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I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 45 July 15, 2022

The Trendsetter is the new Texas Metro News youth section, focused solely on the ideals, interests, occurrences and opinions of our youth. Here you will find the latest, hottest, jawdropping stories, appealing to those ranging from 13-25. Prepare to be informed and entertained!

WEIGHT OF THE WORLD By: Maya Palavali

Meet the Interns and The Trendsetter

I Messenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR editor@myimessenger.com www.myimessenger.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marva Sneed EDITORIAL TEAM Anthony Council Chelle Wilson Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall

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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. July 15, 2022

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INSIDE

QUIT PLAYIN’ It’s like winter in America. It feels like winter in America. There ain’t nobody fighting because nobody knows what to save. – Winter in America,Gil Scott-Heron When he co-wrote this hit with his sidekick Brian Jackson, Gil Scott-Heron described a nation in turmoil.

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

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BUY BLACK BUSINESSES When Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the movement. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses.

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July 15, 2022

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Visionary Leadership Wins It was an exciting time at the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s (NNPA) annual convention in New Orleans in late June, under the direction of NNPA President Dr. Ben Chavis. Now who doesn’t love to visit New Orleans? Well, in addition to outstanding programming, an opportunity to hear some wonderful messages from dynamic speakers, a wonderful performance from Stephanie Mills and an opportunity to see my classmate, Bobby R. Henry of the Westside Gazette, receive Lifetime Achievement honors. Bobby and I took many of the same journalism classes at Florida A&M University, and decades later we are still friends and working together; us both publishers. I celebrated his achievements that night and just the night before he celebrated as Texas Metro News walked away with four awards: Third in Newsletter Excellence; Second for Facebook Campaign Award and Robert S. Abbott Editorial & Opinion Award; and First Place for Carl Murphy Community Service Award. July 15, 2022

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Dr. Ben Chavis

Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III

Bobby Henry Sr.

Which brings me to my truth. Last Fall, Dr. Frederick

awareness of and support for Black-owned businesses.

D. Haynes III of Friendship-West Baptist Church announced that for the next 100 days, there would be an effort to increase

I immediately reached out to him and told him it was a great idea and I would support by featuring a Black business every day

in the Metro Newsletter and subsequently on the pages of all I Messenger Media publications. So for the next 100 days, we showcased Black businesses and it was so rewarding that we decided to continue in perpetuity. We don’t alert the businesses or ask for anything, we just showcase them and hope that our readers will support them and that would make us feel great. Winning an award for community engagement is icing on the cake. So we say a big thanks to those who support Black businesses and an even bigger one to Pastor Haynes for his support and visionary leadership. That’s what we need more of in the world and I am fortunate to see it in and know three visionary leaders: Dr. Chavis, Bobby Henry Sr. and Dr. Haynes.

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July 15, 2022

Winter in America in July! QUIT PLAYIN’ BY VINCENT L. HALL

It’s like winter in America. It feels like winter in America. There ain’t nobody fighting because nobody knows what to save. – Winter in America, Gil Scott-Heron When he co-wrote this hit with his sidekick Brian Jackson, Gil Scott-Heron described a nation in turmoil. But that was January of 1975. It is July, the beginning of the summer of 2022. However, this “winter” has to be colder than any other in the history of this nation. No serious survey of Black Music would be complete without researching, reviewing, or rewinding Gil Scott-Heron. His value as lyricist/liberator-laureate was as luminous as it was legendary. James Brown may be the progenitor of rap music, but Heron perfected the art. Gil grew up in his Grandma Lillie’s house in Jackson, Tennessee. His mother, Bobbie, was a New York Oratorical Society singer, and his Jamaican father, Giles, was the first black ever to play for Glasgow’s Celtic Football Team. Gil understood the stark realities of black life in America as a young teen. At age 13, his grandmother died, and he was forcibly baptized into the streets of New York’s Bronx borough. He attended Lincoln University in Pennsylvania because writer Langston Hughes influenced his life. July 15, 2022

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Even though he only spent two years at Lincoln, Gil later earned a master’s degree in Creative Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Gil Scott published two novels, “The Vulture” and the “Nigger Factory.” Gil Scott despised and disparaged the status quo and became famous for his one-person nuclear attack on President Ronald Reagan. Gil released songs denouncing and demeaning Reagan like; “We don’t need no Re-Ron” and “B Movie.” “Whitey on the Moon” lamented America’s blind eye

vehemently challenged that moniker, remarking, “Rap is aimed at kids.” Gil Scott-Heron’s music was too saturated in truth for children and too subliminal for adults whose minds were not open to critical thought. This brother was profound, prophetic, and pronounced in his defiance of America’s often-stated “exceptionalism.” In the song “Angel Dust,” Scott admitted that PCP, which grew in popularity in the “‘70s, was a high like none other. But in the following line, he reveals a habit that may have taken his life.

to poverty. Gil was an expatriate or no patriot at all. Gil Scott-Heron spat and split verbs as if he created the English language and remolded culture with his quick-witted idioms. Gil Scott was unashamedly Black and proud, but his listenership and fan base was diverse and international. Though some revere him in deference to James Brown as the “Godfather of Rap,” he

“Angel Dust, You won’t remember what you’re missin’, but down some dead-end streets, there ain’t no turnin’ back.” On May 27, 2011, at 62, Gil Scott-Heron turned a corner and walked his final dead-end street… for him, there ain’t no turnin’ back. Gil Scott-Heron must be standing in the wings near the pearly gates; (Black pearls, of course), looking down on his prophecy. America is in its

winter months, with no sign of this blizzard dying down. Mass murders, angry white insurrectionists, and jaundiced jurors supremely and strategically placed to abscond with justice rule the day. Urban streets, freeway underpasses, and vacant lots serve as the last refuge for a growing homeless population. Our jails are teeming with poor folks that should be in mental hospitals. Oh yeah, it’s winter in America when the truth of American slavery and racism are too brutal for your children to hear. It’s winter when you create a theory that teaching a theory (CRT) is a lawless act and must not take place in public schools. It’s winter when white folks have declared “civil war” amongst themselves. It’s winter when you hold out the welcome banner for “White immigrants” near Ellis Island and “Mexican illegals” die en-masse in a Texas macabre rolling on 18-wheels. It’s winter when you wonder if 21 children could die in a White upscale neighborhood elementary school during an ordeal that lasted hours. “From the Indians who welcomed the pilgrims. And to the buffalo who once ruled the plains. Like the vultures circling beneath the dark clouds, looking for the rain, they’ve been looking for the rain, and Nobody knows what to save.” Gil is not weathering this winter with us, but he added a lyrical retort to Winter in America, “Brother, save your souls, and Sister, save your babies.” Quit Playin’! Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

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July 15, 2022

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July 15, 2022

Taking our Supreme Court back OUR VOICES

BY BEN JEALOUS

Did you ever wonder whether elections really matter? Well, the Donald Trump Supreme Court majority has answered that question for good. Or, more accurately, they have answered it for bad. In the term that has just ended, the new far-right-wing majority on the Supreme Court went on a rampage. They have torn up decades of legal precedent to diminish Americans’ rights and legal protections. To justify the results they wanted, they lied in their rulings the way some of them lied to get on the court. It has been a shameful display of power politics disguised as judging. Not surprisingly, the most attention has been paid to the Court majority overturning the 50-year-old Roe v. Wade decision. A constitutional right that has made a huge difference in the lives of generations of women was wiped away. The impact will be devastating and deadly. Millions of individuals and couples dealing with unwanted pregnancies, the trauma of rape or incest, life-threatening pregnancy complications, or even a miscarriage that some intrusive government official decides is suspicious, will have their options severely limited or eliminated entirely. We know that those restrictions and their consequences will fall most harshly on already vulnerable people, including Black people, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and low-income people. Already in Missouri, a major health care system will no longer treat rape victims with emergency contraception because the state abortion ban puts medical care providers at legal risk. July 15, 2022

