Texas Metro News 5-25-23

MetroNews

Advocacy Committee Addresses Health Disparities, Honors Trailblazer

By Cheryl Smith

To Text or Not to Text

Dear Loyal Readers:

We are reprinting last week's MY TRUTH because of an unacceptable oversight. The font and type size were hard on the eyes and we know this because we listen to you and you have expressed the need for a type size that is not a strain on the eyes. You are very important to us and we will continue to work to earn and keep your support. If you have other concerns, please let me know at editor@texasmetronews.com.

Have you ever had serious regrets?

Wondered if you could just have another chance?

You have all the answers, don’t you?

After all, hindsight is 20-20 and oh what you would do if you had a chance for a do over.

Now some may ask why I didn't write this column a week or two ago, and that is a very good question.

My answer is, better late than never because hopefully you will get a chance for a do over as Father’s Day approaches.

Which brings me to my truth.

Sometimes I just really don’t have a good feeling about texting. Back in the day at Paul Quinn College I would tell my students that they couldn’t text me because I knew I would be editing their messages instead of paying attention to the message.

Then too, I told them there were special times they could text, but don’t waste time with messages telling me you’re going to be late for class, especially when you are already 15,

And Then There was One

Lost art of fighting – with hands

until cooler heads prevailed. You both went home, bearing a few bruises, but less angry. Soon, you were friends again.

Jim Brown, 87, Football Great, Movie Star and Activist, Dies

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

Jim Brown, the superstar Cleveland Browns running back who quit football at the very height of his Hall of Fame career, has died at 87.

By Norma Adams-Wade

Remember when you got mad at Pooky during recess on the playground?

“Meet me in the alley after school,” you whispered menacingly.

As the teacher approached, suspecting some mischief underway, the gathered crowd

of classmate-onlookers dispersed. After school, you met and exchanged fist punches

Like Demosthenes, the 4th Century BC Greek orator, you lived to fight another day – to find a different, silly beef to fight about, then make up and be friends yet again. The beat goes on.

Well, that was then. This is now.

Today, weapons trump fists. Beefs are fatal. There is no

Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Gillum

By Dara Kam The News Service of Florida

TALLAHASSEE — Less than two weeks after a mistrial, federal prosecutors on Monday filed a motion to dismiss conspiracy and fraud charges against former Democratic gubernatorial nominee Andrew Gillum.

The move to drop the charges against Gillum, a former Tallahassee mayor, comes after jurors on

May 4 acquitted him of lying to federal investigators but were unable to reach a verdict on charges that he and his political mentor, Sharon Lettman-Hicks, bilked political contributors out of money and illegally steered it to Gillum for his personal use.

Monday’s one-sentence motion by prosecutors asked U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor to “dismiss the indictment against” Gillum and Lettman-Hicks, as allowed under federal rules.

Gillum’s legal team hailed the move.

“Andrew Gillum had the courage to stand up and

He was also one of the legendary acting trio, dubbed Three the Hard Way, after the 1974 movie featuring Brown with two others, martial arts pro Jim Kelly and former NFL/AFLer Fred Williamson.

Perhaps the greatest running back ever, Brown quit football to pursue an acting career at 30.

From 1957 to 1965, the perennial All-Pro helped lead a Cleveland Browns ground game that won an NFL championship in 1964.

Voted pro football’s greatest player of the 20th century, Brown earned induction into the Hall of Fame in 1971.

Football wasn’t the only sport in which he excelled. He played basketball, track, and lacrosse at high levels. He was inducted into the Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1984.

But the gridiron is where he chiefly left his mark.

Notably, in 1965, Cleveland Brown’s owner Art Modell issued an ultimatum to the superstar, telling him that if he continued filming the hit movie “The Dirty

Andrew Gillum, shown here campaigning for governor in 2018.

Jim Brown

The African American Subcommittee of South Southwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center (SSW ATTC) team with former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

Photo: UNT Dallas Marketing & Communications

I WAS JUST THINKING...

African American game hunters with regular rifles. Photo: NYCityLens.com & Pinterest

Advocacy Committee Addresses Behavioral Health Disparities cont. from page 1

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Team

As mental health experts gathered at the University of North Texas Dallas to discuss disparities in treatment, they lauded a longtime legislator for advocating for fair and equal treatment.

In an effort to address racial disparities in behavioral health and human services, the African American subcommittee of the South Southwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center (SSW ATTC) is making significant strides by convening courageous conversations.

Led by Dr. Constance Lacy, Dean of the School of Behavioral Health and Human Services at the University of North Texas at Dallas, the committee aims to empower African American communities by advocating for equitable access to resources and knowledge.

"Our common goal is to empower our community to live healthier, holistic lives, particularly in the areas of behavioral health, mental health, and substance use disorder," Dr. Lacy said.

Eddie Bernice Johnson, who retired in December after representing Texas's 30th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 1993 to 2023, was recognized as a trailblazer and for “her pivotal role in supporting” efforts in the field of behavioral health.

"She very much was supportive of the concept of an African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence and so she helped sort of guide that vision into reality," Dr. Lacy said.

As the first registered nurse to serve in the Texas House, Texas Senate and U.S. House; it wasn’t a surprise to many that healthcare was a priority for Johnson.

“I was a psychiatric nurse before I went into public office,” said Johnson, adding that she “never really had a committee assignment that was related to what my interests were.

“I really wanted to be on a committee where I could deal directly with healthcare and especially mental health, but I didn’t get it… but I never forgot that we needed to give attention to this area so every chance that

I got that I saw I could do something or impact with some type of amendment or direction I tried to do that because it was clear to me that not only was it a need there, it was getting to be more grave,” she continued.

The program included a conversation between Dr. Lacy and Johnson about the void in the representation of African Americans within the Addiction Technology Transfer Centers.

"There was not one designated for the needs and challenges of the African American community, unlike the designated centers for indigenous people and Hispanic populations,” Lacy said.

“We saw this as an opportunity to advocate for change and create equitable access to resources, information, and knowledge."

The process of establishing the African American Subcommittee began in 2019 when the subcommittee members reached out to Congresswoman Johnson to collaborate on gaining legislative support for their initiative.

Through research, they discovered that there had been an African American Technology Transfer Center many years ago, but it was not funded to continue, leading to its eventual demise.

Dr. Rochelle Head-Dunham, Executive and Medical Director for the Metropolitan Human Ser-

healing," she said. The event brought together individuals representing Region Six – Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and American Indian Tribes and Communities.

Dr. Head-Dunham, in highlighting the significance of the event, said, "This event allows us to take a deeper, more courageous dive into the impact of inequities on the health of African Americans. We have an opportune moment in time to address racial inequities that have been exposed, particularly within the African American community."

Maureen Nichols, Director of the SSW ATTC, also stressed the importance of addressing addiction treatment and mental health within African American communities and emphasized the need for culturally appropriate and effective treatment options, aiming to bridge the access gap and reduce health disparities faced by African Americans.

"In the traditional healthcare systems, they often face a lack of access and higher risks in various different health outcomes,” Nichols explained. “It is important that we take a look at why that is, and find solutions for making sure that the African American community has access to the health and wellness that everyone in our community serves."

To address this pressing issue, Nichols shared their organization's collaborative efforts with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence.

an African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence into reality."

Dr. Lacy also expressed gratitude for the impactful advocacy of former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, who played a crucial role in revitalizing the ATTC for African Americans.

The recent tribute to Congresswoman Johnson not only

the team recognize the systemic oppression faced by African Americans throughout history, from slavery to persistent generational trauma.

