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IMessenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR news@texasmetronews.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marva Sneed EDITORIAL TEAM Anthony Council Chelle Wilson Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio

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Established 2011 CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back. April 16, 2021

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Opposition to Eyes of Texas song Members of the University of Texas student body gathered with state officials, university faculty and civil rights leaders to discuss the need for the University of Texas to reconsider its continuation with the Eyes of Texas as its school song. Judson Hayden, President of the Black Student Band Members Association; Zion James of the Black Student Alliance at UT; Anthony Collier, who is the President of the Student Bar Association at the University of Texas School of Law and President of the National Black American Law Students Association were the students in attendance. State Representative Ron Reynolds, NAACP President and UT alum Gary Bledsoe, Austin NAACP President Nelson Linder, Houston NAACP President Bishop James Dixon and Reverend Lamont Ross of the Marsalis Avenue Church of Christ in Dallas and also an alum of the University, were all in attendance in support of the students. Hayden, Collier and James talked about how the students were unified in opposition to the song and not moved by the University 24-member report on the song. Reynolds, who is ViceChair of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus

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Gary Bledsoe

and Caucus Liaison with the Texas NAACP, spoke about the Caucus engagement of the University to cooperatively bring about a change in the song along with other matters of policy that would make African Americans feel more welcome at the University. Professor Alberto Martinez, a UT Professor of History, spoke about the incompleteness of the report by the 24-member committee and said he established that the song definitely was connected to Robert E. Lee, was intended to be racist and was created in one day for a minstrel show scheduled to take place in 1903.

Rev. Ross talked about the hypocrisy of the use of the song and the message it sends to Black students; while Bishop Dixon raised questions about how different the response would be if the import of the lyrics were anti-white instead of anti-Black. According to President Linder, who made a correlation with other things that are now occurring locally and nationally, said there was long-term damage being done to the City of Austin. The delegation also presented a strong letter of support of the song change initiative by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. myimessenger.com

INSIDE

I Was Just Thinking

Hip Hop King DMX

Quit Playin’

Sports and politics make strange bedfellows. I’ve been drawn into the debate over moving the July 13, 2021 MLB All-Star Game from Atlanta to Denver because of Atlanta Republican Governor Brian Kemp hastily signing into law the controversial Senate Bill 202 on March 25.

Father. Soon-to-be husband. Hip hop prophet. These are the names most will remember for hip hop icon DMX. The legendary artist passed away in New York, according to a statement released by the family. He was 50 years old. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end.

My protégé and mentee is a candidate for Dallas Council Place 8, and I am hype. This has already been an exciting election cycle. 2021 is reminiscent of the old Oak Cliff battles we saw from 19802000. That was when “White flight” from the southern suburbs lured the urban Black middle-class to what I call the “New Oak Cliff (NOC).”

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April 16, 2021

MY TRUTH

by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Lesson from COVID Me: It has always been that way. Today it’s in your face, though. Her: And when you leave, I don’t know if I will see you again… Me: Same thing. Always been that way. Her: And they want us to take this vaccine that has Lord knows what in it! Me: Do you even know what’s in aspirin or your high blood pressure meds? Do you know what’s all in that cigarette? NO, because you don’t even know that when you go to your favorite restaurant and order catfish, they are actually serving you something else! You must have faith and trust science. Maybe pre-COVID, we just took things for granted but coming out of COVID, we might just have more appreciation for life instead of being selfish, inconsiderate and sometimes just mean. Ahh, now we get into another realm. Sadly some will not learn to have better appreciation for or understanding of gratitude or grace. I know of one person who did. Two, if I count myself!

The more I get out, the more it seems people are thirsting for conversation. The pandemic has taken its toll on many, especially extroverts, those people who are the life of the party or just love being around people. Even self-proclaimed recluses and introverts are in need of some companionship because its different when it’s something you want to do as opposed to something you’re forced to do! Which brings me to my truth. Someone who many friends don’t consider to be so nice has become such a nicer person since COVID-19 took over the world. She speaks, is compassionate and actually smiles with sincerity. When she asks how you’re doing she really listens and seems interested. In the past she wouldn’t ask and you knew she didn’t care. Recently she told me that she is afraid. When she told me why, that is when our conversation got deeper. Her: It’s the unknown, feeling like death is imminent and not knowing when.” April 16, 2021

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April 15 evokes thoughts of Baseball heroes and their political, social impact I WAS JUST THINKING... NORMA ADAMS-WADE

Sports and politics make strange bedfellows. I’ve been drawn into the debate over moving the July 13, 2021 MLB All-Star Game from Atlanta to Denver because of Atlanta Republican Governor Brian Kemp hastily signing into law the controversial Senate Bill 202 on March 25. Democratic opponents widely view the new law as designed to suppress the increasing powerful Black vote that recently gave Georgia two additional Democratic Senators. Sports figures are largely involved in the debate. One intriguing part of the argument is that traditionally MLB honors baseball great Jackie Robinson on April 15, which is today and is known as Jackie Robinson Day. This is the day that the Brooklyn Dodger’s trailblazing #42 made his debut in the Major League’s opening Day, April 15, 1947. The team is now the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was the first African-American to break the segregated “color Line” that excluded Blacks from playing in the Major Leagues. He stoically endured the ire of white supremacies who resented his groundbreaking presence on the team. After retiring, Robinson became a civil rights advocate. Hank Aaron, the late Atlanmyimessenger.com

Jackie Robinson

Hank Aaron Credit: Wikipedia

ta Braves home run star and an equally towering Black baseball icon, is to be honored during the July MLB AllStar Game. Like Robinson, Aaron also endured hateful jabs and ridicule from resentful Whites when he broke the home run record of White baseball icon Babe Ruth on April 8, 1974 -- 47 years ago this month. Aaron became more vocal on civil rights issues and even defended former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The political activist was shunned for taking a knee at NFL games during the National Anthem to protect police brutality and racial inequities. I was just thinking…many observers in and outside professional sports are stepping up, speaking out and taking stands against Georgia’s new

voter suppression law that many conservatives and former President Donald Trump supporters blindly call a protection against voter fraud. The laudable efforts of Stacey Abrams, a voting rights activist and former Georgia Democratic gubernatorial candidate, have put the spot light on Georgia and the power of organizing non-voters, new-voters, and disenchanted voters, convincing them that their vote can make a difference – as it did. It This April 15 date also is memorable beyond politics and sports. The Titanic sank on this date in 1912. Former President Abraham Lincoln died on this date in 1865, shot the night before by assassin John Wilkes Booth. Washington Post then-reporter Janet Cooke resigned and returned her Pulitzer Prize on this date

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Credit: Wikipedia

in 1981 for a fraudulent story called “Jimmy’s World” that fabricated an eight-year-old heroin addict. Three people were killed and 183 injured in the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. And after acquiring rights from the original owners, McDonald’s franchise expansionist Ray Kroc opened his first location in Des Plaines, Illinois on this date in 1955. So, stellar lives like Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and others are a good place to look when searching for sports figures who have taken stands and changed lives. Kudos to them all on this April 15 day. 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

April 16, 2021

Hip Hop

King

His life, lessons and love By Tariqah Shakir-Muhammad, Shawntell Muhammad and Jihad Muhammad The Final Call Father. Soon-to-be husband. Hip hop prophet. These are the names most will remember for hip hop icon DMX. The legendary artist passed away in New York, according to a statement released by the family. He was 50 years old. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart, and we cherish the times we spent with him,” the family said in the April 9 statement. “[He] inspired countless fans across the world, and his iconic April 16, 2021

legacy will live on forever.” Born Earl Simmons, he grew up in Yonkers, N.Y., and began writing music at a young age despite a turbulent childhood and struggles with addiction. His transparency about his struggles and past shared in his music helped inspire millions worldwide. “DMX didn’t hide behind the pain, he was very transparent with the pain,” said national community organizer, activist and rap artist YoNasDa LoneWolf. “That’s why everyone is feeling like, ‘man, this was someone that was just so open and vulnerable.’ … So, a prophet died this week, but in the holy scripture we look at

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them as testimony and carry on.” The man behind the songs “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Party Up (Up in Here)” used his distinctively gruff voice and thoughtful messages in his rhymes to become one of rap’s biggest stars. The Grammy-nominated performer died after suffering “catastrophic cardiac arrest,” according to a statement from

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the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he died. He was rushed there from his home April 2. His family’s statement said DMX died with relatives by his side after several days on life support. He rapped with a trademark raspy delivery that was often paired with growls, barks and “What!” as an ad-lib—built a multiplatinum career in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but he also struggled with drug addiction and legal problems that sometimes put him behind bars. “His message of triumph over struggle, his search for the light out of darkness, his pursuit of truth and grace brought us closer to our own humanity,” his record label, Def Jam Recordings, said in a statement describing him as myimessenger.com

“nothing less than a giant.” Fellow hip hop artists remembered him likewise, with Eve praising him as “one of the most special people I have ever met” and Nas calling him “Gods poet” in an Instagram post. DMX made a splash in 1998 with his first studio album, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot,” which debuted No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. The multiplatinum-selling album was anchored by several hits including “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog,” “Stop Being Greedy” and “How It’s Goin’ Down.” DMX followed up with four straight chart-topping albums

including “… And Then There Was X,” “Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood,” “The Great Depression” and “Grand Champ.” He released seven albums, earned three Grammy nominations and was named favorite rap/hip hop artist at the 2000 American Music Awards. DMX arrived on the rap scene around the same time as Jay-Z, Ja Rule and others who dominated the charts and emerged as platinum-selling acts. They were all part of rap crews, too: DMX fronted the Ruff Ryders collective, which helped launch the careers of Grammy winners Eve and Swizz Beatz, and relaunch The Lox, formerly signed to Bad Boy Records. Ruff Ryders had success on the charts and on radio with its “Ryde or Die” compilation albums. DMX made his way as an actor. He starred in the 1998 film “Belly” and appeared in 2000’s “Romeo Must Die” with Jet Li and Aaliyah. DMX and Aaliyah teamed up for “Come Back in One Piece” on the film’s soundtrack. The rapper would later open

Aaliyah’s tribute music video, “Miss You,” alongside her other friends and collaborators, including Missy Elliott, Lil’ Kim and Queen Latifah, after Aaliyah’s 2001 death in a plane crash at age 22. The rapper starred in 2001’s “Exit Wounds” with Steven Seagal and 2003’s “Cradle 2 the Grave” with Jet Li.