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Unfortunately, overturning Roe is just one of the harmful decisions handed down by the Trump Court. The Court intervened in voting rights cases to protect gerrymandering designed to limit Black voters’ access to political power. This comes on top of other rulings gutting the Voting Rights Act. The Trump Court went after sensible regulation of guns. The far-right justices overturned a New York law more than 100 years old that required people to show a good cause to get a permit to carry concealed firearms. Communities

In other words, winning the presidency and controlling the Senate gave the far-right the power to force its harmful agenda on the American public long after voters rejected Mr. Trump. Taking the Court back from the extremists who now control it will be a long-term project. It starts with this year’s elections. that are already suffering from the effects of gun crime are likely to experience even greater violence now that the court has robbed public officials of options and given the extremist pro-gun political agenda the power of law. The court also further dismantled the separation of church and state, which protects religious freedom and preserves equality under law for people regardless of their religious beliefs. The Trump Court took a wrecking ball to this pillar of American society. It is forcing states to divert tax dollars to religious schools

like some southern states did when they funded white evangelical segregationist academies that emerged in resistance to the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision outlawing racially segregated public schools. This court has made it easier for public officials, like teachers, to coerce students into prayer or other religious practices. This is a very clear threat to anyone whose faith is different from the one dominant in their community or state. In other words, the U.S. Supreme Court, which we counted on for generations to uphold civil rights and tear down obstacles to equality, is now acting as an arm of the increasingly aggressive far -right political movement. How did we get here? Simple. Thanks to the anti-democratic Electoral College, Donald Trump was elected in 2016 even though almost 3 million more Americans voted for Hillary Clinton. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell prevented the Senate from even considering President Obama’s Supreme Court nomination so that Mr. Trump could fill it instead—and then rushed Mr. Trump’s third justice onto the court even as voters were casting ballots to remove Mr. Trump from office. Behind Mr. Trump and Sen. McConnell was a massively funded, decades-long campaign to build the political power to take control of the judiciary. In other words, winning the presidency and controlling the Senate gave the far-right the power to force its harmful agenda on the American public long after voters rejected Mr. Trump. Taking the Court back from the extremists who now control it will be a long-term project. It starts with this year’s elections. Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way and Professor of Practice in the Africana Studies Department at the University of Pennsylvania, where he teaches leadership.

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Meet TMN’s Newest Class of Interns Asia Nicole Alcorn is taking steps today to prepare for her future By Kendall Gayle Washington

Growing up, Asia Nicole Alcorn wasn’t exactly sure what the future might hold, but she knew she wanted to do something she was passionate about. Alcorn is a multi-media journalist interning at Texas Metro News making her mark, and publisher Cheryl Smith says, “You can see the difference in the paper since Asia has been here.” myimessenger.com

Iniya Nathan

Kendall Washington

Nycorta Diaz Mabry, Jr.

Maya Palavali

Asia Nicole Alcorn

Angelina Liu

Growing up in Grand Prairie, TX. Asia was raised in a Christian environment, singing on the praise team. One day, after her Dad picked her up from school, he told Asia they would be moving church homes. Her father, Derrick Alcorn, and grandmother, Emma Davis, started their church over five years ago. “I was so used to my church family at The Potter’s House,” Asia said, adding that if it was not for the church home transition she would not have grown to be the strong young woman she is today. “l learned to adapt in a new environment and meet new people, which prepared

me for my future career as a journalist.” When she was in the womb, her parents would play music, and sing to her. In her younger years, she was a “singing machine.” Asia assumed that her career would land her in music, but that belief changed in middle school. Asia’s mom, Lynette Alcorn, encouraged her to join the Optimist Club of Grand Prairie. Asia went on to give 10-minute speech presentations at national conventions competing against kids around the world. As graduation came closer, she never knew where she would end up after applyJuly 15, 2022

“Big Mama Said” columnist, Terry Allen gives intern Nycorta Mabry, Jr. advice for success.

ing to Texas Christian University and the University of Texas Arlington. However, in fall of 2019, Alcorn became an Mean Green Eagle at the University of North Texas. “UNT felt like home,” she said. In the middle of her freshman year, the COVID-19 pandemic began. For some students, it was a struggle to keep up, but Alcorn said it became easier and she discovered how independent she was. The true turning point in Asia’s life was not when she found her passion for journalism, but when her son Zane was born. Zane was the light at the end of Asia’s tunnel. She thanks God every day for her son and for everything she has accomplished. Asia, a Broadcast Journalism major and Spanish minor, will graduate in fall of 2022 with a bachelor’s degree, and the following year with a master’s degree. Asia said she is grateful for the opportunity to work with Texas Metro News this summer. She hopes to take everything she has learned at Texas Metro News, and use it in her future career as a news anchor and reporter.

Angelina Liu assumes Editor-in-Chief Post By Maya Palavali

Friday I’m in Love by The Cure How to disappear by Lana Del Rey July 15, 2022

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Secret of Life by Lord Huron These songs may seem random, but they are a glimpse into Angelina Liu’s personality and style. Liu is an avid fan of musical arts, but her passion lies in the art of storytelling. “I think it’s amazing that you’re able to get to know somebody that you may have never gotten to know otherwise,” Liu said. Liu grew up in Vienna, VA, a suburb next to the country’s capital. However, most of her childhood memories are in Coppell, where her family moved to when she was in the third grade. Throughout middle school, Liu continued both theater and basketball, but as she entered high school, Liu made the tough decision to stop those current extracurricular activities. “I decided that they just didn’t really align with what I want in the future,” Liu said. “So, I just picked up journalism and took off with it.” Liu started as a writer for her school’s newspaper, The Sidekick, her sophomore year. But as the year progressed, Liu quickly began to love photojournalism and was the staff visual media editor her junior year. “When I first joined The Sidekick, I didn’t even really want to try photography,” Liu said. “I’m really glad that I decided to pick up a camera because being able to learn more about the camera and its capabilities has been a really cool experience.”

A rising senior at Coppell High School, Liu has earned the position of The Sidekick’s editor-in-chief. Contrary to her current dedication and talent, Liu wasn’t always interested in pursuing journalism. “I never had something that I really loved,” Liu said. “COVID really allowed me to say I don’t like what I’m doing right now; that’s where I really started looking into other possibilities.” Before her internship with Texas Metro News, Liu was a part of the Scripps Howard Foundation Emerging Journalists program. Her selection as one of the twenty students in the program was no coincidence. As her successful high school career is coming to an end, Liu has an idea of what her future will look like in college. “My father and my sister went to the University of Texas at Austin, so it was always apparent that’s where I’ll go,” Liu said. “I’ll definitely focus on the humanities side of majors.” Liu has a support system behind her that is with her on everything, journalism and otherwise. Her friends get her to step out of her comfort zone, while also cheering her on. “I hate people watching me, but one of my favorite things to do is go to karaoke,” Liu said. “I’m just comfortable and being with my friends is the best feeling.” myimessenger.com

Grambling State Communications Major Plans to Make Mark By Emily Dieztmann

Now, a Mass Communications major and Marketing minor, he has decided the biggest brand he wants to build is himself. In preparation for his many big moments in the foreseeable future, he began branding himself under his full name, as he believes it carries a lot of responsibility and power. In addition to writing stories, covering events and learning all areas of the industry, Mabry will also be hosting a weekly

“Being an influencer means having the ability to change the world,” Mabry said, as he describes the beginning of this new journey. “It’s a big responsibility.”

