to the young African American woman, a former basketball player, who gave the keynote address at the dedication of the Dr. M.C. Cooper Dental Center, recently.

She will graduate this summer as a dentist and that’s a real big deal. Paris Webb has a promising future ahead, and so do the residents of South Dallas.

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

March 19, 2021

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How to get a COVID-19 vaccine If you are a Parkland patient: Parkland patients (at least one appointment in the last year) will be contacted by Parkland when it’s their turn to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

If you are not a Parkland patient: Please follow these steps to register to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

1.

Go to the website of Dallas County Health and Human Services:

www.dallascounty.org/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination.php

2.

Click on the green rectangle to register:

3.

Fill out the form and click Submit. You are now registered.

4.

When it is your turn, you will be contacted to schedule an appointment to get the vaccine at one of the hub sites (such as Parkland, UT Southwestern, Dallas County Health and Human Services, etc.)

Getting the vaccine will protect yourself and the people around you.

The vaccine will help stop the spread of the virus in our community and end the pandemic.

Not able to register online?

Call the Dallas County Health and Human Services Vaccine Registration Hotline at 469-749-9906, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Registration help is available in English and Spanish.

Until more people are vaccinated, please stay safe.

Wear a mask

Wash your hands

Clean surfaces 01/21/21

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March 19, 2021

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Alcoholic and cheating parents ASK ALMA

BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, My Dad and my Stepmom have been together for over 20 years.

They both have and always did drink way too much. I’d even say both are alcoholics. Recently my Dad was hospitalized and obviously told he has to stop drinking. My Stepmom says that’s his problem, not hers.

Alcoholic Parents How do I get her to see what she’s doing is wrong and how can I stop her from drinking in front of my Dad? My Dad won’t stop drinking if she keeps providing it.

C.K., Alexandria, Va. Hi C.K., This is a tough situation and I sympathize with the position you’re in. That still, however, doesn’t remove the fact that your Dad has an addiction that he’s “large and

in-charge” of. Let’s pause here and give you a minute to understand and resonate, this is your Dad’s burden to bear.

Allow me a minute and address the consideration and compassion this deserves.

I say this as respectfully as I can muster – you can’t give up crack living next door to the crack house. You feel me? Offer your Dad resources to finding a local Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

He has to take the first step. Once associated, I’m sure they’ll direct him on what his next step should be. Remind your father that facing his addiction is a sign of strength.

Let him know you’ll support him unconditionally. After taking hold of his responsibility, your Dad will decide what to do about your stepmom. That, too, is his choice not yours. I’ll be praying for your Dad, you and your family.

Alma

My Husband is Having an Affair Dear Alma, Around six months ago, I started to see clues that something was going on with my husband. I started going through his wallet and cell phone because I thought he was having an affair. I was right. I almost fainted when I found a phone in the trunk of the car with pictures of him and another woman.

All of the calls were to the same number, which made me believe it was her number. I hit the button and she answered the phone. When she

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said hello, I hung up. I put the phone back and didn’t tell him. I love him and am trying to keep my marriage.

He hasn’t said anything about my phone call.

Do you think I should mention it?

My ego is just about gone and all I want to do is stay in bed. I wish I had not looked in the trunk. I do not know if I should stay or go or why I’m confused on what to do.

Name withheld, Durham, N.C.

Okay Anonymous, You’re not confused sweetheart, you’re heart broken. You’re rejected, sad and depressed. Your husband is having an affair and you don’t want to confront him because you’re scared he might leave you. Let that truth simmer for a minute, then drop it. If not addressing it is an option, learn to live with it. My question to you is, why did you go searching for what you weren’t ready to find? Should you mention it, you asked. Really? If you need me to answer you Sweetie,

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continue to entertain that rubber ducky in your dirty bath water. Email me back when you’re ready to pull the plug and do something about it. Let me know when you’re ready to clean up your mess, redress your problems and restore your self-worth.

That’s when I’ll have amazing, life affirming advice to share. Honestly, if I took the time to answer you, you wouldn’t hear me. Cause truth-betold, right now, on this day, you love him more than you love yourself.

Alma

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They don’t want our Souls to the Polls THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

The Souls to the Polls movement encourages African American church attendees to get out and vote. The churches that promote this movement cannot, because of their 501-c-3 status, endorse candidates.

They can, however, emphasize the gospel of social and economic justice and preach the gospel of civic participation.

People heard the message and got to vote in 2020 and Georgia, 2021. When Rev. Raphael Warnock decided to challenge appointed Senator Kelly Loeffler, he galvanized people to support him.

So in the past few months, the Georgia legislature has crafted a bill to attack how churches, civic organizations, and others get the vote out.

The Georgia legislation seems primarily focused on the ways civic organizations got voters to the polls. They want to eliminate drop boxes, restrict voter hours, and even limit absentee voting to disabled or prove they are out of town.

They have surgically gone into the voter turnout playbook and attacked it step by step.

We aren’t surprised. Our nation’s so-called “law and order” crew have always attempted to suppress the Black vote with absurd conditions for participation. I’ll never forget my great-aunt, Anmyimessenger.com

nie Mae Randall, learning the Latin passages she needed to translate to qualify to vote.

Latin in 1960s Mississippi?

The idiots who imposed this requirement perhaps could not read or write English, much less Latin.

Proof? My mom’s race on her birth certificate is “collard” as in the greens, not “colored” as she was designated. Educated-deprived white people could only assert their “superiority” by putting Black people in our place.

It is not especially startling, then, that not a single House

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“voter integrity,” while Democrats and activists (not always the same thing) highlight voter suppression. The incidence of “voter fraud” is a hundredth of a percentage point, But Republicans refuse to acknowledge their voter suppression acts. Thus there are more than 200 actions in 43 states that will keep people from the polls. They don’t want our souls at the polls.

