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NO 3 ISSUE 39 BR I NG I NG YOU ENL I GHTEN I NG, EDUCATIONAL , EMPOWER I NG, I NSP I R I NG, THOUGHT-PROVOK I NG I NFORMAT I ON MAY 30, 2014 PAGE 1 I MESSENGER Page 3 I MESSENGER VOLUME 3 ISSUE 39 MAY 30, 2014 Our true TREASURE Born: April 4, 1928 St. Louis, Missouri, USA Died: May 28, 2014 Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA Dr. Maya Angelou

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Thought-provoking, informative and entertaining news and commentary featuring Vincent Hall, a tribute to Maya and more brought to you by the Mesquite Rodeo, Ringling Brothers and Inside the 234,

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NO 3 ISSUE 39 BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION MAY 30, 2014

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Page 3

I MESSENGERVOLUME 3 ISSUE 39 MAY 30, 2014

Our true TREASURE

Born: April 4, 1928

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Died: May 28, 2014

Winston-Salem,

North Carolina, USA

Dr. Maya Angelou

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Message to the People...

I MESSENGERCheryl Smith, Publisher

Established 2011

IMESSENGER is a tribute to Le Messager, founded by Cameroonian journalist Pius Njawe and The Messenger, an independent magazine, founded by labor activist A . Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen.IMESSENGER is committed to informing, inspiring, enlightening and provoking thought in a forum that is international. Submissions for publication consideration may be submitted to www.myimessenger.com.

Bishop Michael McKee, North Texas United Methodist Church, Mrs. Michael McKee, Mr. Carrie Holmes, Rev. Dr. Zan Holmes, Representative Helen Giddings, Pastor Dianna Masters, and Rev. Dr. Henry L. Masters 

May 30, 2014

Mark Cuban4

Cheryl

amilleBradfield

Rev. and Mrs Corey Toney Sr. 22

Coach Chism16

For decades I have loved Maya Angelou - the activist, artist, actress, writer, advocate, teacher, mother, sister, friend to the world.

I had just become a teenager when I first read “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” and like my literary Godmother Nikki Giovanni, who read and reread that great piece of work; I too pulled it out time and time again to relive the experience.

Over the years, I have also gifted the book to young ladies so that they could fall in love too.I have experienced deep feelings about Dr. Angelou. As a young girl, I was looking for someone to identify with and

learn from. I remember not being happy when it appeared the whole world was falling in love with Dr. Angelou after the inauguration of President Bill Clinton.

I was like a petulant child as I mumbled to myself, “I’ve always loved her. You’re late to the party!” I wondered where everyone had been while this beautiful woman was using her talents to make this world a better

place. The nerve of them all of a sudden falling in love with someone I had loved for such a long time. I struggled with those emotions of having everyone talking about the one person who I felt spoke solely to me and my issues. It was difficult, but I finally had to accept sharing her with the world.

The last time I saw her was at the inauguration of Dr. Julianne Malveaux as the 15th president of Bennett College for Women. I felt honored to be included among the dynamic women like: Dr. Angelou, Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, Rev. Marcia Dyson, Susan Taylor, Delores Sennette, Suzanne Malveaux and Antoinette Malveaux, who were part of the festivities.

As I reflect over the years, there have been several times when I could have attended events where Dr. Angelou was either speaking, signing books or being honored, but I stayed away.

For some reason, I was not ready to meet her. With so many opportunities, I never used my resources as a journalist to be in her company. Instead I made excuses.

Then one year I heard that she was speaking at the University of Texas at Arlington and there was an opportunity for me to interview her.

The time had come for me to woman-up. Unlike in the past, I seized the opportunity and was joined by former journalism workshop participant Natalie Carpenter, who taped and photographed the interview.

Following the interview, Dr. Angelou and I had a nice, private discussion. As we sat holding hands, I wanted to place my head on her shoulder and climb up into her lap. I felt as though we could have talked for hours and there was such a feeling of peace. She shared words of wisdom and it was a wonderful experience.Although there were others in the room, they dared not approach us as we took care of our business.

What is important to note is that I had a serious “ah ha moment.” You see, as much as I loved Dr. Angelou because of her talents, activism, genius, love, and, her story; I had been

running from her because to face her required that I also face some of my own demons. It just so happens that one of my demons had transitioned. A relative who tried to steal my innocence -- who made me

a victim, had transitioned earlier that year. Upon hearing of the death, I recall feeling like a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. For a moment I felt a

twinge because I didn’t think it was right to smile when hearing of someone’s demise.So, as Dr. Angelou and I sat talking in hushed tones, I shared my tale of abuse and why she was so important to me. Our hands remained clasped during the entire conversation. If you knew anything about this dynamic woman, you

know that she was candid, yet compassionate; encouraging and inspiring.We talked about people, dreams and the future It was such a wonderful experience as the last stranglehold that pedophile had on me was released -- thanks to Dr.

Angelou.

Statement from Dr. Maya Angelou’s Family:Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before

8:00 a.m. EST. (Wednesday, May 28) .Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a

warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking

down upon us with love. Guy B. Johnson

Cheryl Smith

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Support the Black PressSupport Black -owned bookstores

Send your books for review to: Cheryl Smith, 320 S. R.L.

Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 ELITENEWS

TexasMetroNews

GARLAND

JOURNAL

Remembering our veterans

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"If I see a black kid in a hoodie and it’s late at night, I’m walking to the other side of the street. And if on that side of the street, there’s a guy that has tattoos all over his face--white guy, bald head, tattoos everywhere--I’m walking back to the other side of the street. ... I know that I’m not perfect.

“While we all have our prejudices and bigotries, we have to learn that it’s an issue that we have to control, that it’s part of my responsibility as an entrepreneur to try to solve it, not just to kick the problem down the road.” – Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban on race and the Donald Sterling debacle.

When the body of these comments first penetrated the news cycle, the first sentence was separated from the rest. The media ran to the spectacular and ignored the rest of Cuban’s Inc. Magazine interview. Be careful about jumping on bandwagons until you know who's leading the band.

What I have learned instinctively, is to take any statement, comment, or blurb that shows up in the media and track it down.  Once tracked down, I want to hear or see the actual video or audio before I make a decision

about how it should be perceived.

Once I read the transcript of Mark Cuban as it regards race and Donald Sterling I was cool with what he said and appreciative that he did.  Sadly the broadcast media rushed many of us to denounce Cuban and his statement based on the snippets they provided. But at just about the same time, I saw a commercial depicting Mark Cuban and 10 Black basketball players joining him in his own living room.  Almost immediately I thought, now that seems more like Mark

Cuban I’ve always envisioned.  You know black folks pride themselves on being able to sight a racist and being able to know when a White boy is “cool.” Mark Cuban has always been seen as “cool” by Black people.

And that was not the end of it. Mark Cuban is seen as a rebel, a nonconformist, a person who stands by his word and will pay a fine to do so.  In true warrior form, Mark Cuban boldly returned to the public and media. He apologized if anyone was offended or took his comments as racist or in the

wrong way with the pain of Trayvon Martin still being fresh.

Simultaneously Mark reasserted his opinions and the truth about what he said and felt.  Now that's how a Maverick does it. No pun intended.

When asked about voting on Sterling's ouster, which he will have to do June 3, Cuban said he knows how he will vote but isn't ready to comment on it. He then was asked about keeping bigotry out of the NBA.

"You don't; there's no law against stupid," Cuban said. "I'm the one guy who says don't force the stupid people to be quiet. I want to know who the morons are."

I totally agree cuz mam n’em said that if you threw a rock the hit dog would holler and Sterling certainly did.

In the book of Mark, Jesus said "The poor you will have with you always.” 

W.E.B. Dubois left his mark as he declared; “The problem of the 20th century is the problem of the color line.”

When you put both of those prophecies together it speaks of the problems that we have today. Prejudice based on poverty and prejudice based on race.

Mark Cuban has made his mark in several different arenas, but racism has never been his game. I hope that folks will jump off that bandwagon.

Mark my words, they will!!! Vincent Hall is an award-winning writer and author.

HALL - Mark: My Words!