These realities have highlighted the urgent need for targeted initiatives and systemic change. By amplifying marginalized voices and promoting informed dialogue, the committee strives to address the underlying factors contributing to disparities within the community.

Dr. Head-Dunham said moving forward, the team plans to extend the concept of courageous conversations to various communities and workspaces. Their toolkit, which includes "courageous conversation cards," provides tangible resources for engaging in these discussions and empowering community leaders, coalitions, and organizations in addressing health inequities.

vices District, said it is important to target African Americans specifically due to the systemic oppression they continue to face.

"We have an obligation to address the component of racism that has nothing to do with us. It is an ongoing struggle that requires overt efforts to address the underlying trauma and promote

These initiatives focus on increasing the representation of African American students in the behavioral health workforce and fostering discussions within the Black community, she said. By promoting healing and seeking solutions, communities can unite and heal from the impact of substance use, mental health challenges, and experiences of racism.

The significance of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson's presence at the event was also highlighted. Nichols expressed gratitude, stating, "She has been a strong advocate for mental health throughout her career... and helped guide the vision of

acknowledged her instrumental role but also highlighted the enduring importance of equitable access to behavioral health and human services.

"By celebrating the work of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, we affirm the impact she has had and acknowledge the results of her advocacy," Dr. Lacy said. "She has been a champion for change, and it is our privilege to honor her as we continue to push for equitable access to behavioral health resources."

The African American Subcommittee’s work extends beyond the committee room. Through their efforts, they aim to positively influence public perception and policy by giving voice to the needs and concerns of the community.

Dr. Lacy explained, "Engaging in a conversation can open doors and show how change can affect them. There's a perpetuation of knowledge that happens, and that's what we're working towards."

The committee's vision of courageous conversations and inclusive representation has helped

Dr. Head-Dunham emphasized the importance of involving multiple parties and levels to drive systemic change effectively. From power brokers who influence decision-making to the voices and needs of everyday individuals, their collaboration aims to create a more inclusive and just society.

Through projects such as courageous conversations and engaging young people in discussions about health inequity, the African American Advisory Team has already made a significant impact.

"Our recent project focused on racial healing and health inequity empowered first-generation college students from under-resourced communities," Dr. Lacy said. "This project opened up opportunities for further dialogue and change."

The committee's work benefits not only those directly involved but also has a ripple effect on the wider community. By empowering individuals to have a voice and advocating for change, they aim to create a positive impact on the lives of random individuals on the street. Through education, engagement, and awareness, they hope to inspire others to take action and make a difference in their own lives and communities.

Dr. Rochelle Head-Dunham, Executive and Medical Director for the Metropolitan Human Services District holding their Courageous Conversation Cards prototype.

Dr. Constance Lacy, Dean of the School of Behavioral Health and Human Services at the University of North Texas at Dallas with former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

Photos: Ayesha Hana Shaji/TMN

What happens if America can no longer pay its bills?

budget. While discussions among the White House and lawmakers have begun, at press time no solution has yet to be announced.

Plano ISD Teachers Recognized

U.S. government to default on its debt (unprecedented in modern history).”

By Charlene Crowell

For much of Black America, having adequate cash to cover monthly bills or small business overhead has historically been an ongoing challenge. But over the coming days, the nation’s coffers could also lack adequate cash and credit to cover its bills.

The debt limit is the total amount of money that the United States government is authorized to borrow to meet its existing legal obligations, including Social Security and Medicare benefits, military salaries, interest on the national debt, tax refunds, and other payments, according to the Treasury Department.

On May 1, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned both the House and Senate, “After reviewing recent federal tax receipts, our best estimate is that we will be unable to continue to satisfy all of the government's obligations by early June, and potentially as early as June 1, if Congress does not raise or suspend the debt limit before that time…Given the current projections, it is imperative that Congress act as soon as possible to increase or suspend the debt limit in a way that provides longer-term certainty that the government will continue to make its payments.”

Since then, every passing day shortens time for President Biden and Congressional leaders to craft a resolution. To avoid rippling global financial chaos, both the Administration and Congress must reach agreement.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy advocates tying the debt dilemma to the Administration’s budget proposal, including slashing many domestic programs and adding new work requirements to access program benefits. Alternatively, President Biden seeks a separation between the debt limit and the

In the meantime, an anxious nation – its people and businesses –both face financial uncertainty.

According to U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (Missouri), a long-time lawmaker and member of the House Financial Services Committee, “This is the first debt-ceiling situation that I felt was not going to be abated in time to protect our country. “I’ve never seen anything like this.”

Federal fiscal agencies like the Congressional Budget Office and Federal Reserve have clearly and repeatedly warned Congress as well of the unprecedented and looming financial chaos that would result from debt default. Nonpartisan economists have also chimed in.

For example, Moody’s Analytics, a foremost provider of financial intelligence that assists businesses to reach informed decisions, recently published a related report.

The list of federal benefits at risk in a debt default is as lengthy as it is painful. A sample of the benefits at risk include:

• Up to 21 million Americans could lose their Medicaid, up to 1 million older adults could lose access to food stamps known known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. And up to 1 million poor children could lose welfare through TANF, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, according to lawmakers who wrote a May 11 letter to President Biden.

• Section 8 housing vouchers that enable 2.1 million people to pay a national rental average of $347 to live in standard and affordable housing would also be at risk, according to the National Low-Income Housing Coalition .

• On June 1, $12 billion is supposed to go to military and civilian retirement payments and $12 billion towards veterans’ benefits.

On June 15, another $4 billion is needed to pay military salaries, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center;

“The timing could not be worse for the economy; even without the specter of a debt limit breach many CEOs and economists believe a recession is dead ahead,” states the report. “With the Federal Reserve ramping up interest rates to quell wage and price pressures, avoiding a recession would be difficult even if nothing else went wrong… Assuming a June 8 debt limit breach that dragged on through July, the Treasury would have no choice but to eliminate a cumulative cash deficit of approximately $150 billion by slashing government spending. As these cuts work through the economy, the hit to growth would be overwhelming.”

The Bipartisan Policy center, a DC-based think tank that promotes viable public policy solutions, released its own independent analysis stating in part. “Ongoing risks include increasing costs to taxpayers, delayed payments to individuals and businesses, and potentially catastrophic financial and economic impacts if congressional inaction to raise the debt limit causes the

• At the end of 2022, the Social Security Administration had about 66 million beneficiaries that together received benefits totaling $1.232 trillion. Nearly the same number - 65,103,807 people were enrolled in Medicare, an increase of 160,823 since the last report by the Center for Medicare Advocacy.

“[A]cross the nation, rents have skyrocketed, eviction filings have increased, homelessness is on the rise, and millions of America’s lowest-income renters are just one financial shock away from falling behind on rent and losing their homes,” said Diane Yentl, President and CEO of the Coalition. “It is unacceptable to cut critically needed assistance to these households.”

It should also be unacceptable for lawmakers elected to serve all of America’s people to lack the will to protect the nation.

Park Place Lexus recognized Plano Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Jessica Williams and Ashley Hendrickson. Williams, a teacher at Pearson Early Childhood, was named Elementary Teacher of the Year. Hendrickson, a teacher at Clark High School, was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year.

The two Plano ISD teachers were offered a Lexus IS or Lexus NX for the summer, a deluxe detail and tank of gas for their vehicles, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge which includes all you can eat buffet and cocktails; four passes to the Dallas Arboretum; a $100 gift card to the Shops of Legacy, and a Park Place insulated bag with Park Place swag.