However, our voter activity has always been blocked by the conservative forces that want to limit the right to vote. They offer a “reasona-

We aren’t surprised. Our nation’s so-called “law and order“ crew have always attempted to suppress the Black vote with absurd conditions for participations. “

Republican voted for the For the People Act, also known as HR 1. It is more confusing than Mississippi Congressman Bennie Thompson (D) voted against the legislation.

He had his reasons, which hold no water with me, but he had his reasons. Thompson was a cosponsor of HR1, but he flipped “in the interests of his constituents.” Is he attempting to curry favor with white Mississippi voters, or is this a vote on principle?

Here is the tension. Republicans keep talking about

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ble” argument. Many hit the airwaves speaking of “voter integrity” and limiting voting opportunities is “reasonable.”

These Republicans are exploiting the racist, predatory capitalist origins of this nation. While our founders talked about democracy and one person, one vote, but they excluded those who did not have property from the vote.

They excluded women, Black folks, and others from the vote. From my perspective, the most enduring evidence of elitism is the way

the United States Senate has evolved. Initially, the governor or legislative body appointed Senators, usually of their race and class. Then, the Senatorial formula is intrinsically unequal.

Why should population-dense California have the same voice as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Montana in Senate votes? This a never meant to be a democracy. It was designed to preserve the interests of capitalist oligarchs.

The ruling class has protected their interests by giving Senators a six-year term.

Their missteps are likely to be forgotten before their term are over. Our former president, who should only be known as “former,” encouraged Republicans in their intransigence.

The Capitol insurrection of January 6 was an attempt for the unholy alliance between the wealthy Republican elites and the people they have been able to incite.

The Georgia legislation suggests that some don’t want our souls at the polls. The Republican opposition to HR1 suggests the same thing.

But Black folks have learned Latin, counted jelly beans in a jar, stood in line for hours, and managed oppression.

We brought the souls to the polls in 2020, and we will do it again in 2022. Nobody is “sud’in” Republican oppression.

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

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Brock, NABJ founder, transitions Journalists are remembering National Association of Black Journalists founder Paul Brock, who transitioned Saturday morning at age 89.

Brock played a pivotal role in bringing together the 44 men and women who founded NABJ. Legendary journalist and NABJ Founding President, Chuck Stone, once described Brock as the “Henry Kissinger of Black journalists” because of his outstanding talent at organizing.

“Founder Brock played such an integral role in the success of NABJ,” said NABJ President Dorothy Tucker. “His love, compassion, zeal, expertise and persevering spirit were always valued by the NABJ family. His long and fruitful career served as inspiration to many of us that hard work and commitment to community can open many doors.”

A distinguished journalist,

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Paul was an only child, born in Washington, D.C., on February 10, 1932. After attending Howard University in Washington, D.C., Brock set out on his career path.

Brock spent 18 years as a radio journalist before moving into television producing and reporting, starting at WBNB in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

From there, Brock went on to become news director at WETA and later WHUR in Washington, D.C. While with WETA, he was credited with bringing the first live coverage of a congressional committee hearing ever aired.

Brock was also the originator, producer and chief fundraiser of the NAACP Nightly Convention Highlights program that aired on PBS from 1978 to 1983.

Later, Brock served as producer, writer, editor and national distributor of the

Paul Brock

NAACP Voter Education public service announcements. The success of this was a launching point for him to move into a position as fundraiser, assistant producer, and vice president of the company that produced American Playhouse.

In 1994, Brock became media coordinator of the Village Foundation, an organization working to “repair the breach” between African American

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males and the rest of society.

Brock left the Village Foundation in 2002, but he remains active with the NAACP, having been with the organization since 1948. He has also served as the deputy director of communications for the Democratic National Committee, vice president for news and operations at American Urban Radio Network, and as a senior fellow for public affairs at Howard University’s Institute for the Study of Educational Policy.

He has also been a member of the National Association of Black Journalists since 1974.

In 1975, Jet and Ebony both recognized him as Man of the Year, and in 1983, Brock received the Black Filmmakers Award for Producer of the Year.

Brock is married to Virginia.

Details of his homegoing will be announced in the coming days.

March 19, 2021

Wake up and Wear A Mask THE GRAY AREA ED GRAY Wake up and wear a mask!

We cannot go to sleep in this Covid 19 Pandemic.

If we listen to our Texas governor, Gregg Abbott, we might be in for a permanent slumber. This Neanderthal decision, which was so bad, even a cave man could understand it.

Apologies to the GEICO Commercial. However, we may need insurance and a

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prayer to get through these next few months.

Let us get real; this was a tactic used by the Republican governor to direct the public’s attention elsewhere.

The great Freeze Out Fiasco, ended up with the governor and his Republican cronies in ERCOT being roasted like hot dogs on a hot Texas summer grill.

Governor Abbott gave us the cold shoulder by playing the blame game, instead of fixing the game.

The Crisis that is now COVID, is not over.

We must not be fooled, because the Texas Rangers

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will play baseball at 100% capacity soon. We are rushing to home plate without actually hitting the ball. The ball is compliance, to the CDC health guidelines. Simply put, Wear a Mask for our health.

Wearing a Mask is not a political statement, it Is a statement for survival.

Texas is at a point, in this COVID Pandemic, that we can score a knockout. We have been battered for the last year, now we can get off the ropes by wearing a mask.

The simple act of taking a shot to the shoulder is threatened by Governor Greg “Genocide” Abbott. What

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else should you call a governor, who threatens to cut off vaccinating Black people, in South Dallas? That alone is additional reason for us ALL to Wear a Mask.

The data simply does not support ending the mask mandate. Texas, prior to the Biden rush of vaccine inoculations, ranked 48 out of 50 states. The Texas numbers for COVID cases, as posted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), were trending higher.