Quit Playin’

By Vincent Hall

“While we all have our prejudices and bigotries, we have to learn that it’s an issue that we have to control, that it’s part of my responsibility as an entrepreneur to try to solve it, not just to kick the problem down the road.” – Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban

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There was a time when racism in the United States was defined by the shackles of enslavement and captivity.

It was the most overt and vicious form of subjugation imaginable, and it was the norm for many years.

As I often say, we have come a long way from the days of slavery, but in 2014 discrimination and inequality still saturate our society in modern ways.

Though racism may be less blatant now in many cases, its existence is undeniable.

If you don't believe me, just listen to others and take a look at the state of our nation for yourself.

Last week, Senator Rockefeller of W. Virginia made a statement declaring that some Republican opposition to the Affordable Care Act is because of President Obama's race.

As expected, he was attacked and accused of playing the 'race card'.

But in reality, the Senator was simply stating the truth -- an ugly truth that many would like to deny or ignore.

It appears that targeting the person raising an issue has become standard practice; and flipping a racist or discriminatory act into accusing someone of playing a 'race card' has become all too common. If we cannot even highlight problems, then how do we ever expect to have a genuine conversation about them and create solutions?

Everywhere we look, there's no denying it: race and racism are something this country must confront.

And this discussion must include a focus on economic

opportunity and equal protection under the law. Ta-Nehisi Coates raised this very issue in a piece for the Atlantic titled "The Case for Reparations."

The caption below the title of the article summarizes the essence of the situation:

"Two hundred fifty years of slavery. Ninety years of Jim Crow. Sixty years of

separate but equal. Thirty-five years of racist housing policy. Until we reckon with our compounding moral debts, America will never be whole."

We are still living in largely segregated communities with inadequate schools and poor housing for minorities.

Until Blacks and Latinos have the same opportunities afforded to others, we cannot falsely believe that we are somehow beyond racism.

Modern discrimination is often more subliminal; with a smile in your face but with existing institutional policies that continue to suppress certain segments of the population.

It is this sort of ingrained bias that begins to impact every facet

of society.Since the foundation of the United States was based on racial differences, we have worked tirelessly and collectively to reverse the ugly tide of racism. But much work remains. We simply cannot avoid having a real conversation

about our state of affairs, nor can we avoid taking steps to create more equality.

There's no reason why children in inner cities or rural areas do not receive the same quality education or opportunities as those in suburbs or wealthy neighborhoods.

If we truly believe in giving all citizens a chance to pursue happiness and pursue their goals, then we cannot continue to marginalize entire groups of people.

Racism is such an ugly byproduct of our history, that it is

still shockingly present today everywhere we look.

Elliot Rodger, the alleged killer in the deadly rampage in Santa Barbara, expressed his own racism in his manifesto according to news outlets.

As was widely reported, his manifesto includes the following:

How could an inferior, ugly Black boy be able to get a White girl and not me?

I am beautiful, and I am half White myself. I am descended from British aristocracy. He is descended from slaves. I deserve it more.

All around us, despite denials, racial bias and hatred are still very much present.

And we as a nation must confront it.

Senator Rockefeller was an unlikely person to raise what activists like myself have been saying for years, but he spoke truthfully and candidly.

He should be commended -- not condemned. We cannot continue to deceive ourselves that we are somehow 'post-racial'.

It's going to take courage to be honest about our challenges and create resolutions that can truly move us towards greater equality.

We cannot demonize those that highlight injustice; others will take our place and continue the necessary work.

For nature abhors a vacuum and that vacuum is the lack of dealing with race.

Racism & Bias -- Can We Pause and Be Honest with Ourselves?

By Rev. Al. Sharpton

It appears that targeting the person raising an issue has become standard practice; and flipping a racist or discriminatory act into accusing someone of playing a 'race card' has become all too common. If we cannot even highlight problems, then how do we ever expect to have a genuine conversation about them and create solutions?

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To Be Equal

Mandela! A Better Man

By Vincent L. HallAs Obama would say in his

speech; “Mandela makes me want to be a better man!

By Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Many people will remember Maya Angelou, who died Wednesday at the age of 86, for her phenomenal career.

She was a true Renaissance woman — an author and teacher, a dancer and performer, a radio personality and a producer.

I will remember her as a friend and a generous spirit who shared her home and meals with me, but who also made time for virtually anyone who asked.

The first time I dined with Maya was at a reception in the late 1980s for Brian Lanker's book I Dream a World, a collection of portraits of black women, including Maya, who changed our times. When a gentleman attempted to get everyone's attention in the noisy room, he unwisely did so with a piercing whistle.

Soon I watched as Maya gathered herself and with her back rigid, chided the man with a rebuke — and an impromptu poem.

"You will not whistle at black women," she said. "We had enough of that when we were chattel. You will respect us as the women we are," she went on. When she was finished, not a word was uttered.

So when I once asked Maya what she considered the greatest virtue, not surprisingly she told me that it was courage. Maya had courage in abundance. She needed it. She spent her childhood shuttling back and forth between San Francisco, where her mother lived, and

Stamps, Ark., where she lived with her grandmother. Before her 18th birthday, she had experienced racism, rape and teen pregnancy.

These harsh beginnings made her later accomplishments all the more remarkable.

Because her life coincided with the civil rights movement of the 1960s, she spent a lot of her later life speaking out against racism.

"We have already been paid for," she frequently said, recounting the horror of slave ships, the harsh conditions of

slavery, the inequalities of Jim Crow and contemporary instances of inequality.

Despite being a high school dropout, Maya went on to write 36 books, was awarded more than 30 honorary degrees, and wrote and delivered a poem at the inauguration of President Clinton in 1993.

But while Maya ultimately became friends with the famous, she always had time for others. Each year that I served as president of Bennett College, she visited the campus and gave a lecture to our students.

Once I asked her to spend time with the honor students and she told me, sharply, "I would rather spend time with the students at the bottom." They were the ones, she said, who needed encouragement.

That was Maya.At the end of her life, she was

frail. "Getting old ain't for sissies," she said.

As writer Bijan Bayne wrote on my Facebook page, "No longer caged she forever sings."

Julianne Malveaux is a D.C.-based economist and author, and president emerita of Bennett College for Women, Greensboro, N.C.

MALVEAUX: Maya Angelou never forgot her roots

Dr. Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Julianne Malveaux

I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.Martin Luther King, Jr.

"Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting for separation. We are fighting for recognition as free humans in this society."

Malcolm X

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(WASHINGTON) – Revered poet and civil rights activist Dr. Maya Angelou passed away in Winston-Salem, at the age of 86. After learning of her passing, Congressman John Conyers, Jr. (D-Mich.) and others released statements honoring Dr. Angelou’s life and legacy:

 “I was deeply saddened to learn that Dr. Maya Angelou passed away earlier today. Her contribution to our country - and,

in particular, her ability to help us remember joy in moments of national turmoil - cannot be overstated. Her work inspired my own, and I take heart in knowing that both her art and her advocacy will continue to enrich the lives of so many. 

“A student of life, Dr. Angelou taught herself skills that led to her career as a revered poet, distinguished professor, and loving mother. Her autobiography ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’ has brought hope and wisdom to countless individuals as they persevere through life’s many challenges.

Dr. Angelou was a fierce champion of equality and fairness throughout her advocacy, and was a passionate supporter of the Civil Rights Movement. Undoubtedly, Dr. Angelou has cemented her place in America’s history and will be forever remembered through her work and teachings.”

Congressman John Conyers, Jr.

“For years I’ve tried to explain why there’s nothing like live radio, black live radio in particular.

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t live in the dark ages. I still listen to commercial radio music but I also love satellite, my iPad, Pandora and all the other technology that has allowed us to hear exactly what we want to hear when we want to hear it.

But just as when we lost Luther, Gerald, Teena Marie, Michael Jackson, Whitney, Nelson Mandela and now Maya Angelou, I’m reinvigorated by the power of Black radio and what we can and continue to provide for our audience.

When a family has a loss, nothing is more soothing than hearing from other family and close friends who are going through the same thing. That shared experience bonds us closer and that’s what black radio does in good times and bad.

