Volume XXX, Number XXXVIII November 26 - December 2, 2020 The Power of Trust and Truth

- See Page 3 Help is a call away for HIV patients Visit us online at www.northdallasgazette.com - See Page 4 Minnie’s Thanksgiving delivers

- See Page 5 DHA funds scholarships for 10 students

- See Page 6 Irving NAACP’s Trucks and Blue Christmas

- See Page 8 Dallas Cowboys chalk up a win on the road

- See Page 9 Film Review:

- See Page 9 Sister Tarpley: Like a Shepherd

Photo: June Heredia / Unsplash Photo: June Heredia - See Page 15 Inside... See Page 2 People In The News ... People In The News ...... 2 Op/Ed ...... 3 Health ...... 4 Community ...... 5 Education ...... 6 Irving / Carrollton / Plano ...... 8 Entertainment ...... 9 NDG Bookshelf ...... 11 Jenarie Davis-Middleton Fabian Broaden Marketplace ...... 12 Career / Notices ...... 13 NDG Quote of the Week: “The whole world opened to me when I learned to read.” Church Directory ...... 13-15 – Mary McLeod Bethune Cadillac ...... 16 Ford www.NorthDallasGazette.com Farrell, attorney Basil Pa- 1989 “Central Park jog- the 20,000 strong Montford David N. Dinkins Jr. and David Dinkins terson, and Congressman ger” incident that led to Point Marines and served Donna Dinkins Hoggard. By Lauren Victoria Burke . the wrongful convictions in the Marines from 1945– Lauren Victoria Burke is NNPA Correspondent Dinkins won an Assem- of five Black and Hispanic 1946. an independent journalist bly seat, was appointed boys, Dinkins proved to be In 1956 he earned a law for NNPA and the host of David Dinkins was the City Clerk and served as a cautious and stoic figure degree from Brooklyn Law stuff of political legend in Borough Presi- who was a competent care- School. He graduated cum the podcast BURKEFILE. ’s . dent before being elected taker of the city, including laude from Howard Uni- She is also a political From 1990 to 1993, Din- Mayor of New York. Din- its many fiscal, social and versity. strategist as Principal of kins served as the 106th kins was one of fifty Black political challenges. On the night of No- Win Digital Media LLC. investors who helped Percy Dinkins’ administration vember 23rd, David Din- Mayor of the largest city She may be contacted at in America — New York. Sutton found Inner City followed that of one of kins succumbed to natural [email protected] Dinkins was a historic Broadcasting Corporation ’s most sto- causes at his home on Man- figure as the first African in 1971. Sutton also in- ried politicians, . hattan’s Upper East Side. and on twitter at @LV- politics from the late 60s American to hold the of- vested in The Amsterdam Following violence in His death follows the recent Burke. and into the 1990s. fice. He often referred to News. the Crown Heights section passing of his wife Joyce, He was part of a power (Photo: Metropolitan the city as “a gorgeous mo- Dinkins was viewed as of Brooklyn that many be- who died at their home on base that was made up of Transportation Authority saic.” a compromise candidate lieved was not handled well October 12th. Joyce Din- businessman Percy Sutton, of the State of New York / Dinkins was part of Har- during a time of turmoil by Dinkins, he lost his bid kins was 89. New York State Assem- lem’s Democratic Party in New York. Elected a for re-election. The former Mayor is sur- Patrick Cashin, CC BY 2.0 blyman Herman “Denny” machine that dominated year after the infamous Dinkins was a member of vived by their two children, via Wikimedia Commons)