“We have partnered with Plano ISD for many years,” said Chris Brunner, General Manager of Park Place Lexus Plano. “It is an honor to recognize the teachers who are exceptional in their profession and

go above and beyond to inspire students. Both teachers and students have experienced a lot of stress the last few years and it feels great to have our team pamper both teachers of the year chosen by Plano ISD.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. Park Place was acquired in 2020 by Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Duluth, GA. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

Ashley Hendrickson, Plano ISD 2023 Secondary Teacher of the Year and Jessica Williams, Plano ISD 2023 Elementary Teacher of the Year

Patrick Jaccar, Park Place Lexus New Car Sales Director; Nancy Humphrey, Plano ISD, Board Vice President; Ashley Hendrickson, Plano ISD 2023 Secondary Teacher of the Year; Jessica Williams, Plano ISD 2023 Elementary Teacher of the Year; Dr. Theresa Williams, Plano ISD Superintendent

Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending. org.

Treasury Secretary warns the nation is running out of credit and cash

The Book on E’s Haven!

By Vincent L. Hall

One of the major items on my bucket list is to co-write a book on parenting with my three daughters. Having all girls doesn’t sound very diverse, but my children were born in Generations X, Y, and Z. They are entirely different.

Stand by, Dock BookShop, Barnes and Nobles or the Pan African Connection Bookstore because the book will sell like hotcakes when it drops in about three years.

There will be a lot of different perspectives, but there will be one fact that we all agree on. It's a well-kept Oak Cliff secret called E's Haven Academy. And most of the parents who ever trusted their children with Ms. Harris will tell you that she has a heart for kids and a knack for drawing the best out of them.

Not only is she good at what she does, but she is also good where far too many educators fail. She can capture the mind of Black boys from infants to preschoolers like few can.

The (now) Rev. Sharon Elizabeth Harris is the Executive Director (Teacher) of E’s Haven Academy! She holds a Master of Education and is a Specialist in with Learning Disabilities and Emotional Issues in Children.

The proud Laurel, MS native is a proud HBCU graduate of Alcorn State University. Incidentally, Laura is the hometown of vocalist Leontyne Price and track star Ralph Boston.

Ms. Harris has also earned another M.S. degree from SMU’s Perkins School of Theology. Rev.

Haven Early Learning Academy. The school has grown consistently over the past 40 years and offers quality child development for children and keeps all children on task. No child will be left behind at The Haven. E's Haven Early Academy is a Four-Star Academy.

My baby (middle) daughter Alison was born in 1983, and Ms. Harris was a Godsend. Alison was encouraged to excel and imbued with a sense of competence. As a result, she left there doing everything at an advanced age level.

But E's Haven was not just a

E's Haven Academy is a place where children are learning, friendship for one another is encouraged, and the love of learning is top priority. E's Haven Academy was created from the philosophy that all children can reach their full potential if given early instruction.

But the key to all her pedagogical strategus is love. Ms. Harris preaches love to her students, staff, and parents. She leaves as much instruction with the parents as with her kids. And since all children learn differently, she creates a prescriptive for each child and family.

Hailee (the bonus) was her next student from me; soon after, Erinn (my eldest) sent my granddaughter Kennedy. I have always referred E's Haven and never had a parent that wasn't appreciative.

Rev. Harris has received numerous awards for her work at E's Haven and within the community. She brought National Black Child Development to Dallas in the 90s and was its First President. She is a Golden Life and active Delta Sigma Theta Sorority member, and a Quest for Success Award Recipient from The Dallas Black Chamber. These days she is a Wynnewood Heights Navigator for the Dallas Leadership Foundation to encourage young people to get their GEDs and go to college. E's Haven also has partnered with Dallas Independent School District’s Pre-K program to provide early school instruction for three and four-year-old students. E's Havens’ motto has always been "No Child Will Be Left Behind!”

Harris is involved in many areas of child development (at her school and the community) as she promotes quality education for all children.

In 1983, Rev. Harris founded E's

place for learning, it was a pathway to discovery. The school always features aquariums and displays animals. Children there are taught how to communicate and respect each other.

As an early childhood educational facility, the center's philosophy is that a child's environment plays an essential role in shaping their values. Therefore, E's Haven Academy strives to create an atmosphere conducive to each child's growth.

My three and I will write a book about parenting, and E's Haven will be a significant chapter. E's Haven is a place where children learn on a broad social and academic scale.

Continued Wake Up Call To America

Publisher : Cheryl Smith

Editor: editor@myimessenger.com

Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203

Website: www.texasmetronews.com

Phone: 214-941-0110

By Dr. John E. Warren

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.

To advertise, call: 214-941-0110

“We The People” are losing control of America through the unchecked behavior of a number of elected officials at all levels of government who have bought the Big Lie that democracy failed with the election of President Biden and the fact that although he got seven million votes more than the former President, he didn’t win.

Those who drank this Kool-Aid continue to use the Big Lie as the foundation for more lies, like Voter Suppression is necessary because ballot boxes are being stuffed with illegal ballots; that more guns are necessary for self protection when those espousing this theory are

the very ones committing mass murders with the very automatic weapons “they” said are necessary for self protection.

As we have said before and now repeat, the solution to these problems rests in what Thomas Jefferson warned: “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Freedom.” We must not only watch, but register and vote. We can not wait until November 2024 to think about whether our vote matters.

If Black Lives Matter, then Black Votes are critical and necessary. Every election is important from School Board to City Council, to State Legislatures and Governors and Members of Congress, both in the House and the Senate.

The families of those murdered and injured in the TOPs Supermarket massacre in Buffalo, New York a year ago have filed multiple Wrongful Death Civil actions against social media, gun dealer-

ships and others considered influences in shaping the mind and heart of the killer.

Such creative thought must be used around the country in spite of the fact that the former President has stacked the United States Supreme Court with one third of the Justices expected to rule in favor of the supporters of the Big Lie on most if not all the issues which will come before them.

The solution to the Supreme Court problem is to elect members of Congress that will pass the laws necessary to overrule such Court Decisions.

For example, to change the ruling on Roe v. Wade, Congress must simply pass a law reinstating the right to abortion as some states have done.

We must now rally on the issues of the debt ceiling so that the Conservative Right does not allow the collapse of the government to

further justify their attack on Democracy.

We must insist that the issue of immigration be looked at so the much needed migrant workers for our agriculture are not caught up in the greater issue of mass immigration.

We must keep our eyes on the domestic needs of this nation, such as healthcare in the midst of continued COVID, food insecurity, and homelessness at all levels.

If we can find funds for Ukraine, then we can find funds to help the very people who elected our decision makers to Congress.

We must not allow another Big Lie, that America is now represented by the “few” and the callus, seeking only to help themselves at the expense of all others. This is the Continued Wake Up Call.

1985-1986 E's Haven Academy Class picture. Sharon Harris and her future academic All-Stars

E's Haven Academy Student in 2022 using technology as a learning portal.

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

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

Preaching but Not Practicing

UTTERANCES

By Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

I grew up in the church. I was blessed to have parents and grandparents who made it a point to make sure that my faith was centered in my life. I remember going to Sunday School, Church services, and going home to eat only to go back to church. I can’t forget going to choir rehearsals, the Easter and Christmas speeches, or Vacation Bible School. I even recall the competitions to recite scriptures and share Bible stories. Although all of these experiences have shaped me, I desired to develop and cultivate a relationship with Jesus. Those influences were important in my decision but ultimately, I made a choice.