The Hard Knock Life Tour in 1999 featuring Jay-Z, DMX and others, was one of the most successful hip hop tours ever. The tour was secured by members of the Fruit of Islam. Hashim H. Muhammad, a Chicago hip hop artist himself and F.O.I., helped secure DMX throughout the multi-city

From left: Brother Gary Muhammad, Final Call General Manager Abdul Rasul Muhammad, DMX and Brother Aziz Muhammad at The Salaam in the 1990s. DMX was a guest of Bro. Aziz. Bro. Abdul Rasul reflected on that day and stated DMX was “so gracious and kind.”

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event. He shared how during a stop in Milwaukee, DMX want to go to the city. Hashim Muhammad accompanied him visiting ’hoods. DMX gave and received love as “an extremely humble, spiritual, and fearless brother,” he said. On the Atlanta leg of the show series, a video later shown in a movie about the tour captured Hashim Muhammad in an impromptu rap “cypher” with Jay-Z, DMX and others. After the freestyle, which is an iconic hip hop moment, Hashim Muhammad recalled how DMX pulled him close in a show of love and respect. “He wanted to stay grounded, he did not want to get the big head,” said Mr. Muhammad. The Hard Knock Life Tour also included Redman, Method Man, and special guests Ja Rule, Eve, Beanie Sigel, and Amil. This was a major tour since venues and promoters weren’t booking shows for fear of violence. Abdul Aziz Muhammad was asked to work with security based on his work with R&B singer Monica. Aziz Muhammad had Hashim Muhammad and Damon Muhammad, also known as “Young Khan The Don,” as part of the security team and a hip hop collective. The Hard Knock Life Tour lasted three months without violence. “It was actually being on this tour that we saw the effect that DMX had on the audience. He had an attraction power similar to that of Tupac. He was raw, by himself and the people were vibing with him. Swizz Beatz was his DJ at the time,” said Damon Muhammad. He recounted a private conversation where DMX shared his thoughts about mortality. To read story in its entirety, log on to https://myimessenger. com/arts-entertainment/hiphop-king-dmx-his-life-lessonsand-love/

April 16, 2021

Death of reporter leads to call for newsroom diversity

The Rev. Kyev Tatum, third from right, and Fort Worth Star-Telegram social justice reporter Mitch Mitchell, far right, at what Tatum says is Mitchell’s final Morningside community news event before the writer passed away Oct.1 2020. Credit: Rev. Kyev Tatum

By Valerie Fields Hill Texas Metro News Residents of two historically Black neighborhoods remembered an African American journalist during a ceremony last week as a kind and skilled writer who reported news and events in those communities when others did not. Mitch Mitchell, a 21-year veteran social justice reporter at the Fort-Worth Star Telegram, was so often the only reporter who showed up to write news in Fort Worth’s Morningside and Como neighborhoods that he became a friend to residents living there, they said. Mitchell died Oct. 1, 2020 after suffering a brief illness. He was 63. “We’re here to celebrate one of us who was our best,” said the Rev. Kenneth Jones Jr., senior pastor of Como First Missionary Baptist Church, April 16, 2021

ent weather. Mitchell’s family held a funeral for the news reporter on Oct. 4, 2020. Nearly 100 Como and Morningside residents, Star-Telegram colleagues and Mitchell’s family members attended the service. The mid-morning event was held outdoors under a tent on a tree-lined lot adjacent to the New Mount Rose Baptist Church sanctuary. The remembrance service included a release of shiny blue mylar balloons, shaped like stars, and the dedication of a fig tree in remembrance of Mitchell. Attendees were treated to a luncheon. Jones, the keynote speaker, challenged Fort Worth Star-Telegram executives and other Dallas-area media outlets to continue Mitchell’s community-based journalism by hiring reporters, editors and photographers who understand systemic racism and

Mitch Mitchell

during the services honoring Mitchell. Jones was keynote speaker during the observance. It was organized by members of New Mount Rose Baptist Church, a cornerstone congregation of the predominantly Black Morningside neighborhood. Earlier this year, Morningside church parishioners planned a remembrance service honoring Mitchell, but were forced to postpone it until last week due to inclem-

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The Rev. Kenneth Jones, Jr, senior pastor, Como First Missionary Baptist Church, in Fort Worth, celebrates Mitch Mitchell as a news reporter who “had a style of communication that could reach the common man. Mitch believed that all people mattered.” Credit: Rev. Kyev Tatum

social injustices - and who will uncover and report such issues. “Mitch left us, but who’s next?” Jones asked. “We need our own voices to tell our own story.” “We need our own media,” Jones continued. “But even in the mainstream media, we need diversity. Otherwise, we will only get the stories that feed the Jim Crow narrative.” Mitchell’s passing leaves a void in equity on the D/FW newspaper, television, radio and online media landscape – the same imbalance that news and content outlets face across the nation. According to the Pew Research Center, about 75 percent of newsroom employees across the country are non-Hispanic whites. By comparison, non-White Hispanics make up roughly 66 percent of all workers in the United States, the 2018 analysis concludes. myimessenger.com

To address this issue, the American Society of Newspaper Editors set a goal “of minority employment by the year 2000 equivalent to the percentage of minority persons within the national population.” They failed to meet it. Tatum said Mitchell nearly single handedly covered Fort Worth’s African American communities. Star Telegram President and Editor Steve Coffman acknowledged Mitchell’s community-based coverage, saying the newspaper’s longtime political and restaurant columnist Bud Kennedy told him that he often used a search engine to research varied community topics, only to discover that Mitchell already had covered the issue. “Bud Kennedy knew Mitch for a long time,” Coffman said at last week’s event. “When he did a Google search, Mitch’s was the only byline that showed up.” Before his passing, Mitchell reported on a series of community meetings hosted by Tatum to address low life expectancy rates in the 76104 ZIP code where New Mount Rose is located. According to recent data, the life expectancy rate of residents living in the 76104 ZIP code is 66.7 years – a dozen years shorter than the national average – and the shortest in the state. More than 47 percent of the ZIP’s 17,400 residents are African American. The median income is about $22,200 a year. Many residents of the ZIP code do not have health insurance and heart disease is a major killer in the community, according to reports. Tatum, citing the important story, said that Mitchell was myimessenger.com

More than 100 Morningside and Como residents gathered last week at an outdoor observance, tree planting and luncheon to celebrate Fort Worth Star-Telegram social justice reporter Mitch Mitchell who died last year. Credit: Valerie Fields Hill, Texas Metro News

the only mainstream news writer to attend the first meeting to address community solutions to the challenges. “No other station covered it,” he said, before correcting himself and adding that a writer from LaVida News, a Black-owned local paper,

ell,” Tatum said of that fateful meeting. Some audience members responded to the pastor with heavy breaths and sighs. This week, a thread of Mitchell’s media coverage still was listed on the reporter’s Twitter page, @MitchMitchel3, which still is active, though no posts have been made to the page since Sept. 22, 2020. Mitchell also reported on Black Lives Matter protests, concerns of over-policing in Black communities, Alzheimer’s research among M e x i c a n -A m e r i c a n s, hate crimes against Asian and Indian Americans at technology employers in Irving and assaults against women, among other areas. Jones said Mitchell could cover such issues because he, like many prominent Black journalists, literary writers, poets and storytellers, had grown up in circumstances and communities that provided him with unique perspectives. The upbringing, Jones said, ultimately allowed Mitchell to relate comfortably to people who

Sister Rosa Mendes

joined Mitchell in reporting the alarming statistics and efforts to address social determinants contributing to the low life expectancy rates. “Little did we know that this was going to be the last time that we would hug Mitch-

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were different than himself. Mitchell was born in Houston and attended Montessori school as an elementary student on the Texas Southern University campus, his sister said. He later graduated from the historically Black institution. Mitchell’s formative years likely were influenced by articles he read in the Black Press, including the Houston Forward Times, because such publications were leading voices expressing concerns of Black people during a time when mainstream media did not routinely cover communities of color. “Mitch was a product of Black journalism. He was the one to be proud of. He came

Fort Worth Star-Telegram Mitch Mitchell interviews New Mount Rose Baptist Church Pastor the Rev. Kyev Tatum, Mitchell died last October after a brief illness Credit: Rev. Kyev Tatum

from our own,” Jones said. “I didn’t know he was HBCU. I’m even prouder.” Early in his journalism career, Mitchell owned his own newspaper, his sister said. He later worked at the Lufkin Daily News before joining the Star-Telegram in February 1999. His sister Rosa Mendes said Mitchell was passionate about his work at the Star-Telegram. “Working there was what he wanted to do,” she said. “He found his sweet spot.” April 16, 2021