Wear A Mask.

I am Ed Gray.

And this is Straight Talk.

From the Gray Area.

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Thanks for picking up the phone, Shaun Rabb!

If you “googled” the name of a Dallas-area veteran journalist yesterday, you might have jumped to a conclusion as so many others did.

Phones were ringing as many tried to verify reports that Shaun Rabb, FOX 4 News had transitioned.

I was clueless when I received my first call but a phone call to the man who launched my career in radio 31 years ago put to rest

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the rumor that was rapidly sweeping the country.

He answered the phone cheerfully and authoritatively as I whispered “thank you, thank God!” As I shared the information I received with him, other calls began coming in.

I began texting people who had reached out to me to share the good news. I was near tears.

It’s easy to see how someone could take the first line

and run.

The story, covered by Mr. Rabb, was actually about another person many were fond of, Bishop Omar Jahwar; who transitioned recently. As you can see, from the screen shot below, it reads that “Beloved church leader, activist passes away...”

Well, guess what?

Award-winning journalist Shaun Rabb, who celebrated 30 years at Fox 4 in 2020, has

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been the pastor of New Light Church in Pleasant Grove for the past 16 years! And as one-half of one of the area’s most influential and respected couples--he’s married to Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown -- it’s no wonder phones were ringing.

It is indeed a blessing to be able to continue hearing his voice, signing off on stories, “Shaun Rabb, FOX 4 (PAUSE) News!

-Cheryl Smith

March 19, 2021

George Floyd Family and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) receive NNPAF 2021 Newsmaker of the Year Award The National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund (NNPAF) BLACK PRESS WEEK will honor the George Floyd Family and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) with the Newsmaker Award for Leadership during its two-day virtual conference on Thursday, March 18 at noon.

The NNPAF is honored to recognize the George Floyd Family for their collective effort for social justice, and their leadership on the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act recently passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. Majority Whip James E Clyburn, a former publisher and the highest-ranking African American in Congress, will be awarded the Newsmaker of the Year Award for his pivotal role in galvanizing the Black vote across America.

NNPA Fund Chair Pluria Marshall Jr., CEO of the Wave Publications, based in California, said, “These two awardees are dedicated to advancing the progress of Black people. The Black Press of America is honored to recognize their achievements and express our gratitude for their heroic efforts to improve the quality of life of all Americans.”

This year’s virtual Black Press Week theme is “BLACK BUSINESS Challenges, Responsibilities, March 19, 2021

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Black Press Week is held annually to honor the nation’s first Black-owned newspaper – Freedom’s Journal –on March 16, 1827. Previous NNPAF Newsmakers of the Year include Attorney Ben Crump, Civil Rights Activist Al Sharpton, Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Barack Obama, the Trayvon Martin family and many more.

U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC)

and Opportunities Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic.” The two-day conference will be held Thursday, March 18, and Friday, March 19, from 11:00, am (EST) to 1:00 pm (EST).

Reportedly, 40% of Blackowned businesses have closed their doors permanently as a result of the pandemic. The challenge now is to sustain the remaining 60%

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struggling to survive during these uncertain times. Black newspapers are Black businesses that are experiencing similar obstacles created by COVID-19.

Because of this shared burden, the NNPA Fund’s first workshop on Thursday will feature U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (DSC) and U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA), a member of the Small Business Committee and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Economic, Growth and Capital Access. The two high-ranking legislators will address the plans Congress is developing to help Blackowned businesses cope with various economic issues.

On Friday, the second workshop will concentrate on alternative funding for Black newspapers, including representatives from digital companies including Google, Facebook, and Borealis,

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that invest in non-profit and for-profit media organizations.

The cornerstone of Black Press Week is the Enshrinement Ceremony. This year, Carter Walker Wesley (18921969), an American lawyer, newspaperman, and political activist from Houston, Texas, will be enshrined in the Black Press Archives housed at the Moreland Spingarn Research Center at Howard University.

Black Press Week is held annually to honor the nation’s first Black-owned newspaper – Freedom’s Journal –on March 16, 1827.

Previous NNPAF Newsmakers of the Year include Attorney Ben Crump, Civil Rights Activist Al Sharpton, Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Barack Obama, the Trayvon Martin family and many more.

To attend Black Press Week activities, go to: https://virtualnnpa2021.com/. myimessenger.com

Black Press Week focuses on

Black Businesses

Considering the challenges facing Black Businesses and the Black Press as a result of COVID-19, the National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund Black Press Week will zero in on the theme “BLACK BUSINESS Challenges, Responsibilities, and Opportunities Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic.”

The two-day virtual activities get underway on Thursday, March 18, and Friday, March 19, from 10 am – 12 noon.

NNPA Fund Chair Pluria Marshall Jr., CEO of the Wave Publications based in California, said, “As a business owner, I recognize the plight of Black businesses today from reducing expenses to generating payroll to managing the bottom-line.

During Black Press Week, our objectives are to empower our community and our NNPA members with

“

Pluria Marshall Jr.

information that will give them insight into opportunities for funding and resources.”

Reportedly, 40% of Blackowned businesses have closed their doors permanently as a result of the pandemic. The challenge now is to sustain the remaining 60% struggling to survive during these uncertain times. Black newspapers are

Black businesses, who share some of the same obstacles created by COVID-19.

Because of this shared burden, the NNPA Fund’s first workshop on Thursday will feature U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (DSC) and U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA), a member of the Small Business Committee and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Economic, Growth and Capital Access.

The panel moderated by Real Times Media Publisher and CEO Hiram Jackson, owner of The Michigan Chronicle, the Chicago Defender, The New Pittsburgh Courier and The Atlanta Daily World, will address the plans Congress is developing to help Black-owned businesses cope with a range of economic issues.