Iniya Nathan has

When Nycorta Diaz Mabry, Jr. came into Stories to Tell the world, his name was already predetermined, along with certain expectations. According to his grandfather and father, By Angelina Liu Nycorta means “strong Black King,” As a child, Coppell High School seand Nycorta Jr. said both men have nior Iniya Nathan always had an inbeen great role models to help chart terest in reading. Whether it be a myshis path in life. tery, romance or fantasy, the complex Mabry is one of Texas Metro News’ worlds of each multi-faceted characnewest interns and he is ready to ter intrigued her as she struggled to make a difference. put each book down. “I have a lot that I can offer the “I often got in trouble for readworld, but I haven’t had the opportuing during class time in elementary nity to show them that yet.” school,” Nathan said. Even in a ZOOM call, Mabry exThis exact hunger to consume stoudes a go-getter attitude and an amiries of demi-gods slaying monsters able personality. He is one of those on top of the Empire State Building, people who knows how to lead but to the tragic love stories of doomed also to care for the people he loves. fictional universes has developed and A native of Flint, MI, and gradutranslated to her love for storytelling. ate of Flushing High School, Mabry Born in Downers Grove, IL, her played a variety of sports and excelled family moved to Coppell, Texas when in all of them, but his favorite and the she was in fifth grade. Although Naone he was best at was football. He than is introverted, she does not aleven played for select teams outside low this trait to deter her from seeking of school, garnering many awards. truth and reporting it. Her passion to Graduating in 2017, Mabry went on shed light on injustice is motivated by to Davenport University on a full-ride her own experiences with racism and football scholarship. While he had what she sees on the news. offers from some Division 1 schools, “A guy smeared bacon all over my he selected the Division 2 college bedesk in third grade when I told him cause he felt it was best for the finanthat I didn’t eat bacon due to my culcial needs of his family. He believes ture,” Nathan said. “I want to be able he could have had more and better to advocate for others because there offers if he just had more exposure — are people who suffer in silence. Writan issue he deals with to this day. ing a story about an experience can Mabry played football through Kendall Gayle Washington, Iniya Nathan, Asia Nicole Alcorn help other people who are in a similar his sophomore year with Davenport and Angelina Liu, some of the Texas Metro News interns. situation.” University, but then he tore his ACL. Outside of journalism, Nathan is ofHe said that injury was truly “the pivot podcast in June, utilizing his marketing ten traveling with her family to the sandy point of his life.” skills to promote the I Messenger Media laid-back shores of the Bahamas, or the Everything in him had been geared to- Brand that includes: Texas Metro News, massive mountain ranges of the Swiss ward football. It was “his way out.” Now I Messenger, Garland Journal and other Alps, where the air is thin but the sunset he was out of the game, he did some soul IMM Digital platforms. atop a range makes it worthwhile. searching. Inspired by the likes of Joe Budding and The similarities between the fictionAfter a long internal battle, he decided rap mogul Diddy, Mabry plans to use his al worlds of her novels, and the real-life his next goal was to attend Grambling opportunity at Texas Metro News to build destinations make it special for Nathan State University. He even started reaching his repertoire, make connections to oth- to experience the striking beauty of each out to students saying he would be there er powerful leaders of the Dallas/Fort location. the next semester. Sure enough, he was Worth communities and take what he has Although Nathan realizes that she can’t accepted and traveled south to Gram- learned and make a change. He is also fo- fulfill her dream job to teach dragon writSee MEET TMN'S NEWEST INTERNS, page 29 bling, LA. cused on changing the world. myimessenger.com

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July 15, 2022

NFL Partners With Contract With Black America To Strengthen Economic Equality By NNPA Newswire BlackPressUSA

The National Football League announced today its partnership with Contract with Black America Institute, an economic inclusion-focused initiative led by artist and entrepreneur O’Shea Jackson, also known as Ice Cube. The CWBA and NFL partnership enhances the NFL’s dedication to increasing economic equity and partnerships with Black owned businesses. The collaboration focuses on identifying League-wide opportunities in the financial, tech, and production sectors, with a concentration on increasing direct and indirect spend to national Black businesses to help close America’s racial and economic wealth gap. “For more than a year, the CWBA Institute has been working closely with the NFL on identifying resources to build stronger, more substantive economic partnerships with the Black community,” said Ice Cube. “Our team at CWBA, including my long-

“Our partnership with CWBA is another reminder that partnering with intentional organizations is critical to everything we do at the League,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, pictured on left with artist and entrepreneur O’Shea Jackson, also known as Ice Cube.

time business partner and entertainment lawyer Jeff Kwatinetz, and advisors Ja’Ron Smith and Chris Pilkerton, are focused on building corporate partnerships with measurable economic growth outcomes for Black communities across the country. We believe this is a giant step in the right direction.” Driven by a strong internal commitment to diversify the NFL’s business partnerships with organizations like CWBA, the League has spent and allocated $125 Million with Black owned and operated businesses such as Ariel

Investments, CityFirst/Broadway Bank, Cover Communications, and Fearless Technology during the last year. “City First Bank is pleased to have formed a strategic partnership with the National Football League and Contract With Black America,” said City First Bank President & CEO Brian Argrett. “This partnership supports and accelerates each organization’s commitment to ensuring that minority businesses have access to capital and opportunities to fuel their growth. Partnerships like this are critical to driving equitable

economic change within the Black community as well as supporting the growth of City First Bank and other Black-led and Black-owned financial institutions that deploy capital for economic growth and empowerment.” “Our partnership with CWBA is another reminder that partnering with intentional organizations is critical to everything we do at the League,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “Black businesses play a major role in our country’s economic prosperity. We understand these businesses have not always had the opportunity for exponential growth, so we are pleased to have partners like Ice Cube and his organization, CWBA, in a continued, collective push toward greater economic inclusion.” Building off of its long-standing Business Connect program, which works to afford minority, woman, LGBTQ+ and veteran-owned businesses Super Bowl & Draft opportunities, the NFL looks to continue to expand and diversify its vendors through strategic national partnerships.

17 Receive Presidential Medal Of Freedom At White House Ceremony A reported bout with Covid kept actor Denzel Washington from attending the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at the White House on Thursday, but 16 others, including Olympic Champion Simone Biles, U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe, and Khazir Khan, joined President Joe Biden to accept their July 15, 2022

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respective honors. Washington, Khan, Rapinoe, and Sandra Lindsay each received the medals – the country’s highest civilian honor. “The Fourth of July week reminds us of what brought us together long ago and still binds us – binds us at our best, what we strive for,” Biden remarked during the ceremony.

Olympiad Simone Biles

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July 15, 2022

The Trendsetter is the new Texas Metro News youth section, focused solely on the ideals, interests, occurrences and opinions of our youth. Here you will find the latest, hottest, jaw-dropping stories, appealing to those ranging from 13-25. Prepare to be informed and entertained!

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” is a Must See KICKIN’ IT WITH KENDALL GAYLE

too comfortable. Once you settle into something, it changes the next second. I

BY KENDALL GAYLE WASHINGTON As of June 2022, there has been a strong divide amongst teenagers, all thanks to a #1 Amazon Prime show, “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The battle of Team Jeremiah vs. Team Conrad might be deeper than the recent NBA championship, as fans are on opposite sides of Belly’s love life, fighting over which guy is best for her. After the multiple TikTok videos about the show, I had to see if it was worth the hype. It was. “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is the best summer show to watch. Yes, I have read the book and there are several key differences between the book and the series, but it was necessary. Unlike the book, Belly’s brother Stephen stays for the whole summer, creating a character arc of his own. The show presents itself with several characters - not at all in the book, and again it was necessary. The only thing about the show that may turn viewers away is you cannot get July 15, 2022

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find it entertaining. The show is keeping viewers on their toes.