Twenty minutes before were able to go on air with the story, members of the Text Tom Club in the Winston-Salem area began sending word that Maya Angelou had passed away.

And even though our texters have been caught up in false reports of celebrity deaths before, these texts just seemed to ring true. Something in my gut told me we had lost this great voice, mind and soul.

My Senior Producer Nikki, Sybil and my digital content producer went to work looking for confirmation of the story and the second they got it, I brought it to you all. A full 30 minutes later, CNN went live with the story as well.

Off air, we all shared personal stories of Maya Angelou that we’d laughed about for years, even the one about her “going there” with Sybil for asking her if she dated younger men. Sybil never forget that lesson and neither did the audience, and especially not J. Anthony Brown.

It only seemed fitting that we remembered those good times because she was a woman who loved to laugh, loved to be

flattered, loved to have a good time and loved being a woman.

Our Facebook page and I’m sure yours as well, is filling up with stories about how she or her writings touched your lives. I’m pretty sure for many, the Tom Joyner Morning Show played a part in getting to know Maya Angelou as well as you did in a way you never would have, if it weren’t for black radio and that makes me proud.

We meet all kinds of fascinating people working in radio and sometimes we take it for granted. We talk to stars, dignitaries even presidents as though they’ll be around forever.

For years Maya Angelou promised to cook for me and for years I thought I ‘d have the chance to take her up on her generous offer.   I wish I had.

Tomorrow, we’ll do what we do best and what no other medium can do quite like live Black radio can. Our black history fact will chronicle her role in the Civil Rights movement, we’ll have music mixes and tributes and news–all paying tribute to the remarkable icon that she was.

But most of all, we’ll talk, like family to 8 million people who, like the Tom Joyner Morning Show, lost a family member too.

She will be greatly missed.Tom Joyner

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the literary icon, Maya Angelou. She dedicated her life to the empowerment

of others through her inspirational poetry and sophisticated literary works.

Maya Angelou was a trailblazer for women and poets around the world. She worked as a civil rights activist, alongside both Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X, to

help usher in historic change throughout the nation. As a newly elected Member of Congress, I had the great honor of being present during her reading of “On the Pulse of Morning” at President Clinton’s inauguration in 1993. She was the first African American woman to have that honor, and the first poet, since Robert Frost, to read at an inauguration in more than three decades. These are testaments to the extraordinary impact she had on American society.  

Today, we lost a great teacher, mentor, leader and American. Maya Angelou’s creative works and poems are timeless. Her influence will be felt for generations to come.  We will continue to revisit and reflect upon her words for years to come.”

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

“A talented and remarkable woman, Dr. Maya Angelou dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of others. I can remember

reading her poetry as a young man and feeling deeply connected with the words that continue to speak to the conscience of our nation.

Dr. Angelou taught us to fight for equality, love, and social justice. She inspired us to unlock the greatness within each of us.  We must honor her life and legacy by lifting up others just as she has lifted us.”

Congressman Marc Veasey  

“In Maya Angelou’s own words, ‘We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.’ This sentiment echoes her true spirit; she was a phenomenal woman. We stand in awe of her healing words, her strength to educate and her courage to liberate. Her moral

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Maya Angelou

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compass still provides direction to our fight for equity and civil rights, and will guide us for as long as we celebrate her legacy.”

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten

“Maya Angelou was a fearless writer, poet and activist who made the world a better place for her generation and those to follow. Her

powerful words taught scores of young women, particularly those of color, to believe that they are phenomenal and that their voices should never be silenced.

Dr. Angelou rose from poverty, segregation and violence to become a force on stage, screen and the printed page. Her legacy lives on in all of us.”Roslyn Brock, Chairman of the

NAACP Board of Directors 

“The world will miss the indomitable spirit and immeasurable brilliance of Maya Angelou. She was a literary genius and a civil rights activist who will be celebrated for years to come. I had the privilege of working with Dr. Angelou during my time with the Clinton Administration and found her to be a loving and caring woman. We talked politics and laughed a lot. More than simply a renowned poet, novelist and actress, Dr. Angelou was a pioneer, a jewel of a person and a force to be reckoned with. Her humor and wit will be sorely missed.”

Lorraine Miller, Interim NAACP President and CEO

 “Maya Angelou was an extraordinarily gifted interpreter of the human condition for African Americans and so many others. Her words whether delivered on a page or through oration were deeply heartfelt and painfully clear. Her common touch and exceptional creative power helped so many diverse hearts find a common vision. She will be profoundly missed.”

Hilary O. Shelton, NAACP Washington Bureau Director and Senior VP for Advocacy:

“Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible…We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.” – Dr. Maya Angelou

Poet.  Author.  Actress.  Activist.  Singer.  Dancer.  Director.  Teacher.  Trailblazer.  History-maker.  Sister friend.  Legend.  Dr. Maya Angelou defies any single description.  She defined the essence of a “Phenomenal Woman” for us, and she spent a lifetime epitomizing it to us. A penetrating and deeply thoughtful woman, Dr. Angelou and her unique influence across genres will certainly be missed.  Yet, we are uplifted with the understanding that her incomparable contributions will live on through countless generations to come. 

The wisdom, humanity, love, passion, strength, compassion, determination, and perseverance that permeated her life and works have forever changed who we are and how we view ourselves as individuals, as a people and as a nation.  We are all better because she chose to share her gifts with the world. She also shared a very special gift with the National Urban League in 2010 during our 100th Anniversary

celebration.  On a personal note, I met her for the first time a year prior when I flew to her home to discuss our Centennial activities and request the honor of her participation.  What followed was hours of conversation sitting at her kitchen table as she told stories, gave life lessons, and shared poignant perspectives on art, culture and humankind.  With equal parts majesty and humility, she held court – and I listened intently, absorbing every word and meaning that she had to impart.  It was an incredibly powerful experience, and I will always be grateful. “Subsequently, Dr. Angelou agreed to write an original composition in honor of our anniversary.  She presented and performed the poem, titled “We Hear You,” during our National Urban League Centennial Conference on July 28, 2010. 

“Her gift touched all of us that night and will continue to live on through us as we work every day to offer “our hand of friendship/ Along with a climate/ Which means to soothe the angry heart/ And calm the bellicose spirit.”

Dr. Maya Angelou demonstrated by example that life need not follow a clear path when it is fueled by passion and purpose.  Today, we salute her for raising her voice so that millions of us could find – and create – ours.

Marc Morial

“Maya Angelou was the quintessential renaissance woman of the 20th century art and human rights movements.

Not only was she a literary icon, she was one of the few that turned her words into action.

“Although she participated in civil rights rallies, she challenged leaders of the civil rights movement to embrace the struggles of others and a broader view of freedom fighting.

“She challenged misogyny in the movement and was our poet, conscience, teacher and corrector. She was one of the few people whose presence you felt in the room even if she didn’t say a word. Her spirit was incomparable.”

Reverend Al Sharpton, President of National Action

Network 

"America has lost a national treasure; and Hillary and I, a

beloved friend. "The poems and stories she wrote and read to us in her commanding voice were gifts of wisdom and wit, courage and grace. I will always be grateful for her electrifying reading of 'On the Pulse of Morning' at my first inaugural, and even more for all the years of friendship that followed." "Now she sings the songs the Creator gave to her when the river 'and the tree and the stone were one." Former President Bill Clinton

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“Dr. Maya Angelou will live on in all of us who called her a phenomenal woman, phenomenally. Her words and her spirit are too powerful to leave this earth with her passing. Her legacy and poems will take wings forever.

Tyler Perry

"Today, Michelle and I join millions around the world in remembering one of the brightest lights of our time–a brilliant writer, a fierce friend, and a truly phenomenal woman.

"Over the course of her remarkable life, Maya was many things–an author, poet, civil rights activist, playwright, actress, director, composer, singer and dancer. But above all, she was a storyteller–and her greatest stories were true. A childhood of suffering and abuse actually drove her to stop speaking–but the voice she found helped generations of Americans find their rainbow amidst the clouds, and inspired the rest of us to be our best selves. In fact, she inspired my own mother to name my sister Maya.