On Friday, the second workshop hosted by Atlan-

40% of Black-owned businesses have closed their doors permanently as a result of the pandemic. The challenge now is to sustain the remaining 60% struggling to survive during these uncertain times. Black newspapers are Black businesses that are experiencing similar obstacles created by COVID-19.”

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ta Voice Publisher and CEO Janis Ware will concentrate on alternative funding for Black newspapers, featuring representatives from the Democracy Fund, Media Impact Funders and Knight Foundation that invest in non-profit and for-profit media organizations.

Two cornerstones of Black Press Week are the Enshrinement Ceremony and the Newsmakers Award. This year, Carter Walker Wesley (1892-1969), an American lawyer, newspaperman, and political activist from Houston, Texas, will be enshrined in the Black Press Archives housed at the Moreland Spingarn Research Center at Howard University.

The NNPAF 2021 Newsmakers of the Year include two men who had a monumental impact on America’s trajectory and made a significant difference for African Americans: George Floyd and his family, and U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC). Previous NNPAF Newsmakers of the Year include Attorney Ben Crump, Civil Rights Activist Al Sharpton, Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Barack Obama, the Trayvon Martin family and many more.

To attend Black Press Week activities, go to: https://virtualnnpa2021. com/.

March 19, 2021

WNBA’s Dallas Wings Are Big Winners in Free Agency

By DOROTHY J. Gentry Sports Editor The Dallas Wings have emerged as major winners out of WNBA free agency.

The franchise – beginning its sixth season in the DallasFort Worth Metroplex and playing its games at the College Park Center in Arlington – have both the No. 1 and No. 2 picks in the upcoming WNBA draft.

With those picks, the Wings become the first team in WNBA history to hold both March 19, 2021

the first and second overall picks in the same draft. In addition, Dallas also holds the fifth, seventh and thirteenth selections in this year’s draft.

They acquired the No. 1 pick from the Seattle Storm via the New York Liberty for forward Katie Lou Samuelson and Dallas’ second round pick in 2022.

Last year was Samuelson’s first season in Dallas but she quickly became a fan favorite. Letting her go was hard, Wings officials said, but necessary for the forward

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development of the team.

“The decision to trade a young and talented player in Katie Lou Samuelson was a difficult one,” said Wings President & CEO Greg Bibb.

“Katie Lou is the consummate professional and her best professional basketball is in front of her. That said, the opportunity to acquire the top pick in a draft does not present itself very often. By securing this pick, we will ensure our ability to draft the player at the top of our draft list while having additional

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draft assets at our disposal to further improve our team.”

RE-SIGNING OF ALLISHA GRAY AND KAYLA THORNTON The trade follows the resigning’s of team veterans Allisha Gray and Kayla Thornton, who both made long-term commitments to stay in Dallas this offseason.

“I’m grateful for the organization for believing and having the confidence in me to help take our team to myimessenger.com

the next level,” said Gray, who signed a multi-year contract to remain with the team.

“From the time I entered the league, this organization and the city of Dallas have embraced me and I’m looking forward to showing them they made the right choice. I am excited about the future and cannot wait to get started.”

Gray, the WNBA’s 2017 Rookie of the Year, was drafted fourth overall by Dallas. Her 13.1 points per game last summer were the highest of her career. The University of South Carolina graduate also had a career-best three games with more than 20 points in the shortened 2020 season, including a careerhigh 26 against Minnesota on September 4.

In addition to her scoring, Gray also averaged a careerhigh 4.2 rebounds per game myimessenger.com

and shot a career-best 46.4 percent from the field. The former Gamecock was also one of just six players since 2017 to play in at least 122 of the 124 regular season games and is a member of Team USA’s 3v3 team.

Re-signing Gray was the team’s “top priority this offseason,” Bibb said.

“Allisha’s decision to commit to our organization is a testament to what we are building. Our future is bright, and Allisha Gray will play a key role for our team as we continue to grow and improve moving forward.”

Joining Gray in returning to the Wings is forward Kayla Thornton who also signed a multi-year extension to remain in Dallas. Gray now going into her fifth season is the longest tenured player on the team along with Thornton.

“I am very blessed and excited to continue my career with the Wings,” Thornton said. “I’m excited for what is to come with our team and I’m looking forward to working with Coach (Vickie) Johnson as our group strives to do something special together.”

Thornton has been one of the Wings most consistent performers since joining the team in 2017. The University of Texas at El Paso graduate has posted career averages of 7.9 points per game and 4.1 rebounds per outing on just under 40% shooting from the field and 85% from the free throw line.

Her best statistical season came in 2019 when she averaged a career-high 10.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Thornton has established herself as one

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of the best defenders in the WNBA and was the driving factor in Dallas posting the fewest Field Goals Allowed in 2019. In 2020 Thornton recorded 7.3 points per game on 42.5% shooting from the field and 87.5% from the foul line.

“Kayla Thornton is a wonderful example of how hard work, determination and self-belief can produce great results,” said Bibb. “Kayla has willed her way from a freeagent signee struggling to stay in the League to one of the best, and most underrated, defenders in the WNBA while continuing to expand and improve her offensive game as well.

“We are thrilled to have Kayla make the decision to continue her career with the Dallas Wings and to be a big part of what we are building.”

March 19, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Need help with registration? We can help!

Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center community outreach representatives are available to help residents register for COVID-19 vaccines (by phone or in-person): Call 214.820.4846 for: • Assistance with registration (online or mobile app) • Assistance with transportation (to appointments) • Assistance with vaccine education

LOCATION

ADDRESS

DAY/TIME

Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center

4500 Spring Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210

Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Cummings Recreation Center

2976 Cummings St. Dallas, TX 75216

Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Beckley - Saner Recreation Center

114 W. Hobson Ave. Dallas, TX 75224

Monday - Wednesday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Fireside Recreation Center

8601 Fireside Dr. Dallas, TX 75217

Thursdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Martin Weiss Park

3400 W. Clarendon Dr. Dallas, TX 75211

Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM For more information contact: Candace Thompson, MSSW, MPA, CHWI Community Outreach Manager BSWHWCMEMBERSHIP@BSWHealth.org

4500 Spring Avenue I Dallas, Texas 75210

March 19, 2021

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Dallas COVID-19 Resources

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

COVID-19 Call the hotline The bestHotline way to 24-7 protect yourself and others is to 214-670-INFO (4636) to get information regarding: stay at home.

•Current COVID-19 Regulations & Testing Locations •Employment Assistance •Federal Relief Payment Information •Volunteer/Assistance Opportunities •Rental/Mortgage, and Eviction Assistance •Small Business Assistance •Social Services (food pantry, childcare assistance, senior assistance, unsheltered resident assistance and mental health resources) •Utility Payment Assistance

Slow the spread of COVID-19 The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay at home.

Safer at home

2860 E. LEDBETTER DR. (Inside Valero) DALLAS, Tx.75216 myimessenger.com

11am-10pm Monday-Saturday 12-8 Sunday

Wash with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Keep your mouth and nose covered while out in public.

Visit dallascityhall.com/COVID19 for a list of resources and up-to-date information about COVID-19.

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March 19, 2021

BIG MAMA SAID,

“Find the Good in Everybody, Recognize Their Soul and You Will Be Rewarded“ THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

She never spoke badly of anyone at all, she always would take the high road no matter what was being said about others during her inner circle talk. Yes, my Grandmother, Lucille “Big Mama” Allen, during her lifetime instilled so many lessons in all of us.

This one was hard one for me to execute and she knew it. She repeatedly said find the good in all people and that would be enough! Over my lifetime I finally knew what she meant.

I stopped to observe her words in the conversation she had with her church sisters. When they ‘discovered’ information about another person she would always interject the negative comments with a “high road.” I recall one of their conversations when a member of the small community got an eviction notice on her door.

One of the Church Sisters would lean back, roll her eyes and with a certain amount of authority say, “You know Sister So-and-so got an eviction notice and March 19, 2021

her husband left her over two months ago.”

All of the church sisters would go in on what they knew and you would hear one sister comment on the philandering husband. You would then hear one say he flirted with her, as if that empowered her during the gathering.

The comments were never supportive! No one said “poor child” or “I feel so bad for here”. Even though they used many words from the Bible, none of them were – “Let’s pray for Sister Brown” or “I hope God intervenes with a miracle.”

Yet as I sit there following the Big Mama Rule- “Children should be seen not heard”, I heard Big Mama call out each of the other sisters with several questions: Evie can you make that peach cobbler this week for ten people? What about you Rosetta can also give us 2-3 of those special cakes? And Charlene, “can you get Joe to give us some ribs for say our entire bible group?”

She begins to ask each and every one to complete a task? Her last question was always about time. “What are you all doing Saturday at noon?”

They all agreed then they asked, “Lucille what is this

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for?”

She stood up on the porch and said, “we are going to have a picnic bake sale fundraiser for Sister Brown to pay her rent.”

She reminded each church sister what was done for them, the reason it was done and how we all pitched in! She found the good in them. Big Mama made each one of them remember how they received help as well as how the church family helped them. In closing, she

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then pushed them to reward others with the power to give back.

FYI, she received Church Mother of the Year for three years in a row, uncontested!

Big Mama, I get it now. Find the Good in Everybody. Recognize Their Soul. You Will Be Rewarded. I do it every day- do you?

Terry Allen is a multi-media journalist and board member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

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VIRTUAL

IN-PERSON

HYBRID

Strive FOR EXCELLENCE

Virtual, In Person or Hybrid... your child’s success depends on you.

As a parent, you have to be involved in your child’s education to make sure he or she has everything they need to succeed.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.NNPA.ORG/EDUCATION

© 2021 NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

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March 19, 2021

March 19, 2021

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Dr. Amerson adapts to Temporary Business Closure Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, has adapted to the temporary closure of LA's Hair and Scalp Clinic. We continue to offer our award-winning products to consumers. Our exclusive products are manufactured by a facility in Garland, TX. Premium quality natural ingredients are used to assist with dry, oily, itchy, flaky, inflammed scalps, as well as hair breakage, hair thinning and regrowth.

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March 19, 2021

March 19, 2021

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Nena’s Finds Boutique A Uniquely Stylish, Fashionable Boutique for women of all Sizes!

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March 19, 2021

March 19, 2021

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March 19, 2021

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar WOMENS HISTORY MONTH March 18

March 21

Ron Kirk was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the U.S. Trade Representative U.S. Black Feminist Vision: Artist Lubaina Himid. Event hosted by The Research Forum. Reg. Eventbrite.com. 12-1 pm.

Daring to Dream with Robin Roberts and Telisa Yancy. Host Dream Bank, Reg: Evenbrite.com.

3-3:45 pm CST.

Ubuntu Market for Small Business.

Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: Email: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com. Or call 214-943-8262.

AARP Presents: Love the Skin You’re In Event by Sisters From AARP. Event host Barbara Hannah Grufferman, author of Love Your Age. Facebook.com/Sisters from AARP. 6 pm. CST. Debt “The Good, The Bad, The Ugly”Equipping U. Event hosted by Concord Baptist Church and Pastor Bryan Carter.

Online: us02web.zoom.us. 7 pm. CST.

Neo Soul Sundays feat. SoulfulSoundz. Event by Retro Hip Apparel, DallasBlack.com. Lava Cantina 5805 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony. 4-10 pm. CST.

