I Messenger 5-21-21

I MESSENGER VOL X NO 36 MAY 21, 2021

Businesswoman Linda Henderson finds

E V LO

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

Free - Take One

WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Alana King

.EWSSTANDS IN

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

Free - Take One

MB Distribution

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION

Editorial submissions

editor@texasmetronews.com

& E.Dallas

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

IMessenger

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.

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

Survival WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

I’m not perfect, nor do I claim to be. Although I strive to get as close as possible, I don’t evaluate my comportment as perfect or my judgment as infallible.

I accept the humanity and infallibility of others and hope, that when evaluated by others, I will be extended that same courtesy and grace. On occasion, my eyes have even been closed to the obvious.

My focus has been the achievement of social and economic justice for those who’ve been historically or systematically disadvantaged by the imposition of impediments to their progress — typically, women and people of color.

The imperative of eliminating the internal and external threats to our personal and collective security has always loomed large as a personal objective and is exemplified by the incessant and growing list of those murdered by agents of “law enforcement.” I’m moved to action by the anguish of children who’re victimized by a never-ending cycle of hunger or those who receive an education that’s inadequate to provide future incomes that will sustain them or any children they will attempt to parent.

The dedicated and principled effort necessary to even begin to confront the myriad of problems im-

2

pacting our communities requires single-minded focus. For generations, the volume of problems that our communities have had to face have been challenging for some and overwhelmingly difficult for most. I sometimes compare our socio-economic difficulties to an adult reality game of dodgeball. Like that ball that nearly knocks your head off, the strife and trouble common to our communities seemly come out of nowhere with the goal of knocking you out of the game — literally.

Rather than really resolving issues, many of us are caught in situational survival. We move from one crisis to another only catching the periodic “break” or respite giving us enough energy to survive through the next struggle. Having so little time for reflective thought, many of us are caught in the loop of tackling the next most critical threat to us. It’s no wonder that many people of color are without a real sense of urgency about the growing threat to our ecology.

As one who previously only focused on the more recognized, recurring and active threats against my community, I wasn’t first among those on the ecology bandwagon. Encouraged by the philosophy of indigenous people, I accepted that “only when the last tree has died, and the last river has been poisoned and the last fish has been caught will we realize we cannot eat money.”

If we can’t live without the threat of natural disas-

ter or a poisoned environment, what does it matter how long or under what circumstances we live?

That guidance from the original caretakers of this land led to the realization that a requirement for the “true” social activist is to maintain a 360-degree awareness of things necessary to guarantee the long-term, positive quality of life.

Any observer with common sense should understand that the appointment of former U.S. Rep. Deb Haaland as secretary of the Interior (first Native American so appointed), the U.S. rejoining the Paris Climate Accord, and the emphasis placed on the development/refinement of renewable energy sources

by President Biden should give a clue as to a growing economic opportunity.

The movement toward renewable energy should encourage those looking for high-growth employment opportunities. Increasingly, training or groundup experience is available in solar or wind energy.

Those with scientific, technical or mechanical skills can potentially write their own ticket to success.

I’m impressed with a company working to do just that. Go to www.mimsmotorsusa.com and see what they’re doing. Chief Flying Hawk once said: “Nobody can be in good health if he does not have … fresh air, sunshine and good water.”

Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women and Host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM 89.3.

myimessenger.com

INSIDE

I Was Just Thinking

To Be Equal

George Floyd, a blank piece of paper, unlearned characters in the Bible. George Floyd was just a nobody. Right? Laws would call him a criminal. A blank sheet of paper is just paper. Right? Its status rises when something important is written on it. Unlearned Bible characters, with no wealth or titles, were simple peasants but continue to intrigue Bible scholars and believers.

One hundred days into their administration, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have made surprisingly bold inroads in confronting racial injustice and the COVID-19 pandemic, but significant challenges remain. President Biden and Vice President Harris entered the White House at a moment of unprecedented multiple crises, and they have risen to confront those crises with remarkable speed and effectiveness.

p6

myimessenger.com

p13

3

The Last Word While the economy generated 916,000 jobs in March, it only generated 266,000 in April, essentially slowing the previous month’s momentum. Last month, the Biden team was crowing about economic progress, and Republicans were suggesting that so much progress was made that we don’t need the stimulus embodied in the American Families Plan or the American Jobs plan, Biden proposals that will inject $4 trillion into the economy.

p19

May 21, 2021

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

I, too, have issues with wearing masks. Masks are sometimes uncomfortable.

Masks make you sweat; mess up your hair; fog up your eye glasses; and they look yucky when wearing make-up, other than Mocca Cosmetics or the like, and you take off the masks and you see the caked up makeup inside.

People are stressed and some seem to be having meltdowns at the thought of wearing a mask. Over a year ago we were told to wear masks for our safety and the safety of loved ones.

Recently we received anMay 21, 2021

Mask Up People

other message.

The Center for Disease Control says, no mas when it comes to masks and people became excited, and with good reason because this pandemic has been tough.

Rochelle Walensky, MD, MPH, director of the CDC said, “We have all longed for this moment. “If you are fully vaccinated, you can start doing the things that you had stopped doing because of the pandemic.”

Which brings me to my truth!

I am in Dallas, damn, Texas!

The CDC says Texas is

I MESSENGER

number 40 in terms of the number of people fully vaccinated with 9,455,859 fully vaccinated; which is 32.61 percent of the population.

There are people around here who NEVER wore a mask and you would think Donald Trump had won the way some people are out here mask-less and celebrating.

Well, with just over 32% vaccinated, why is it that when I am out and doing my visual survey, nine out of 10 are unmasked? Am I to believe that I am just fortunate to be with all the vaccinated folks?

Well, guess what? I am

4

not going down for the count on a whim. I have plenty of masks — good looking masks and I am going to get good use of them.

As with everything, there’s always a first and I don’t plan on being the first to believe the hype and trust that YOU are vaccinated.

Then too, I like people cooking and serving food to have their mouths covered because I have long held the belief that not all of them brush their teeth!

Anyway, I know you are going to do you. Live your life. And, I’ll do the same with mine and a mask! myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

5

May 21, 2021

Awaiting Chauvin sentence,

pundits still analyzing George Floyd’s purpose I WAS JUST THINKING BY NORMA ADAMS-WADE

George Floyd, a blank piece of paper, unlearned characters in the Bible.

George Floyd was just a nobody. Right? Laws would call him a criminal.

A blank sheet of paper is just paper. Right? Its status rises when something important is written on it.

Unlearned Bible characters, with no wealth or titles, were simple peasants but continue to intrigue Bible scholars and believers.

Just a this, just a that – and then, something happens to change the narrative and history.

Floyd, of course, became a cause célèbre when he died Memorial Day, May 25, 2020, during an arrest.

Derek Chauvin, at the time a Minneapolis police officer, pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while the 46-yearold was handcuffed on the ground repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” Floyd died under the officer’s knee. A bystander videotaped the killing, posted it on social media, and global protests erupted, plus shrill calls for police reform policies.

Media widely reported the prophetic words of Floyd’s then six-year-old daughter, May 21, 2021

Gianna “Gigi” Floyd, who acknowledging the global outpouring, proudly proclaimed on social media, “Daddy changed the world!”

A jury, 11 months later on April 20, 2021, unanimously found Chauvin guilty on three charges: second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. The former 19-year veteran officer is set to be sentenced June 16.