I have had friends who grew up in church who are now either non-religious, agnostic, or atheist. Despite all of the attempts of their parents and loved ones, they made a different decision. Many chose to go against the beliefs of their families because they saw hypocrisy. I know a young man who left Christianity because of this. I didn’t stop befriending him and knew that the best way to influence him was to demonstrate my beliefs through my love and my actions. I’ve learned that no matter how we try to make people believe what we believe, the best way to convince others is to live what we believe.

On April 20, the Texas Senate passed two bills. Senate Bill (“SB”) 1515 mandates that public schools post in all classrooms a required version of the Ten Commandments. Many people are outraged about the violation of church versus state.

Others feel that it is not the role of

schools to teach religion, especially considering that many students are not Christian. I tend to be one of those who feels that before we mandate this in schools, our leaders need to practice what they want to preach to others.

The Ten Commandments are Biblical principles relating to ethics and worship that play a fundamental role in Judaism and Christianity. The Ten Commandments are in the Bible in Exodus 20:2–17 and Deuteronomy 5:6–21. When I was a child, this was taught at home and church. I don’t think as Christians, we discuss the significance of each of these principles but we expect others to uphold them. I’m not perfect…none of us are perfect. Yet, each of us needs to live out what we believe which is the greatest witness to others. Could it be that the world is in turmoil because so many of us are not living out what we say we believe?

We often see the Ten Commandments as something outdated but the reality is that they apply to our lives today. Each of these principles is about relationships. They are about our relationship with God in making sure that God is first. They are about our relationships with others—our family, friends, and strangers. We don’t realize that murder isn’t always about killing someone with a weapon. We kill people daily by assassinating their character and reputation through gossip. We steal time from God and those we commit to but don’t fulfill. We lie to others for votes and influence. We want what others have and will do anything to get it through manipulation and even violence. People are discriminated against with harmful policies, yet you want to talk about God. You hate your brother that you see every day but talk about loving and worshipping God that you’ve never seen. (1 John 4:20)

Desiring students to learn these Biblical truths cannot be legislated especially when legislators don’t abide by them either. “Those who hear and don't act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like” (James 1:22-24 (MSG)) Many of us walk away daily forgetting what we’ve been taught and yet, we expect others to get it. In our hopes for youth to have a sense of morality, we can not expect them to become something that we as adults are not willing to live. It’s time to practice what we preach.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the President of Soulstice Consultancy, LLC and the Founder of the Reconciliation and Restoration (r2fdn.org) Foundation. The author of 4 books including Empowering Charity: A New Narrative of Philanthropy, Dr. Booker-Drew is also the host of the Tapestry Podcast.

America Must Not Descend Into a New Feudalism Where Money Rules and People Suffer

London Sunday Times “Rich List.”

He has written a stunning book — “Who Owns the World” — that details who owns land across the world.

By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Jr.

The pomp and circumstance of the crowning of King Charles III filled TV sets.

The British crown is ceremonial; King Charles will take part in rituals, but not rule — that is in the hands of the British prime minister and the Parliament.

Yet, beneath the vast spectacle of the Crown is another reality: the Crown is not only fabulously rich; it owns much of the land in the world.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II sparked many investigations into the wealth of the royal family.

Forbes put the royal family’s wealth at $28 billion, including fabulous castles, jewels, invaluable art, and extensive land ownings across Wales and England. The royal family also enjoys exemption not just from inheritance tax, but from taxes in general.

But the actual holdings of the Crown are far greater than that. Kevin Cahill was a researcher on the

He reports that the British Crown is the legal owner of about 6.6 billion acres of land — one-sixth of the earth’s land surface. Charles III will be the king of 32 countries, and the head of the Commonwealth of 54 countries in which a quarter of the world’s population lives.

In many of these countries — including Australia, which with its territories is the second largest country on earth, and Canada — the feudal land laws that were created under the British Empire still govern. The British Crown owns the land. The users of it are essentially lease-holders, some for specific terms, some in perpetuity. If King Charles could sell all the land for which the Crown holds the title, he would be, by far, the richest person who ever lived.

Much of the land is held in a tax haven — what Cahill calls the modern equivalent of a “bandit’s lair.” Of the world’s 24 largest tax havens, King Charles will become sovereign of no fewer than 13.

Most of the land that the crown

holds title over is governed in fact by government agencies — who lease or dispose of it on behalf of the Crown. The Crown is not active in its governance — other than the extensive estates it owns in England. From most, it does not receive direct rents.

this booty was never returned or repaid.

The American Revolution helped free the former colonies from this feudal arrangement. Under free market rules, America’s land is privately owned, not owned by feudal lords.

And America’s populist tradition helped ensure that land ownings — particularly outside the South — were initially small in size.

Under Abraham Lincoln, the Homestead Act distributed the lands in the west to settlers in small claims. Slaves had no right to be part of that distribution.

Today, with inequality reaching new heights, America’s small-d democratic distribution of lands and property is under pressure. Billionaires are accumulating massive tracts of land and massive holdings of buildings.

was a captivating, antiquated spectacle. It was literally a throwback to a bygone age. Yet the ermine and the jewels, the crowns and scepters contain a caution.

Democracy thrives on opportunity, on a broad middle class, not a ruling elite with massive, accumulated fortunes and lands.

America’s democracy thrived by distributing the land, making public education available to all, and extending the right to vote. When wealth got too concentrated, we taxed the rich and invested in what made the country strong.

Now, wealth is once more concentrated. Big money dominates elections; corruption undermines our institutions from the Supreme Court to the local city councils.

Its ownership, however, is a reminder of the force and impact of empire. In the days when the sun literally never set on the British Empire — with colonies stretching from North America to India to Hong Kong — the Crown and its agents collected rents, jewels, gold, minerals and more from the world. Needless to say, even after independence,

Private equity investors have transformed the housing market, turning more and more Americans into renters, while they own homes by the thousands. Billionaires are also finding ways to avoid inheritance taxes, and to use tax havens and tax dodges to avoid paying their fair share of taxes.

The crowning of King Charles III

Let’s enjoy the ceremony of the British Crown, but let’s act to ensure that America does not descend into a new feudalism where money rules, and people suffer.

In the end, for all its flaws, I choose a bottom-up democracy — of, by and for the people — over a top-down monarchy.

Photo: Roméo on Pexels.com

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is president and CEO of the Rainbow/ PUSH Coalition.

Haitian Awareness is the Spirit of Rebellion

Thomas Jefferson doubled the size of the United States with his Louisiana Purchase when the United States acquired 828,000 miles of land west of the Mississippi River for a mere $15 million.

we are reminded of our role in the violence on that turbulent island.

Gangs have taken over the urban streets, but where did the gangs get guns?

lence and disruption.

By Dr. Julianne Malveaux

My maternal grandfather was Haitian. I didn’t know him well — he died when I was about 6. I don’t remember whether he smoked a pipe or a cigar, but I remember the smell of smoke clinging to him on the few occasions I sat in his lap.

I remember him trying to teach my siblings and me a few patois words. I don’t know anything about my Haitian relatives — Pappa Jimmy, as we called him, never spoke of them.

But whenever I hear news of Haiti, I feel an affinity, a connection, and I revel in Haitian history.

When I told a friend about my Haitian grandfather, he said, “That explains it.” What? I asked. He said that Haitians are fighters, reminding me of the formerly enslaved Haitians who beat the stuffing out of the so-called “great” general Napoleon Bonaparte, repelling his “mighty” armies.

That victory has shaped US land acquisition and foreign policy even now. The slaveholding President

Why was France so willing to sell? Self-emancipated Black folks were kicking the stuffing out of the “great” Napoleon in an uprising that lasted decades. Napoleon needed money, Jefferson needed land, and both wanted to contain Black rebels and ensure their rebellion did not spread to the United States.