March25 Ida B. Wells-Barnett Died in 1931

March 22

P&P Live! Henry Louis Gates, Jr. | The Black Church with Eddie S. Glaude Jr Event by Politics and Prose Bookstore. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 3-4 p-m CST.

Alonzo Pietro, explorer, sets sail with Christopher Columbus in 1492

March 19 The Negro Theater was founded in Los Angles by Langston Hughes in 1939 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

March 20 Dr. Ralph Bunche receives the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950

Red Star ROAD MILES LADIES GROUP. Event by RED STAR Bicycle Shop and Jennifer Russell. 3800 Main St, Dallas, 6 pm CST.

March 23

March 26

THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @ docshepspeaks

William H. Hastie 1st Black Federal Judge in 1937

The Jirah Nicole Show with Jirah Mickle. From 11 am-1 pm. CST Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Miss Dee’s Kitchen Comedy Show at TBAAL, Muse Café Theatre, 1309 Canton St. Dallas. 8 pm. Tickets: Ticketmaster.com.

A Visual Perspective of DC Through the Lens of Black Women Photographers. Event by DC Public Library and FotoCraft Camera Club. Eventbrite.com 6-9 pm CST.

Scholarship Fish Fry. Event by Naomi Star Chapter 31, Tiffany Jernigan Jennings and Teice Holloway, 1121 S Ewing Ave, Dallas, Tickets: paypal.me/naomistar31 11 am-2 pm CST.

TWU Black Alumni Association #GOALS Event. A Virtual Career Networking Event. Feat: Darlisa Diltz.

Online event at: form.jotform.com.

6:30-7:30 pm.

The Living Room Chronicles Featuring Andre Taylor Facebook Live @The Food For Soul Experience LLC. 9 pm.

Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice. Event hosted

by Prairie View A&M University. Online: youtube.com/pvamu.

2 pm CST. Finer Womanhood Month Webinar: Stock Trading Like A Boss! Online event. Event by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Delta Alpha Alpha Zeta Chapter. Online: us02web.zoom.us. 7 pm CST

Moses Malone Basketball Great Born in 1955

UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Dallas 2021. Hosted by Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. UNCF.org/DallasMMB 6:30 pm

March 19, 2021

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Dr. Martin Luther King led the 54 mile march from Selma to Montgomery Alabama in 1965 New Friends New Life Virtual Race To End Sex Trafficking.

Reg: http://bit.ly/3sYYFeC. 12 am CST.

The Living Room Chronicles - Eric Roberson. Event by The Food For Soul Experience LLC. Facebook Live @The Food For Soul Experience LLC. 9 pm. CST.

Navigating 2021. Event by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Phi Psi Zeta Chapter.

Speaker - Soneakqua White, M.A., LPC Online Reg: http://bit.ly/30DyDl6 12 pm. CST.

Irving Barrington Irving is the first African American to fly solo around the world in 1983

NFM Texas Presents: Empowered: Women Who Lead The Way Panel Event. Galaxy Theatre’s Grandscape, 5740 Grandscape Blvd. #100. The Colony, 2-4 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

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St. Philips School & Community Center, Destiny Award Luncheon 2021. A Virtual Experience, with Isabel Wilkerson.

Info: https://www.stphilips1600.org/destiny/ Jazz At The Muse. Hosted by TBAAL at Clarence Muse Cafe Theatre, 1309 Canton Street. 9 pm. Tickets: Ticketmaster.com.

Relapse Again featuring Michael Shawn Event hosted by City of DeSoto Parks & Recreation Department.

Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 8-9 pm CST.

Soul Line Dance Tuesday - LIVE! (Virtual Dance Sessions) Event by BE Creative Arts Center. Reg: @becreativeartscenter Facebook page. 7-8 pm CST. Free.

March 24

From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm.

CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-2000459.

March 27 Pamela Gordon, Bermuda’s first Woman prime minister in 1997 A Short History of Racism in Detroit Virtual Tour. Event hosted by Detroit Experience Factory. Info: www.detroitexperiencefactory.org. 5-6:30 pm. CST. Women’s Ministry Spring Conference. Online Event. Event

by Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church. Online: zoom. us ID: 87334486613 Passcode: 095887.

9-11 am.

DSM Book Festival Headline Author Tayari Jones Event by DSM Book Festival.

Reg: https://bit.ly/3tigKVa. 3 pm. CST. Chris Howell Foundation, Winter Relief Drive. Tarrant County College-South, 5301 Campus Dr. Fort Worth. Eventbrite.com. 9 am-1 pm.

Meet, Connect & Learn: Getting to Know Our City Manager. City of Duncanville, TX Municipal Government Zoom: bit.ly/3qGcZHD Meeting ID: 860 5667 4654, o10-11:15 am. CST. Sis let the Hurt Go. Hosted by Founder Krys Smith. Reg: www.sisterletthehurtgo.evenbrite.com 1pm CST. Annual Women’s Expo. Hosted by The Whiskey Spot, 1305 Wycliff Ave Ste.140 Dallas. 1-4 pm. Info: Eventbrite .com.

Paint & Sip - Celebrating Women’s History Month. Hosted by Flava Haus, 1730 W. Bardin #400, Arlington.8-10:30 pm.

March 28 In 1935, Benjamin Thornton created the telephone answering machine No Cross, No Crown: A Special Resurrection Concert. Host Lomax Sisters Gospel Group. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 7-9 pm.

Neo Soul Sundays. By DallasBlack.com, at Lava Cantina, 5805

BLACK LIVES MATTER

March 26-28 State Fair Diamond Classic Baseball at Dr. Pepper Ball Park, 7300 Rough Riders Tr. Frisco. Info: BCSG360.org Grambling & P.V. AMU.

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March 19, 2021

Q&A with Dallas Mavs’ Player Relations Manager Brandon Barkley

Brandon Barkley

By DOROTHY J. Gentry Sports Editor When athletes have to make personal appearances, attend autograph signings, March 19, 2021

community events, and more, someone has to schedule, coordinate and, of course, get the players there.