Meanwhile, News headlines continue to chronicle new deaths of African-Americans at the hands of police – one that happened and was widely reported on the day of Chauvin’s verdict. Ironically, Chauvin’s sentencing date is three days before African-Americans, across the nation and particularly in Texas, will celebrate Juneteenth. The date commemorates June 19, 1865 when enslaved Africans[cq in Texas learned two years late that the government had legally ended slavery in the nation.

Some pundits see social justice parallels between Juneteenth and Chauvin’s sentencing.

In the meantime, society has changed, drastically, brought about largely by just an ordinary man -- flawed, off-course and maybe destined for the demise the world witnessed on camera and social media. KARE TV 11, in Minneapolis where

I MESSENGER

George Floyd

The Bill of Rights

6

Credit: Wikipedia

myimessenger.com

Floyd was killed, investigated the legal fallout that followed the murder of the Fayetteville, NC native who grew up in Houston.

The station’s research shows that the proposed George Floyd Justice in Policing Act – a police reform bill that passed the Democratic-led House March 3, 2021 and is stalled in the Senate -- is among a ballooning numbers of police reform laws spurred by Floyd’s murder.

KARE 11’s investigation quotes Amber Widgery, Principal (or leader) of the bipartisan National Conference of State Legislatures that tracks national, state and local police reform bills.

Widgery was quoted in mid-April as saying that since Floyd’s May 25, 2020 death, 111new policing reform laws have passed, about 1,600 others still are pending, and nearly 50 bills and resolutions bear Floyd’s name.

The fallout from the Floyd death, has been monumental and life-altering – making true young Gigi’s proclamation. Lawmakers, scholars, news pundits, clerics, and corporate leaders have put forth their interpretations of what it all means and how to make policing more fair and safer.

The world may never know why the 2020 death and life of the flawed, alleged criminal has had such an impact.

Those blank sheets of paper – whether papyrus, parchment, scrolls or bamboo – that have shaped government: the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independence, U. S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights to name a few – ultimately became national treasures when written upon.

And those blemished, Biblical characters who originally were nobodies -- Moses, Rahab, Peter, Paul, Mary Magdalene, and the uneducated fishermen disciples, to name a few –are names cemented in national memory.

Will Floyd’s legacy be that he changed policing? Maybe time will tell.

Illustration of Saint Pete

myimessenger.com

Credit: Wikipedia

7

Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas native. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame

May 21, 2021

Say Hey for Willie Mays WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND

MILES JAYE On the 6th of May 2021, Willie Mays celebrated his 90th birthday. “Say hey” Willie Mays has lived through nine decades of American history and he’s certainly made his share of contributions to that history. I’m surprised I’m taking time to write about baseball-- I’ve never been a fan. I can’t remember ever attending a single professional baseball game. Ironic, when you consider I am Brooklyn Boy, a die-hard New Yorker, home to the Yankees and the Mets.

In fact, I grew up on Bedford Avenue, down the street from Ebbets Field, once home to the Brooklyn Dodgers. I come from a real baseball town.

In spite of this much connectivity, convenience and opportunity, Dad never took us to a baseball game. It sounds almost un-American.

So, what fuels my interest in Willie Mays? It’s simple, he was the best. Any time I’m made aware of a Black man or woman, given their props

as the best, the G.O.A.T., the greatest of all time, I’m compelled to look up and pay attention.

Consider this, baseball, more than any other professional sport, football, basketball, tennis, or golf, is America’s game. Remember, baseball and apple pie?

For America to acknowledge that a Black man, in 22 seasons and a 40-year career in the game, has distinguished himself as the best to ever play the game is a big deal.

This in no way diminishes the historic significance or athletic achievements of the great Jackie Robinson or “Hammerin” Hank Aaron, but it is a big deal.

America, at large, would much prefer to crown Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, or Ty Cobb as Kings of the baseball diamond, but Mays was decidedly and without debate, the best. Now, imagine how much better he had to be to acquire that acknowledgment. I was taught as a kid, that I would have to be considerably better to be considered equal to my white counterparts, but he wasn’t dubbed equal, he’s the G.O.A.T.

Consider also, the backlash of hate and contempt that has always accompanied Black accomplishment.

I can’t begin to imagine the death threats and hate mail that Mays along with Robinson, the first negro to play major league baseball, and Aaron, the first to break Ruth’s homerun record, had to endure. Yet, they would persist, persevere, and push through, consistently performing at the highest levels of the game.

I maintain that excellence and accomplishment are arguably the highest forms of social protest.

Sadly, baseball is suffering from a serious case of diminishing interest and significance in Black America. Young Black kids, once trading baseball cards and glued to the tube throughout the World Series are now enamored with the swag of the wealthiest of athletes and rappers. I can remember rehearsals delayed or interrupted for baseball talk. With no warning, Richie Cummings would rattle off the day’s scores, game highlights, and players’ stats then count off the next tune without skipping a beat. Record executive

Greg Peck actually missed an important performance of mine, caught up in the world series. I didn’t think it was so funny at the time but looking back… it’s hilarious. That was the intoxicating power of baseball.

What I fear is that Black kids will miss out on the passion and exhilaration that accompanied this pastime. I fear our kids will forget what Mays, Aaron and Robinson represented-- it was monumental.

These men were gentlemen as much as giants. Remember Joe Louis and Muhammad Ali, Arthur Ashe and Althea Gibson, Bob Hayes and Wilma Rudolph. These are names dreams were made of-- heroic figures who motivated kids to aspirations of greatness, in their own right. Remind the kids of a country boy who ascended to the highest rungs on the ladders of success, from a field in Alabama to the White house, where Mays stood in the company of Queen Elizabeth II and the Fords as the greatest.

That’s what’s on my mind!

Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

Your Ad belongs here, Contact: 214-941-0110 May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

8

myimessenger.com

COVID-19 Testing & Community Vaccine Center Helping our neighbors get tested and vaccinated against COVID-19

Friendship West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Road Dallas, TX 75232 • Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson • Walk-ups welcomed • Pre-registration encouraged Call for more information: 855.526.5257 or 214.820.4846 Website: www.nexgenpharm.com

myimessenger.com

Vaccine Schedule: (beginning 05.06.21)

Thursdays and Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM Saturdays 9:00 AM -2:00 PM Register now! http://bit.ly/3xJxhEFW

9

May 21, 2021

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

10

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

11

May 21, 2021

An Unfair Request ASK ALMA

BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, I’m a single mother supporting my three children with no help from my exhusband. I am thankful to have a great job that I like very much. I referred my BFF’s husband to the company who has since become a regular employee and he is very happy here as well. Once you pass the 90 day probation, the employee who referred you is given a referral bonus. My friend’s husband recently approached me and said boldly in my face that he expects me to split the money with him. Needless to say, I was shocked. My BFF has a full time job and they know it’s just me caring for my kids. I’m not sure how to handle him and maintain our friendship. What should I do?

E.S., Jackson, Miss.A Dear E.S., Double - check your forehead. Did you miss seeing “sucker” tattooed between your eyebrows when you washed the sleep from your eyes this morning? LOL. Now, double, double-check the conversations between the two of you, replaying them in your mind’s eye.

Did you fist bump on an agreement in advance? You know how it goes when you’re fast talking, excited and all. For example, when discussing the vacancy, did you jokingly say, “If you get hired, I’ll split the bonus with you.” That’s the only reason I can see him expecting a few May 21, 2021

coins heading his way.