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April 16, 2021

The Force of Gravity WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND

MILES JAYE Gravity is like poverty-- they both work to keep you down. When you’re getting out of bed in the morning, that’s gravity pulling you back down. Getting up from the table after a big Sunday dinner, that’s gravity making it hard to stand up, along with the biscuits and gravy and baked macaroni and cheese. Getting up from the sofa after late night Don Lemon, an Amazon Prime movie, or your favorite late night talk show has gone off, that’s gravity making it feel like that cozy couch cushion has a lock grip on your rear end. The force of gravity accelerates at a rate of 9.8 meters per second. No, that’s not a typo. For every second of descent, an object accelerates (gets faster) by 9.8 meters per second. Now, I’m not big on exact conversions, so I’ve always approximated a meter to just around a yard, and 9.8 is close enough to 10 for my calculations, so imagine something, (your favorite running back or Usain Bolt), moving at 10 yards per second. Imagine this too, if the apple that clobbered Isaac Newton fell from high enough, it would have killed him on the spot, right under that tree. The fastest human on foot was actually clocked at just over 27 mph. In the first second, gravity is moving an object at about 21 mph, but by the 10th second the object is moving in excess of 200 mph-- that’s acceleration. There’s a reason I’m boring you with these fun facts. Like gravity, poverty has an April 16, 2021

accelerating effect rather than a simple velocity. It keeps getting faster. Acceleration means the velocity of a thing keeps increasing. So, if your life conditions begin with a certain downward velocity, unless you do something to alter the effect on your descent your circumstances will quickly deteriorate to a point of no escape. The easiest thing to do when I can’t dunk, is to blame gravity, but when I consider climbers ascending Mt. Kilimanjaro, my excuses quickly fall. In order to explore space, one must first escape the earth’s atmosphere-- gravity. That’s 25,000 mph to escape the earth’s gravitational pull. Then once in orbit, there’s no more gravity. You’re weightless, you’re free. Weight is the gravity’s pull on your mass, your body. Escape gravity and no more weight. How’s that for a diet plan? Back to poverty… Escape the effects of poverty pulling you down, then there’s no more poverty. But, how likely is it that you can pull off a 25,000 mph getaway? Not very! Well, the cool thing about it is, scientists decided they would need to get a little help to make escaping the earth’s pull possible. That’s like me using a trampoline to reach the rim, I just needed a boost. Ever see a dad lift his child up high enough to reach the rim? We all just need a boost of one sort or another. Scientists began experimenting with rockets. They went up, and they went down. They discovered long after the fuel needed to launch a rocket was exhausted, gravity was still hard at work pulling the rocket right back down to earth. They concluded it would take enough fuel to blast its way into

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space where they would be free of what? Gravity. Clear the area, get out of gravity’s reach. For generations we’ve worked hard, believing hard work was the fuel needed to escape the pull of poverty. Hard work is essential… but not enough. Then we added faith to the calculation, like the sisters in Hidden Figures did in constructing their mathematical formulas. They knew that way, way back in the 1800’s a guy determined that in addition to gravity or weight there were other forces they had to deal with-- in flight. They had to factor in thrust, drag, and lift. That knowledge propelled us to higher heights and drew us farther from the ravages of poverty. But faith and hard work were still not enough. We decided education was crucial to finally leaving poverty in the past and leading peaceful, fulfilled lives. We studied long and hard and were awarded distinguished degrees-- B.S., B.A., M.B.A., J.D., M.D. and Ph.D.’s to name a few. But that would not be enough. We finally decided that what we were dealing with is worse than gravity. Gravity plays by the rules and has never changed. We may discover new elements and behaviors of the phenomenon, but gravity has not changed. What we’re dealing with is not simply a resistance or a force of nature, but a force of man himself. A force with changing rules we call governing, laws, statutes and democracy. Democracy is proving to be a force of gravity we mistook for propulsion. The vote was like rocket fuel. But just when we accumulated enough force employing faith, hard work, education and civil consciousness, the rules changed again, and we watched

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our rockets crash down into the open field. The field of hope we’ve visited for decades, centuries. So, back to the drawing board? Escaping poverty is possible. In fact, you may have to escape it more than once in a lifetime. The question is, what do you do when you realize the real gravity is hate? When you realize that all your hard work, faith and beliefs, degrees, success and even wealth are subjected to a seemingly inescapable force, greater than gravity, what do you do? What do you do when you discover, no matter how high you soar, it will never be high enough to escape the gravitational pull of hate? Who will take the podium next to demand fair treatment, humanity and compassion? I was born into modest circumstances, so I’m well versed in navigating my way through the challenging waters of lack and limits-- Lillian taught us well. However, what is exhausting, what is weight on my soul, is the gravity of hate and the agonizing pull of hostility. Either the scientists giving birth to the new vaccines for COVID-19 should turn their attentions to irradicating this ever-present human condition which kills Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, and Whites, without the presence of a virus, or let’s pray that another piece of fruit falls from a tree and brings with it a new eureka moment of clarity and the answers we need. Otherwise, God help us all. That’s what’s on my mind! Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

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Black farmers get COVID relief they deserve If you ever begin to doubt that elections matter, think about Black farmers. The new COVID relief law takes significant steps to address decades of shameful discrimination against Black farmers by the federal government. And that would not have happened without voters putting Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the White House and giving Democrats a majority in the Senate. OUR VOICES BY BEN JEALOUS

Fewer Black farmers The discrimination is well-documented. So is its devastating impact on Black farming families. Consider a few statistics. One hundred years ago, there were more than 925,000 Black-run farms. By 2017, that number had dropped by more than 95 percent. Today less than two percent of farmers in the U.S. are Black, and 98 percent of farmland is owned by white landowners. Part of the problem is state laws that often force the sale of inherited farmland for pennies on the dollar. But this is not a problem confined to the Confederate states or the Jim Crow era. This is largely a problem of intentional discrimination by employees of the federal government. Decades of abuse Bigoted bureaucrats and discriminatory policies at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and its Farmers myimessenger.com

Home Administration lending agency abused Black farmers for decades. Black farms were falsely classified as unproductive. Farmers were unfairly denied loans that they were entitled to receive. The government stalled and buried their complaints about discrimination. Land was taken and given to white farmers. Senate Democrats reported recently that Black farmers in the South have lost more than 12 million acres of farmland since the 1950s. In 1982, the U.S. Civil Rights Commission said that the Farmers Home Administration’s unresponsiveness “hindered the efforts of Black small farmers to remain a viable force in agriculture.” During the 1990s, many farmers were cut out of meaningful help they should have gotten from lawsuit settlements. Official neglect and mistreatment of Black farmers continued into the 21st Century: one study found that from 2006 to 2016, the federal government was six times as likely to foreclose on a Black farmer as on a white one. Money handed out by the Trump administration to

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survive the trade war he started, and to help farmers deal with the pandemic, mostly bypassed Black farmers. Last fall, Senators Cory Booker, Elizabeth Warren and Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the Justice for Black Farmers Act. It was designed to address and correct the discrimination that “caused Black farmers to lose millions of acres of farmland and robbed Black farmers and their families of hundreds of billions of dollars of inter-generational wealth.” Keep it up And then the 2020 elections created powerful opportunities for Black farmers. During the first week of the Biden-Harris administration, the Department of Agriculture halted debt collection and foreclosure for thousands of farmers behind in federal loan payments, many of them Black. Newly elected Sen. Raphael Warnock—thank you, Georgia voters —introduced the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act, which became part of the COVID relief legislation known as the American Rescue Plan. That measure, passed by

Congress and signed into law by President Biden includes $10 billion to support agriculture. About half of that is set aside to help Black farmers through debt relief, education, training, and land acquisition. The law includes $4 billion in direct aid to get farmers out of debt. And it includes $1 billion to create and fund a commission to deal with the longstanding discrimination and inequity in USDA programs. These long-overdue steps toward reversing generations of wrongdoing are not just the result of a single election. They are the fruit of decades of organizing by Black farmers and their advocates to document and challenge racist discrimination and injustice. And to get Black people and their allies to vote. Organizing and elections can change the world. Together we are making—and remaking—history. Let’s keep it up! Ben Jealous is president of People For the American Way and People For the American Way Foundation. He also is the former president and CEO of the NAACP.

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Made to be Different FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Spring is one of my favorite seasons of the year. Despite the need for significant antihistamines, I still enjoy talking walks and experiencing the beauty of blooming flowers. On Easter Sunday, my family and I had the chance to walk through an amazing park with so many beautiful flowers. One bush caught my attention because of one dark pink flower surrounded by an unlimited number of light pink flowers. It was indeed an anomaly. It stood out and its unique difference made it even more captivating. In a world that loves uniformity, it’s very easy to conform to become just like everyone else. There is this constant desire to fit in, to be accepted and even fly under the radar not to generate attention. With the exception of a few celebrities, most people become targets for standing out. We are taught from an early age to behave, dress, and think a certain way. When we do not comply with the standard, the consequences can result in being talked about, made fun of, isolated or even bullied. We conform because we do not want to be seen in a bad light. We want to be liked and if we feel as if our opinion goes against that of the group, for many, we are not willing to suffer the backlash that could result because of alternative myimessenger.com

points of view. Conformity isn’t always bad. It is problematic when we hide who we are and who we were created to be in order to receive acceptance especially from those who do not matter. When we blend in like everyone else, our uniqueness is diminished. In Romans 12:2, our focus should be on pleasing God: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Addressing conformity requires a change in the way we think and focusing on God’s will for our lives first. To fight this need, we must practice

constantly checking our thoughts to determine if our actions are to seek approval from others. We are called to be different, to stand out. 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16) What makes you different? Are striving to be what God designed and destined you to be or are you more concerned with fitting in so that others

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are not uncomfortable by your presence? Are you losing your flavor to fit? I hope this week you make it a habit to allow your light to shine bright. I hope that you are willing to blossom into the beautiful flower that you were created to be. I hope that you are determined to stand out in a sea of conformity radiating God’s purpose for your life. I pray that you will stand rooted in the knowledge that you were made to be different, that you were made to shine bright even if you are the only one. 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.