Who is that oh so important someone

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for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks?

It’s Brandon Barkley, 27, who, as Player Relations Manager, is responsible for all of the above and more.

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In honor of Black History Month, Texas Metro News sat down and talked with Brandon about how he keeps track of 15 players and their whereabouts, his

typical day, the best part of his job, what’s on his playlist and more.

TMN: Tell us about your position as Play-

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er Relations Manager: Brandon: Well, I’ve been here for about two years now. I work with the players in terms of everything that goes on in the community. I’m the liaison between both the players and the business office, coordinating what needs to happen, be it at local schools or events at hospitals or whatever it may be. Usually, you’ll see me in the background at whatever event it is in public. I also help them with work related to sponsorship ticket sales, marketing, anything you can think of related to the Mavs and our players you’ll see me smack dab in the middle. In a nutshell that is what I do.

TMN: What is the best part of your job?

Brandon: The experiences I’ve been able to have; both good and bad. It’s pretty fun, going to the games and being able to help people.

It’s awesome to be able to be a part of the NBA and a great organization like the Mavericks. That’s the first thing.

Second is being able to help people. I feel like there is a connection when we get to go to these communities and go to these places and experience them and be able to see the kids faces and the people we help. Sports really is something that brings people together and puts a smile on their face so it’s awesome.

TMN: What is a typical day for you?

Brandon: Well, every day is kind of different. In general, I live and die by the calendar. So it’s what’s happening on the day – is it an appearance that is happening or obviously a game – that can dictate what I’m doing. It’s basically keeping myimessenger.com

tabs on what everyone is doing in terms of 1 through 15 on the roster. That way I can keep a good idea of what needs to happen and schedule things for them, Really it’s just monitoring everything every day and just making sure if something is happening, I’m reminding guys that it’s happening or being able to assist. It’s a lot of helping not only with the players but with a lot of other departments within the Mavericks. It’s an ever-growing process.

TMN: What talent would you most like to have?

Brandon: I think that I can sing but I know I can’t so I think to be able to sing would be awesome. I’m always envious of those people that have like really nice voices. That would be my No. 1 talent I wish I could have or play an instrument or something like that.

TMN: What is your greatest achievement so far?

Brandon: I would say being able to do what I do every day. Again, I think it’s a blessing and an honor to be able to work for such a great organization and great people. Cynt Marshall (Mavs CEO) is fantastic. I’m just so blessed and honored and thankful I get to work for a place like the Mavericks where it’s so easy to be yourself. It’s a fun work environment and one that I think is truly looking out for me along with continuing to help me grow. These past couple of years have been fantastic.

TMN: When and where are you the happiest?

Brandon: On a basketball court. I played basketball in college (Grand Valley State University in Michigan) and

my entire life, every place I go, I look for a basketball court or goal. It’s always the happiest place for me. Bouncing a ball. Nothing better.

TMN: What do you most dislike?

Brandon: I really dislike when people are not genuine about what they are trying to do. To me, a big part of what I believe in is doing right by people. I like to think of myself as a servant leader; trying to help everyone win.

And I really can’t stand when there is someone that is not genuine or honest with their intentions. That’s a big pet peeve of mine.

TMN: What do you value the most in your friends?

Brandon: I’m big on being real. For me, I’m going to be honest with a person. I want everyone I’m associated with or even if I’m cool with you, I definitely want to see you win. That’s the biggest thing to me is having friends who want to see me be successful as well.

TMN: What’s on your playlist?

Brandon: My playlist goes all over the place. I enjoy some old school stuff.

I’ll listen to Isley Brothers, Teddy Pendergrass, Michael Jackson and then move to new school, Lil Baby, Lil Uzi Vert; I’m different. My wife likes country music, so I’ll listen to that too. When Luka (Doncic) and KP (Kristaps Porzingis) joined the team they liked to listen to Spanish music so I started listening to that a little bit. My playlist is all over the place.

TMN: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Brandon: One thing I

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would definitely change is my knees wouldn’t hurt so much. I played basketball for a really long time. I would love to replenish my body.

Got a lot of wear and tear.

TMN: If you were to die, and come back as a person or a thing and you could choose what to come back as, what would it be and why?

Brandon: I think I would want to come back – as like a Jeff Bezos because I’d love to take that money and be able to donate it to places that have affected me. Being from Detroit, we sure could use some funding especially when you look at places like Flint, back in Michigan.

I would take that and go into various communities and help. And I’d try to get a little piece of the Mavs off of Mark (Cuban). I would want to do that just because of the power it would bring in terms of being able to help folks. I’d like to experience that and be generous and help people.

TMN: What is the most overrated virtue?

Brandon: I think what is mostly overrated is loyalty. There is a difference between being loyal and it being reciprocated. You can be loyal to someone but if they are doing you wrong, you don’t need to be loyal to a situation that is negative for you. I feel like this whole thing that you should be loyal to people…it’s always, it’s really about the situation that should be looked at and inspected. I am a very loyal person, but I am always going to look at the situation and make sure it’s right for me, right for the other person. You don’t want to do it (be loyal) blindly.

March 19, 2021

Briefs NPHC Community Conversation Take The Vaccine / Don’t take the Vaccine

Howard U. renames Law School Library for Vernon Jordan

The National Pan-Hellenic Council of the Greater Southwest DFW Metroplex and the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Dallas present a Community Conversation with Dr. Vivian Bradley-Johnson & Dr. Carolee D. Estelle: Take The Vaccine / Don’t take the Vaccine.

In honor of late civil rights icon and Howard University alumnus Vernon Jordan, the Law School Library at Howard University has been renamed the Vernon E. Jordan Jr., Esq. Law Library.