Compared to the book, Conrad’s anger issues are less extreme, giving many people a soft spot for him. After he interacts with Belly, he continues to gaslight her, making her believe the moments they share were never real. Conrad tries to apologize, but he is too late because his younger brother Jeremiah remains honest with Belly about his feelings. Yes, I am team Jeremiah. Every girl deserves someone who treats them with respect, and Jeremiah does just that. As the love triangle continues, Stephen finds himself falling for a debutante and tries his best to do right by her. While all the drama unfolds, the show’s production team found the best music to play over the scenes. If all the drama still does not get you hooked, Lizzo herself gave the TV series her stamp of approval. Not to mention, the series is based on the book written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Jenny Han, who wrote the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before series. If you like the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before movies, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” series is 100% better. The hype is real, so stop watching the Tik Tok videos and get the real experience on Amazon Prime Video. myimessenger.com

Summer Song OF THE WEEK

The Trendsetter Staff Editor-in-Chief: Kendall Gayle Washington Managing Editor: Asia Nicole Alcorn Entertainment Editor: Angelina Liu Layout and Design Editor: Iniya Nathan Editorial Page Editor: Maya Palavali

Lizzo’s funk Post Disco song, About Damn Time. The upbeat song in a motivational anthem for people across the nation. About Damn Time has been on the Billboard top 100 for several weeks, currently ranking at No. 3.

Dallas County Raises COVID-19 Risk Level Midsummer BY ASIA NICOLE ALCORN MANAGING EDITOR

On April 9 2020, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson announced the start of the Task Force on COVID-19 Economic Recovery. Johnson named the former president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Richard W. Fisher, as Chairman of the Task Force. Along with Fisher and Johnson, Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Adam McGough, and Councilmember Casey Thomas, II, were to serve as the City’s inaugural representatives on the Task Force. However, on May 1 2020, Mayor Johnson and Task Force Chairman, Richard W. Fisher announced some changes within the Task Force committee. Fisher introduced The Beck Group’s CEO, Fred Perpall, as his co-chair. Johnson reported he, and his two ad hoc COVID-19 committee chairs, Adam McGough and Casey Thomas, II, would no longer be myimessenger.com

members of the Task Force. According to Yolanda Miller, the Dallas City Council’s Assistant, the Task Force on COVID-19 Economic Recovery, led by Chairman Richard W. Fisher, has been “dissolved by Mayor Johnson.”

the pandemic began, and sadly, we’re still in it. However, COVID-19 shouldn’t ruin your summer plans. There are safe ways to have fun, and here’s some tips to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection: • Consider getting you and

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Credit: Tyler Dalbora via Flickr

As a result of his removal in May, Councilman Casey Thomas, II formed the African American Task Force for COVID-19 in July 2020. Councilman Thomas’ African American Task Force for COVID-19 had several meetings in 2021, but not this year. Mayor Johnson’s resolution, along with the lack of meetings per Councilman Thomas, may affect many within the community, considering Dallas County raised its COVID-19 Risk Level to yellow last week. It’s been two years since

your family members vaccinated if you haven’t already. Children 6 months and up are now able to receive Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines. • Wear your mask indoors and outdoors. COVID-19 is an airborne virus, and it can spread quickly. Always better to be safe than sorry. • Always make sure you have extra supplies on deck. This includes wipes, hand sanitizer, masks and plastic bags to store your trash in. • Wash your hands and or sani tize regularly. And keep

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some hand lotion so they stay moisturized! Choose short road trips over traveling by plane. Many airlines no longer require wearing masks, which could put you and your family at risk. If you plan on having a large gathering, make sure activities are outdoors. This will allow more room for social distancing, too. Always choose curbside, drivethru or other non-contact delivery instead of dining in. Or better yet, you can make/ bring your own meals! Keep tabs on the areas you’re traveling to. If you notice an increase in infection rates, maybe you should consider changing plans. If you want to keep cool, try using the sprinklers or a backyard pool instead of going to a community pool. This will minimize the number of people you come into contact with. Consider purchasing some at-home COVID-19 test kits. This will be a lifesaver, especially if someone in your household is experiencing symptoms. And they only take fifteen minutes! July 15, 2022

Sweet 16: Big Birthday Bash or Small Simple Celebration? 16th Birthday Should Be a Big Deal BY MAYA PALAVALI EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

Birthdays are a time of celebration, a cultural and societal way of honoring the day you were born. It’s a day everyone has for themselves, making us all feel special on our birth date. I believe in making birthdays a big deal because it helps people feel loved. Every year I have a birthday party, which I plan out fully (and encourage others to also). I especially like to go all out for milestone birthdays. Turning 16 is more than a usual birthday; it’s when we, as young adults, start receiving freedom. Being able to get your license is the first step in becoming an independent individual. To honor a turning point in your life, your 16th birthday should be treated as a huge deal. Making certain aspects of this special day is an essential way of marking the transition in a positive light. Having a great party makes growing up less intimidating and more as something to look forward to. I looked forward to my Sweet 16 because I knew it would be a year where I could celebrate any way I wanted. Making this milestone a big deal brings motivation, and a way to help transition to independence.

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WEIGHT OF THE WORLD By: Maya Palavali

July 15, 2022

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Your Sweet 16 Does Not Have to be Grand

Summer Crossword

BY INIYA NATHAN LAYOUT AND DESIGN EDITOR

There are many milestone birthdays: 18, 20, 21, 30 and every decade onwards. You step out of your teen years into adulthood, you’re able to legally drink and you’ve survived decade after decade. There are so many reasons to celebrate each birthday. But more specifically, when turning 16. You can legally drive without an adult hovering over you, which I think is a grand reason to look forward to your 16th birthday. When I turned 16, I had a Zoom call with my friends because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, even if I were able to celebrate my birthday to my liking, I would not have thrown a big, flashy birthday party or gone out to a fancy, fun and extravagant place. My 16th birthday party was to be a celebration of me, and I preferred to do something less excessive and more personal. All of my birthday parties are a celebration of me, and my 16th birthday was not any different. Of course there are many people who throw big birthday parties every year because that’s their way of celebrating themselves, and that’s great. However, I believe your 16th birthday is just as significant. Throw the same big birthday party every year, or try something new, but on the same scale as the year before. There is no need to outdo yourself because you turned 16. Your birthday is a celebration of you, it does not need to follow society’s standards. So, do YOU, on YOUR birthday. myimessenger.com

Down:

1. A gathering in which people celebrate in water 3. Light up in the sky 4. An inflatable sports equipment to use both at the beach and in the swimming pool as recreation 6. A toy flown in the wind at the end of a long string

Across:

2. A sweet drink made with a yellow fruit 5. A large fruit mostly consisting of water, usually red with black seeds and a green rind 7. A meal or gathering at whihc, fish, or other food is cooked 8. Vision equipment to help with swimming, usually used for younger individuals

July 15, 2022

America Has Two Law Enforcement Standards OUR VOICES DR. JOHN E. WARREN

The recent shootings by law enforcement of individuals being pursued by police have reminded many people of color of what appears to be an unwritten universal double standard. One would think that after the George Floyd murder and the subsequent murder of a young Black man following a traffic stop in the state of Minnesota, something might have been learned. We just witnessed a young Black man in Akron, Ohio being shot more than 60 times by police following a pursuit for what allegedly was a traffic violation.