In all honesty, I don’t get the feeling that’s what happened here. You didn’t mention it did, in your very detailed email. Seems to me, you feel like you’re caught between a rock (your BFF) and a hard place (her husband), not wanting to disturb the friendship.

That’s kool, I understand.

This incident isn’t a reason for this friendship to be shaken. If anything, he’s trying to take advantage of the relationship. Because he is your BFF’s husband, dismiss him. You owe him nothing! Don’t allow him to manipulate and get you all in a tizzy. Stand tall, shoulders straight, pumps pointed forward, ready to deal with him directly. Say it once, you don’t even need to practice.

This should come off as sweet as pineapple pie. Repeat after me “I’m not splitting any money with you.” That’s it, don’t ever discuss it again.

You don’t owe him a reason, excuse or justification for your response. Nope, nada, nothing. Let me remind you that in this economy, jobs are tough to come by. The best reference anyone can have is an employee, who’s a friend that already works for the company. His act of appreciation should be nothing more than, “Thank you for helping me get a job,” cause that my friend, is priceless.

YOU COULD BE ONE OF 10 PEOPLE TO

WIN A

$100

GoPASS® TAP CARD! if you take our short survey

Make your voice count.

Take our short survey at

DARTzoom.org

NEW BUS NETWORK ON THE WAY

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

I MESSENGER

DART is designing an entirely new bus network and your input is vital.

No purchase necessary. Some restrictions apply.

For complete rules, visit DARTzoom.org. Contest ends June 8, 2021.

12

myimessenger.com

America is Moving Again But the Road is Long TO BE EQUAL MARC MORIAL

One hundred days into their administration, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have made surprisingly bold inroads in confronting racial injustice and the COVID-19 pandemic, but significant challenges remain.

President Biden and Vice President Harris entered the White House at a moment of unprecedented multiple crises, and they have risen to confront those crises with remarkable speed and effectiveness. With the help of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, they have illuminated the systemic racial inequality that hinders our nation’s progress and set a course for healing.

Whether the nation can stay that course remains to be seen.

President Biden has been purposeful and intentional about including racial justice components in every policy he has undertaken in the first 100 days. He has used his moral voice to create a distinction between the poisonous philosophy of white supremacy and the idea of an America for everyone, an America of opportunity and pathways to progress for all people.

Importantly, he has changed the tone of governing, adopting a tone of inclusiveness that stands in stark contrast to the reality-show, finger-pointing, disparaging tone of the recent past.

The 100-day mark is something of an arbitrary and artificial deadline, but it has become part of our national political tradition since the administration of Franklin Roos-

myimessenger.com

My fellow Americans, look, we have to come together to heal the soul of this nation … We have the giant opportunity to bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice, real justice … We have a real chance to root out systematic racism that plagues America and American lives in other ways. A chance to deliver real equity: good jobs, good schools, affordable housing, clean air, clean water, the ability to generate wealth and pass it down to generations because you have an access to purchase a house. Real opportunities in the lives of more Americans — Black, white, Latino, Asian-Americans, Native Americans.”

— President Joe Biden, address to a joint session of Congress, April 28

evelt. It is an opportunity for the nation to engage in a substantive discussion about the direction of the presidency and the nation.

In a letter sent shortly after the election, I charged President Biden and Vice President Harris to produce an immediate and extensive COVID-19 relief package. They responded with the American Rescue Plan, one of the largest anti-poverty measures in a generation. It has helped slash daily coronavirus infections by more than 70 percent while quadrupling the daily number of vaccinations.

President Biden has made it possible for Americans whose lives were upended by the pandemic at last to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The letter established a set of fundamental principles on racial justice and equity to guide Biden and Harris in the first 100 days and beyond.

I asked them to assemble an administration that reflects the diversity of America. They nominated and fought for confirmation of the most racially diverse Cabinet in U.S. history.

I asked that they commit to fundamentally transforming the criminal justice system. They have restored the meaningful use of federal pattern or practice investigations, lifted restrictions on the use of consent decrees to hold police departments accountable for abuse, and ended federal contracts with private prisons.

I asked them to protect and de-

13

fend voting rights. They have put the entire federal government to work in promoting and expanding access to voter registration and participation.

I asked them to work toward economic parity for African Americans. The day they were sworn into office, the very first executive order President Biden signed declared “… it is the policy of my Administration that the federal government should pursue a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.”

I asked them to advance equity in educational opportunities for all American children. The administration’s unprecedented investment in Title I schools and higher education will help students recover from the learning loss experienced during the pandemic. Investment in free broadband and devices is expanding students’ access to digital learning in their homes.

I asked them to promote a healthier nation by prioritizing access to health care, including testing, treatments, and cures for COVID-19 in communities of color.

More than 200 million Americans have been vaccinated, more than double the initial goal, including underserved communities. Tens of thousands more Americans have health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, and their premiums are lower.

As productive as the first 100 days have been, a tremendous amount of work remains to be done. President Biden and Vice President Harris must make good on their promise to invest in America, to build a middle class, and to restore faith in our democracy. The American people need tangible results.

Among the most pressing items remaining on the administration’s to-do list are: – Passage of robust infrastructure proposals, the American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan, which includes long-overdue investments in physical and human infrastructure, creating family-sustaining, middle-class jobs and securing the nation’s recovery from the pandemic.

– Police reform, beginning with enactment of a meaningful George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. – Protection of voting rights, beginning with enactment of the For the People Act and restoration of the full Voting Rights Act. – Closing the gender pay gap beginning with enactment of the Paycheck Fairness Act. – A $15 per hour minimum wage for all workers and elimination of the discriminatory tipped minimum wage.

The National Urban League’s full progress report on the Biden-Harris administration’s first 100 days can be found here: https://bit. ly/3aJQ8Wr. Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

May 21, 2021

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

14

myimessenger.com

You are not an imposter FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

I’ll never forget the first day of my PhD program. As I listened to others in my cohort, I was blown away by their intellect and accomplishments. I felt I didn’t belong and secretly, I was waiting for the program to tell me that they made a mistake in my admission.

No matter what I had done, I felt that someone was going to find out that I wasn’t as capable and intelligent as the others. The provost of the program then led a discussion on a term I wasn’t fully aware of but totally described what I thought about myself—in that moment, I thought I was experiencing the imposter syndrome.

As she further elaborated on this term, others began to share their own feelings of inadequacy. Although men experience this, it is discussed more commonly for women.

So many of us go through the motions daily in our lives feeling that we don’t belong or deserve to be there.

As I grew in my knowledge of myself and what God says about me, I began to understand that this way of thinking is detrimental. This is a mindset that must change. It does not serve us well or those around us.

In a recent Harvard Business Review article, authors Ruchika Tulshyan and Jodi-Ann Burey state, “Imposter syndrome,” or doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud at work, is a diagnosis often given to women. myimessenger.com

“But the fact that it’s considered a diagnosis at all is problematic. The concept, whose development in the ‘70s excluded the effects of systemic racism, classism, xenophobia, and other biases, took a fairly universal feeling of discomfort, second-guessing, and mild anxiety in the workplace and pathologized it, especially for women.

“The answer to overcoming imposter syndrome is not to fix individuals, but to create an environment that fosters a number of different leadership

3:5 (International Standard Version) says, “By ourselves we are not qualified to claim that anything comes from us.