April 16, 2021

Old School...New Leaders! QUIT PLAYIN’

The Arlington 9: (l-r): Stephanie Briant Darryl Burnham Miracle Freeman

VINCENT L. HALL My protégé and mentee is a candidate for Dallas Council Place 8, and I am hype. This has already been an exciting election cycle. 2021 is reminiscent of the old Oak Cliff battles we saw from 1980-2000. That was when “White flight” from the southern suburbs lured the urban Black middle-class to what I call the “New Oak Cliff (NOC).” The NOC includes Lancaster, Desoto, Cedar Hill, and Duncanville. We will dig deeper into the misnomers about what “our community” is later this year. We seem locked into old stereotypes about what and who makes up “Black neighborhoods.” Howsenever! I am excited because the races in council Districts 3, 4, 7, and 8 are hotly contested. My little brother threw his name in the ring and is running hard. This is no veiled attempt to endorse him; this is my personal plea that you consider DaVante D. Peters in the upcoming election. DaVante’s spirit and resolve are reminiscent of politicians and civil rights leaders from days long past. Real streetfighters like Al Lipscomb and Diane Ragsdale, Dallas City Council’s historic “Dynamic Duo,” have given way to a new breed. Back then, Black Dallas politics was full of agitators and liberators. Nowadays, all we get are procrastinators and collaborators. All we get these days are ceremonial leaders who show up at the “groundbreaking” but never break any new ground for minorities or the poor. Don’t get me wrong. Not every public meeting needs to be loud, April 16, 2021

(l-r): Arminta Jeffreys Michael Lowe Melissa Perry

(l-r): Davante Peters Lelani Russell Dion Williams. Credit: Arlington Police Department

rowdy, and fraught with threats in order that the marginalized make progress. However, going along to get along never got us anywhere. The squeaky wheel still gets the grease! Two of my favorite literary giants make the case that what looks like normalcy is often malignancy for our people. Amanda Gorman, National Youth Poet Laureate and the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, put it this way. “We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace, and the norms and notions of what just is, isn’t always justice!” During a 1961 radio interview featuring James Baldwin and Lorraine Hansberry, Baldwin took those injustices to heart. He made the moans of Black folks audible and discernible. “To be a Negro in this country and relatively conscious is to be in a state of rage almost all of the time. It isn’t only what is happening to you. It’s what’s happening all around you in the face of the

I MESSENGER

most extraordinary and criminal indifference among most white people in this country.” Oddly enough, I met DaVante while campaigning with a former candidate during the last council the last cycle. We were at “Monday Night Politics,” and this young upstart with dreadlocks held his own with older and more “seasoned” candidates in the District 3 race. This brother was young, rough around the edges, and probably overly optimistic. His message centered on lifting the bottom, helping the helpless, listening to his constituents. Davante is the kind of steely young leader we used to forge by fire in Southern Dallas politics. Now, all we get is smoke. This brother is serious about understanding the problems of the hour in District 8. Meanwhile, DaVante has immersed himself into the political history of Dallas. Lifelong residents readily attest that you cannot change Dallas if you do not know the Dallas story. You can make some personal

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gains, but that is about it. MESSAGE - A new release of Jim Schutze’s “The Accommodation is coming this spring. Get a copy! Social media has been on fire since February. There have been debates, yard-sign thefts, veiled threats, and plenty of cyber-shouting. I love it! We are passionate about local politics again. Local engagement is the penultimate catalyst for positive change and forward progress. The Old Oak Cliff and South Dallas/Pleasant Grove have become battlegrounds again. DaVante is a warrior on that field, and if you live in District 8, I would personally appreciate your consideration. It is time for some New Leaders…Vote for Davante D. Peters! He is the new school, but appreciates and regards the old school. That balance will make a difference. Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

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April 16, 2021

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April 16, 2021

Don’t you want

Sharing her thoughts on the many elements that make “the little town with a big heart” a great place to live and work, she laid the foundation for why she chose to move to Mansfield and set up shop as the CEO and Director of Mansfield Funeral Home. In addition to becoming excited and cheerful while discussing Mansfield, Moore could clearly be a walking advertisement for the city of just under 70,000 residents as she touted how nestled between two major cities, Mansfield “has managed to grow significantly, has a school district that is amazing, amazing arts council, great Chamber of Commerce, with amazing churches and nonprofits.” Mansfield is about 30 miles west of where Moore was born and lived, in Oak Cliff, until moving away to go to college. Keep traveling west for anoth-

Christie K. Moore

MOORE? By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

Between participating in media interviews, Christie K. Moore was out walking the streets of Mansfield, Texas recently, sharing her platform and garnering support. Passionate, committed, and smart are just a few of the words used to describe the entrepreneur, who is a candidate for the Mansfield city council, place 5. This native Texan, in seeking her first public elective office, could make history if victorious in the May election, over incumbent Julie Short, a realtor, wife and grandmother. April 16, 2021

Making history, however, is not what Moore tends to focus on, although she would be following in the footsteps of Michael Evans who also made history when he was elected to the Council in 2020; making him the first African American mayor. That win was significant in a city where as it became more diverse the Council remained lacking in diversity. During an interview about her plans if elected, the twotime college graduate proudly talked about the wide range of support she is receiving and the positive reaction to the possibility of having a more inclusive and diverse Council.

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er 20 miles and you’re in Fort Worth. According to Moore, Mansfield is a great place to raise your children and there are opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive. In order to do so, however; Moore said she has been listening to the citizens who welcome a more diverse council especially when you look at the numbers pre-2020 Census, showing a population that is about (57%) White (Non-Hispanic); (17.6%) Black or African American (Non-Hispanic); (11.8 %) White (Hispanic), (4.33%) Asian (Non-Hispanic); and (3.91%) Other (Hispanic).

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For Moore, “diversity is a strength and not a threat.” She said she enjoys having the opportunity to raise a child in a loving, caring and giving environment that “embraces the youthfulness of our children.” Living in various parts of the country and also working in environments that called for collaborating and working together with others from different backgrounds, cultures, etc., Moore believes some of her greatest attributes are being a skilled communicator and her love of “all of God’s children,” as well as having a built a strong foundation of trust. She said she realizes that you can’t just look to ethnicity as an indicator of diversity, you also have to consider other elements; like age, sex, orientation, geography, if you want to be inclusive and supportive. “My goal is for all residents to have another person on the council to ask questions about the city,” she continued, adding that she has been walking, sometimes as much as 30,000 steps daily, to spread her message of leadership, accountability and inclusion; and she says the response has been favorable. “They (citizens) want a more diverse leadership and the City Council should have people on the Council who understand business.” Businesswoman Demetria Bivens agrees. She loves her home in Mansfield and even opened it up last week for a meet and greet with Moore. Bivens also expressed her support of Moore, saying that she was smart, well prepared and would be good for the city. Moore is a graduate of the School for the Talented and Gifted Magnet, which is one of the top high schools in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report. She went on to study Molecular myimessenger.com

Candidate Christie K. Moore and supporters on campaign trail.

Biology at Hampton University in Virginia. It was at a young age, actually when she was nine-yearsold, that she spoke her truth, which has led to a very successful career. As the family grieved the passing of their matriarch, at her grandmother’s funeral young Christie told relatives she wanted to do the work that she observed as the funeral home employees took care of her Granny. “I saw the love and attention to detail,” she recalled, adding that witnessing the employees at work helped her to better process the loss. “It had a huge impact on me.” On May 1, 2021, she wants citizens of Mansfield to take into consideration her almost 30 years of service, education, community involvement, and other attributes when they go to the polls. She said elect her to use her voice, leadership skills, integrity, education, business acumen and visionary perspectives as a member of the seven-member counmyimessenger.com

Credit: Courtesy Campaign

cil that will concentrate on growth, development, diversity and inclusion, while showing the country what happens when the focus is on those areas. According to Moore, while attending Hampton she worked at the VA Hospital as a morgue clerk and in the Fall of her senior year, accepted a full scholarship to another historically Black college and university (HBCU), Tennessee State University, as a member of their Masters/PhD. Bridge program. When she graduated with a Master of Science (Endocrinology) degree in August 2002, her research was conducted in the Hypertension Laboratory at Meharry Medical College. She then headed back home, where in addition to working in the Dallas County Crime Division and Evergreen Funeral Home; she attended and taught at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Services. Focused on the care of not only the deceased, but their family members too, Moore said she

would lead just as she does in her business. Creating a balance in all of Mansfield, she says is important. “All neighborhoods would have a voice at City Hall.” Further, after living through the pandemic and the challenges during the recent weather storm that displaced thousands across the state, Moore said she believes putting programs in place to aid small businesses would help in times of emergencies. Clearly she has plans and listening to her agenda, there’s no rock left unturned because she had ideas for the young and their growth, and she wants safety to be uppermost in folks minds, especially the elderly, when they think of Mansfield. With 23 years as a mortician, in numerous areas, she’s serious about bringing one skillset to the Council, which although it is a Council Manager form of government, her inclusive and professional leadership will be important as key decisions are made based on taking into

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consideration the entire population. “I approach every situation as if someone were my family,” said the member of Epsilon Nu Delta Embalming Fraternity and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, Moore, who is a wife and mother, also believes in mentoring and hopes to attract more young people into careers as morticians, embalmers and directors. She said she hopes they too will come to realize the significance of having a spirit of excellence and knowing that it is important to have “integrity, dignity and respect above all.” Candidate Moore will be participating in a community event on April 24, 2021, from noon -3:00p.m. at the Lot, in downtown Mansfield. She said she will be sharing her message and encouraging voters to vote early and like many of her family members who have held political office, Moore wants citizens to know that she cares and is “campaigning to serve them, each and every one!” April 16, 2021

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

LOCATION

ADDRESS

DAY/TIME

Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center

4500 Spring Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210

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

Cummings Recreation Center

2976 Cummings St. Dallas, TX 75216

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

Beckley - Saner Recreation Center

114 W. Hobson Ave. Dallas, TX 75224

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

Fireside Recreation Center

8601 Fireside Dr. Dallas, TX 75217

Thursdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Martin Weiss Park

3400 W. Clarendon Dr. Dallas, TX 75211

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

4500 Spring Avenue I Dallas, Texas 75210

April 16, 2021

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Dallas COVID-19 Resources

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

COVID-19 Call the hotline The bestHotline way to 24-7 protect yourself and others is to 214-670-INFO (4636) to get information regarding: stay at home. •Current COVID-19 Regulations & Testing Locations •Employment Assistance •Federal Relief Payment Information •Volunteer/Assistance Opportunities •Rental/Mortgage, and Eviction Assistance •Small Business Assistance •Social Services (food pantry, childcare assistance, senior assistance, unsheltered resident assistance and mental health resources) •Utility Payment Assistance

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

Safer at home

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

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

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

Keep your mouth and nose covered while out in public.