We can still remember another Black man who was shot because he had a cell phone in his hand when confronted by police. The list is almost endless, from California to Chicago to North Carolina, from Missouri, and from New York City where a Black man was choked to death over some cigarettes. Now let’s look at the “White” side of law enforcement, starting with the most recent Fourth of July mass shooting in Illinois. An 18 to 20-year-old white male kills seven people and wounds 31 others. When police check-up with him, he is taken into custody without a shot being fired. Another 18 to 20-year-old in Buffalo, New York mass murders 10 African Americans at the Tops Supermarket and he is arrested with-

out a shot being fired. Let us not forget Rittenhouse, who killed two people with an assault weapon, also was arrested “alive”, was tried in Minnesota, and was acquitted, becoming a national hero of the Extreme Right. It appears no matter how much we (Blacks and those whites who join us) march and protest, it makes no difference to law enforcement around this country. This same shoot-to-kill mentality, if the alleged lawbreaker is Black or Brown, appears to be universal. It appears that the solution to this problem cannot be legislated because we can’t make laws to change the hearts of men. But we must not let each of these incidents become just a matter of business when dealing with white folks, but

continued acts of murder if one is a person of color. We know there are no federal murder laws, but we can mobilize within each state where these “murders” occur and take action against those who do not prosecute these murderers of unarmed people to the fullest extent of the law. This year’s Fourth of July mass murder is a testament to the hypocrisy of a Congress, both House and Senate, that refuses to outlaw assault weapons and enacts weak and meaningless gun laws as pacification of an aggrieved nation. A midterm election is coming up. We have homework to do if we are going to make a difference. Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

Strickland, Adams, Turner, Brown, Stewart Introduce Legislation To Invest In Research At HBCUs Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) helped introduce the Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU) Research, Innovation, Security, and Excellence Act (RISE) Act to bring federal dollars in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to HBCUs. “The HBCU RISE Act will help HBCUs remain competitive against other academic institutions by creating equitable research opportunities,” July 15, 2022

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said Strickland. their research in“As a proud gradvestment. The piuate of Clark Atlot program this lanta University, it legislation creates is critical that we would allow HBCUs support minorithe opportunity to ty-serving instituattract quality retions by investing search talent, purin HBCUs so that sue greater private students and fac- Congresswoman Marilyn funding, create eqStrickland ulty can achieve uitable career opresearch success.” portunities, and much more. The Department of Defense Congresswoman Strickland plays a vital role in promoting introduced the HBCU Rise Act STEM research, but HBCUs with Representatives Alma Adcurrently receive only 0.6% of ams (NC-12), Michael Turner

(OH-10), Anthony Brown (MD04), and Chris Stewart (UT-02). U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and is the only African American woman who serves on the House Armed Services Committee. She is a member of the New Democrat Coalition, is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress and is the first African American elected to represent the Pacific Northwest at the federal level. myimessenger.com

A Letter to the Church: Are you living in vain? FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Dear Body of Christ, This isn’t for all of you. I want to commend those of you who step up to the plate daily supplying the support that our communities need. This is for those who are focused on dealing with certain people because it’s easy and comfortable. As I witness you celebrating the overturning of Roe v. Wade, I want to challenge you. I want you to really consider the way you are currently supporting women and children in your congregation. I hope that you will also embrace the young women who are single mothers without judgment and that your church has a ministry that caters to their needs offering both financial and emotional support beyond just the spiritual. As churches, I hope that you are taking the time to address the needs of those who you are called to serve instead of just teaching them without the practical application of what they are hearing on Sundays and Wednesday nights. I hope that you are talking to those young men myimessenger.com

in your congregation about what it means to be a man--that it is more than the ability to create babies but to be accountable and responsible for your actions. My prayer is that you will show them what it means to be in a loving, committed relationship that supports your partner to fulfill their God-given purpose, too.

ing, and other necessities so that children can come into the world healthy, safe and provided for. We do not question infant mortality and the rates of Black women who die in childbirth and after the birth of their babies. If babies are really important to you, you would be concerned about their educational opportunities.

We do not question infant mortality and the rates of Black women who die in childbirth and after the birth of their babies. If babies are really important to you, you would be concerned about their educational opportunities. I hope that instead of allowing the women to carry the responsibility of parenthood---since their conception was not a solo act—that you will hold the men in your congregation to a standard of being involved, even if they are not with the mother of their child/children. Church, if human life is so important to you then it must go beyond conception and pregnancy to life outside the womb. How do we care for the unborn but not their mothers or fathers? We do not fight for universal health insurance, liveable wage jobs, hous-

They would have quality child care centers with teachers that are trained and paid well. We would care about their safety— children and their families would be protected from violence that exists in the home and outside of the home. They could be free to shop in grocery stores, go to the movies, attend parades or even go to school without the fear of being massacred in places that are supposed to be safe. Just as Jesus listed several issues with the Pharisees, those same issues exist today within the Church. Matthew 23:14-36 lists sev-

en woes to the Pharisees which are relevant today: • Teaching about God but not genuinely loving God (claiming you love God who you’ve never seen but hate your brothers and sisters you see every day (1 John 4:20)). • Preaching about God but you don’t live out what you are teaching. • Confusing what’s sacred and what is not. • Teaching the Bible but not practicing justice, mercy, and faithfulness to God. Getting caught up in the minuscule but not paying attention to what’s major. • Appearing to be righteous but filled with a heart of greed and self-promotion. • Speaking about your love for Jesus but if He were alive today, many of you would condemn Him as well. I hope that in your moments of celebration, there is time for true reflection and change. Without it, our witness to the world is filled with hypocrisy—like the Pharisees. 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.

July 15, 2022

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Meet TMN’s Newest Class of Interns cont. from page 15 ing to children, as dragons don’t exist in this world (yet), she aspires to be a paralegal or work in public relations. Nathan said she is excited to tell the countless stories of those in the Dallas metroplex.

Coppell High School senior starts her journalism career By Iniya Nathan

At the beginning of her junior year, she had no idea that this one class would change the course of her life. Maya Palavali, originally from Valley Ranch, Texas, moved to Coppell when she was three years old. She joined Coppell High School’s student newspaper The Sidekick, on a whim her junior year, a year later than when most students join the staff. At first, she was not very passionate about the program. “I was basically slacking off for the first semester,” Palavali said. “I’m not really sure what changed, but when I came back from [winter] break I just got really into The Sidekick. I exponentially became passionate about this.” She is currently the staff cartoonist for The Sidekick. However, she did not see a future in journalism until after she got accepted into the Scripps Howard Foundation Emerging Journalism Program at the University of North Texas. The one week journalism workshop not only convinced Palavali that a future in journalism is possible, but also placed her here with Texas Metro News. Palavali’s first article was an opinion and from then she has expanded to writing entertainment stories, features, drawing cartoons and more. Her favormyimessenger.com

ite section is still opinions, and her passion for advocacy tints those stories. “When I was younger, I thought [advocacy] was kind of stupid,” Palavali said. “Why would we need that? It really changed in seventh grade. There were some circumstances where I realized I was not like my peers. It felt like I was other and I don’t want people to feel that way.” The two issues that are most important to her are LGBTQ+ rights and mental health, although other issues like women’s rights and racism matter a lot to her as well. While she does a lot of volunteering, her life does not circle around helping others. Her other hobbies include writing poetry and drawing. She is a debater and debate coach and was a part of the Coppell Literary Art Magazine, also known as CLAM. Palavali is not confident that she is going to major in journalism in college as she is also considering other majors such as business and psychology. However, she is not letting go of this passion after high school and plans to at least minor in journalism or continue working in the field somehow. Her inspiration is her family as they have been a huge, supportive part of her life, especially when it comes to journalism. Palavali is ready for her writing to change the world. “I want to shine more light on the people’s struggles,” Palavali said. “But not just their struggles, but their lives outside of being part of a community because that’s not shown enough. People can look at my writing and they’ll think ‘I’ll be ok.”