Haiti paid the price for its self-determination, ordered to pay France “reparations” for its independence.

The payments crippled the Haitian economy and set the tone for the continuous exploitation of the island.

France extracted $30 billion from Haiti, and we can hardly project how Haiti might be different if it had never had to make those predatory payments.

Most people don’t know about the role France paid in the political instability and violence Haiti experiences today.

Even fewer know of the role the United States played in the exploitation of Haiti or in the ways that the Haitian Revolution (which lasted from 1791-1804) played in the re-

strictive and exploitive laws the United States imposed on enslaved people, as they were fearful that enslaved people in the United States might emulate their Haitian brothers and sisters, rebelling against their oppressors much as Haitian revolutionaries did.

May is Haitian Heritage Month, but the mainstream media seems to have ignored this salient fact. Instead, there is a celebration in one town or another, a parade hidden in the back pages of the local press. May should be the month when

Guns are not manufactured in Haiti, so they must come from somewhere, probably the United States.

Our nation’s gun manufacturers are profiting from Haiti’s pain, just as they are profiting from the pain victims of mass shootings are experiencing.

While I hesitate to throw a “pity party” to compare suffering in one country to suffering in another, I cannot help but contrast the overwhelming support for Ukraine with the minimal support for the Haitian people.

Even when our nation rushed to support Haiti after the 2010 earthquake, when millions sent dollars, there were questions about who administered them and where they were directed. It is doubtful that even half of those dollars trickled down to the Haitian people.

Ibi Zoboi, a Haitian American New York Times bestselling author (her most recent book is Nigeria Jones, Harper Collins, 2023), reminds me that there are triumphant stories in Haiti that transcend the ever-present headlines around vio-

She speaks of the energy and spirit of those in rural Haiti who never make the headlines. She reminds me of former Haitian Ambassador to the United States, Paul Altidor, who often regaled me with stunning descriptions of Haiti outside Port-au-Prince, where much of the violence is concentrated.

If no one else in the United States celebrates Haitian Heritage Month, African Americans must.

The Haitian revolution sowed the seeds for our own uprisings and slave rebellion. It also reminds us of the power of predatory capitalism, a power we must consistently resist.

And it must tap into the spirit of the Haitian rebellion that took France down, defeating its most powerful general.

If our foremothers and forefathers could do that, what might we do?

I am grateful for my Haitian heritage and for the brother who reminded me of where I get some of my rebellious spirit from.

Out of mayhem comes martyrdom

torical Sistrunk Corridor, I saw a mob of people standing in the parking lot of what used to be Champ Burger, a restaurant once owned by World HeavyWeight Boxing Champion, Muhammad Ali.

where I was blocked in.

Needless to say that thought vanished faster than a Black man running from a Ku Klux Klan hanging.

help or maybe, as it was with Esther; this might have been my time, my lot in life.

for something greater. I certainly hope so.

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

I wrote this piece many years ago, and today the thought of getting involved with life threatening incidents to save lives seems to be a common constant thought due to the climate of racism, fascism, intolerance and fear. These thoughts are so prevalent. We all may become confronted with this devastating choice. If it comes before you, make sure you are prepared for the outcome either way it goes because it will affect you for the rest of your life. Bobby R. Henry, Sr. Yesterday I witnessed a most disturbing spectacle of Black human behavior.

As I was traveling along the His-

The mob watched as two to three different groups of females taunted, cursed and threatened each other with glass beer bottles, bats and sticks.

I and others were trapped in our cars on a busy-under construction street, in the midst of this scary volatile display of humanity gone wild.

I thought that perhaps if I got out and said something that maybe it might help calm the situation. You know, a nicely dressed Black man in a black suit, white shirt and red and black tie, might impress the angry crowd to listen to a preacher looka-like.

Then, before that thought could settle in, I saw two bottles fly in the opposite direction of

All I could envision was bottles being hurled back in my direction, crashing through my windows and causing me extensive injuries.

As I weaved my truck through the other vehicles, my thoughts hinged on getting to safety or going back to at least offer myself for sacrifice.

As I looked through my rearview mirror I saw one of the violent participants run and fall in the path of an oncoming car. As she struggled to get up, another woman was approaching her with what appeared to be a bat.

Any thoughts of heroism were fading quickly.

I did not look anymore!

I was ashamed at what I was seeing and how I had turned into a coward.

Someone could have used my

The image of the person getting up from the street and the other person raising a bat to stick her plays vividly in my mind. I try to erase it as I did when I stopped looking in my rear view mirror.

It’s not that easy. No, I did not see her get hit with the bat. I pray that she didn’t, but maybe I could have made sure if I had gotten out to help.

I felt like Jonah, running from what I was supposed to do.

“But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.” Jonah 1:3 (New American Standard Bible)

Or maybe I am being prepared

“And the Lord called again, Samuel! And Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, Here am I; you did call me. Eli answered, "I did not call, my son; lie down again.” 1 Samuel 3:6 (Amplified

Bible)

“At times we do not know for which way Thou wants us to go. Moments of fear and selfish aspirations lead to doubt and hesitations. Teach us dear Lord to hear Your voice and to obey, to take time in confusion to pray. It’s not the hero status that we seek but remember to always help the

—Bobby R.

meek.”

Henry, Sr.

Bobby R. Henry Sr. is the publisher of the Westside Gazette in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He was the recipient of the National Newspaper Publishers Association's 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2019 he received the National Association of Black Journalists Angelo Henderson Community Service Award.

Around 500 people gathered in St. Paul to march in support of immigrants and protest Republican President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Photo: Fibonacci Blue via Wikimedia Commons

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. She is also President of PUSH Excel, the education arm of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. You may reach her at juliannemalveaux.com

Dr. Lee-Pruitt named Jarvis Christian President

(Hawkins, Texas)— “The Jarvis Christian University Board of Trustees has announced Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt as the 13th President of Jarvis, and her tenure will begin July 1, 2023,” said Torry Edwards, Chairman of the Jarvis Board of Trustees. “Please join the JCU Board of Trustees in congratulating Dr. Lee-Pruitt.” She succeeds Dr. Lester C. Newman, who served as the JCU President for 11 years and is retiring after a 47-year career in higher education.

Dr. Lee-Pruitt brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the university, including higher education administration and academic affairs, as she served as second in command and as a member of the executive cabinet since August 2012 and as

the provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Jarvis. She has been instrumental in increasing student enrollment, increasing articulation agreements and establishing the Renaissance Program for Adult Learners on the JCU campus and the JCU Dallas Teaching Site. She has also provided leadership in enhancing academic program offerings, which includes online degree completion programs and two online graduate programs.

Previously, she served at Mississippi Valley State University as dean of University College and First Year Experience, director of Community/Service Learning, director of the Renaissance Learning Adult Education Program and

tenured professor in the Department of Social Work.

An ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Dr. Lee-Pruitt is a highly sought-after speaker and presenter. She also is active in campus, community and ministry activities. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree

from Jackson State University, a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University, a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Social Work from Jackson State University and a Master of Divinity from Payne Theological Seminary.

Moreover, she has completed the Council of Independent Colleges’ Presidential Vocation and Institutional Mission Program and the Millennium Leadership Institute. She has received several honors, awards and recognitions including Faculty of the Year and the UNCF Trailblazer Award.

Dr. Lee-Pruitt is the current pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E Church in Shreveport, Louisiana and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Chairman Edwards commends the Board of Trustees and members who served on the Presidential Transition Committee and Executive Committee who selected Dr. Lee-Pruitt and for its extensive succession planning process adopted in 2016 to enable a seamless transition of leadership.