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

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April 16, 2021

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

MetroNews

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-9 • April 15 - 21, 2021

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MAY 1, 2021 ELECTION MAY 1,GENERAL 2021 GENERAL ELECTION CITY COUNCILCANDIDATES CANDIDATES CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL DISTRICTS / BALLOT ORDER COUNCIL DISTRICTS / BALLOT ORDER Council District 1

Council District 2

Council District 3

Council District 4

1 Gerardo Sánchez

1 Jennifer Cortez

1 Casey Thomas, II

1 Maxie Johnson

2 Stephani A. "Skyle" Kyle

2 Jesse Moreno

2 Irby Foster

2 Lelani Russell

3 Chad West

3 Sana Syed

3 MaK Canto

4 Giovanni "Gio" Valderas

4 Raha Assadi

4 Carolyn King Arnold

5 Michael Fetzer

5 Johnny Aguinaga

Council District 5

Council District 6

Council District 7

Council District 8

1 Jaime Resendez

1 Earl D. Thomas

1 Kevin Felder

1 Tennell Atkins

2 Ruth Torres

2 Tony Carrillo

2 Donald Parish

2 Subrina Lynn Brenham

3 Yolanda "Faye" Williams

3 Omar Narvaez

3 Calvin D. Johnson

3 Davante "Shawt" Peters

4 Terry Perkins

4 Mόnica R. Alonzo

4 Tramonica Brown

4 Lakolya London

5 Wendi Macon

5 Walter "Changa" Higgins 6 James "JT" TurkneK 7 Israel Varela 8 Adam Bazaldua

Council District 9

Council District 10

Council District 11

Council District 12

1 Paula Blackmon

1 B. Adam McGough

1 Jaynie Schultz

1 Elva Curl

2 Judy Kumar

2 Sirrano Keith Baldeo

2 Hosanna Yemiru

2 Cara Mendelsohn

3 John Botefuhr

3 Barry Wernick 4 Candy Evans

Council District 13

Council District 14

1 Ryan M. Moore

1 Paul E. Ridley

2 Da'On Boulanger-Chatman

2 David BleweK

3 Gay Donnell Willis

3 Elizabeth Viney

4 Leland R. Burk 5 Mac Smith

April 16, 2021

MAY 1, 2021 SPECIAL ELECTION myimessenger.com 24 AMENDMENTS TO THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF DALLAS I MESSENGER

T E X A S

MetroNews

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

2 Da'On Boulanger-Chatman

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• Vol-9 • April 15 - 21 2021

3 Gay Donnell Willis

2 David BleweK

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

3 Elizabeth Viney

4 Leland R. Burk 5 Mac Smith

MAY 1, 2021 SPECIAL ELECTION AMENDMENTS TO THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF DALLAS PROPOSITION NO. A EliminaMng the Requirement That A Member of a Board or Commission Created by the City Charter be Registered or Qualified to Vote. Shall Chapter IV, Sec`on 5; Chapter XV, Sec`on 3; and Chapter XVII, Sec`on 2 of the Dallas City Charter be amended to eliminate the requirement that a member of a board or commission created by the city charter be a registered or qualified voter? PROPUESTA NO. A Eliminar el Requisito de que un Miembro de una Junta o Comisión creada por la Carta de la Ciudad sea Registrado o Calificado para Votar. ¿El Capítulo IV, Sección 5; Capítulo XV, Sección 3; y el Capítulo XVII, Sección 2 de la Carta de la Ciudad de Dallas será enmendado para eliminar el requisito de que un miembro de una junta o comisión creada por la carta de la ciudad sea un votante registrado o calificado? PROPOSITION NO. B EliminaMng the Requirement That a Member of the Civil Service Board be a Qualified Taxpaying CiMzen. Shall Chapter XVI, Sec`on 1 of the Dallas City Charter be amended to eliminate the requirement that a member of the civil service board be a qualified taxpaying ci`zen? PROPUESTA NO. B Eliminar el Requisito de que un Miembro de la Junta de Servicio Civil sea un Ciudadano Calificado. ¿Se modificará el Capítulo XVI, Sección 1 de la Carta de la Ciudad de Dallas para eliminar el requisito de que un miembro de la junta de servicio civil sea un ciudadano calificado que pague impuestos?”

DALLAS COUNTY DATES / TIMES /LOCATIONS

April (abril) 19 – 23

Monday-Friday (lunes a viernes)

8a.m. to 5p.m.

April (abril) 24

Saturday (sábado)

8a.m. to 5p.m.

April (abril) 25

Sunday (domingo)

1p.m. to 6p.m.

April (abril) 26 – 27

Monday – Tuesday (lunes y martes)

7a.m. to 7p.m.

LOCATION (Lugar)

ADDRESS (Dirección)

Zip Code

City (Ciudad)

(Código postal)

ADDISON FIRE STATION #1

4798 AIRPORT PKWY

ADDISON

75001

AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH LIBRARY - AUDITORIUM

10045 AUDELIA RD

DALLAS

75238

BALCH SPRINGS CIVIC CENTER

12400 ELAM RD

BALCH SPRINGS

75180

BROOKHAVEN COLLEGE "W" BUILDING ROOM W105

3939 VALLEY VIEW LN

FARMERS BRANCH

75244

CARROLLTON LIBRARY @ HEBRON & JOSEY

4220 N JOSEY LANE

CARROLLTON

75010

CEDAR HILL GOVERNMENT CENTER LOBBY

285 UPTOWN BLVD

CEDAR HILL

75104

LOCATION (Lugar) COPPELL TOWN CENTER CROSSWINDS HIGH SCHOOL ROOM 104

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DISCIPLE CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH DUNCANVILLE LIBRARY ROOMS 1, 2 & 3

ADDRESS (Dirección)

Zip Code

City (Ciudad)

(Código postal)

255 E. PARKWAY BLVD

COPPELL

1100 N. CARRIER PKWY

GRAND PRAIRIE

75050

DESOTO

75115

25901 N. POLK ST

201 JAMES COLLINS BLVD

75019

April 16, 2021

DUNCANVILLE

75116

MetroNews BRANCH BRANCH CARROLLTON

4220 N JOSEY LANE

CARROLLTON LIBRARY & &JOSEY CARROLLTON LIBRARY@@HEBRON HEBRON JOSEY CEDAR HILL GOVERNMENT CENTER LOBBY WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

4220 4220 NJOSEY JOSEYLANE LANE 285 NUPTOWN BLVD

CEDAR CEDARHILL HILLGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTCENTER CENTERLOBBY LOBBY

285 285UPTOWN UPTOWNBLVD BLVD ADDRESS (Dirección) ADDRESS ADDRESS (Dirección) (Dirección) 255 E. PARKWAY BLVD

CEDAR CEDARHILL HILL City (Ciudad) City City (Ciudad) (Ciudad) COPPELL

COPPELL TOWN CENTER COPPELL TOWN CENTER CROSSWINDS HIGH SCHOOL ROOM 104

255 E.E.PARKWAY BLVD 255 BLVD 1100 N.PARKWAY CARRIER PKWY

COPPELL COPPELL GRAND PRAIRIE

75019 75019 75050

CROSSWINDS HIGH 104 CROSSWINDS HIGHSCHOOL SCHOOLROOM ROOM 104 DISCIPLE CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH

1100 1100 N.CARRIER CARRIER PKWY 901N. N. POLK STPKWY

GRAND PRAIRIE GRAND PRAIRIE DESOTO

75050 75050 75115

DISCIPLE CENTRAL COMMUNITY DISCIPLE CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH DUNCANVILLE LIBRARY ROOMSCHURCH 1, 2&3

901 POLK ST 901 POLKCOLLINS ST 201N.N. JAMES BLVD

DESOTO DESOTO DUNCANVILLE

75115 75115 75116

DUNCANVILLE LIBRARY 1,1,2 2& &3 "C" DUNCANVILLE LIBRARYROOMS ROOMS 3 BUILDING EASTFIELLD COLLEGE MAIN CAMPUS

201 JAMES COLLINS 201 JAMES COLLINS BLVD 3737 MONTLEY DR BLVD

DUNCANVILLE DUNCANVILLE MESQUITE

75116 75116 75150

EASTFIELLD "C" EASTFIELLD COLLEGEMAIN MAINCAMPUS CAMPUS "C"BUILDING BUILDING EASTFIELD COLLEGE COLLEGE PLEASANT GROVE CAMPUS COMMUNITY ROOM 108/109 EASTFIELD EASTFIELDCOLLEGE COLLEGEPLEASANT PLEASANTGROVE GROVECAMPUS CAMPUS COMMUNITY COMMUNITY ROOM108/109 108/109 El CENTRO ROOM COLLEGE – MAIN CAMPUS "C" BUILDING LOBBY AREA

3737 3737MONTLEY MONTLEYDR DR 802 S. BUCKNER BLVD

MESQUITE MESQUITE DALLAS

75150 75150 75217

802 802S.S.BUCKNER BUCKNERBLVD BLVD 801 MAIN ST

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75217 75217 75202

ElEl CENTRO COLLEGE – –MAIN CENTRO COLLEGE MAINCAMPUS "C"BUILDING BUILDINGLOBBY LOBBYAREA AREA EL CENTRO COLLEGE-WEST CAMPUS"C" COMMUNITY ROOM