"Like so many others, Michelle and I will always cherish the time we were privileged to spend with Maya. With a kind word and a strong embrace, she had the ability to remind us that we are all God's children; that we all have something to offer. And while Maya's day may be done, we take comfort in knowing that her song will continue, 'flung up to heaven'–and we celebrate the dawn that Maya Angelou helped bring."

President Barack Obama

"I've been blessed to have Maya Angelou as my mentor, mother/sister, and friend since my twenties.

"She was there for me always, guiding me through some of the most important years of my life. The world knows her as a poet but at the heart of her, she was a teacher.

'When you learn, teach. When you get, give,' is one of my best lessons from her."

What stands out to me most about Maya Angelou is not what she has done or written or spoken, it's how she lived her life.

"She moved through the world with unshakeable calm, confidence and a fierce grace. I loved her and I know she loved me. I will profoundly miss her. She will always be the rainbow in my clouds."

Oprah Winfrey

"She was like a turtle. Hard on the outside, soft on the inside, and would stick her neck out."

Dick Gregory

“I must have met Doc, as we called Maya Angelou, way before I remember.

We often attended readings, but the first time she absolutely caught my attention was at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts.

It wasn’t all that cold, but Maya and others had fur coats on. My mother, who was a big fan of the Seven Sisters colleges, had

come with me. We both had on cloth coats.

Doc, as we all know, was 6 feet or taller. Mommy was 4-foot-11, and I am 5-foot-2. Not only were we shorter, we felt smaller.

I looked at that group and made a silent vow to never allow my mother to be with this group again without a fur coat. We purchased one soon after.

When Mommy died, I shared that story with Doc. Maya laughed. “We had no idea,” she said. And laughed again. Mommy owes Doc.

When Doc moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she was not far from me in Virginia, so I got to see a lot of her. If I had any inkling she was frying chicken, I’d go down and spend the night. When Jay Z sent her a case of wonder-fully expensive champagne, those days I had to spend the night!

Everyone came to Doc’s place, which was great fun. You’d wake up in the morning not knowing who would be down to breakfast. The superstars; the wonderfully funny; old friends from another country; a congressman. And Doc treated them all the same.

Her ability to speak to everyone in the same voice was what made her the force she was.

Our only disagreements were about food. She was a great cook, and I think of myself as a good one. We were arguing about rack of lamb, one of my specialties. My recipe comes from the late, great country cook Edna Lewis. I went home after my visit and decided I should not just talk the talk but also walk the walk.

I called my good friend Joanne Gabbin (pictured) from Furious Flower Poetry Center to have her come with me to Doc’s to cook. Jo is a great cook, too. We got on Doc’s calendar, packed all our ingredients and spices and boogied on down.

Doc sat at the head of the table, where she could see everything going on in the kitchen. She inspected the lamb, checked the veggies, tasted everything and praised Joanne.

I think she loved me a little bit because she, like my only living aunt, always felt free to make minor corrections. “I think the lamb is a bit overdone,” she offered.

“Well Edna Lewis is in heaven, and I checked with her before I put this on the table,” I responded.

We both laughed. I know if the lamb was not done properly, she would have eaten it and not said a word. I wanted to fry chicken for her, too, but time just ran out.

Our mutual friend, the late author Alex Haley, always said, “Find the good and praise it.” Maya took it to heart. She would always seek the good in any situation, or she avoided the question.

In all my years of knowing her, I only heard her once speak ill of someone and that was well deserved.

Like everyone, I have read and reread “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings.” And like that caged bird, Maya sought an inner freedom.

We only have to look at her life to see that she took every ounce of joy life had to offer.

I will remember her as a courageous woman who always wanted to love, and wish her a rightful place in literature.

Nikki Giovanni

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Congrats

Historic African-American

Congregation prepare for

Sesquicentennial Celebration

The oldest African American Church in Dallas County is celebrating 150 years of transforming lives.

Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, affectionately known as “The Rock”, has been serving the Community since the Pre-Civil War Era. It has a very interesting history and an even brighter future.

T o c o m m e m o r a t e t h i s sesquicentennial landmark, a series of activities designed to embrace and

engage the community will begin in June, including the debut of the Church’s first-ever CD project, “Worship On The Rock”, which is set for release during a free concert 7 p.m. June 20, 2014 at Westside Baptist Church, 900 Bellaire Blvd. Lewisville, TX 75067.

According to the Church Historian, on the 3rd Sunday in June of 1864, a few black missionaries and a White minister by the name of Rev. Butler met under a large elm tree in the White Rock area of Dallas to discuss the formation of a Church, which is now home to nearly 2000 weekly worshippers.

“The rest is history”, said Robert W. Townsend, Senior Pastor. “While we are proud of our past, we are even more excited about our future. I am especially excited about the release of our Commemorative Worship CD Recording which embodies much of who we are - a worshipping Church,” he said.

“Worship and Word is the pillar of Mt. Pisgah so marking this historic

milestone with a CD project is fitting,” said Linda Mitchell, Minister of Music.

“Worship At The Rock” was recorded live and takes the music lover on a journey of a mixture of praise & worship, an anthem, traditional and contemporary gospel music.

While the CD features national recording artists, Gaye Arbuckle and Chester D.T. Baldwin, what makes it even more special is the children’s choir (The Joy Spreaders) who are featured.

“The music is filled with messages of hope, confirmation and inspiration and having all generations represented and the variety of music, was very important to us,” explained Mitchell. “We wanted music that Church choirs from all across the Country could sing on Sunday mornings, said Mitchell.”

Additional activities that will take place in June include:

*Founding Family Recognition where families will be recognized month to reflect on their rich heritage in the Church and North Dallas area;

*Church history and Artifacts Exhibit *Launch of Momentum Campaign – a capital campaign focused on building a new facility. *Recognition of ministers who were born and raised at Mt. Pisgah but are now ministering at other churches. *Vacation Bible School, Academic Honors Day *Dedication of New Church flag *Debut of new CD project, “Worship On The Rock”

Mt. Pisgah has been serving the North Dallas Community for 150 years. Their motto, Sharing Christ as Savior submitting to Christ as Lord, is reflective in the countless ministries they do to transform lives.

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Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.

Abraham Lincoln

Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans over 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: [email protected]. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

A family divided

Dear Alma,

I need advice about a terrible family situation that involves me and all of my siblings, and it’s breaking us apart. I am one of nine children. We were all born and raised in the South. My parents farmed their land and taught us how to do it, too. We never liked it and couldn’t wait to leave, go up North and go to college. We all attended various colleges and universities and never returned home…all but one of my brothers. He stayed in North Carolina and helped my parents until they died. After they died he moved into the house on the property and has been living there ever since. He has kept up the property and paid the taxes on it.

Now my brothers and sisters want to sell the farmland and split the money. My brother who stayed says the house should be his and he doesn’t want to sell

it. We are totally divided. Six of my siblings have decided to take my brother to court and force him to sell the land. Only the one brother says we shouldn’t sell. And I don’t care either way. We’re all in our 60s, distinguished folks with profitable careers. We’re active in our respected churches and ready to retire if not already retired. I love my family, and if you met us, you’d never believe what’s going on behind closed doors. I don’t understand why we can’t talk to each other and just get along. I want us to settle this before one of us dies and we never get to resolve the issue. What can I do?

J.C., Houston, Texas

Hey J.C.,

Close your eyes, think back to the time when your daddy was farming his land, mama at the window, both watching their children grow – chests pressed, full of pride. Your father worked hard to tend the land and leave something to his children. Now everything he worked for is about to be jeopardized, and for what? You and your trifling brothers and sisters – yes, I said trifling – are fighting each other like you’re on an episode of Judge Judy. That is ridiculous and just plain

sad. Your mama and daddy gave all they had, and what are ya’ll doing? Trying to give it away for some coins that will be spent in a month’s time.