Young, gifted, Black and focused on success By Asia Nicole Alcorn

Kendall Gayle Washington is the definition of young and inspiring. At 16, she has already graduated from Dallas College with an Associate of Arts and Science. Now a rising senior at Bishop Dunne Catholic School, Kendall has her heart set on pursuing journalism and her top school choices include New York University, Columbia University, Florida A&M University and University of Texas at Austin. Kendall is a Jill of all trades, with the personality of a creative leader and a heart of gold. Her parents, Kenneth and Sharon Washington, set high expectations for their daughter, which she has already surpassed. “Kendall Gayle has always been a positive overachiever,” Mr. Washington said. “If she wants something to happen and it doesn’t exist, she’ll make it happen.” Kendall describes her mom, Sharon Washington, as her best friend and inspiration. “We are extremely proud of her because she is self-motivated and self-driven,” Mrs. Washington said. “She sets her own goals and accomplishes them.” Kendall is a hardworking individual, which you can see by her school and community involvement, along with her grades. She is in the top seven percent of her senior class, of 76. Kendall is a go-getter. She

is president of her school’s media and empowerment clubs and co-captain of her cheer team. She has also achieved her Bronze and Silver Awards as an Ambassador Girl Scout. Soon, she will complete her Gold Award. “Even though I might not have been in an environment surrounded by people who look like me, I was always involved in my community and church growing up,” Kendall said. “I always knew who I was, and I was never shying away from my Black culture.” Kendall and her family are members of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, where she is involved in the youth ministry. Inspired by WFAA-TV Channel 8 anchors and reporters Tashara Parker and Cleo Greene, Kendall said she is ready to build and grow her brand. “I’m here with Texas Metro News to learn, grow and experience all I can,” she said. “Even after I build my brand, I will come back to uplift Texas Metro News.” She joined the Texas Metro News team as a multimedia journalist, writing newspaper articles, managing social media and creating news packages. Within two weeks of working with Texas Metro News, her first article, “New And Improved: Austin Street Center” was published in the weekly newspaper. Kendall Gayle Washington’s accomplishments are impressive and she’s only beginning. She is living proof it’s not about age. It’s more about hard work, positive spirit and determination. July 15, 2022

July 15, 2022

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Call issued to Support Black Businesses Buy Black! By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

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

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National Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month Takes Stigma Away from Discussing Fibroids

Lorraine Birabil

Photo: L.Birabil

ignation is supported by similar national proclaDallas County and mations as well as Texas City of Dallas officials House Bill 1966 that was have acknowledged the presented by State Repimpact of fibroid tumors resentative Senfronia by proclaiming July as Thompson. Uterine Fibroid Aware“As I have worked with ness Month. That des- organizations, medical

By Sylvia Dunnavant Hines

July 15, 2022

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Dr. Suzanne Slonim

experts, business leaders, other non-profits, patients, and community leaders we were able to collectively work with the former Dean of Women Legislators in Texas, State Rep. Thompson,” said former State

Photo: HLEX

Rep. Loraine Birabil. “She helped us to bring concerns about uterine fibroids to light. With her assistance we were able to get Texas to be the tenth state to acknowledge July as Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month. myimessenger.com

Healthy uterus v. fibroids

“Rep.Thompson also got another bill passed to help bridge the information gap around uterine fibroids. All too often the information is just not available for women, so that they know they have options.” Although an untreated uterine fibroid can be painful and noticeable, some women continue to suffer in silence due to fear of an unsatisfactory solution. This month there will be several activities and opportunities to share information about a condition that has resulted in the inability to give birth. In Dallas, there will be a Self-Care Health Fair myimessenger.com

Photo: USAfibroidscenter

and Feminine Hygiene Supply Drive, July 16 from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM, at After 8 to Educate (Fannie C. Harris Youth Center), 4212 E Grand Ave; in addition to activities in Beaumont,Fort Worth, TX and across the country. “Many women don’t know that fibroids are common and some of the symptoms that they may be experiencing are not normal. Women are taught to suck it up and bear their monthly discomfort, so they ignore on-going concerns. Very often their issues can be treated and taken care of,” said Dr. Suzanne Slonim, MD a recognized interventional

radiologist and leading fibroid expert. According to Dr. Slonim, about 80 percent of Black women and 70 percent of white women will develop uterine fibroids in their lifetime. “Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors in the uterus. They are made up of muscle cells and fibrous tissue,” she explained. “In young women, they start growing any time after puberty. They can cause all kinds of symptoms. “The key factors are that they are not cancerous, and they are quite common. Yet if untreated, they can really cause significant problems in a woman’s life.”

Dr. Slonim says the most common symptoms of fibroids are heavy bleeding and heavy cramping. There are also symptoms like urinary frequency, bloating, constipation, back pain, leg pain and pain during sex. Many of these symptoms are also associated with women experiencing difficult monthly periods. Although it is unclear exactly what causes uterine fibroid tumors, there is information regarding what feeds them and several of the risk factors and protective factors. Estrogen and progesterone are hormones produced by the July 15, 2022

ovaries. They cause the uterine lining to regenerate during each menstrual cycle and may stimulate the growth of fibroids. Some say fibroids may also be hereditary. Dr. Slonim admits that obesity and estrogen are some things that can make fibroids worse. On the other hand, increasing vitamin D and exercise can help improve symptoms caused by fibroids. “The biggest risk factor is being a Black woman. Eighty percent of Black women have fibroids. Yet, this doesn’t mean that they all are symptomatic. A lot of White Women and Hispanic women have fibroids as well. But they are most common in Black women, and tend to be present as a different condition,” said Dr. Slonim. There are four solutions for addressing issues with fibroids: Medication can be taken to regulate the menstrual cycle to reduce the symptoms. Endometrial ablation, removal of fibroids using high frequency of radiations. Uterine artery embolization, which is effective in shrinking fibroids and relieving the symptoms. Myomectomy, removal of the fibroids. Hysterectomy, removal of uterus. July 15, 2022

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“Every week I see women who enter my office whose inside is filled with a uterus that comes up from the pelvis all the way to the sternum just pushing everything out of the way and compressing other organs inside her,” said Dr. Slonim. “I have patients that cannot bend over because their uterus is so big. I have women that are losing weight because they cannot eat due to the fact their uterus has grown so large and there is no room inside them. A hysterectomy is the most extreme of the procedures and done in more severe cases. “The bigger a fibroid becomes the more difficult it is to treat,” said Slonim. “They can get so big they are pressing on adjacent structures. They can press against the vein that drains the blood from the leg, so that you can get swelling from the leg.” In spite of the alarming statistics and severity that uterine fibroids can cause there still has not been much public attention given to them. “In the work to address health disparities we came in contact with medical providers who highlighted some of the issues that patients are facing with uterine fibroids,” said Birabil, who is with the Barbara Jordan Leadership Institute, which provides a comprehensive approach to commu-

nity-based leadership in action. “It is something personal to me as a Black woman. I had fibroids and everyone that I know in my age bracket (of childbearing age) also has had fibroids. In fact, one of my close friends has suffered from debilitating issues from uterine fibroids.” Because Birabil has first-hand experience with fibroids, this has become a personal concern to bring awareness to this issue as she has collaborated with the medical community to address this major health concern. “Every week I see women who enter my office whose inside is filled with a uterus that comes up from the pelvis all the way to the sternum just pushing everything out of the way and compressing other organs inside her,” said Dr. Slonim. “I

have patients that cannot bend over because their uterus is so big. I have women that are losing weight because they cannot eat due to the fact their uterus has grown so large and there is no room inside them. Dr. Slonim, encourages women to go to the doctor and be examined before fibroids cause major damage. “Those are issues when the fibroids have been unattended for several years. That is when you get swelling from the waist down because the blood cannot drain back to the heart, or the kidneys are blocked. Women can have kidney failure and end up on dialysis due to fibroids issues that have not been addressed.” For more information on how you can participate in Texas Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month, go to the website txfam. org. myimessenger.com