Jarvis Christian University is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their career goals through an affordable academic experience that prepares them for today’s global economy. Whether a student is a recent high school graduate or a working adult seeking career advancement, Jarvis Christian University develops students of all ages intellectually, socially, spiritually and emotionally.

Lost art of fighting – with hands cont. from page 1

To be clear, owning a gun is not the problem. It is an American privilege and a right under our U. S. Constitution – the right to protect yourself, your home, your family, and to hunt in the woods, both for food and as a recreational sport.

Who should be allowed to own a weapon – and certainly what TYPE of weapon -- is the giant elephant in the room.

And regulation – or the lack thereof – is the fiery, hot-button issue of the day.

My father, an army veteran, owned a rifle that he used for rabbit hunting.

So, which is best: Holding to a questionable Constitutional right to possess whatever weapon you want or the choice to save human lives and public safety?

(TO BE CONTINUED)

Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists and was its first southwest regional director. She became The News’ first Black full-time reporter in 1974. norma_adams_wade@yahoo.com

chance to make up.

I was just thinking…Our public streets and public places are our new war zones, and weapons of war rule the day. Handguns and regular hunting rifles do not qualify as weapons of war. Frequent news reports of mass shootings usually mention AR-15-style or AK-47-style semi-automatic assault rifles. The reports add “style” because there are now so many variants of the original AK-47 and AR-15 battlefield weapons.

Looking deeply into the history of those two high-powered firearms, I found that the war zone popularity of one began

toward the end of World War II in the late 1940s, and for the other during the nearly 20-yearlong Viet Nam War era in the mid-1950s to the mid-1970s. On the streets of America, use of the AK-47 and AR-15 rifles – ( I will reframe from using the term “assault weapon” out of respect for pro-gun advocates who resent the term, even though I feel it is an apt description) -- rapidly increased after the end of the controversial 10year assault weapons ban in effect from 1994 to 2004. What are these weapons of war? What is their purpose? Who created them? Who distributes them? And why?

Daddy kept his rifle in the very back of his closet.

We children knew our parents’ closets were off limits.

Mu’dear hid birthday and Christmas gifts – and the occasional secret shopping trip bounty – in hers.

So, the TYPES of guns freely owned in America today and how to obtain and regulate them is now our glaring, fouralarm, national emergency.

When you add semi-automatic power – such as the debated claim that an AK-47 can fire 600 rounds per minute, depending on how fast you can reload – hand combat and pistol power are practically inconsequential.

Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt

Youths fighting with hands on city street.

Photo: Pinterest

Southern African Contemporary Masterworks

A one-of-a-kind exhibition, If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future, made its North American debut April 24 and currently is on display at the African American Museum, Dallas in the city’s historic Fair Park. Made possible by the beloved restaurant group Nando’s, one of the largest collectors of contemporary Southern African art in the world, the exhibition features more than 60 pieces from 55 emerging, mid-career and established artists.

Open to the public at no cost, the exhibition runs through Sunday, Aug. 13.

Some of the most notable Southern African-based artists with work on display include Zanele Muholi, Claudette Schreuders, Kagiso Patrick Mautloa, Igshaan Adams, Stephen Hobbs, Vivien Kohler, Anastasia Pather, Penny Siopis, William Kentridge, Portia Zvavahera and Samson Mnisi.

“There’s a lot of interconnectedness between the State of Texas and the cultural capitals of South Africa. Diverse, optimistic and forward looking with a globally-minded attitude,” said the South African honorary consul for Texas and former Texas State Representative, Helen Giddings.

“That’s probably why a South African brand like Nando’s could proudly showcase the masterworks of their one-of-a-kind collection at the African American Museum in our historic Fair Park.”

The selection of work is drawn from the collection’s strengths in portraiture, landscape, cityscapes and abstraction.

“The response to this exhibition has been overwhelmingly positive. Our supporters and visitors have never experienced an exhibition about the unity of contemporary Southern African artwork like this before,” said Dr. Harry Robinson, Jr., president and CEO of the African American Museum, Dallas. “We are honored for Nando’s to debut an exhibition that embodies shared community, and

culture at our institution.”

Curating an exhibition from a collection built over two decades and assembling pieces never seen together was an idea that came to life from the late philanthropist and businessman, Dick Enthoven, who tapped Laurie Ann Farrell to be the curator. One of the most important curators working to expose artists from Africa and the African Diaspora to the United States; Farrell served as a curator at The Africa Center (formerly known as The Museum of African Art) in New York City, an executive director at Savannah College of Art & Design, curator and head of modern and contemporary art at the Detroit Institute of Art, and briefly as senior curator at the Dallas Contemporary.

Peace Officer Memorial Service

“Exhibiting exemplary pieces from the Nando’s art collection that have never been seen together before brings a broad range of South African talent to the United States,” said Farrell. “Attendees are immersed in the collections’ distinct aesthetics, while also engaging with universal themes of humanity, love, loss and hope for a better future.”

“As a proudly African brand coming to Dallas, we consider the African American Museum to be the perfect canvas for world-class expressions of the modern Southern African lived experience,” said Sepanta Bagherpour, Chief Brand Officer of Nando’s North America.

Home to the legendary South-African flamed-grilled PERi-PERi chicken and PERiPERi sauces, the first Nando’s lo-

cations arrive in Texas this summer, with two locations opening in Houston and one in Dallas.

“For a beloved global brand like Nando’s to decide to have their North American exhibition debut at the African American Museum is a big win for Dallas ,” said Adam Bazaldua, City of Dallas Councilmember. “It illustrates Fair Park's growth as a cultural district, and points to what can be accomplished with the revitalization of Fair Park and the surrounding communities in South Dallas.”

If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future Runs Through Aug 13, 2023

African American Museum, Dallas 3536 Grand Avenue

Tuesday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday – Monday: Closed

DeSoto City Council Mayor Pro Tem Andre’ Byrd, Councilmember Nicole Raphiel, Councilmember Letitia Hughes, Mayor Rachel L. Proctor, Police Chief Joe Costa, Assistant Police Chief Ryan Jesionek, and City Manager Brandon Wright.

DeSoto PD Honor Guard Fires Off A 21-Gun Salute to honor fallen officers

DeSoto Police gather at Memorial to fallen officers

DeSoto Assistant Police Chief Ryan Jesionek, Police Chaplin Oscar Epps, Police Chief Joe Costa

Bag Piper Doug Compton, Irving Fire Department (Retired), lays down pipes and plays “Taps” on bugle.

Delta Dears enjoy lunch with Hon. Helen Giddings

Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members hold annual event at Latino Cultural Center

Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Gillum cont. from page 1

say I am innocent. And that is finally being recognized. We want to thank the hard working jury who did their job and explained to the government why it should drop the case. Andrew has endured a lot over the past few years and now can resume his life and public service,” attorneys David Oscar Markus, Margot Moss, Katie Miller and Todd Yoder said in a text message Monday afternoon.

Gillum, a onetime rising star in Democratic politics who has steadfastly maintained his innocence, on Monday tweeted an emoji of two hands clapping, adding, “But God …”

The charges against Gillum came after a lengthy FBI public-corruption probe that also snared Scott Maddox, a former Tallahassee city commissioner and former Florida Democratic Party chairman. Maddox pleaded guilty in 2019 and is serving time in a federal prison. The investigation also netted Maddox’s long-serving aide, Paige Carter-Smith, and prominent businessman J.T. Burnette.

U.S. Attorney Jason Coody’s office did not elaborate on the decision to drop the charges against Gillum and Lettman-Hicks.