Your brother didn’t take the bus up to the city and try to tell you and your siblings what to do with your space, time and dimes, so don’t try to regulate his life now. Give him the house, period. Take the rest of the land and divide it evenly. Each person can do what he or she wants with his or her portion. It’s just that simple. You might not like it, but when your brother sacrificed, stayed home and properly maintained and cared for the house, your parents and the land, he earned extra. Your brothers and sisters are so focused on a few grains of sand that they are missing the beach in all its magnificence. There are other ways to make money. Taking your brother to court is not one of them. Grow up and act like mama and daddy are still watching, chest pressed, full of pride.

Alma

Ask Alma

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Ringling.com

Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability.

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Let’s talk a little bit about freedom this week. I’m referring to the freedom afforded all of us through Christ. There is something quite liberating when you know or realize that you have been “set free.”

Have you ever thought about what that really means? The word release comes to my mind. Some claim relief is how they understand it. However you want to describe it, I think the revelation of Jesus as Lord and Savior removes a lot of barriers and obstacles and yes, burdens, that we as human beings place upon ourselves.

That’s why I believe as people initially come to Christ, they are overcome by a fresh perspective about life; an enlightened one. It has brought many of us to tears.

In a real sense, addictions are withstood, hurt feelings are healed, guilt is removed and insecurities conquered when Jesus enters the

picture. One of the biggest things that happens when Christ enters your life is that fears are conquered.

And if we’re honest with ourselves, we all have fears. I know I do. It can be the fear of being alone, of being humiliated, of being exposed or ostracized or even the fear of dying.

The knowledge of Christ in all of these situations cancels those fears. That’s what I believe people mean when they say set free. That’s how I’ve come to understand real joy. In that context of spiritual awareness being blood bought and saved, I have been set free from fear, anger, greed, selfishness and even self doubt.

These things have hopefully been replaced with honesty and

integrity, hope and truth, the promise of everlasting life and yeah I know, above all love. One of the hardest

things to understand in this life, and then act upon, is this love yourself thing. God even commands us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves.

Without Christ in your life, I believe that concept of self love can sometimes be distorted and in many cases become perverted. Love with humility is an awesome thing. When love is set free within you, life takes on a whole new meaning.

You no longer have to live in the shadows of pretense; rather, you can now live in the light of truth. I can be who I really am; the person God made and so can you.

Then the world will see you as God sees you and not who you think it ought to see. I am who God made. If that’s good enough for God, then certainly it’s good enough for anyone who wants to deal with me, including you.

I am free and it is wonderful. Freedom is my gift from God paid for by Jesus Christ. Know the truth and the truth shall set you free. You are not what the world would have you be.

You are what God made you to be. “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.” 1 Peter 2:16.

May God bless and bless and keep you always.

[email protected]

Freedom ain’t free, it costsSpiritually Speakingby James A. Washington

The Celebration Continues 

with special guest comedian, actor and

radio personalityJ. Anthony Brownand Musical GuestDavid Whiteman

Band

Maya Angelou

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Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

JDRF Texas TypeOneNation Conference Attracts Top Research ExpertsOne Day, One Cause, One Mission – hear what the experts have to say**MEDIA ADVISORY**WHAT: JDRF Texas, with affiliate offices in Dallas, Ft. Worth, Houston, Austin, San

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Former Panther basketball assistant coach Corey Chism has been selected to take the helm of the Panther boys basketball program as Head Boys Basketball Coach. For the past two years, Chism has served as the boys head basketball coach at Dallas Life School. He replaces Kenny Boren, who recently accepted a position with College Station High School.

For the past nine years, Chism has served as a teacher and coach at the middle and high school levels, beginning his career in Duncanville ISD at Kennemer Middle School in 2005.

Chism moved to Duncanville High School in 2008, and served as a Varsity assistant coach under former head coaches Phil McNeely, Eric McDade and Danny Henderson, along with coaching the JV boys basketball team. Chism looks forward to returning to Duncanville

ISD and continuing the success of last year’s team.

“It feels like coming back home. I’m excited to work with students, the community and a district I’ve worked with before,” he said. “I’m ready to hit the ground running for the upcoming season.”

In his inaugural

season with Dallas Life School, Chism’s team set a single season record for wins (26), which they would go on to beat the following season with 28 wins. During his time at Dallas Life, Chism compiled a 54-16 record and coached his team to consecutive state 2A playoff appearances.

Chism has high expectations for the Panthers next season, with workouts starting in June. “We are going to establish a strong foundation and work ethic for the team with an emphasis on hard work and dedication,” he said. “Expect us to be the best conditioned team, not only in the state, but in the nation.”

Chism earned his BS from Prairie View A&M University in 2005 and his teaching certification and MEd in 2006.

Chism takes helm as Duncanville Basketball coach

Maya Angelou

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Medal will be presented to Jones on July 23rd at 105th NAACP National

Convention in Las Vegas, NV 

 (New York City, NY) – Media

impresario and humanitarian Quincy Jones has been selected as the 99th recipient of the Spingarn Medal. 

Jones will receive the distinguished medal on July 23rd at 105th NAACP National Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

 Instituted in 1914 by then-

NAACP Chairman Joel E. Spingarn, The Spingarn Medal is the NAACP’s highest honor.  The medal is awarded for outstanding and noble achievement by an American of African descent. To date, 98 Spingarn Medals have been awarded, recognizing achievements in a range of fields. Winners of the coveted medal include George Washington Carver, Mary McLeod Bethune, Thurgood Marshall, Jackie

Robinson Lena Horne,  Bill Cosby, and most recently, Harry Belafonte and Jessye Norman. Commented

Quincy Jones, “I am enormously honored and humbled to receive the NAACP’s highest recognition, The Spingarn Medal, and to join the distinguished list of its past recipients.”

Discussing those who inspired him, Jones continued, “I graciously share this award with all of those who put me on their shoulders to help me achieve my dreams, men and women such as Clark Terry, Ray Charles, Lionel Hampton, Benny Carter, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, among many others.

“I hope that whatever successes I have achieved in life will serve as inspiration for future generations to reach for their dreams, as those greats inspired me

when I was coming up.” Quincy Jones' career has encompassed the roles of composer, record producer, artist, film producer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, TV producer, record company executive, magazine founder,

multi-media entrepreneur and humanitarian.

As a master inventor of musical hybrids, he has shuffled pop, soul, hip-hop, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performance, movies and television.   

 Mr. Jones is also a respected

humanitarian. In 1985, he pioneered the model of using celebrity to raise money and awareness for a cause with “We Are the World.” 

The song remains the best-selling single of all-time, and raised more than $63 Million for Ethiopian famine relief. 

More importantly, it shined a spotlight on the Ethiopian drought, compelling the U.S. Government to respond with over $800 million in aid. In 2007, Jones and the Harvard School of Public Health joined forces to advance the health and well-being of children worldwide through Project Q.  Project Q challenges leaders and citizens of the world to provide essential resources to enable young people to achieve their full potential.

 “Quincy Jones is an icon of the

entertainment industry who has shaped the lives of millions through music, film, and more,” stated NAACP Chairman Roslyn M. Brock. “But what makes Mr. Jones so deserving of this award is how he uses his celebrity and influence to advance critical humanitarian issues across the globe.  We are honored to count him among our prestigious Spingarn medalists.”

Music Icon Quincy Jones to receive 99th NAACP Spingarn Medal 

“Raising HOPE with GRACE”

State Representative Nicole Collier serves as Celebrity Bartender for

Fundraiser

Representative Nicole Collier will serve as a celebrity bartender on June 3, 2014, from 5PM-7PM at GRACE Restaurant in Fort Worth in an effort to raise funds for a local charity. The “Raising HOPE With GRACE” event is designed to raise awareness of the Fort Worth HOPE Center while attendees enjoy good company, complementary appetizers and hand-crafted cocktails.

Look for Rep. Collier’s signature PINK BASKETS to leave a donation for the HOPE Center. In the spirit of collaboration between elected officials, State Representative Chris Turner and Representative-Elect Ramon Romero will be on hand to serve as fellow bartenders during this event. “‘Raising HOPE with GRACE’ is a wonderful opportunity to reach out and serve the community in a direct way. I am delighted to play a part in supporting a very deserving organization so invested in improving the circumstances of many individuals in District 95,” stated Collier. The Fort Worth HOPE Center has been a cornerstone of our community for the

past twelve years, and they are dedicated to providing resources to families in need. The HOPE Center works tirelessly to provide food for the hungry, vocational job training and placement, housing, health, and social service referrals, as well as dynamic youth programs. Visit their website at www.fwhope.org for more information about their mission.