Rather, our credentials come from God.” When we are doing the work that we have been called to do or lead, realize that God qualifies us.

There are many examples in the Bible of those being called by God who felt less than qualified. In Exodus 4:117, “Then Moses answered the Lord, “But suppose the Israelites do not believe me and will not listen to what I say.

“The answer to overcoming imposter syndrome is not to fix individuals, but to create an environment that fosters a number of different leadership styles and where diversity of racial, ethnic, and gender identities is viewed as just as professional as the current model.” styles and where diversity of racial, ethnic, and gender identities is viewed as just as professional as the current model.”

For many of us, we have felt that there was something wrong with us instead of realizing that often our environments reinforce our ideas about value and worth.

Our validation must come from God. 2 Corinthians

What shall I do if they say that you did not appear to me?” But Moses said, “No, Lord, don’t send me. I have never been a good speaker, and I haven’t become one since you began to speak to me. I am a poor speaker, slow and hesitant.”11 The Lord said to him, “Who gives man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or dumb? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? It is I, the Lord. 12 Now,

15

go! I will help you to speak, and I will tell you what to say.”13 But Moses answered, “No, Lord, please send someone else.” 14 At this the Lord became angry with Moses and said, “What about your brother Aaron, the Levite? I know that he can speak well. In fact, he is now coming to meet you and will be glad to see you.”

Moses is an example of what many of us face---we question God for the opportunities and doors that open for us. We are unable to see our power and begin to rely on the beliefs and comments that others have said about us.

Instead of being aware that God will bring it to pass through us, we rely on our strength. With God, all things are possible (Matthew 9:26) but we cannot do it alone. Romans 8: 37 NLT says, “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” Stop turning things down that were meant for you because of a belief that you are not capable.

God called Moses and yet, he was more confident in Aaron’s abilities than his own. You are not an imposter. You are made in the image of God. You have gifts and talents. You have a purpose. Seek God’s guidance for your calling and journey. It is time to walk into it.

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.

May 21, 2021

TEXAS RULES WITH HALL OF FAMERS Lincoln’s Bosh, Duncanville’s Catchings and Baylor’s Mulkey shine spotlight on Texas

Tamika Catchings

Chris Bosh

Coach Kim Mulkey

Credit: CAA Speakers

Kobe Bryant

Credit: Travis Spradling/Dallas Morning News

Everything is big in Texas. Including Hall-of-Famers.

By DOROTHY J. GENTRY Sports Editor Tamika Catchings, former WNBA player, four-time Olympic gold medalist and Duncanville High School basketball star; Lincoln Humanities and Communications Magnet’s Chris Bosh and former Baylor women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey are all shining the national spotlight on Texas.

The three were named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Catchings and Mulkey – Class of 2020 – were inducted on Saturday, and Bosh, a member of May 21, 2021

the Class of 2021, will be enshrined in Springfield, Mass., later this year on Saturday, September 11.

Currently the vice president of basketball operations and general manager for the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, Catchings played volleyball and basketball at Duncanville, leading the volleyball team to a state championship in 1995 and the basketball team to a state championship in the 1996-97 season.

She played her entire 15year career with the Indiana Fever. Internationally celebrated, the 6’1” Forward was born in New Jersey and at-

I MESSENGER

tended college at Tennessee.

According to the WNBA, she is the leading scorer in WNBA All-Star Game history, and the only player to appear in 10 WNBA All-Star Games.

“Basketball chose me, an awkward, lanky, introverted tomboy, born with a hearing disability, a speech impediment, and a will to overcome obstacles, dream big and to change the world,” Catchings said on Saturday.

Three-time NCAA champion coach Mulkey - who stepped down last month as head women’s basketball coach at Baylor University after 20 years - said it was “an

16

honor” to also be in the class of 2020. This honor, the pinnacle of individual honors, tops off a career featuring three NCAA national championships, a combined 21 Big 12 regular-season and tournament titles, achieving 600 career wins faster than any other D1 men’s or women’s coach.

Bosh, a two-time NBA champion and 11-time NBA All- Star, was a basketball standout at Lincoln when they captured the Class 4A state title as he delivered 23 points and 17 rebounds to go along with nine blocks. Bosh was subsequently named High School Player of the Year by myimessenger.com

Basketball America; Powerade Player of the Year in Texas; a first-team All-American by Parade, McDonald’s, and EA Sports; a second-team all-American by USA Today and SLAM Magazine; a firstteam all-state player; and “Mr. Basketball” by his Lincoln classmates and the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches.

He tells about his journey and offers words of wisdom in “Letters to a Young Athlete,” which goes on sale June 1, 2021.

Along with Catchings and Mulkey, also enshrined in the Hall of Fame on Saturday was the legendary Kobe Bryant. He was enshrined almost 17 months after he, his daughter Gigi and seven others died in a helicopter crash in January of 2020.

His widow, Vanessa – escorted by basketball great Michael Jordan – accepted the honor and gave a moving speech honoring her late husband and beloved basketball star and his accomplishments in 20 years as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers.

In acknowledging her beloved husband and “girl dad,” Bryant told the audience: “There will never be anyone like Kobe. He was one of a kind. He was special. He was humble — off the court — but bigger than life.”

Bryant was joined by basketball legends Tim Duncan – who won five championships with the San Antonio Spurs – and Kevin Garnett, who won a championship with the Boston Celtics –and six others, officially making up the Hall’s Class of 2020. Their enshrinement was delayed due to the pandemic.

Also enshrined in the Hall of Fame was two-time NBA champion coach Rudy Tomjanovich, three-time Final Four coach Eddie Sutton, 1,000-game winner Barbara Stevens and longtime FIBA secretary general Patrick Baumann.

The enshrinement also featured a performance from Grammy winner Ne-Yo who sang “Incredible” as a video montage played in the background in remembrance of Hall of Famers who died since the last enshrinement in 2019.

“I’ve always said that I wanted to be remembered as a player that didn’t waste a moment, didn’t waste a day, and lived every day as if he was the 12th guy on the bench,” Bryant said in the video. myimessenger.com

17

May 21, 2021

Former Deputy Surgeon General joins celebration of unspoken heroes in healthcare Former Deputy Surgeon General and Rear Admiral Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams, will be one of the featured speakers at the upcoming Scrub Ball three-day hybrid event designed to educate, recognize, and honor unspoken heroes in the healthcare industry June 17-20, 2021 in Dallas, organizers announced. Dr. Trent-Adams, who is also Chief Strategy Officer for the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, will address winners and guests at the Awards Gala on Saturday June 19, 2021.

Dr. Trent-Adams served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health (PDASH) from January 2019 through August 2020. As the PDASH, she shared responsibility with the Assistant Secretary for Health planning, coordinating, and directing substantive program matters; policy and program development; and determining and setting legislative and program priorities covering the full range of public health activities within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health.

A lifetime public servant, the Hampton University alum and honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., began her extensive public health career in 1992 by joining the Commissioned Corps before ultimately retiring in 2020 from the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps with the rank of Rear Admiral Upper Half.

Other speakers include Toya White, Chief Operating and Nursing Officer for Texas Health Resources in Kaufman; Jamelle R. Ross, Regional Clinical Operations Director of Steris Integrated Medical Systems; Damien S. Berg, Regional Manager for UCHealth and Direct Manager for Medical Center of the Rockies and Poudre Valley Hospitals; Anthony Bondon, Central Sterile Manager for St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, and Sharon Greene-Golden, TODAY Show guest, IAHCSMM Fellow, International Speaker and Global Educator.