Vernon Jordan The unanimous decision was announced Monday by the university’s board of trustees at the behest of Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick.

“Vernon Jordan’s life embodied Howard’s motto of truth and service from his early beginnings as a lawyer to his work in the civil rights movement and later as an adviser to Presidents Reagan, Bush, Carter and most prominently as a friend and adviser to President Bill Clinton,” Frederick said in a statement announcing the decision. “Mr. Jordan is the kind of person who never met a stranger and who enjoyed mentoring students to help them succeed.”

Jordan, who died March 1 at the age of 85, was onetime president and CEO of the National Urban League Inc., executive director of the United Negro College Fund Inc., director of the Voter Education Project of the Southern Regional Council and NAACP Georgia field director.

Jordan, a graduate of DePauw University, earned a Juris Doctor at Howard University School of Law in 1960 and held honorary degrees from more than 60 colleges and universities.

Howard receives $500,000 from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, to establish endowed Scholarship Fund WASHINGTON – Howard University is pleased to announce a $500,000 gift from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to establish The Zeta Founders’ Endowed Scholarship Fund.

“Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. commemorated its centennial by donating $500,000 to establish The Zeta Founders’ Endowed Scholarship Fund, honoring the five Howard University students who founded the sorority in 1920,” said 20th International President and 2020 Centennial Chair Jylla Moore Tearte, Ph.D. “Sorority members, friends and family continue to invest in this fund to advance Howard University’s March 19, 2021

efforts to increase the representation of minorities studying science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), while honoring Zeta’s founders with this lasting footprint.”

Through the endowed scholarship, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. hopes to inspire and support students who pursue scholarship in STEM-related fields as exemplified by the late Marjay D. Anderson, Ph.D., a member of Zeta, who served as a

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scientist, educator and academician at Howard University. Anderson, who was chair of the Comprehensive Sciences Department in the College of Arts and Sciences for over 25 years, retired from Howard after more than 50 years.

Joining Anderson and Tearte as major charter donors were four Zeta members: Maxine C. Jones Bryant (B.A., ’72) and Mary Anne Tillman (B.S. ’56, M.D. ’60), along

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with friends of Howard University, Saniah M. Johnson and Karla D. Munden.

Scholarships will be provided to undergraduate juniors and seniors at Howard University who meet the requirements of the Karsh STEM Scholars Program. Among other requirements, eligible students must be pursuing degrees in STEM-related fields with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded at Howard University on January 16, 1920 in Miner Hall by Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings and Fannie Pettie Watts myimessenger.com

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March 19, 2021

Briefs New Mount Zion Baptist Church celebrates 75 years of ministry and discipleship New Mount Zion Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, Inc., under the leadership of Dr. Tommy L. Brown, announces the celebration of its 75th Church Anniversary this year. The theme is: “Celebrating 75 Years of Standing on God’s Promises” Philippians 1:6 A year-long schedule of activities is planned to celebrate the 75th Church Anniversary with the first program being a virtual Church Anniversary Service on Sunday, March 28, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.

The public is invited to www.nmzb. org to join in on the celebration.

Dr. Tommy L. Brown

Southwest Dallas County Democrats meet Southwest Dallas County Democrats next meeting will be next Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Special guests will be candidates from the Duncanville and DeSoto City Councils.

Candidates from Lancaster and Cedar Hill will be at the April meeting.

Municipal and school board elections will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2021.

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8348 2641621 Meeting ID: 834 8264 1621

One tap mobile • +13462487799,,83482641621# US (Houston) • +16699009128,,83482641621# US (San Jose) Dial by your location • +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) • +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) • +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) • +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) • +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) Meeting ID: 834 8264 1621

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcKhU6s6wY

National Coalition of 100 Black Women Scholarship National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Dallas Metropolitan Chapter is constantly advocating on behalf of Black women and girls in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment. The 2021 Scholarship opportunity targeting High School Seniors in the DFW Area is specifically Black females and offering two $1,500 March 19, 2021

scholarships. The application deadline is March 31, 2021.

2021 Scholarship Opportunity Information & Eligible Requirements: https://ncbwdallas.org/2021scholarship/ Online Application: https:// ncbwdallas.org/2021-scholarshipapplication/

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‘BLISS‘ is a challenging experience AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

New this week on Amazon/ Prime is a very odd science fiction love story starring Owen Wilson and Salma Hayek.

Wilson plays Greg Wittle, a man who is struck by a series of bad luck. He and his wife have recently divorced and he’s stuck in a job he hates.

The movie starts with him in his office, totally removed from reality, and making drawings of his fantasy house and the world he dreams of going to.

After he’s fired by his boss he goes into a fit of rage and pushes him backward where he strikes his head on a desk and dies. Before fleeing the scene Greg hangs his boss in the window by his shirt’s cuffs and heads across the street to have himself a drink.

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There he meets Isabel, played by Salma Hayek, who convinces him that she has special powers and the world they are living in is not real.

After she takes him to her home under a bridge they end up with a romantic connection and they travel together to a different world.

However what makes them go to the parallel universe is a crystal drug, so it’s hard to decide if they are actually in a different world or just hallucinating from the drugs.

Wilson and Hayek are great as a couple who seemingly become soulmates but that’s about all the highlights the movie has to offer.

The movie also has some great special effects and lighting techniques that I also enjoyed. Writer and director Mike Cahill seems to be trying to make a statement with BLISS. Rather than making a straight ahead science fiction movie he gets bogged down in the “what ifs” of the fanta-

sy world. Often in the movie I had a hard time trying to figure out what exactly was going on.

BLISS is rated R with a run time of 1 hour and 43 min-

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utes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate the movie a MEDIUM. BLISS is free on Prime for subscribers.

March 19, 2021

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 March 19, 2021

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