GRACE Restaurant has graciously extended a weekly invitation to local organizations to host celebrity bar tending events. These events in turn benefit various groups throughout the community. GRACE Restaurant is located at 777 Main Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102.

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amilleBradfield

Resume: [email protected], (214) 514-9553 or

Congratulations to the

Volley 4A Cure nets $10,000 for Methodist Charlton Breast Cancer Screening, Services 

Volley 4A Cure is an annual volleyball tournament at the Canterbury Episcopal School in DeSoto to raise awareness and funds for early breast cancer detection.

The majority of the proceeds from most recent event, $10,000, went to the Methodist Health System Foundation for the Methodist Charlton Medical Center Women’s Imaging Center in support of early detection of breast cancer.

The event also supports the hospital’s breast cancer nurse navigator program, which assists women diagnosed with breast cancer in the last year.

The Volley 4A Cure event and grant were founded by breast cancer survivor and Canterbury parent Sheri Mathis in 2009 to raise awareness and assist uninsured and low-

income women in receiving screening mammograms free of charge.

To date, this annual event has contributed more than $40,000 to Methodist Charlton’s breast cancer services.

Methodist Health System is a nonprofit organization. If you are interested in supporting breast cancer screening or other vital health care and community programs, please contact the Methodist Health System Foundation at 214-947-4555 or visit them online at Foundation.MethodistHealthSystem.org.

Maya Angelou

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CHERYL’S WORLD

Tune in to Cheryl’s World on Blog Talk Radio, or call 646-200-0459 to hear informative, entertaining, enlightening and thought-provoking commentary and news with veteran

journalist Cheryl Smith on Sundays at 8a.m. , New Renaissance with Billy Parnell on Mondays at 6p.m., Felicia Shepherd on

Tuesdays at 6p.m., Love A Natural Me with Yvette and Amy on Wednesdays at 6p.m., Inside the 234 with Dareia Tolbert on Thursdays at 6p.m., and Coffee, Tea and Conversation with

Toni at noon on Saturday

Robert Hallback Jr. Owner / Operator

408 West Renfro St, Ste 105 Plant City,  FL   [email protected]

Felicia N. Shepherd M. EdFounder/CEO

Booking Contact Information:[email protected]

972-638-SHEP (7437)

Visit our website atwww.fnsconsultingservices.com

“Let me put my experience to work for you.”

FiNeSse Consulting Services

Staff Development, seminars on Relational

Aggression, Conference/webinar presentations, motivational speaking,

school and workplace conflict workshops…

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Staff Development, seminars on Relational

Aggression, Conference/webinar presentations, motivational speaking,

school and workplace conflict workshops…

"I want Dr. King to know that I didn't come to Selma to make his job difficult. I really did come thinking I could make it easier. If the white people realize what the alternative is, perhaps they will be more willing to hear Dr. King." Malcolm X

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Lancaster Urban Village, a new $30 million mixed use, mixed income development of residential and retail/office space by City Wide Community Development Corporation, will open for a community tour after its ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 12 at 11:30, said Sherman Roberts, president and CEO of City Wide. The Mayor, City council member Dwaine Caraway and other elected officials, special guests and community leaders will dedicate the 193 apartment units and 392 parking space facility that feature one to three bedrooms homes.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide the community with this type of first class development,” said Roberts. The largest transit oriented development in Southern Dallas is located on a 3.5 acre site next door to the headquarters of the Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas and across the street from the VA Hospital on Lancaster Road. The development will also feature 14,000 square feet of office and retail space.

Various amenities for residents highlight the living environment including crown molding, ceiling fans, microwave opens, washer-dyers, private terraces, ceramic tile baths, and cultured marble or

high quality laminate countertops. Also included on the grounds is a business and fitness center, resort styled pool, outdoor lounge and picnic/grill area.

“We wanted this development to continue the change of perception of the entire Lancaster Kiest corridor,” Roberts added whose nonprofit organization is one of the largest developers in the Mayor’s GrowSouth Initiative, and leading the redevelopment of the corridor with three projects including the recent opening of the relocation of the popular Rudy’s Chicken restaurant. Other projects include the Lancaster Kiest Village and Lancaster Opal Village, both of whom will include retail and residential space. City Wide has over $55 million in current projects in various stage of development in the corridor.

The Urban Village development is a result of four years of planning and construction. Partners in the project are the City of Dallas, US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Catalyst Development, Urban League, Texas Mezzanine Fund, US Bank and Greystone Bank.

Future development on the site include a 50,000 square foot expansion of the Urban League that will house its trade skills and work force development center.

“We sincerely appreciated the investments made by the City, HUD, Texas Mezzanine Fund, US Bank and Greystone Bank,” said Roberts. “Without them, there is no Urban Village and new birth for the area.”

The individual units at Lancaster Urban Village are priced from $534 for studios to $1,233 for three bedrooms. New residents started moving into the facility at last week. Leasing agents from Capstone Real Estate will be available on site during the community tour for interested parties wanting to inquire about living at the location. For additional information about leasing, please call Capstone Real Estate at 972-550-6054 or Urban Village Leasing Office at 214-376-3330.

Organized in 2001, City Wide Community Development Corporation’s mission is to revitalize neighborhoods through the development of affordable housing, economic development, educational, literacy and social programs that empower individuals and families to improve their quality of life.

Since his arrival as President and CEO of the organization in 2006, Roberts has helped the organization raise and manage over $265 million of development projects.

LANCASTER URBAN VILLAGE TO CELEBRATE OPENING WITH COMMUNITY TOUR

Summer Wardrobes May Reveal Too Much Including, For Some, Unwanted Tattoos - It is hot, hot, hot in Texas and many

employers are left to decide whether to crank up the A/C, or relax the dress code policy and risk turning up the heat in the office with skimpier wardrobes that may show more than they want to see, including, for some, unwelcome tattoos.

The number of Americans sporting tattoos has risen dramatically in the last few years. In fact, a 2013 study by Pew Research Center shows that 14 percent of Americans now have at least one tattoo, and that statistic increases to 40 percent among adults ages 26 to 40.

“Addressing tattoos may be new territory for many employers,” said Michael V. Abcarian, managing partner of labor and employment law firm Fisher & Phillips’ Dallas office. “If tattoos are an issue for an employer, it is important they develop a policy based on the company’s best interests. Additionally, the policy may need to outline what is appropriate for different positions within

the company. A no-visible tattoo policy may be appropriate for positions in customer service, but not for those who have no customer contact.

Employers should also remember that some tattoos may have a religious affiliation, which may require an exception to the policy. Other than tattoos that have religious ties, tattoo and summer dress code policies should be consistently enforced for both men and women.”

If tattoos and summer hemlines cross the line between office-appropriate and too revealing, employers need to know what may be considered discriminatory behavior when enforcing dress code compliance.

Here are a few tips for employers as they decide how to handle their company’s summer dress code:

Have a written dress code policy detailing what is acceptable and unacceptable, with examples.

Communicate policies with all employees. It is often helpful to require employees to sign a form acknowledging the policies.

Consistently enforce policies; only make exceptions when you are compelled to do so in order to reasonably accommodate employees based on a protected class (religion, ethnicity, etc.).

Enforce the same, or similar, policies for both men and women. If it is absolutely necessary to include different standards, make sure neither sex faces a greater burden.

If there is a need to address the wardrobe of the opposite sex, it is typically best to have a person of the same sex as the employee present in order to avoid liability.

Smart employers will communicate and implement policies before issues arise, lest a wayward employee claim that the rules unfairly target them.

When reviewing or forming a dress code, be sure it is reasonable, nondiscriminatory, and founded on legitimate business needs. This way you can beat the summer heat, without getting burned by a cold employee.