“We have an all-star lineup of speakers,” said Deronda Lewis, Scrub Ball Chair. “We wanted a cross section of speakers who could offer our audience insights that you would not find anywhere else.”.

The in-person and virtual event will offer Continuing Education Units (CEU) to workers via educational sessions, scholarships, and an awards gala.

Registration is open and nominations are still being accepted for Awards to be given out in five categories acknowledging healthcare workers of hospitals, nursing homes, and various clinics. The categories are:

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

Sylvia Trent Adams VIVIAN THOMAS AWARD: • A current or past leader in the field of Healthcare (must have a bachelor’s degree or twenty plus years in the industry).

• Understands the importance of hard work and going the extra mile.

• Willing to make unpopular decisions for the good of the industry.

• Proactively attempts to sort out problems and issues, provides ideas for improvement, makes full use of opportunities.

• Identifies needs to come up with solutions, takes steps to make your job and the company better.

• Observes company policies and procedures, complies with regulations, maintains values and ethics in the face of opposition and pressure.

• Would be considered a leader among leaders PEER AWARD: • Works effectively in a team.

• Contributes to team objectives, • Communicates effectively with team members, • Respects, listens to and encourages team members to grow UNSUNG CHAMPION AWARD: • Takes on more than others, does more than required, maintains a high quality of work.

• Hard working, works extra hours, completes projects before time.

• Imposes own standards of excellence, works without supervision, follows up without being asked.

• Handles disappointment, deals effectively

18

with rejection, and constructive criticism, stays enthusiastic after a set-back, maintains work performance despite difficulties.

SCRUB B. AWARD: • Must hold certification in their field of choice.

• This employee is a great communicator (both written and verbal).

• This person is diligent with strong work habits, willing to learn new skills and attempt new tasks, makes a positive effort to accept and adapt to changes.

• Uses own resources, skills and abilities, accountable for own activity, progress and success, manages self towards goals.

THE CHERRY HEALTHCARE HEART AWARD: • Must be/or have been certified in their field of choice and have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

• Able to work and communicate effectively with diverse groups, willing to work in varied and sometimes difficult environments.

• Verbal communication skills evident in presentations, managing conflict, dealing with customers, active listening, meeting participation and negotiations.

• Willing and able to coach others, enable and facilitate learning, impart knowledge, help people to identify and achieve what they are capable of.

• Accepts criticism, bounces back quickly, overcomes obstacles to achieve, keep pushing until task is completed.

Nominations forms and instructions available online at www.scrubball.org. Registration is also limited and may be purchased online through the website.

“We want and hope to bring all of the different elements of what is important in the healthcare industry to one special time and place on an annual basis,” said Lewis. Sponsorships are still available for select events. “This will allow us to say to the many workers that they are really appreciated by all segments of the community.”

Several levels that accommodate budgets for inclusion remain available. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities are to contact event consultants Ken Carter, 214-744-1431, kencarter@focuspr.com or Tiffiney Wyatt, tywatt@ corbettmitchell.com, 469-868-6080 or review the categories on its website, www.scrubball.org Scrub Ball is being presented by the Cherry Foundation in collaboration with SIPS Consults and CS Assist. Sponsors include MedWell Solutions, Belimed Infection Control, Rightfit Network Solutions with media partners WFAA, Estella Media, Texas Metro News and Urban One. The purpose is to recognize members of the healthcare community that are seldom recognized, with an emphasis on their importance to the industry.

myimessenger.com

Rocky Road to Recovery

While the economy generated 916,000 jobs in March, it only generated 266,000 in April, essentially slowing the previous month’s momentum.

Last month, the Biden team was crowing about economic progress, and Republicans were suggesting that so much progress was made that we

pay higher wages.

Too many are still paying the minimum $7.25 wage, and some maneuver to pay even less. They use tactics that require workers to come to work, do some work, then punch in, work a full day, punch out, and then go back to their work station to “clean up.” The big box stores are worst at this, but they aren’t the only ones.

We have a rocky road to economic recovery. While more than half of all adults have been vaccinated against the coronavirus, many women

treating President Biden nearly as badly as they treated President Obama. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell committed to making President Obama a one term president. He failed, but he behaved like the Last Obstructionist, blocking legislation, court appointments and more. Last week, he said that “100 percent of our focus is stopping this new administration.” His focus is not on economic recovery, infrastructure, or health care. It’s on stopping the Biden administration.

If the road to economic recovery is rocky for most, it is even worse for African Americans who earn just two-thirds of what whites earn and have nearly twice the unemployment as whites (5.3 percent for whites, 9.7 percent for African Americans). While the Biden Administration has spoken of equity issues, there must be a race-specific plan to close these gaps.

The March job creation data was exciting, but it was also impermanent. The April data confirms that two steps forward, one step back will

don’t need the stimulus embodied in the American Families Plan or the American Jobs plan, Biden proposals that will inject $4 trillion into the economy.

Republicans say that unemployed people won’t go back to work because they get too much money from unemployment benefits and that there is a “labor shortage.”

The Black unemployment rate is 9.7 percent. If there were a labor shortage it would not be that high. 9.8 million people are officially unemployed, and many don’t get unemployment benefits, but if employers think there is a labor shortage, they ought to

remain homebound because more than half of all schools are not yet open. Vaccinations will likely be available for children and teens in the next few months, but until then, there are teachers who hesitate to return to the classroom.

When teachers aren’t teaching, some moms aren’t working. So many women have left the labor market that participation rates are as low as they were in the 1980s. Affordable child care, which is included in Biden’s American Families Plan, would make it easier for more women to return to work. Without child care, it’s a rocky road to recovery.

Senate Republicans are

McConnell and his cronies claim that the Biden infusion of cash in the economy is inflationary, and prices are, indeed, 2.6 percent higher than they were a year ago. Many of these price hikes are the result of the pandemic, with supply chain problems part of the reason for higher prices. These issues will resolve themselves as we return to “normal” and supply chains are strengthened. Senate Republicans are using inflation as a fig leaf; both Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Federal Reserve Board Chair Jerome Powell are more concerned with getting people back to work.

be the path we are on until there is meaningful structural change. That won’t happen when Republicans are 100 percent focused on opposing President Biden.

Some people made money from the pandemic. Some are no worse off than they were a year ago. But many, especially those at the bottom, continue to suffer. Republican indifference to this hardship illustrates the utter callousness that McConnell and his cronies have for most of their fellow citizens.

THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

myimessenger.com

19

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

May 21, 2021

PIZZA FEST 2021

The Third Annual PizzaFest Pizza Truck Block party featuring pizza eating contest, kids bounce land, music and fun for the entire family was held at Bottled Blonde in Deep Ellum District.

Photo Credit: Eva D. Coleman

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

20

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

21

May 21, 2021

Ready to Love Tommy “Nephew“ Miles THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

BY VALDER BEEBE

It’s a good day interviewing the comedian, syndicated radio broadcaster and TV Host, Tommy Miles. Best known to an adoring public as “Nephew Tommy” on The Steve Harvey Morning Show – Tommy keeps crowds laughing as he tours nationally to soldout comedy venues across the country. He’s also appeared in popular films such as Think Like a Man, Baggage Claim and Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Halloween. I invited him into the Valder Beebe Show studios to talk about his latest job, host of OWN’s Ready to Love,

a unique twist on the typical dating show, Ready to Love explores the real-life dating interactions of sexy successful Black men and women who are looking for lasting love and an authentic relationship.