801 MAIN ST 801 MAIN ST 3330 N. HAMPTON RD

DALLAS DALLAS

75202 75202 75212

ELEL CENTRO COLLEGE-WEST CAMPUS CENTRO COLLEGE-WEST CAMPUSCOMMUNITY COMMUNITYROOM ROOM FIRE STATION #10

3330 HAMPTON 3330 HAMPTONRD RD 4451N.N. FRANKFORD

DALLAS DALLAS

75212 75212 75287

FIRE STATION #10 FIRE STATION #10 FLORENCE RECREATION CENTER ROOM 102

4451 RD 4451 FRANKFORD RD 2501FRANKFORD WHITSON WAY

DALLAS DALLAS MESQUITE

75287 75287 75150

FLORENCE RECREATION CENTER FLORENCE RECREATION CENTERROOM ROOM102 102 FRANKFORD TOWNHOMES

2501 WHITSON 2501 WHITSON WAY 18110 MARSH WAY LN

MESQUITE MESQUITE DALLAS

75150 75150 75287

FRANKFORD FRANKFORD TOWNHOMES FRETZ PARKTOWNHOMES LIBRARY - BLACK BOX THEATER

18110 LN 18110 MARSH LNRD 6990MARSH BELT LINE

DALLAS DALLAS

75287 75287 75254

FRETZ PARK - BLACK BOX FRETZ PARKLIBRARY LIBRARY - BLACK BOXTHEATER THEATER FRIENDSHIP WEST BAPTIST CHURCH BANQUET HALL FOYER FRIENDSHIP FRIENDSHIPWEST WESTBAPTIST BAPTISTCHURCH CHURCH BANQUET HALL FOYER BANQUET HALL FOYER **GEORGE L ALLEN SR COURTS BLDG. MAIN LOBBY - Main Location** **GEORGE **GEORGEL LALLEN ALLENSR SRCOURTS COURTSBLDG. BLDG. MAIN LOBBY MAIN LOBBY- Main - PARK MainLocation** Location** GRAUWYLER REC CENTER RM A

6990 6990BELT BELTLINE LINERD RD 2020 W. WHEATLAND RD

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75254 75254 75232

2020 2020W.W.WHEATLAND WHEATLANDRD RD 600 COMMERCE ST

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75232 75232 75202

600 600COMMERCE COMMERCEST ST 7780 HARRY HINES BLVD

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75202 75202 75235

GRAUWYLER GRAUWYLERPARK PARKREC RECCENTER CENTERRM RMA A HARMONY SCHOOL OF INNOVATION DALLAS

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75235 75235 75252

HARMONY HARMONYSCHOOL SCHOOLOF OFINNOVATION INNOVATIONDALLAS DALLAS HARRY STONE CENTER SMALL ACTIVITY ROOM HUTCHINS CITYRECREATION HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS

7780 HINES 7780 HARRY HINESBLVD BLVD 8080HARRY W PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH HWY 8080 8080WWPRESIDENT PRESIDENTGEORGE GEORGEBUSH BUSH HWY HWY 2403N.MILLMAR 321 MAIN STDR

DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS HUTCHINS

75252 75252 75228 75141

HARRY STONE RECREATION CENTER SMALL ROOM HARRY STONE RECREATION CENTER SMALLACTIVITY ACTIVITY ROOM HIGHLAND HILLS LIBRARY IRVING ARTS CENTER ART AUDITORIUM LAB, CLASSROOM 1

2403 DR 2403 MILLMAR DR RDBLVD 6200MILLMAR BONNIE VIEW 3333 N. MACARTHUR

DALLAS DALLAS IRVING

75228 75228 75241 75062

HIGHLAND HILLS LIBRARY AUDITORIUM HIGHLAND HILLS LIBRARY AUDITORIUM IRVING CITY HALL MAIN LOBBY HUTCHINS CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS

6200 VIEW RD 6200 VIEW RD 825 W. IRVING BLVD 321 BONNIE N.BONNIE MAIN ST

DALLAS DALLAS IRVING HUTCHINS

75241 75241 75060 75141

COPPELL TOWN CENTER

LOCATION (Lugar) LOCATION LOCATION (Lugar) (Lugar)

T E X

CARROLLTON LIBRARY @ HEBRON & JOSEY

CARROLLTON CARROLLTON CEDAR HILL • Vol-9 • April 15 - 21, 2021

75010

13

75010 75010 75104

75104 75104 Zip Code (Código

Zip Code Zip Code postal) (Código (Código postal) postal) 75019

J. ERIK ARTS JONSSON CENTRAL LIBRARY IRVING CENTER ART LAB, CLASSROOM 1

1515 YOUNG ST 3333 N. MACARTHUR BLVD

DALLAS IRVING

75201 75062

JAYCEE ZARAGOZA RECREATION IRVING CITY HALL MAIN LOBBY CTR

3114W. CLYMER 825 IRVINGST BLVD

DALLAS IRVING

75212 75060

JOSEY LIBRARY THELIBRARY MEETING ROOM J. ERIK RANCH JONSSON CENTRAL

1700 YOUNG KELLER ST SPRINGS RD 1515

CARROLLTON DALLAS

75006 75201

LAKESIDE ACTIVITY RECREATION CENTER LARGE ROOM JAYCEE ZARAGOZA CTR

101 HOLLEY 3114 CLYMERPARK ST DR

MESQUITE DALLAS

75149 75212

LAKEWOOD BRANCH LIBRARY JOSEY RANCH LIBRARY THE MEETING ROOM

6121 KELLER WORTH ST 1700 SPRINGS RD

DALLAS CARROLLTON

75214 75006

LANCASTER VETERANS MEMORIAL LAKESIDE ACTIVITY CENTER LARGELIBRARY ROOM THE MEETING ROOM

1600HOLLEY VETERANS PKWY 101 PARKMEMORIAL DR

LANCASTER MESQUITE

75134 75149

LOCHWOOD LIBRARYLIBRARY BLACK BOX ROOM LAKEWOOD BRANCH

11221WORTH LOCHWOOD 6121 ST BLVD

DALLAS

75218 75214

MARSH LANEVETERANS BAPTIST CHURCH FELLOWSHIP HALL LANCASTER MEMORIAL LIBRARY THE MEETING ROOM

10716VETERANS MARSH LN MEMORIAL PKWY 1600

DALLAS LANCASTER

75229 75134

MARTIN LUTHER KINGBLACK CORE BLDG MAIN LOBBY LOCHWOOD LIBRARY BOX ROOM

2922 MLK BLVD 11221 LOCHWOOD BLVD

DALLAS

75215 75218

MARTIN WEISSBAPTIST REC CENTER SMALL ROOM HALL MARSH LANE CHURCH FELLOWSHIP

1111 MARTINDELL 10716 MARSH LN AVE

DALLAS

75211 75229

MOUNTAIN CREEK LIBRARY MARTIN LUTHER KING COREAUDITORIUM BLDG MAIN LOBBY

6102 MLK MOUNTAIN 2922 BLVD CREEK PKWY

DALLAS

75249 75215

MOUNTAIN VIEWREC COLLEGE - "'E" BUILDING MARTIN WEISS CENTER SMALL ROOMMAIN LOBBY

4849 MARTINDELL W ILLINOIS AVE 1111 AVE

DALLAS

75211

NORTH LAKE COLLEGE "F" BUILDING ROOM F105 MOUNTAIN CREEK LIBRARY AUDITORIUM

5001 MOUNTAIN N MACARTHUR BLVD 6102 CREEK PKWY

IRVING DALLAS

75038 75249

OAK CLIFF SUB-COURTHOUSE MAIN LOBBY MOUNTAIN VIEW COLLEGE - "'E"THE BUILDING MAIN LOBBY

410 S.WBECKLEY AVE 4849 ILLINOIS AVE

DALLAS

75203 75211

NORTH LAKE COLLEGE "F" BUILDING ROOM F105 LOCATION

5001 N MACARTHUR BLVD ADDRESS

IRVING City

Zip Code 75038

OAK LAWN BRANCH LIBRARY LOCATION AUDITORIUM

4100 CEDAR SPRINGS RD ADDRESS

Zip Code 75219

7611 PARK LN (Dirección)

DALLASCity (Ciudad) DALLAS

OUR LAWN REDEEMER LUTHERAN - GP FELLOWSHIP HALL OAK BRANCH LIBRARYCHURCH AUDITORIUM

4729 CARRIER PKWYRD 4100 S CEDAR SPRINGS

GRAND DALLAS PRAIRIE

75052 75219

PAUL L DUNBAR LANCASTER-KIEST LIBRARY CLASSROOM ROOM A & B OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH THE PARLOR

2008 EAST LN KIEST BLVD 7611 PARK

DALLAS

75216 75225

PRESTON ROYAL LUTHERAN LIBRARY CHURCH - GP FELLOWSHIP HALL OUR REDEEMER

5626 LN PKWY 4729 ROYAL S CARRIER

DALLAS GRAND PRAIRIE

75229 75052

REVERCHON RECREATION CENTERLIBRARY CLASS ROOM A & B PAUL L DUNBAR LANCASTER-KIEST

3505 AVE BLVD 2008 MAPLE EAST KIEST

DALLAS

75219 75216

411 ARAPAHO 5626W.ROYAL LN RD

RICHARDSON DALLAS

75080 75229

GARLAND DALLAS

75040 75219

RICHARDSON DALLAS

75080 75243

(Lugar) OAK CLIFF SUB-COURTHOUSE THE MAIN LOBBY

(Lugar)THE PARLOR ROOM OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH

RICHARDSON CIVIC CENTER WEST ALCOVE PRESTON ROYAL LIBRARY

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RICHLAND COLLEGE-GARLAND CAMPUS MAIN LOBBY REVERCHON RECREATION CENTER RICHLAND COLLEGE - MAIN CAMPUS - GUADALUPE “G” BLDG. RICHARDSON CIVIC CENTER WEST ALCOVE FOYER AREA

(Dirección) 410 S. BECKLEY AVE

26675 WALNUT 3505W. MAPLE AVE ST

411 W. ARAPAHO RD 12800 ABRAMS RD

(Ciudad) DALLAS

(Código 75203 postal) (Código 75225 postal)