MAKE SURE YOUR SUMMER DRESS CODE ISN’T TOO HOT TO HANDLE

Maya Angelou

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May 30  Stevens Park Elementary will receive a $1,500 donation check from the retail store Big Lots, Friday, May 30, at 8:45 a.m., at the store grand opening event at, Stevens Park Village, 2128 Fort Worth Ave. To attend, please email [email protected].

May 30 -31

Saving Michael at West Plano’s Art Center Theater (5220 Village Creek Dr, Plano TX 75093) at 8:30p. To purchase a $20 ticket or for more information, call 972-374-6449 or visit: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/613362.

May 31Plaza Theatre, at 8 p.m. for  "Meet Me in St. Louis."  This

1944 classic starring Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, Mary Astor, and Tom Drake follows the four Smith daughters as

they learn lessons of life and love. Presented by the City of Garland as part of the Garland Heritage Celebration, this "lm is FREE and open to the

general public.  Popcorn, candy, and soda are available for $2.  All proceeds from the concession stand sales bene"t

the Garland Good Samaritans.  Come to the Downtown Square an hour before the movie to

enjoy music performed by the Garland Square Pickers.

***African American Museum Gala at the Fairmont Hotel

June 1

Texas Southern University National Alumni Association (TSUNAA), Dallas Chapter, will host its 13th Scholarship

and Awards Luncheon at 2:00 p.m. at the Hilton Anatole Hotel.

Ben Washington Baptist Church located in the historic Bear Creek

Community of Irving, Texas welcomes Dr. Larry L. Harris as

the new senior pastor.

Pastor Corey C. Toney, Sr. and Clarette LaShawn Toney -- Pastor

and Wife 2nd Appreciation Service, at 10:00am.

New Leaf Family Church, 1707 N. St. Augustine Rd., Dallas,

TX 75217. For more info, visit www.newleaffamilychurch.org or

call Sis. Robertson at 214/263-4894.

June 6

Dallas Greek Picnic $5000 Stepshow at Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc will be hosting its 5th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic and Clinic supporting the Alpha Merit Program.  The Alpha Merit program has served young boys in the DFW community since 1964 by providing mentoring and education services.  Alpha Merit has also awarded over $100,000 in college scholarships to High School Seniors through grassroots efforts such as the upcoming Golf Classic at Cedar Crest Golf Course in Dallas

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Xi

Omega Chapter celebrates 85 Years of Service

with a reception held to open

an exhibit of the chapter’s 85 years of history that will be on

display at the African American Museum through

August 31, 2014. 

June 7

SOUL SISTAH EXPODeSoto Civic Center

211 E. Pleasant Run Rd.10 a- 3 p

FAIR PARK CELEBRITY RUN - WALK - BIKE

from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM (CDT)African American Museum of Arts - Fair

Park 3536 Grand Ave, DallasGate 5 Dallas, TX 7521

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Xi

Omega Chapter celebrates 85 Years of Service with a Home Buyers Seminar to be held at

the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center.

June 9

DBCC Golf Tournament bene"ting  the Excellence in Education Scholarship Fund

Golf Club of Dallas - 2200 W. Red Bird Lane Dallas, TX 75232

8:30 a.m. Shot-Gun Start

June 10

Dallas-Fort Worth

Association of Black

Journalists meeting/

forum UNT Dallas

College of Law6:30p.m.

Panel featuring Dallas County female judges.

Moderated by Fox 4’s Dionne Anglin

June 13

"ROCK-T's HOOPS FOR HOPE CLASSIC WEEKEND

FROM 7PM TO 9PM AT FRISCO FIELD HOUSE IN FRISCO, TX

June 15

A Father’s Tableformerly Real Men Cook

The Frontiers of Flight Museum Love Field

6911 Lemmon Avenue, Dallas, TX

75206 214-350-3600

June 21

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. is proud to host its Annual College Fair during our Kappa Kamp Summer Enrichment Program. It will be held from 10am - 12:30 pm. on the campus of Paul Quinn College in Dallas, TX

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Xi Omega Chapter celebrates 85 Years of Service at Anniversary Galaat the Hilton Hotel – Park Cities.

June 28

CALENDAR

Page 23: IMessenger 3 39

NO 3 ISSUE 39 BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION MAY 30, 2014

PAGE 23 ! ! ! I MESSENGER

Friday Thursday

HOSTS: DAREIA TOLBERT

Wednesday

HOST - YVETTE BROOKS

Tuesday

FELICIA SHEPHERD

Monday

Billy Parnell

Cheryl’s World on Blogtalkradio.com at 6p.m.

Call in to 646-200-0459

Donna P. Charles

5/20/1958 - 3/23/2012Elusive Lady #22

Spring 1978Beta Alpha Chapter

of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.,

FAMU

IN MEMORIAM

20th annual Cheryl Smith’s Don’t Believe

the Hype Celebrity

Bowl-a-thonUSA Bowl,

10920 Composite Drive, Dallas

JULY 19

WOMEN EMPOWERING GIRLS SUMMIT

from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (CDT)Center for Community Cooperation

2900 Live Oak Dallas, 75204

JULY 25 

"THE SUMMER SOUL CELEBRATION"NEW LIFE FELLOWSHIP 

201 E. Sublett Rd. Arlington, TX  BENEFITING THE 

BLACK HERITAGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND FROM THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, TX 

ANIMAL SERVICES CENTER THIS EVENT WILL RAISE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

FOR STUDENTS IN ARLINGTON ISD AND MANSFIELD ISD

MUSICAL DIRECTOR JOEL McCRAYEXECUTIVE PRODUCER 

SHEILAH V. WALKER FROM THE COLOR PURPLE MUSICAL 

PRODUCED BY COOL JAZZ FOREVER FOR TICKET INFO 

SUMMER SOUL TICKETS  OR CALL CHRIS HUFF @ 817-459-6269

FEATURING GLOBAL R&B/SOUL DUO YARBROUGH & PEOPLES

August 11SCLC

NATIONAL CONVENTIONSpecial

Convention Events

Featured SpeakerWomen

Leading the Way

Luncheon Gwendolyn Boyd

Former President Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

President, Alabama State University 

Tickets available at nationalsclc.org

August 23

4th Annual Dancing for CharityDeSoto Civic Center (BlueBonnet Room)

211 E. Pleasant Run Rd, DeSoto, TX 75115

September 28

Walk A Mile In Her Shoes®3rd Annual Walk Saturday, September 28th, 2013 @ 9:00 a.m. Location: Diamond Doctor, 8127 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75225

Send in your calendar

items today.

www.myimessenger.com

214-941-0110I Messenger

Duncanville High SchoolCLASS OF 2014

Celebratory Reception

Please RSVP to

214-941-0110 or [email protected]

Saturday, June 7, 201411a.m-1p.m.

BG of Dallas3662 W. Camp Wisdom Rd (Southwest Center Mall)

Dallas, TX 75237

Page 24: IMessenger 3 39

NO 3 ISSUE 39 BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION MAY 30, 2014

PAGE 24 ! ! ! I MESSENGER

GARLAND J OURNAL

!"#$%&

'"$()"*#+,"(---------./%0012+#3-/45"264$-------------------------------------------------------------------7

8+9"(#35":;

<=/>-<%0"*%0+2?(---------------------------------------------:@-----------------------------

INSIDE

VOL XI ISSUE 7NOVEMBER 15, 2012www.garlandjournal.com

Available at newstands in Garland, Plano, Balch Springs, Seagoville, Rowlett, Mesquite,

Richardson, East and North Dallas

TIME TO FORGIVE?