The popular series contributes to OWN’s success as the most viewed network on Friday nights among African American viewers.

The Houston native films entirely in his home town with an all-new cast exploring the real-life dating interactions of sexy, successful and grown Black men and women who are each looking for lasting love and an authentic relationships. The series is coproduced by Hollywood hitmaker Will Packer.

VBS: Look I’m a little jealous! I thought I had the

best job on the planet and you’ve got a pretty good gig on Ready to Love.

TM: Yes I do. I am hosting my fourth group of contestants this coming season. I never considered myself cupid or the love doctor yet I bring 20of marriage to the scene.

VBS: 20 years married?

Experience counts. Tell me about Ready To Love. There are 13 new episodes being filmed entirely in Houston, Texas, is that correct?

TM: For the vast Valder Beebe Show audience, just in case they want to know about; Ready to Love, it broadcasts Friday nights, on the Own Network. You know that’s code for The Oprah Winfrey Network…(laughter).

This dating show is different, the participants are in their 30,

40, 50s. They’ve been married, divorced, have kids, ex wives and previous husbands. This is not your typical dating show.

VBS: Today’s host are part of the success of a show, how do you avoid the drama?

Because when you are talking about people, relationships, love, that’s drama.

TM: I take this approach when resolving situations ……………

Tommy Miles complete interview…… SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow; more interviews: YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow: Broadcasting to a national & global audience: ValdeBeebeShow. com ; KKVI FM Radio, KRER FM, 411RadioNetwork, Streaming TV, Social Media, Print Publications I MESSENGER, Texas Metro News, and Garland Journal News.

Your Ad belongs here, Contact: 214-941-0110 May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

22

myimessenger.com

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.

23

May 21, 2021

MICKLE CAJUN KITCHEN 3203 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Dallas, Tx 75237 Next Door to Java Lavender / Health & Nutritional Bar & Restaurant micklechickenllc@gmail.com 469.399.0007 Gumbo Ln.

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for Two Permits 1. (BG) Wine and Beer Retailer's 2. (FB) Food and Beverage Certificate by Mr. Toby Mickle / entity dba: Mickle Chicken LLC Trade Name: Mickle Cajun Kitchen Hours of Operation are: 11am - 7pm (No late hours) To be located at: 3203 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Dallas Tx 75237 Suite # 3203 Officers of said Corporation are: Mr. Toby Mickle / (No Partners)

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

24

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

25

May 21, 2021

Texas Women’s Foundation honors Women for Leadership and Service Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) held its 42nd annual Leadership Forum and Awards Celebration (LFAC), presented by AT&T, recently and honored Maura Women Helping Women recipients and Young Leader Award recipients who have made positive impacts in the lives of women and girls. The keynote conversation featured Adriana Gascoigne, author of Tech Boss Lady and founder and CEO of Girls in Tech.

Co-chairs Jana Etheridge, senior vice president, chief of staff & customer office, Financial Services, Capital One, and Hattie Hill, president and CEO of T.D. Jakes Foundation, welcomed everyone and discussed how difficult the pandemic has been on women, particularly working moms who have had to balance work, school, child care and family duties – if they had a job where they could work from home.

Brenda Jackson, Leadership Awards Selection Committee co-chair, gave a history of the leadership awards.

A. Shonn Brown, Chair of the Texas Women’s Foundation’s Board, introduced three of the award recipients.

• Maura Award Recipient Trisha Cunningham is leading in calm and in crisis as the president and CEO of North Texas Food Bank by leading a staff of 180 that helped serve 97 million meals in 2020.

• Rani Puranik, Maura Award recipient, is an intrapreneur and global change agent as co-owner and Global CFO May 21, 2021

cipient Diana Mao is transforming women from victimized to victorious as the president of Nomi Network whose mission is to eradicate human trafficking.

• Jin-Ya Huang, Maura Award recipient, invests in women as the founder of Break Bread, Break Borders that empowers refugee women economically through the storytelling of cooking, food and culture.

Adriana Gascoigne

of Houston-based Worldwide Oilfield Machine and leading supporter of an Indian school.

• Young Leader Award Recipient Kim Roxie is an entrepreneur and catalyst for women of color as founder and CEO of LAMIK Beauty that caters to multicultural women.

Co-chair Hattie Hill introduced two award recipients: • Maura Award Recipient Judy Treviño is paying it forward as executive di-

I MESSENGER

rector of CCVI Ministries, an international nonprofit organization that is transforming the lives of people and the community.

• Cheryl Polote Williamson, Maura Award recipient, is helping people find their power through their purpose as founder of Soul Reborn and Cheryl Polote Williamson LLC. Co-chair Jana Etheridge introduced two award recipients: • Young Leader Award Re-

26

Jennifer Biry, chief financial officer of AT&T’s Warner Media business and presenting sponsor, introduced the keynote speaker, Adriana Gascoigne and Marachel Knight.

Marachel Knight, AT&T Senior VP, moderated the discussion with Adriana Gascoigne, who has often been the only female and woman of color at many start-up companies, and she gave this advice: • Leadership starts at the top.

• Resiliency is an important quality in starting a business.

• Find your passion and purpose.

• Find the right partners and the right funding sources.

• Don’t be afraid to take risks.

In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation launched Gender Matters™, a podcast series sponsored by Kimberly-Clark Corp. that features in-depth interviews with each award recipient with Kimberly-Clark Corp. executives and TXWF CEO Roslyn Dawson Thompson. More information can be found at txwfleadership.org. myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

27

May 21, 2021

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.

Everyone may order from our website, and we will ship your product order to you. http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support.

In addition, we offer Video Consultations globally! We will schedule an appointment, give a diagnosis, them make a recommendation. We are available to serve you in the comfort of your home. Call us today - 817.265.8854 http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support.

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

28

myimessenger.com

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

Ranging from Pretti and Petite to Pretti and Plus!

Nena likes to be a bit edgy, blingy ...

But she keeps it Chic with Sophisticated Style!

Nena’s Finds is your one stop shop for an Eccentric flare!

214.623.7314

nenafinds17@gmail.com Schedule your Sip n Shop, Trunk Show, Girls Nite Out or Wardrobe Revamp with Nena’s Finds today!

myimessenger.com

29

May 21, 2021

May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

30

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

31

May 21, 2021

Evangelize Everywhere You Go But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

James 1:22-25

By DONALD LEE There is a hurting world out there, not just in the church, but outside of the church — the body of Christ — and that world is in dire need of some ready saints to go out and witness to it.

In order for this to happen, the people in the church should take kingdom business seriously.

Church should never be looked at, especially by those who it comprises, as a “social club.” Yeah, though you “join church,” you don’t “join the kingdom.” In other words, the saints should have a church that they are a part of, and I’ll dare to say a “home” church where they assemble, be it brick and mortar or teleconference, that they connect with for spiritual growth.

The “kingdom” is God’s way of doing things. It’s His dominion here in the earth, His jurisdiction.

Kingdom living is just what it is, living a life that gives glory to the King of kings and lord of lords.