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MetroNews

285 UPTOWN BLVDADDRESS

CEDAR HILL City

Zip Code 75104

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH THE PARLOR ROOM COPPELL TOWN CENTER

PARK LNBLVD 2557611 E. PARKWAY

DALLAS COPPELL

75225 75019

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH CROSSWINDS HIGH SCHOOL ROOM 104 - GP FELLOWSHIP HALL

S CARRIER PKWY 11004729 N. CARRIER PKWY

GRAND PRAIRIE GRAND PRAIRIE

75052 75050

PAUL LCENTRAL DUNBAR LANCASTER-KIEST LIBRARY CLASS ROOM A & B DISCIPLE COMMUNITY CHURCH

EASTST KIEST BLVD 9012008 N. POLK

DALLAS DESOTO

75216 75115

PRESTON ROYAL LIBRARY DUNCANVILLE LIBRARY ROOMS 1, 2 & 3

ROYAL LN BLVD 2015626 JAMES COLLINS

DALLAS DUNCANVILLE

75229 75116

REVERCHON RECREATION CENTER EASTFIELLD COLLEGE MAIN CAMPUS "C" BUILDING

3505 MAPLE DR AVE 3737 MONTLEY

DALLAS MESQUITE

75219 75150

RICHARDSON CIVIC CENTER WEST ALCOVE EASTFIELD COLLEGE PLEASANT GROVE CAMPUS COMMUNITY ROOM 108/109 RICHLAND COLLEGE-GARLAND CAMPUS MAIN LOBBY El CENTRO COLLEGE – MAIN CAMPUS "C" BUILDING LOBBY AREA RICHLAND COLLEGE - MAIN CAMPUS - GUADALUPE “G” BLDG. FOYER AREA EL CENTRO COLLEGE-WEST CAMPUS COMMUNITY ROOM

411 W. ARAPAHO RD 802 S. BUCKNER BLVD 675 W. WALNUT ST 801 MAIN ST 12800 ABRAMS RD 3330 N. HAMPTON RD

RICHARDSON DALLAS GARLAND DALLAS DALLAS DALLAS

75080 75217 75040 75202 75243 75212

ROWLETT FIRE STATION CITY #10 HALL ANNEX CONFERENCE ROOM

4004 MAIN ST RD 4451 FRANKFORD

ROWLETT DALLAS

75088 75287

SACHSERECREATION COMMUNITY CNETER ROOM A FLORENCE CENTER RESERVATION ROOM 102

3815 SACHSE RD, BUILDING E 2501 WHITSON WAY

SACHSE MESQUITE

75048 75150

SKYLINE BRANCH LIBRARY AUDITORIUM FRANKFORD TOWNHOMES

6006 EVERGLADE RD 18110 MARSH LN

DALLAS DALLAS

75227 75287

FRETZ PARK LIBRARYBRANCH - BLACK LIBRARY BOX THEATER SOUTH GARLAND THE PROGRAM ROOM

6990 BELT LINE RD BLVD 4845 BROADWAY

DALLAS GARLAND

75254 75040

FRIENDSHIP WEST BAPTIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY PARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH BANQUET HALLROOM FOYER CALDWELL (#120)

2020 W. CARUTH WHEATLAND 4024 BLVDRD

DALLAS DALLAS

75232 75225

**GEORGE ALLEN LIBRARY SR COURTS BLDG. VALLEY LRANCH SUITE 150 MAIN LOBBY - Main Location**

401 CIMARRON TRAIL 600 COMMERCE ST

IRVING DALLAS

75063 75202

GRAUWYLER PARK REC CENTER RM A

7780 HARRY HINES BLVD

DALLAS

75235

HARRY STONE RECREATION CENTER SMALL ACTIVITY ROOM 2403 MILLMAR DR https://dallascityhall.com/government/citysecretary/elections/Pages/electionMay2021.aspx

DALLAS

75228

HIGHLAND HILLS LIBRARY AUDITORIUM

DALLAS

75241

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CEDAR HILL GOVERNMENT CENTER LOBBY LOCATION

(Lugar) LOCATION • Vol-9 • April 15 - 21 2021 OAK LAWN BRANCH LIBRARY(Lugar) AUDITORIUM

(Dirección) ADDRESS (Dirección) 4100 CEDAR SPRINGS RD

(Código

(Ciudad) Zip Code postal) City WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM (Código (Ciudad) DALLAS 75219 postal)

**Those City of Dallas residents who are in Collin and Denton counties, please access the following website for Collin and Denton 8080 W PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH countiesSCHOOL Early Voting locations, DALLAS dates, and times: HARMONY OF INNOVATION DALLAS 75252 HWY 6200 BONNIE VIEW RD

or call Parris Long, Elections Manager (City of Dallas) at (214) 670-3742.

Parris, FYI: unrelated AD or text will go here In the past, the City opted to use a larger City of Dallas Logo instead of having another ad on the page Cheryl myimessenger.com

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April 16, 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.

April 16, 2021

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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!

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April 16, 2021

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar National Financial Literacy Month Alcohol Awareness Month Autism Awareness Month

Kendra Gives Back, by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Morgan W. Davis. Benefiting Alpha Xi Omega Chapter & the Ivy & Pearl Foundation RSVP: https://bit. ly/3uJF2rZ. All Day.

Tongee Flemming presents Virtual Candidate Forum, DeSoto City Council & School Board via Facebook.com/DeSoto City Council. Email: desotoprecinct3616@gmail.com for Zoom ID/Password. 4:30 City Council, 5:30 pm School Board.

Neo Soul, event by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Xi Zeta Chapter. Reg: http:// bit.ly/sigmaxizetaneosoul. 7-9 pm. CDT. A gift basket & gift giveaway.

Now-4-30-21 Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosts the Congressional Art Competition for high school students. Submission: bit. ly/3utJPOf. Info: Susan Zeb 214-922-8885.

April 15 Happy Birthday to Andrew Whigham III Corey Holcomb LIVE stand-up comedy at Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Rd. #250. 8-9:30 pm. Tickets: improvtx.com/ addison/comic/corey+holcomb. Emerging Leaders of DeSoto presents City Council Candidate Forum. Moderator: Judge Sasha Moreno. Live on Facebook @ EmergingLeadersofDeSoto. 6:30 pm.

For Da Kulture Western Drip Fest with Big Pokey Bear, event by The PoochieParty Experience and Bobbie Marshall, at, The Hideout 2.0 2602 W. Division St. 9 pm-3 am. CDT.

DBDT: ENCORE! RISING EXCELLENCE PERFORMANCE 4-17, 7:00 pm – 4-18, 11:59 CDT On-Demand Virtual Performance Info: www.DBDT.com.

April 17

Chucks & Cocktails Day Party 2021, at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. Tickets: Eventbrite.com 3-8 pm.

Zan Wesley Holmes Outreach Center hosts Lunch and Learn “Scaling Your Business Forward” with Frances Smith-Dean. 11-:30 am-1 pm. CDT. For info, contact Jasmine Anderson at jasmine.anderson@zwhjcoc.org.

2021 Meet ‘N Greet DeSoto DEMS at Grow DeSoto Marketplace (parking lot) 324 E. Beltline Rd. Masks Required. 10 am12 pm. Info: Tongee Flemming 469-430-9961.

Spring into Sexy: Get Fit 5K. Online: raceroster.com. 8 am CDT. Reg: BlackGirlsRun.com.

Texas History & Culture presents Harriet Tubman and Maryland’s Underground Railroad - Livestream Tour. 10-11:30 am CDT. Free via Eventbrite.com.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc, Psi Mu Zeta Chapter presents 10th Annual Zumba for Babies. For the March of Dimes/March for Babies. Eventbrite. com. 10 am-11:30 am CDT.

April 16

Hustle & Poetry presented by S3T, at Java Lavender Coffee & Music Lounge, 3207 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. 7 pm-1:30 am. Tickets: l.facebook.com/l.php. SPRAGGA BENZ Live! Feat: Tony Materhorn, Super Twitch, Jazzy T & FYAH STHAR! At Heroes Lounge 3094 N. Stemmons Fwy. Eventbrite.com. 10 pm-3 am.

April 16, 2021

Free Mammogram Screenings at Friendship West Baptist Church, 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Dallas. Call 214-933-7200 to schedule your appointment for April 17, 2021. Female, Ages 40 or older. 9 am-3:40 pm.

April 18

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 & BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. A Real Conversation, with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Event is hosted by AARP Black Community Moderator, Donnie Simpson on Facebook Live @AARP Black Community. 4 pm. CST.

April 21 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. State Fair of Texas, provides a workshop for High School Students. Contact: Jessica Vitela at jvitela@bigtex.com.

Stokley at The Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Pl. Free 7 pm.

City Council Candidate Forum, by Emerging Leaders of DeSoto. Facebook.com/ Emerging Leaders of DeSoto. 6:30 pm. CDT.

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.

Tyrone Davis Music Dedication, event by DJ B-1 Planet Funksville Entertainment. Facebook Live at: Facebook.com/Planet Funksville Entertainment. 7 pm. CDT.

April 20

Louis A. Bedford IV, Civil Rights Attorney presents, Knowing & Defending Voting Rights. Panel: Sen. Royce West, D.A. John Creuzot, and Honorable Erin Nowell. Reg: https://bit.ly/3fo3afj 6:30 pm CDT.

Water Circus - Silver Unit ‘21 Tour - Grand Prairie, TX. Hosted by Cirque Italia. At Grand Prairie Premium Outlets, 2950 W. Interstate 20. 7:30 -9:30 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3te7H83.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Iota Lambda Zeta Chapter presents Mental Health Mondays Zoom Reg: iotalambdazeta.webs.com. Live on Facebook/Iota Lambda Zeta 6-8 pm. CDT.