FAMU Rattlers victorious

FOUR MORE YEARSPRESIDENT OBAMA VICTORIOUS

JOURNA

!!"""#$%&'()%$*+,%"(#-+)! .+/#0!,+#01! 2*3,43,4!,%"(!',5!3,6+*)'$3+,!6*+)!'-*+((!$7%!($'$%!',5!'*+8,5!$7%!"+*/5! ! ! ! '9*3/!0:!;<0=!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TEXASMETRO NEWS

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New Voices

3>?@A>B?CD>BE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!;

)@?AD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!=

(@AFCG@H@>!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!=

9@AIJ@G?CF@I!!!!!!!!!!!!!KLM

-DHHN>C?O!-BE@>PBA!!1

/CQ@I?OE@!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!0;

(RBSS@A!9NTTE@!!!!!!!!!0M

2NIC>@II!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!0U!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Martin named NABJ !Journalist of the Year

See Martin, page 11

Roland S. Martin

INSIDE

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See Baisden, page 6 Michael Baisden

Michael Baisden leaves airwaves -- Skip Murphy moves to slot

GWENDOLYN JONESAsk The Advocate

D’LYTE & EBONYMusic Happenings

VALDER BEEBEThat Celebrity Interview

MISS RAYGoing Deep in the Roots

YVETTE BROOKSYour Curlfriend!

KENNY JAYMaking Women Happy!

Single Mom Chronicles

p.12

Say NO to any ASSAULTBy Cheryl Smith - Texas Metro News

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Tamecka Grate Frazier

Debra Mars

See Sexual Assault, page 18

Welcome Home Ambassador

Ron Kirk!p.7

NO 2 ISSUE 32 BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION APRIL 19, 2013

PAGE 1 ! ! ! I MESSENGER

I MESSENGER NO 2 ISSUE 32 APRIL 19 2013

Joyce Ann Brown lost

Nine Years,

Five Months

and 24 Days

of her life

TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE DALLAS WEEKLY, FILL OUT THIS FORM AND MAIL TO:

DALLAS WEEKLYP.O. BOX 151789

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NO. 1 SERVING THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY

$80annually

No. 1 serving the African American Community

November 6 - 12, 2008 Volume No. 55 Issue No. 44www.DallasWeekly.com

THEBISHOP’SDAUGHTER

Page 10

Recycle thisnewspaperwhenfinishedreading

City of Dallas

Sanitation Dept.

CHANGE!Obama wins election and makes ...

Page 5

The election is overnowwe can beginElection night coverage onKKDA focuses on issues

Page 6

Obama’s winmayface limitationsGeorge Curry looks at thefuture with President Obama

INSIDE

HISTORIC

OBAMA

Nation elects first AfricanAmerican president ,as Barack wins handidly

See PAGE 7

SPECIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION

JOHN

V.S.BARACK

MCCAIN

Democrat RepublicanNOVEMBER 4, 2008 ELECTION

Dig

ital

Illu

stra

tion

: Jose

ph

Sh

elb

y

BOOK REVIEW:

INSIDE PAGES:

Lifestyle Is gospel music dying?Management blamed for issues

Page 8

Business Food for thoughtCongresswoman addresses

Oak Cliff Chamber Page 12

Health Prevent heart attacksHeart disease remains high on

list of illnesses Page 15

No. 1 serving the African American Community

April 30-May 6, 2009 Volume No. 56 Issue No. 18www.DallasWeekly.com

INTIMATESEDUCTION

Page 13

Recycle thisnewspaperwhenfinishedreading

City of Dallas

SanitationDept.

BOOK REVIEW:

Page 2

Speaking of PeopleRon Price elected to nationalorganization post

Page 4

NationalWhy Democracyhangs in the balance

Page 9

INSIDE

SPIRITUALRemebering Joe Hudson Jr.

Page 1 0

HEALTHHow to avoid the Swine flu

Page 15

BUSINESSHow to brand you

Page 16

MetroMavericks surpassesSpurs in playoffs

By Patrice J. [email protected]

Studies by theUniversity of Texas atDallas Institute of UrbanPolicy, United Way andTexas A&M are takingplace now to assess thequality of life in the SouthDallas community beforebillion dollar projectsinvolving the new DARTLight Rail and the Trinity

Toll Road are brought tothe area. Some construc-tion has begun with thedemolition of homes tofollow later this year.At a meeting held by the

three institutions, a focusgroup of sorts dished ideasand findings on the surveysthat have told the story of theresidents of South Dallas.“We are measuring con-

ditions that may vary fromstreet to street,” said Dr.

Timothy Bray, director ofthe Institute of UrbanPolicy Research. He helps

oversee the The FieldResearch Team whichunderwent 80 hours of

training in administeringthe anonymous surveys.“Over three to four yearsthere are changes in condi-tions and we want to knowhow it affects the area.”

In having the conversa-tion about building withinSouth Dallas, many issuesarise with respect toeducation and business in

See ROAD, page 19

The Long andWinding RoadLight rail, Trinity River road highlyscrutinized in South Dallas

“OVER THREE TO

FOUR YEARS THERE

ARE CHANGES IN

CONDITIONS AND

WEWANT TO KNOW

HOW IT AFFECTS

THE AREA”

Political analysts, both mainstream and Black news

media and intellectuals around the country have given their

grade evaluation on President Barack Obama’s first 100

days in office, marked on April 30. Here’s how several

people from the local front graded the new president.

Congresswoman EddieBernice Johnson

Grade:A“I am deeply impressed with the progress that

President Barack Obama has made during the first 100days of his administration. Already we are seeingevidence of the administration’s plan to dig our countryout of recession and develop long-term, sustainable pros-perity. President Obama has made two trips abroad,proving to us and to the world that he intends to

repair our frayed alliances and restore ourinternational leadership.

Finally, the Obama adminis-tration’s code of ethicshas broughtmuch-neededtransparency andaccountability to theWhite House.

President Obamais delivering on thechange that hepromised.”

Senator Kay

Bailey HutchisonGrade: C

“In just 100 days, we’ve seen an alarming accel-

eration of policies that will take America down the

wrong track. The administration has proposed

trillions of dollars in new spending, which will

result in higher taxes on Americans, while sharply

raising our indebtedness to foreign creditors.On the national security front, I am

very concerned aboutthe President’s intention toclose Guantanamo without aworkable plan to relocatedetainees. It is mysincere hope that,movingforward,

theadminis-

tration willadopt the productive,

responsible approach to ournation’s challenges thatAmericansdeserve.”(The office of John Cornyn of

Texas was contacted but did

PROPOSITIONS

1 AND 2

Dallas is abuzz at theelection issues beforethem on May 9 whencitizens are asked tovote on the controver-sial ConventionCenter Hotel that isbeing backed byMayor

Leppert. But what doesvoting “no” and voting“yes” mean?It is important to

remember that thepropositions are toamend the Dallas CityCharter which, amongother things, gives thecity the power to acquireproperty for any publicpurpose. The propositionsare worded to prohibit thecity from acting on thesebefore stated powers.Therefore, if a citizen wouldlike the city to maintainthose powers, they are tovote NO and vice versa.

Evaluating President Obama’s First 100 Days

THE HUNDRED DAY SCORE

WhyYES means no

and NOmeans yes

See VOTE, page 38See 100 DAYS, page 19

Find out all th

e

lowdown on M

arvel’s

weirdest mut

antsPG. 12

X-MenOrigins:

WOLVERINE

A

C

Movie Tidbits

Pg. 12

TheDallas

Weekly

celebrates 56 years

of serving the Black

Community

THE SECRETS

OF

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!By mail or on line

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I want to receive copies of __ I Messenger __ Garland Journal __ Texas Metro News at $50 per subscription

Check Card

Amount: __________________

I A guy who hits a woman

can be called lots of things.

“Man” is not one of them.

A FAMILY .

Join Mayor Mike Rawlings for The Ten Thousand Man Ral l y Against Domestic Abuse at 10am on March 23rd at Dal las Cit y Hal l . (DART exit at Convention Center Station.) I t ’s t ime for the men of Dal las to say, enough is enough.

Join the ral ly, 3.23.13

39946_MOROCH_MAA_NP_Ad_BW.indd 1 2/28/13 1:41 PM

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE?

POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist. Aren’t you concerned? Do you care?We know he has attacked members of

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.

If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers

877.373.8477

Also, if you want extra protection,

check out Street Safe at

www.streetsafe.peopleguard.com

“We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the vitriolic words and actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence of the good people.” . Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

DON’T BE

SILENTJoin I Messenger in the call for justice. Turn Pookie in today!