That means sharing the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ beyond the walls of a physical building; it means allowing the Spirit of the Lord within your heart to lead you as you minister to others in the work place and wherever else there are people.

A kingdom lifestyle is the conscientious and subconscious practice of doing things God’s way, being God’s expression here in this earth, being compassionate toward others, being understandMay 21, 2021

ing toward others, demonstrating wisdom and understanding that boggles natural minds.

When you do godly deeds conscientiously consistently and with a willing heart over a period of time, you will then find yourself doing those deeds subconsciously. In other words, doing godly deeds, for the right reasons, I must add, goes from “These are the ‘acts’ I do” to “This is who I am.” It’s going from ritual to lifestyle; from religious to spiritual.

Too many people are caught up in rituals or “religious” acts and shun kingdom lifestyle, as in the “acts” being mere “expressions” of who you are and your undying, everlasting commitment to the Lord Jesus the Christ.

James 1:22-25, But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

What the Word calls for each of us to do is to take the message we hear in church service and then go out and put it into practice by sharing it with as many people in our communities as we can pos-

I MESSENGER

sibly reach.

We must understand that to go to church or call a teleconference line and hear a powerful Word from God and to be inspired but to not do anything with what we hear does a disservice to God. But to hear that Word and then go to our places of employment and share what we’ve heard is pleasing to God. I’m talking about places of employment, because much of our time is spent in the workplace, at our jobs. Yet in no way is this to suggest that the workplace is the only location we are to share the Word.

Know, friends, that I do understand that your place of employment — “they say” — is no place to share your spiritual beliefs. “They say” prayer is to be left out of the schools and that one shouldn’t impose his personal spiritual (or religious) beliefs on others.

But we have to remember that our heavenly Father has each of us on assignment, and that if He has to have us to go into places as “undercover evangelists” to set the captives free from spiritual bondage which transfers into this natural sphere of existence, then we have no choice as saints of God but to do what our Father says. We trust that He gives His angels charge over us and He gives us favor to do what we do.

As an “undercover evangelist” in the workplace, you may have a colleague who may be going through a bitter divorce through no fault of his (or her) own. This

32

Donald Lee

person could be a nervous wreck, and it causes their work to suffer, thus putting them in a dangerous situation as it relates to their job security.

But, as an “undercover evangelist,” a prayed-up man or woman of God, you can have confidence in knowing that the Lord has placed a Word down on the inside of you to share with that person that would change his (or her) whole outlook on his (or her) personal storm.

People go through so much in life. They need to hear that there is a God who loves them and who loves them so much that He’d send His servants to their rescue, to share a word of edification or exhortation with them. Sometimes, we’re called to witness in less-than-ideal settings. But with the Holy Spirit as our Guide, we have the power to speak a word that would translate tears of agony into tears of joy.

Doing this doesn’t require the quoting of scriptures, but demonstrating them through your compassionate personality.

Donald Lee, an author and freelance journalist, is founderpastor of Kingdom Living Christian Center, based in the Dallas area. He can be contacted at 225.773.2248 or leedonaldj@gmail.com. Also, visit http://www.DonaldJLee.com.

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

33

May 21, 2021

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar National Foster Care Month Mental Health Month Lupus Month May 20 Happy Birthday to Ashley Moss SoulJazz Thursdays Feat: Natural Change Band at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 8 pm-12 am. Visit: sandaga813.com.

#CAP Event III- Writing an Exemplary College Admission Essay. Event by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Mu Omega Chapter. Online event. Reg Online: zoom.us. 10 am-12 pm. CDT. The Showcase: An All White Affair. Event by Real Rare Poetry 1125 E Berry St, Fort Worth, 9 pm-12 am. Tickets: www.ticketstorm.com/e/24965/t Macomb Alumnae Chapter, 1st Anniversary Charter Day Celebration. Event by Macomb Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Speaker Dr. Sarahjini Nunn-Spencer. 3:13 CDT. Online: macombdeltas.org.

Linny Nance and The Network at The Free Man, 2626 Commerce St. 7-10 pm.

Coronavirus Vaccine: Reality vs. Rumor. Facebook Live.

Event by AARP Programs. 6-7 pm. CDT. RSVP: https://www. facebook.com/AARPPrograms.

May 21 M.A.D.E. Dallas host Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood. 4-8 pm.

Happy Birthday to Anthony Council

May 22 Cheryl’s World Presents Debra BrownSturns. Guests: Bree Ajay, M.A. LPC, DeWone Bennett, M.S. LPGS, and Alice Wade, Wade Counseling. On Facebook. com/Texas Metro News & BlogTalkRadio. com. 12-2 pm. Join in at 646-200-0459.

Dinner en Rouge A Signature Event. Event host D’Estee, Inc. A Non-Profit. And Chicago Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3o8nnrU. 6-9 pm CDT.

May 21, 2021

THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am.

CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @docshepspeaks The Jirah Nicole Show with Jirah Nicole Mickle.

From 11 am-1 pm. CST Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. com. Call in and join the conversation at 646200-0459.

Judge Sandra Jackson Re-Election Kickoff Reception. Event by Judge Sandra Jackson and Julie Quaid. Reg: Zoom Link:https://bit. ly/3fr73OO. 6-7 pm.

May 26 Happy Birthday to Debra Brown Sturns I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Sunday Drum Circle. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 2:304:30 pm. Email: Panafric@airmail.net What Do Publishers Look for in a Family History Book?

Event by Genealogy Adventures and Donya Papoose Williams. Guest: Karen F. Nance and LaQuita Parks. 3 pm. CDT. Online: https://bit.ly/3frcxt9.

ELECTIONS ARE OVER . . . NOW WHAT? Event by Tongee Flemming-Precinct Chair Panel: Rep. Carl Sherman and Judge Martin Hoffman. 4:30 pm CDT. Reg: desotoprecinct3616@gmail.com.

The Taste of Fort Worth at 3823 E Loop 820 S, Fort Worth.

Event by Shoedacious Shoes. 12 pm. Tickets: https://bit. ly/3hiSCPK. Delta Authors on Tour. Event by Detroit Deltas. Reg. At: bit.ly/MidwestDAOTReg. 12-2 pm CDT. For info: ArtsandLetters@DetroitDelta.org.

OPENA District 4 Runoff Election Candidate Forum. Event

by Oak Park Estates Neighborhood. Online Zoom meeting is:https://bit.ly/3tYWx72 6:30-8 pm CDT.

The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. It’s thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459.

All DAQ Jazz: The Perfect Date Night. Daq’s Luxury Daiquiri Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd., Plano. 7-10 pm. Tickets:www. opentable.com/restref/client.

BlackTOP Healing Circle. Event by Texas Organizing Project. Reg ASAP: us02web.zoom. us. 6-9 pm. Info: Terrance “TK” Koontz, Tkoontz@texasorganize.org.

Remembering George Floyd Oct 14, 1974-May 25, 2020

May 23

Neo Soul Sundays at Lava Cantina, 5805 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony. Feat: Private Property. 4-10 pm. Tickets: maturepartycrowd.com.

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.

May 25

Pantego Farmers Market - May Flowers Market. Event by Arlington Foodies Farmer’s Market at Bicentennial Park, 3206 Smith Barry Rd, Pantego, 6-9 pm.

May 24

Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson.