Celebrate your birthday with 10 free items BY ANGELINA LIU ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Is your birthday coming up, and you’re not sure how to celebrate? Beat the summer heat by grabbing free ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery, or a daiquiri at WhoDaq Daquiris “The Daiquiri Shoppe.” Not in the mood for sweets? Head over to Jersey Mike’s or McDonald’s. Check out the rest of these Top 10 places giving out free items on your special day. 1. Chocolate Secrets At Chocolate Secrets, located at 3926 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, you can celebrate your birthday by getting one free piece of candy under their candy cases. 2. WhoDaq Daquiris “The Daiquiri Shoppe” Head to WhoDaq Daquiris “The Daiquiri Shoppe”, located at 684 W Pioneer Pkwy Suite 100, Grand Prairie, Texas 75051, to claim a free small personal daiquiri on your birthday. Quench your thirst with signature flavors such as “Strawberry Shortcake” or “Bahama Mama.” 3. Sephora Sign up for a free, Beauty Insider account and receive your choice of 250 bonus points, Laura Mercier, Amika or Tatcha sets on your birthday. The choice of powders, lipsticks and skincare is bound to make you look fabulous for your special day. 4. Starbucks Need a quick pick-me-up on your birthday? Starbucks has it covered! Join the Starbucks Rewards Program seven days prior to your birthday and make one purchase. Starbucks will then email you a coupon for a free food or beverage item two days before your birthday. The birthday reward qualifies for anything on the menu, including any size handcrafted drink or food item. 5. Jersey Mike’s In the mood for a sub? Head over to myimessenger.com

Jersey Mike’s and receive a free sub and drink. Make sure to sign up for the Jersey Mike’s Subs Email Club prior to your birthday to receive this reward. Nothing tastes quite like melted cheese and meat in between a toasted baguette, along with an icy cold drink.

before birthday festivities? Join the International Bank of Pancakes rewards program to receive a free stack of pancakes on your birthday. Pair your pancakes with a choice of chocolate chips, syrup, fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

6. The Cheesecake Factory Celebrating with friends? Tell your server it’s your birthday and receive a free treat as well as a song. It may be mildly embarrassing, but hey, it’s free! 7. Culver’s Need something cold and sweet to beat the Texas heat? Head to Culver’s for a free sundae when you sign up for their rewards program. The sweet creaminess will surely not disappoint. 8. IHOP Want to indulge in a sweet breakfast

9. McDonald’s Need a snack before embarking on your next birthday adventure? Download the McDonald’s app and join MyMcDonald’s Rewards to receive free large fries. Mmm, the taste and smell of fresh, perfectly salted french fries. 10. Smoothie King Want to celebrate your birthday with a healthier option? Enjoy a birthday smoothie at Smoothie King. Download the Smoothie King app to receive this offer.

July 15, 2022

Dallas College Students Bring Home Medals from National SkillsUSA Championships

DALLAS – Nine very talented Dallas College students traveled to the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, June 20-24. They competed with 5,200 other students in a wide range of skill areas. Two Dallas College students, Robert McKibben and Juan Rey, took home silver medals, placing second nationally. A national association, SkillsUSA is focused on ensuring America has a skilled future workforce. The organization serves more than 340,000 students and instructors in middle and high schools, as well as colleges and postsecondary institutions from every state and July 15, 2022

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territory of the U.S. Programming, covers 130 trade, technical and skilled service occupations. “Participating in SkillsUSA can change a student’s mindset and career trajectory. In addition to their trade and technical skills, students learn about personal and workplace skills, such as responsibility, work ethic, teamwork, and much more,” said Noeli Piccoli-Biggs, Senior Manager for Special Academic Programs at Dallas College. “I encourage faculty from all Dallas College programs to transform students’ lives by preparing them to compete at the 2023 SkillsUSA State and National Lead-

ership & Skills contests.” Dallas College faculty member Latesia Moreno participated in SkillsUSA for the first time this year. “The SkillsUSA experience has been an adventure beyond my wildest dreams. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I decided to have our Engine Technology Motorcycle and Small Engine programs participate,” said Moreno. “This experience has definitely made a lasting impact on both a personal and professional level for myself and my students.” Each of the Dallas College students who traveled to Atlanta won gold medals (first place) in the April SkillsUSA State Leadership & Skills

Conference in Houston. Representing Dallas College at the 2022 SkillsUSA Championships, listed with their competition categories and primary campuses, were: • Jose Corona (Culinary Arts, El Centro) • Zairene Cruz (Extemporaneous Speaking, El Centro) • Anton Grindl (Cabinet Making, Cedar Valley) • Trevor Heitz (Motorcycle Service Technology, Cedar Valley) • Christopher McCallum (Automotive Service Technology, Cedar Valley) • Robert McKibben (Masonry, North Lake) • Juan Rey (Restaurant Service, El Centro) myimessenger.com

• Sian Thomas (Commercial Banking and Job Interview, El Centro) • Omar Vazquez (Power Equipment Technology, Cedar Valley) Rey is currently taking his final classes at Dallas College El Centro Campus to earn his AAS in Culinary Arts. He competed in the Restaurant Service category, encompassing the fine dining “front of the house” customer experience (table set-up, menu, drinks and guest service). “A lot of people believe culinary arts is only cooking, but it’s a lot more than that,” he said. Rey first competed in SkillsUSA last year, earning a gold medal in a virtual competition. His instructor, Sheila Hyde, had invited him to participate. Competing live was completely different, he said. “I never imagined the size of the competition; it is huge!” The best part was sharing the experience with others, he said. “I enjoyed being supportive and feeling the support from my classmates and advisors. I also met a lot of people and made good friends from other states.” For the past 20 years, Rey has worked in hospitality service and currently manages a Dallas nightclub. Once he completes his degree, he hopes to become a restaurant consultant, helping restaurant start-ups to calculate operating costs and profitability. While McKibben brought home a silver medal in masonry this year, he won gold last year. He began studying masonry in August 2020, under the instruction of Lawrence Johnson at Dallas College’s Coppell Center. In the national competition, McKibben and thirteen other competing masons had six hours to build a double wall, myimessenger.com

according to a specified plan. McKibben is a teacher at the high school level and plans to continue taking a couple of classes at a time at

people. Each state has its own pin, which competitors swap and collect. “I met people from every state,” he said, collecting 50 pins.

Dallas College and eventually work toward a degree. His favorite part of the competition was meeting

As a busy father of four, fulltime teacher, and part-time student, McKibben said that SkillsUSA was well worth the

time commitment because of the things you learn and the people you meet. “The SkillsUSA program at Dallas College is such a transforming experience for students, helping them to become more poised and confident in their trades and connecting them to employers. We look forward to bringing an even larger group of faculty and students to the state and national competitions next year,” said Dr. Maria Boccalandro, Dallas College Dean of Special Academic Programs. “I’d like to thank Dr. Greg Morris, Senior Vice Provost of Academic Services, who has been so supportive of the program and is as proud as I am of our participating students.” Visit the Dallas College SkillsUSA webpage for more information about this program. July 15, 2022

Sharpton, WNBA And Griner Advocate For BG’s Release Rev. Al Sharpton and Cherelle Griner were joined by WNBA officials in Chicago for the WNBA All-Star Game as they asked for the release of WNBA great Brittney Griner. By Stacy M. Brown One day after the wife of WNBA star Brittney Griner expressed frustration that the family hadn’t heard from the White House, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with Cherelle Griner. The White House said Biden called Cherelle to “reassure her that he is working to secure Brittney’s release as soon as possible, as well as the release of Paul Whelan and other U.S. nationals who are wrongfully detained or held hostage in Russia and around the world.” In a July 4 letter, Brittney Griner pleaded with Biden to help free her and others held in Russia.