But The Tallahassee Democrat newspaper reported this month that jurors were deadlocked 10-2 in favor of acquittal on 19 charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and committing wire fraud.

Gillum and Lettman-Hicks were indicted last year on charges related to activities that took place between 2016 and 2019, as Gillum’s political stature blossomed.

Gillum catapulted into the national spotlight after winning the Democratic gubernatorial primary in 2018. Gov. Ron DeSantis defeated Gillum by less than 33,000 votes in the general election.

Gillum, who at age 23 was elected in 2003 as Tallahassee’s youngest city commissioner, served on the commission for a decade before getting elected mayor in 2014.

Gillum and Lettman-Hicks were on trial for two weeks before the jury cleared Gillum of lying to investigators and deadlocked on the other charges. During opening arguments April 18, prosecutors laid out a complex set of transactions involving

contributions from a handful of non-profit organizations to P&P Communications, a company controlled by Lettman-Hicks.

The indictment accused her of illegally steering campaign-related funds to Gillum for his personal use.

Gary Milligan, an assistant U.S.

payments Gillum received after stepping down from his job at the liberal-advocacy group People for the American Way, where he earned $122,500, in addition to his roughly $70,000 annual salary as mayor. After launching his bid for governor and leaving the job in 2017, Gillum began receiving regular payments from P&P, according to the indictment. Prosecutors filed a “superseding” indictment in April that dropped two of the initial charges against Gillum and Lettman-Hicks.

continued to enjoy national fame, working briefly for CNN as a political commentator in 2019.

But he dropped out of the spotlight after a 2020 incident in a South Beach hotel room, where a man reportedly overdosed. Gillum was in the room, and a police report said he was “unable to communicate with officers due to his inebriated state.”

Speaking to reporters outside the federal courthouse after the trial ended May 4, Gillum said he and his family have been “under attack on all sides” for the past seven years.

attorney, repeatedly accused Gillum of “attempting to distance himself” from the alleged wrongdoing. “He wants something to happen but doesn’t want to take responsibility for it and he’s separating himself from it,” Milligan argued.

But Gillum’s lawyers argued that prosecutors “put a target” on the Democrat, who was Florida’s first Black gubernatorial nominee.

The charges stemmed from

The indictment accused the defendants of having “engaged in an ongoing and evolving scheme to defraud by unlawfully soliciting and obtaining funds from various entities and individuals through false and fraudulent representations and promises that the funds would be used for a legitimate purpose, but instead using third parties to divert a portion of those funds to P&P, which Lettman-Hicks then fraudulently provided to Gillum for his personal use disguised as payroll payments.”

For about a year after his narrow defeat to DeSantis, Gillum

“They’ve quite literally tried to take everything from us. And the beauty is that in our system, the powers that be don’t always get to decide,” said Gillum, accompanied by his wife R. Jai. “Everyday people like you and me sometimes get our swing at the ball and today the jury took it.”

Gillum has asserted that he was the victim of a political witch hunt, in part because he is Black.

“I just got to believe that, through this all, maybe one of the things that needed to be revealed to me is that this system is in desperate need of reform. And I’ll just say, ‘to be continued,’” he said.

Jim Brown, 87, Football Great, Movie Star and Activist, Dies cont. from page 1

Dozen,” which was delayed because of technical problems, Brown would face fines for reporting late to training camp.

Ever independent, Brown defied Modell and called a press conference to announce his retirement from football.

Brown also didn’t hesitate to speak out on issues affecting African Americans and openly supported the civil rights movement.

He started and helmed the Negro Industrial and Economic Union to create jobs for Black people in Ohio. The organization also helped secure loans for Black businesses.

Brown also formed a coalition to denounce the federal government’s role in stripping boxing legend Muhammad Ali of his title because Ali refused to fight in the Vietnam War.

Brown’s popularity grew, and he cemented himself into film lore, becoming the first Black man to have onscreen sexual re-

lations with a white woman, Raquel Welch, in the film “100 Rifles.”

Brown was born on St. Simons Island, off the southern coast of Georgia, where he had a difficult childhood, according to Biography.com.

Brown was only two weeks old when his father abandoned the family; Brown’s mother left him alone after she took a job in New York as a maid.

While living with his grandmother, Brown’s mother sent for him when he was eight.

During his senior year at New York’s Manhasset High School, Brown played running back and recorded a mind-boggling 14.9 yards per carry, more than good enough to earn him a spot at Syracuse University.

In college, Brown dominated the competition on the football

field and the basketball court. He also ran track and was a talented lacrosse player, according to biography.com.

Brown earned national attention as a running back for his strong, explosive play. In the final regular-season game of his senior year, Brown capped off his college career by rushing for 197 yards, scoring six touchdowns,

and kicking seven extra points.

In 1957, the Cleveland Browns selected Brown as the sixth overall pick in the NFL draft.

“Brown wasted little time adjusting to the new competition, leading the league in rushing yards with 942 on his way to capturing the league’s Rookie of the Year honors,” his biographers wrote.

“Over the next seven seasons, Brown became the standard-bearer for all NFL running backs,” Brown’s biographers continued.

At a time when defenses were geared toward stopping the ground game, Brown bulldozed his way past the opposition, posting remarkable season totals: 1,527 yards (1958), 1,329 (1959), 1,257 (1960), 1,408 (1961), 1,863 (1963), 1,446 (1964), and 1,544 (1965).

His only “down” year came in

1962, when Brown rushed for 996 yards. It was the one season in his brilliant but brief football career where he failed to lead the league in yards.

In 1964, Brown steered Cleveland to the NFL championship, where the club routed Baltimore 27-0 to win the title.

In the game, Brown ran for 114 yards.

“But Brown saw a life for himself outside of football, and before the start of the 1966 season, he stunned the sports world by announcing his retirement,” the biographers wrote, noting that Brown earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.

Brown appeared in over 30 films, including “The Dirty Dozen” (1967) and “100 Rifles” (1969). His later credits include parts in “Mars Attacks!” (1996) and “Any Given Sunday” (1999), the latter in which he played a football coach.

Andrew Gillum and Sharon Lettman-Hicks

Fred Williamson, Jim Kelly and Jim Brown

Dallas Wings Open Season with Win

By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor

The Dallas Wings opened their season by defeating the Atlanta Dream 85-78 during an afternoon game at UTA’s College Park Center filled with a crowd of 5,600.

They were led by Arike Ogunbowale who finished with 27 points and 4 rebounds. The 27 points represents her most points scored in a season-opener over the course of

My Truth

cont. from page 1

20, 30 minutes late.

Finally, identify who you are because you may not be locked into my phone so I don’t know who to respond to if I deem your text worthy of a response.

Now Father’s Day is approaching and we know that Dads don’t get the love that Moms do, but here’s something for you to consider with either parent.

1. First pick up the darned phone and call! - I know

her five years, beating her previous high of 19 in 2020.

New Dallas Wing Natasha Howard recorded a double-double in her Wings debut. Howard recorded 20 points and 10 rebounds.

Satou Sabally recorded 25 points on 7-13 shooting (53.8%). Sabally joined Ogunbowale in recording a career-high in a season-opener, beating her previous 18 from 2021. Aside from her scoring efforts, Sabally helped secure the win for the Wings with a

you are busy but just think about it. If you are fortunate enough to have a mother or father that you have deep love, affection and respect for; if you outlive them, one day you are going to long to hear that voice again! There are so many who wish they could have picked up a phone any day, and you have a parent to call and you send a darned text! Shame on you!