12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson 2021 Barbara Jordan Civic Engagement: Texas Role Models: Women of the Texas Judiciary. Event by National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Dallas Metropolitan Chapter. Panelist: Justice Erin Nowell, and Judge Audrey Moorehead. Online Event: us02web.zoom.us 12 pm CDT.

May 27 Racial Healing Book Club, Spring 2021Event by South Florida PoC, 6-7:30 pm CDT. Event via Eventbrite.com.

Rowlett Public Library Teen Program. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street #200, Rowlett Reg: Eventbrite.com. 2-3 pm. CDT.

Let’s Talk About Community Safety. Hosted by Cedar Hill Government Center, 285 Uptown Blvd. 6 pm. CDT.Submit questions here: https://bit.ly/3bj2Nje

La Cocina Cubana a Cooking Class by Central Market Cooking School Dallas 5750 East Lovers Lane, 6:30 -8:30 pm. Reg: Eventbrite.com.

BxC End of Year Bash! Bowling for $20! PIN-STACK Allen,635 North Central Expressway Allen, 3-5 pm.

I MESSENGER

34

R&B vs. Everybody w/ Bryan Michael Cox. Event by Follow Ya DJ’ s, DJ Freeze. At Herrera’s Tex-Mex Addison, 4021 Belt Line Rd. #109. 9 pm-2 am. Tickets: APEXRNB.eventbrite.com.

George Floyd Week “Toast for the Movement” Event by Next Generation Action Network. African American Museum of Dallas, 3536 Grand Ave. 7-10 pm. RSVP: Eventbrite.com.

May 29

Cheryl’s World Presents “The Connections For Positive Priorities And Common Sense” with Debra Brown-Sturns.

On Facebook.com/Texas Metro News and BlogTalkRadio.com.

12-2 pm. Join the conversation 646-200-0459 Our Odyssey: The Pan-African Experience Through Black Arts. Event by Bandan Koro African Drum and Dance Ensemble. Annette Strauss Square, AT &T Performing Arts Center, 2403 Flora St. Tickets: www.attpac.org/on-sale/2021/ our-odyssey. 8 pm.

2nd Annual: Sundress & Sneakers Memorial Day Weekend Staycation Event by The Socially Astute. NYLO Dallas Plano, 8201 Preston Rd. Plano. Eventbrite.com. 6 pm-1 am.

DFW Small Business Expo at Music City Mall Lewisville, 2401 S Stemmons Fwy. 11 am-6 pm. Info: Antoine White 314-6304465. Eventbrite.com.

May 30 Happy Birthday to Dorothy J. Gentry The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio. com. 8-10 am. Thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news at 646-200-0459.

Sunday Drum Circle. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 2:30-4:30 pm. Email: Panafric@airmail.net.

A History of African American Cowboys with Larry Callies. Host Genealogy Adventures & Donya Papoose Williams.

Speaker, Larry Callies. 3 pm. CDT. Online: https://bit.ly/3frcxt9

BLACK LIVES MATTER

May 28 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, & BlogTalkRadio. com. Join in at 646-200-0459.

myimessenger.com

Dorian Mallory and Linda Henderson Nuptials 5-16-21

Photo Credit: Eva D. Coleman

myimessenger.com

35

May 21, 2021

www.grandpasecret.com May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

36

myimessenger.com

myimessenger.com

37

May 21, 2021

Big Mama Said:

“Be nice to people on the way up, as you will meet them on the way down” THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

What was Lucille saying to me and others when she stated, “You better be nice to the people on your way up because they will be the same people you meet on the way down?” I learned that when I walk down my own yellow brick road that my road is a marathon not a sprint.

And one thing for sure is like anyone else’s road of life there are several twists, turns, bumps and detours. I learned to be very mindful of the peaks and valleys. Big Mama knew that if you are kind to all people at all times, I would survive the valleys, the twists, the turns and more.

How does this play out today in this new normal of awakening and pandemic crisis?

From the very beginning, in every ‘people’ moment, it was to my benefit to treat others with respect, courtesy and of course, Big Mama’s, first lesson – “Treat every person as if they were you!”

Now logically that was the

May 21, 2021

right thing to do, but I have encountered so many individuals whose mindsets operate strictly off self-interest, fear or just an unhealed consciousness that tells them the smart thing to be is all about them over everyone else.

Our collective history is filled with factual accounts of self-interest overriding courtesy and kindness. A close contact and former Literary client, Mary Wilson, founding member of the Supremes of Motown fame, wrote in two of her books how the people around her chose self–interest over courtesy and kindness.

Her story, read by millions,

I MESSENGER

chronicled how individuals who share a cultural and musical background used self-gain to earn money and minimize the humanity of the industry.

They chose immediate success over long term greater good. This did not just happen to Ms. Wilson; there are countless stories in the entertainment industry that tell the same story.

While these people may be successful in the moment, but the final chapters of their life book hasn’t been written yet.

Unfortunately their bad actions will show up as their rise becomes a fall.

At that moment get to meet

38

those who experienced their actions. When God sends self-interested people a wellness check, all the money, success and prominence becomes less vital. The people they dissed going up have to lend them a hand when they fall down.

Having lots of money can pay off some of the issues but it will never be a substitute for the peace and assurance that you did the right thing for the people that are showing back up in your life.

So many of the business owners, I have advised sometimes have to deal with the dilemma of meeting the individuals they were not nice too when they scaled up!

In conclusion, Big Mama said be nice to people. When you’re not, you may still be able to succeed temporarily and think that you don’t need anyone of those you passed over.

Then it catches up to you. Big Mama’s playbook works! Her rule is, “Treat people well knowing it’s the right thing to do and know that dissing others isn’t a good path to success” Terry Allen is an award-winning multi-media journalist and owner of 1016 Media.

myimessenger.com

Those Who Wish Me Dead AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

THOSE WHO WISH ME DEAD stars Angelina Jolle as a hard driving smoke jumper who parachutes into roaring forest fires along the Montana wilderness. Her character, Hannah, out boys the boys when it comes to high risks and hard drinking.

However, she loses her confidence when three young boys die in a fire that she blames herself for not preventing. After failing a psych test she’s re-stationed to a fire tower where her main chores are watching the forest for fires and keeping up to date on weather reports.

The movie also revolves around a young boy, Conner, played by Finn Little, whose father, a forensic accountant, is on the run and headed out west to stay with his brother-

myimessenger.com

in-law, Ethan (Jon Bernthal), who is a deputy in the small town in Montana. Two assassins follow close behind after the accountant discovers corruption involving a crooked government official.

The two assassins, brothers Jack and Patrick, played by Aiden Gillian and Nicholas Hoult, run Owen, played by Jake Weber, off the road and while he’s dying he gives his son a folder with evidence involving the corrupt offi-

cial and a mob boss. With the two assassins not far behind, young Conner flees on foot and runs into Jolle’s character.

Hannah protects the boy at all costs from the assassins. They also have to flee a fast moving fire that the two brothers set to flush out their victims.

I also have to mention two other key characters in the film, Allison (Medina Senghore) who plays Ethan’s pregnant wife and is pretty handy

39

with a shotgun and Tyler Perry who has a small role in the movie as a ruthless crime boss who gives the two brothers their marching orders.

The movie is rated R for extreme violence and has a run time of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It’s currently showing in movie theaters and streaming on HBO/Max. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate THOSE WHO WISH ME DEAD a LARGE.

May 21, 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 May 21, 2021

I MESSENGER

40

myimessenger.com