April 17-18

Ft Worth Zydeco & Blues Festival Feat: Fat Daddy, Step Rideau, Jabo, Little Jimmy, Donyale Renee, Rue Davis & Ms. Tess at The Ranch House, 3534 ED. Berry St. 2-10 pm. Tickets: JimAustinOline.com.

DART Virtual Community Meeting: Bus Route Redesign South Dallas Meeting: Call-in (Audio Only) 469-676-0717. Phone ID: 740 368 453#. Computer or Mobile App: Customer Service: 214-979-1111

April 19

Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson.12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson

April 22 Meet the Candidates: Plano City Council Mayor Place 6, hosted by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Delta Alpha Alpha Zeta Chapter. Online at: us02web.zoom.us. 7 pm.

Cinnaholic Arlington GRAND Opening! Cinnaholic, 5001 Cooper St. Suite 115, Arlington.11 am- 9 pm. 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.

April 24 DFW Small Business Expo at Music City Mall Lewisville, 2401 S. Stemmons Fwy. Lewisville. Eventbrite.com/e/dfwsmall-business-expo-april-tickets-146459998799 12-5 pm. 6th Annual Rattler Generations: Scholarship Roundup. Guest Speaker: Roland Martin. Feat” DJ “The Almighty” Joe Bullard, DJ “Lil Syd” Sydney Wilson, and DJ “Ace 2000” Vaughn Wilson. 4-6 pm. CDT. Online: 2021rattlergenerations.eventbrite.com. Art in the Park in Downtown Plano. Hosted by Downtown Plan Arts District. At Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St. Plano. 11 am-7 pm. CDT. 2021 Candidates Forum. Event by Concerned DeSoto Citizens. Hostess Cora Gardner. Virtual zoom forum. Info: facebook.com/Concerned DeSoto Citizens. 9 am- 12 pm. CDT. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Kappa XI Zeta Chapter Celebrating 40th Anniversary Virtual Finer Womanhood Celebration. Online: tinyurl.com. Music by DJ Shannell B. Tickets & donations at: tinyurl.com/KXZ40andfiner. 11 am. CDT.

April 25 The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459. Tickle Me Pink & Bring the Green Comedy Benefit Show, by Ivy League Educational Charities. Feat: comedian, Marcus D. Wiley. Tickets at: bit.ly/TickleMePinkComedy 7-9 pm. CDT.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Film Discussion: Still I Rise, event by National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and End Slavery Now. RSVP: bit. ly/3dXx5IT. 5 pm. CDT. Haven’t seen the film? Watch it in advance at: www.stillirisethefilm.com. Parenting While Black: Autism Is Not A WHITES ONLY Disorder, event by Autism Urban Connections Inc. A Free online event. Reg.: Eventbrite.com. 11:30 am-3:30pm. CDT.

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

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April 23

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Comerica

sponsors Banks for Babies Program

Comerica Bank and Project Still I Rise have partnered to present the Banks for Babies financial education program at Head Start of Greater Dallas in South Dallas. The program teaches preschoolers the fundamentals of saving and goal setting though an interactive coloring activity. The students are then presented with a piggy bank and a dollar coin to start their saving goals. To date, over 150 preschoolers have gone through the program and plans are in place to engage even more Southern Dallas students. myimessenger.com

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April 16, 2021

Lost My Buddy ASK ALMA BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, A couple of months ago a real friendly woman moved into the condo across the hall. She and I hit it off right away. We went shopping and to lunch together. We even went to a music concert and had a real fun time, or so I thought. All of a sudden, she just stopped calling, texting, visiting and really just being my friend. I don’t know what happen. We still speak. She’ll give me a big wave across the

parking lot or when I see her in the hall, she seems generally glad to see me, but we just don’t hang out anymore. I’m not sure what happened. I really like her and I want to be her friend. What do you think I should do to get her to talk to me and hang out again? Signed, Lost My Running Buddy Dear Lost My Running Buddy, Well, hmmm Sugar Plum, did you do something to piss her off or hurt her feelings? Could you possibly have said something that was a bit harsh? Maybe you gave your opinion on a particular subject that didn’t sit well with her. Or, could it be, she

just don’t like you? Have you ever started a new friendship and partway down the loop you think, “you know what, I don’t really like this person all that much?” Usually it takes a run around the romper room to learn the true personality of a person. Most folks start out sane and with good intentions, spoon feeding you what’s whole and wholesome about them. They seem to be on the up and up, until, Lord have mercy, six months later, here she comes outta nowhere, drowning in red wine, Missy Super Rachet. You’re totally blindsided like when you innocently pick up a hitchhiker who has an ax, or a hatchet, LOL, I couldn’t resist. This woman could be Lucy Looneybird relocating from Louisiana, you don’t know. Anyhow, let it go. Evidently,

ya’ll ain’t got the same flow! You can’t make somebody like you nor should you try. If she decided you were not someone she’d like to add to her friends list, so be it, trust her judgment. She knows herself better than you and she’s had time to peep your hold card. Trust me when I say you’re all the better for it. It’s best to find out up front who’s not friend material, than to waste time cooking in a frying pan of foolishness. Great friendships that are worthwhile grow like a beautiful wisteria vine, you couldn’t stop it if you tried, nor would you want to. 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.

www.grandpasecret.com April 16, 2021

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April 16, 2021

WNBA Draft set for Thursday, April 15 on ESPN By DOROTHY J. Gentry Sports Editor Some of the best and brightest in collegiate women’s basketball will look to have their names called this Thursday during the WNBA Draft. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will announce the draft picks live on ESPN with exclusive coverage beginning at 7 p.m. EDT. The top prospects will take part virtually. The draft will also be available on the ESPN App. The Dallas Wings own the top pick in the draft, as well as the No. 2, 5 and 7 picks in the first round. If the Wings keep and use the No. 1 and No. 2 picks, they will become the first WNBA team ever to make the top two picks in a single draft. Dallas also could become the first team to make four first-round selections in a single draft. How does Wings GM Greg Bibb feel about having the first picks in the draft? “I’ll be better able to answer that a year from now, but it’s always good to have options,” he said. “We are a couple of years into a multi-year strategy in terms of resetting or flipping our roster, so last year we worked to aggregate picks, and it’s an early sample size, but I feel good about that draft class; we’ll try to replicate that success this year. “But it’s always good to have options, and like I said before, it’s not an exact science, so the more swings of the bat you get, the more base hits you probably hit.” In line with their commitment to vaccine education during the off-season, the draft telecast will April 16, 2021

Dallas Wings hold 1st and 2nd Picks

Cathy Engelbert WNBA Commissioner Credit: WNBA/Nike

feature WNBA players discussing COVID vaccines with a focus on health equity. Viewers will also get a sneak peek into the league’s historic, upcoming 25th season with guest appearances from WNBA legends, including Tina Thompson, the first player selected in the inaugural WNBA Draft of April 28, 1997. “The opportunity for these elite athletes to reach this pinnacle and share this special moment with their families, friends and WNBA fans, even in a virtual format, will make for a truly memorable night

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especially as we commemorate the league’s 25th season and continue building momentum for the future of the league,” said the Commissioner. Pre-draft festivities will tip off the morning of April 15 on wnba. com, the WNBA App, and other WNBA social media platforms when the Virtual Orange Carpet will give fans a behind-thescenes glimpse at some of the top draft prospects as they showcase their personalities and their unique styles while preparing for this life-changing moment.

New Team Uniforms Earlier this month the WNBA and Nike unveiled a series of new uniforms for the 12 teams to wear during this historic season. The collection includes three new editions of game uniforms

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for each team: the WNBA Nike Explorer Edition reflects the “creative margins of team identity”, while the WNBA Nike Rebel Edition jerseys represent themes of female empowerment from that team’s cities and communities. And marking the return of the white uniform for the first time since 2015, the WNBA Nike Heroine Edition jerseys symbolize “strength and empowerment.” The new WNBA uniform system from Nike feature three game uniform editions for each of the 12 teams in the league, bringing stories from their cities and communities to life through the muse of female archetypes in storytelling and film: the WNBA Nike Heroine Edition, the WNBA Nike Explorer Edition and the WNBA Nike Rebel Edition. “The basketball uniform is an important representation of the brand of WNBA players and teams, and a point of pride for fans,” said Engelbert. “In partnership with Nike, unveiling new and exciting adaptations of the WNBA uniforms is a dynamic way to build on the foundation of the league’s first 25 years.” Each WNBA game jersey is numbered 1/144, honoring the 144 elite athletes who earned their place in the world’s premier women’s basketball league. Athlete numbers are returning to the front of the game jersey. Ongoing planning continues for the league’s 25th anniversary. Training camp is slated to begin at the end of this month with the regular season set for tip-off in mid-May. myimessenger.com

Thunder Force not forceful enough AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

THUNDER FORCE is new on Netflix this week. It stars Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer as former childhood best friends. After Lydia (McCarty) gets injected with a venom created by Emily (Spencer) the two former best friends become superheroes. However, Lydia and Emily are not the only two people with superpowers. In the story a superblast hits the city of Chicago in 1983 creating several super villains who wreak havoc upon the city. It’s left up to the two women, who create the name THUNDER FORCE for their team; to save the city from destruction at the hands of the Miscreants. The movie is a hodgepodge of different story lines, from the two girls as high school

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best friends and what ended their friendship to a “Girl Power” superhero story with the two super friends out to save the city. The two different plot lines just don’t quite mix together very well. The old friends couldn’t have chosen more different paths in Life. Emily is a world famous scientist who spent her entire life trying to follow in the footsteps of her parents, who were both brilliant scientists and were both killed in the superblast in ‘83. Meanwhile Lydia is a forklift driver who sneaks in a few beers while she’s on the job. The movie has a few good laughs in it and the superhero scenes are action-packed but the movie just didn’t put enough on the plate to leave me satisfied. The movie is rated PG-13 and on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate THUNDER FORCE a MEDIUM.

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April 16, 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 April 16, 2021

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