Cherelle Griner

Akron Authorities Release Disturbing BodyCam Of Shooting Of Black DoorDash Driver By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

Authorities on Sunday released disturbing bodycam footage of Jayland Walker, an unarmed Black DoorDash delivery driver with no criminal record shot dozens of times by Akron Police Officers. The lawyer for the 25-yearold’s family called it an execution, telling media members that police fired 90 shots, hitting the young man “60 to 80 times.” As the video rolls, several officers are seen approaching Walker’s vehicle with their guns drawn. Police Chief Stephen Mylett claimed Walker had a ski mask on and reached toward his waist during a foot July 15, 2022

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chase and turned toward pursuing police officers. He claimed that’s when officers opened fire. Mylett said a weapon was found in Walker’s car, but it wasn’t clear if it was discharged. He admitted that Walker didn’t exit the car with a gun. While handcuffed and bleeding profusely from his wounds, Mylett claimed officers attempted to provide lifesaving help for Walker. The eight officers directly involved in the shooting had been placed on administrative leave. “It was difficult to watch, and shocking,” Mylett stated. “I’m not going to pass judgment.: The chief and Akron Mayor

Daniel Horrigan commended Walker’s family for calling for peaceful demonstrations. “The video is heartbreaking, it’s hard to take in,” Horrigan said. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and the FBI field office in Akron issued joint statements noting that they were “closely monitoring

and reviewing the circumstances.” “The FBI continues to coordinate with state and local partners to provide resources and specialized skills,” officials wrote in the statement. “If the evidence reveals potential violations of federal criminal statutes, the Justice Department will take appropriate action.” In attempt to quell tensions, Horrigan announced the cancelation of Akron’s Fourth of July Festival. Walker’s family attorney Bobby DiCello called for a federal investigation. “The is brutal,” DiCello asserted. “It’s going to stir up some passion. It’s going to make people uneasy.” myimessenger.com

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Metro Community Calendar powered by On the fourth Thursday of every month thru August 4th, the Dallas Comedy Club will host a monthly stand-up comedy show featuring female or female-identifying comedians to benefit charity from 7:30-9pm at the Dallas Comedy Club.

JULY 14-16 113th NAACP National Convention is the perfect setting to strengthen civil rights and every form of socio-economic equality in Atlantic City to progress policies that impact Black America.

**** 8-10 p.m, “Rhythm and Rhapsody” will take place at Hamon Hall. The event will bring together poetry, rhythm and dance to show social challenges in the African American community.

15 Self-Care Fair free community event and feminine hygiene supply drive at After 8 to Educate (Fannie C. Harris Youth Center) 4212 E. Grand Avenue, Dallas.-- 11AM-3PM

Nasher presents til Midnight at the Nasher, a free event filled with live concerts and art opportunities. 6:00 p.m. to midnight at the Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, TX 75201

16 8:53-10:53 AM, the Too Hot to Handle half marathon will take place at Norbuck Park. The event will feature a 10K and 5K run.

Kendrick Lamar w/ special guests Baby Keem & Tanna Leone @ The AAC in Dallas

The Weeknd live at The AT&TStadium in Arlington

Burna Boy Live -The Pavilion@Toyota Music Factory

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Scott K. Ginsburg and family presents “Movies in the Park: Mamma Mia!”, partnering with Ultimate Outdoor Entertainment at Klyde Warren Park, 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, # 403, Dallas, TX 7520. The event is on July 16th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

20 BANK NETWORKING FAIR FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS -- REGISTER NOW! Learn how to gain access to business capital. Assists small business owners with access to capital and will help with best banking products for business needs. Frazier House, 4600 Spring Ave. https://www.zwhjcoc.org/bank-networkingfair-for-small-business-owners

See Chris Brown & Lil Baby @ The Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas!

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Tracy Morgan Live @ The Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie

AUGUST

Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining! Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am. CST Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews, @ fnsconsulting, and YouTube Live @ docshepspeaks.

National Association of Black Journalists and National Associationof Hispanic Journalists meet in Las Vegas! Register at www.nabj.org

The World According to Andrew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646200-0459 on Andrew’s World.

Wiz Khalifa w/ special guest Logic at the Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas!

Kevin Hart live @ The AAC in Dallas!

18 Scarface @ The House of Blues

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I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459.

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Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by Someone Like Me, is a panel with eight queer femme and non-binary artist sworking across mediums and cultures. It will be at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street, Tx 75404 through August 20, 2022. **** Wellness Series Kids Creative Movement, gives kids the opportunity to be creative expressing themselves through dance, gymnastics, yoga, and more. Children must be accompanied by a legal guardian during the entire class. The classes are held at Sammons Park, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, Tx 75201, next to the Center Café. Dress yourself and your child in comfortable clothing. The Wellness Series takes place Tuesdays at 10AM through-Aug 2.

so guests can bring their furry friend to enjoy the fun too. Admission is free.

JULY TEXAS FIBROID AWARENESS MONTH 14 Bastille on Bishop 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM at Bishop Arts District

RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-caribbean-carnival-festival-tickets-303928116177?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

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Kendrick Lamar w/ special guests Baby Keem & Tanna Leone @ The AAC in Dallas

**** Sweet Tooth Hotel is presenting their newest exhibit Rewind through August 31st. Located at Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm, 970 Garden Park Dr. Allen, TX 75013. Ticket prices range from $15-$35. **** The Immersive Van Gogh exhibit is now available to the public, located at Lighthouse Dallas, 507 S. Harwood St. Dallas, TX 75201. Presented by Lighthouse Immersive and Impact Museums, Immersive Van Gogh is a digital art experience that invites audiences to enter the works of Van Gogh, evoking his highly emotional and chaotic inner consciousness through art, light, music, movement and imagination. Ticket prices range from $29.99-$99.99.

The Elevator Project is having a Rhythm and Rhapsody show. Rhythm and Rhapsody is a live show, with music, storytelling, poetry, and dance. Rhythm and Rhapsody is being presented by Verb Kulture at Hamon Hall. The performance will be at 8pm at 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, Tx 75201

15 Women of Color Executive Coaching Circle 3-5 pm www.ccda.org

**** Shakespeare Dallas presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream, located at Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre, 1500 Tenison Pkwy. Dallas, TX 75223, through -Saturday, July 23rd. Ticket prices range from $15-$20.

**** The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, located at 2201 N. Field St. Dallas, TX 75202, celebrates its 10th Anniversary with the new exhibit, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall.” Starting July 9th-September 5th, world-renowned conservationist and ethologist Dr. Jane Goodall – who has famously studied chimpanzees in the wild for more than 60 years – will be celebrated in this special exhibition, produced in partnership with the National Geographic Society and the Jane Goodall Institute. **** Grapevine Palace Theatre, located 300 S. Main St. Grapevine, TX 76051, presents family-friendly summer movies every Tuesday and Wednesday through August 3rd. The upcoming movie list includes The Little Mermaid, Frozen and more! Tickets are $4 (children 2 and under are free). **** The Box Garden at Legacy Hall, located at 7800 Windrose Ave. Plano, TX 75024, will host a free movie night every Wednesday through July 27th. Movie-goers can enjoy food from over 20 restaurants located inside the Plano food hall and drinks from one of Legacy Hall’s bars. The Box Garden is now dog friendly,

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23 2022 Texas Democratic Party State Convention *** ’Til Midnight at the Nasher will held at the Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora Street Dallas, TX 75201. This venue presents live outdoor concerts, film screenings and opportunities to experience art on view. FREE Admission / 6 p.m. – midnight (rain or shine). Wolfgang Puck Catering offers bar service, food for purchase, and grab & go snacks the night of the event. Please note: Outside food, beverage, and furniture are not allowed.

Karaoke Lic Sync Battle 7225 University Hills Blvd in Dallas at 6p.m.

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Self-Care Fair free community event and feminine hygiene supply drive at After 8 to Educate (Fannie C. Harris Youth Center) 4212 E. Grand Avenue, Dallas.-- 11AM-3PM

17 Family Festival / Fiesta de la Familia 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Kimbell Art Museum 2nd Annual Carnival Festival at Cravens Park, 400 Cravens Park Drive Arlington, Tx 76018, at 1-7pm

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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 July 15, 2022

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