2. Have your signature if you do text! - You may say it is a display of love to friends but if they don’t

crucial block in the final 20 sec onds of play. Both Howard and Sabally provided three assists and two blocks, while Veroni ca Burton, Crystal Dangerfield and Awak Kuier aided with two assists each, with Burton es sentially sealing the game for the Wings with four made free throws as the time ticked away. Howard, Ogunbowale and Sa bally combined for 72 points which accounted for 84.7% of the Wings’ scoring efforts.

and Sabally’s 25 points, the

have you locked in their phones, for whatever rea son, like they have a new one, or lost their contacts; well it can be awkward! I wouldn’t want to respond “same to you” to some one who is saying “Hap py Mother’s Day” to me, only to find out that the well-wisher was either a man, or worse, someone who wanted to have chil dren and couldn’t!

3. No one is that busy! What comes around can go around, and I guarantee you that you won’t like the feeling if and when you're a parent!

GOLDEN CUT LAWN SERVICE

Story and Photos

Dallas Mavericks Theo Pinson, JaVale McGee, McKinley Wright, AJ Lawson

Nancy Lieberman Hall of Famer

ESPN analyst Ros Gold-Onwude

Wings Coach Trammell Argues a Ref Call

Dallas Wings Pre-Game

Wings Coach Trammell and Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman

WNBA Welcome Sign

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by

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‘If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future’ – The Nando’s Art Collection World Debut at the African American Museum, Dallas 11am-5pm weekdays

The National Kidney Foundation’s 13th Annual Bonne Sante’ Culinary Experience at the Omni Frisco

Ivy & Pearl Foundation of Dallas, in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. , Alpha Xi Omega Chapter’s 2nd Annual Top Golf Tournament Scholarship Fundraiser 2:00 pm at TopGolf in Dallas, TX.

Men’s Health EXPO, 10a-3p at the Hiawatha Williams Recreation Center, 2976 Cummings St. FREE- an effort to raise public health awareness and celebrate men’s health.

AUGUST 11-13

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce Business Mix & Mingle 5:30-8:30pm Register at dallasblackchamber.org

Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae and Lambda Nu Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority present HANDS OFF MY CROWN, a community conversation about the Crown Act and the politics of Black Hair. Moderated by Tashara Parker, at Paul Quinn College’s Grand Lounge, 6:30 pm

GUNAA METRO DFW CHAPTER presents its A BLACK & GOLD DAY AT THE RACES.

6

Line Dancing & Swing Out Meet Up! Cherry Moon Grill & Bar · Arlington at 6:30 PM

12

Line Dancing & Swing Out Meet Up! Cherry Moon Grill & Bar · Arlington at 6:30 PM

City Men Cook

Rickey Smiley’s First Annual Birthday Beach Blowout!, August 11-13th at the Hilton Daytona Beach (FL) Oceanfront Resort. The event is open to all for a weekend of relaxation, celebration, and inspiration. Attendees can go to RickeySmileyBBB.com for more info. costs and updates to book vacation packages

The Annual Malcolm X Community Festival is at Grimes Park in Desoto,TX! Live music, games, vendors , good food & family fun. Free & open to the public! Now accepting food & merchandise vendors. https://www.eventbrite.com

www.niakids.org

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Visit Dallas African American Community Leaders Reception

Daisha Board Gallery at the Joule Hotel 15

Celebrate the end of slavery at the Beckley Saner Rec Center, 4-7 pm

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission presents Delta Authors on Tour in the Southwest Region, hosted by the Dallas Alumnae Chapter at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak, Dallas,TX

GET READY

The Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon is coming back to USA Bowl, 10920 Composite Drive, Dallas. Stay tuned for more info!

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

The Strong One

By La Juana Barton

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

CADNET CLASSIFIEDS

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunder-standings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guaran-tee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

Metro Community Calendar powered by

MAY

STUNNING SOUTHERN AFRICAN CONTEMPORARY MASTERWORKS ON VIEW AT AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM, DALLAS THROUGH AUG. 13

Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month 25

31

Social Innovation Luncheon

Hidden In Plain

Sight: Combatting Financial Elder Abuse & Helping Vulnerable Seniors Affected by Financial Scams

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL

DALLAS - CAMPBELL CENTRE, 8250 No. Central Expressway, Dallas 11:30AM - 1:00PM cst

Presented By Social Venture Partners Dallas

REMEMBERING GEORGE FLOYD!

FREE interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking events designed to empower and support those who want to grow their leadership skills or break into a new career at 9a.m. http://www.goheroes.org/conference, 8194 Walnut Hill Lane Dallas TX

26

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS!

The Elusive Ladies of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. were introduced on the Florida A&M University Campus, in 1978.

Metrocare announces Holly Robinson Peete, singer and actress, as the keynote speaker for the 14th Annual Meal for the Minds Luncheon. Metrocare, the largest provider of mental health services in North Texas, moved its annual fall luncheon to May to honor Mental Health Awareness Month and to welcome intellectual disabilities champion Holly Robinson Peete as this year’s keynote at 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Anatole. Tickets and sponsorships now available for purchase at https://www.metrocareservices. org/event/14th-annual-meal-for-theminds/.

JUNE

Black Music Month

Saluting Fathers CELEBRATING

Undermain Theatre is proud to present The Way She Spoke, a haunting one-woman play, featuring Gigi Cervantes, which travels from the stage to the treacherous streets of Juárez, Mexico, where thousands of women have been murdered for decades in an epidemic of violence that has yet to stop.

Ivy & Pearl Foundation of Dallas, in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Alpha Xi Omega Chapter’s 2nd Annual Top Golf Tournament Scholarship Fundraiser 2:00 pm at TopGolf in Dallas, TX.

HYPE

w/Cheryl Smith

Weekday mornings on FaceBook

Bringing you hype you can believe!

2023 Gentlemen’s Toast, fatherhood, faith, finance, 10am-2:30pm - a collective of professional Black men focused on building their kingdoms.

Kier’s Hope 5th Annual Fun & Run Walk. Log on to www.kiershope.org

A Great Evening for Singles, Couples, or Friends Night Out Dallas Black Dance Theatre is presenting The BIG Dance 2023 at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

The BEATLEukemia Ball is the annual signature fundraiser for Leukemia Texas, held in Fort Worth, TX each spring. Guests of all ages travel from many locations to attend this fun event, and it is always a special night to remember. The featured entertainment is “The Fab Four” who are considered the finest Beatles tribute band in the world.

15

Birthday Reception for THE HONORABLE JOHN CREUZOT Dallas County District Attorney

RSVP REQUESTED 6:00-7:30pm

5110 Southbrook Drive Dallas, Texas Hosted by Jeff Tillotson, Lisa Blue Baron and Black Family Good Governance

18

Have a great Father’s Day with City Men Cook at the African American Museum

GET READY to GET REAL

The Real Deal w/ The Reality Coach on BlogTalkRadio.com 11 am.- noon CST. and FaceBook, Mondays. Join the call 646-200-0459 on Cheryl’s World.

The World According to Drew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join Andrew Whigham on the call 646-200-0459

SEND

editor@texasmetronews.com or call 214-941-0110

Stay unstoppable. Schedule a mammogram.

Methodist Charlton Medical Center is proud to offer the advanced breast disease and cancer screening services you deserve, including 3-D mammography and 3-D stereotactic-guided breast biopsy. Using numerous minimally invasive diagnostic options, we provide you with a clear, accurate picture of your health. Understanding the unique healthcare needs of our friends and neighbors. That’s community and why so many people Trust Methodist.

The Breast Center at Methodist Charlton Medical Center earned recognition as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR) for achievement in high standards of practice.