play defense properly. said, noting that her father, foul.” mother wouldn’t allow her Jenarie Davis-Middleton “When you think of de- the musician Aaron Teel, Divided into 11 chapters to quit. By Stacy M. Brown, fense in basketball, what taught her the importance and including a page on “When I was in college NNPA Senior National comes to mind? For me, of timing. basketball terminology, a when I first felt weak, my Correspondent playing defense was my “Timing the ball is an court diagram, and a bonus mother left me handwritten favorite,” stated Davis- art,” Davis-Middleton feature on how Davis-Mid- notes,” Davis-Middleton Jenarie Davis-Middleton Middleton, a standout bas- noted. “If you can time the dleton earned a scholarship recalled. is a self-described uncon- ketball player in middle ball right, you can steal the to Jacksonville University “She gifted me with ventional writer who likes school, high school, and ball from other players any in Florida, the book is a somethings during those to share life experiences. college. time. It’s not too difficult. comprehensive tutorial on tough moments that I still A wife and a mother of “Playing defense pre- All you have to do is have playing basketball, but get- have today. I promised that five, Davis-Middleton not- pared me to score on the fun.” ting the most fun from the I’d stay focused and fin- ed that although her sched- offensive end. It’s exciting The book details just game. ish school, and I did. They ule is hectic, she tires as when you can stop the other how to time the basketball Davis-Middleton’s jour- helped me become the often as possible to incor- panied with a host of “how- team from scoring,” she ex- – always make sure you ney toward publishing the woman I am today.” porate quiet time to clear to” photos that provide claimed. swipe at the ball with an book began in 2002, dur- Davis-Middleton said her thoughts. And, to write intriguing lessons on fun- It wasn’t until she was open palm, hitting it up- ing her junior year in high she also learned her bas- books. damental and expert-level 12 years old that Davis- ward with your fingertips. school. She said Teel, and ketball skills by watching Davis-Middleton has hardwood acts like the two- Middleton said she learned “Never swipe down,” Da- her mother, Stephanie Teel, NBA games. penned, “How To: Play hand chest pass, shooting a how to play basketball. “I vis-Middleton explained. were inspirations. Her fa- “Every chance that I had, Basketball the Fun Way,” set-shot in the face of a de- didn’t know how to shoot “If you do, the referee will ther urged her to “write See PLAY, Page 5 a 122-page expose accom- fender, how to rebound and or dribble the ball,” she most likely call a personal things down,” and her Broaden has ignited tium of ten Black fraterni- to the polls. When I reached merman got off. I wanted Fabian Broaden social media with his ties and sororities) into the out to the other members of to empower and make By ReShonda Tate thought-provoking political mix. He’s produced photo the Divine Nine, everybody Black men feel good about Billingsley and social statement photo shoots celebrating every- was just so excited and mo- themselves because, at that Defender News Network shoots. As a member of thing from breast cancer to tivated. They understood time, a lot of Black people Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Black history. my vision. They were all like myself just felt very When Houstonian Fabi- Inc., he often called on his He talks with the De- excited and they were just discouraged. So, I wanted an Broaden graduated from frat brothers to help him fender about the motivation ready to run with it, to get to do something to uplift college at Southern Univer- do shoots that celebrated behind his passion. other people energized to the Black men in our com- sity, he began a successful Black men. When Kamala Defender: Your recent vote. munity. I did a shoot with career as an architect here Harris, a member of Alpha Divine Nine photo encour- Defender: How did you my fraternity brothers and in Houston. It’s a job he Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. aging people to vote went get started? I just showed that we’re loved, but one day while received the vice-presiden- viral. How did you come up Broaden: My first shoot from all different types of listening to his pastor, Kir- tial nomination, he decided with the idea for that? I did was a video shortly backgrounds and we have bjon Caldwell at Windsor pact, he felt he had a higher to take his political activ- Fabian Broaden: I after Trayvon Martin was graduated and we’re all Village United Methodist calling. ism one step further, add- wanted to do something to murdered and we got to all professional. ing other members of the motivate people that look watch what happened in Church, preach about im- He found it through the See BROADEN, Page 5 camera lens. Divine Nine (the consor- like me to get out and stroll society when George Zim-

2 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Op-Ed The Power of Trust and Truth By Gary H. Gibbons, M.D., simply shone a spotlight on nity- and faith-based orga- vaccines to conquer CO- Director National Heart, health disparities that have nizations, doctors, patients, VID-19 in communities of P.O. Box 763866 - Dallas, 75736-3866 Lung, Blood Institute long affected underrepre- researchers, community color without the active par- and Eliseo J. Pérez-Stable, M.D. sented communities like advocates and minority- ticipation of the people who Phone: 972-432-5219 - Fax: 972-509-9058 Director National Institute ours. We know, for exam- serving educational institu- live there. “Do what you say you are on Minority Health and Health ple, that obesity, diabetes, tions. For weeks, from Sac- We strongly believe that Disparities and heart disease are more ramento, California to when done right, inclusive going to do ... when you say prevalent among people of Jackson, Mississippi, we research leads to solutions you are going to do it.” COVID-19 has killed color. If you have any of have been listening care- that get us where we need more than 230,000 people these conditions and con- fully—to concerns, fears, to be. We already have safe- Publisher’s Office: in the U.S., and the death tract COVID-19 you run a very practical questions, guards in place to ensure [email protected] toll continues to rise at a much higher risk for severe and ideas. Our sincere hope historic wrongs are not re- rate of about 1,000 per day. complications and death. is that, working together, we peated, and that safe and Sales Department: We know, however, that But biology and behavior will find ways to overcome ethical standards are prac- [email protected] families and communities are just part of the picture. COVID-19 in a manner that ticed consistently. The Food don’t count their losses in Where we work, whether 972-509-9049 takes into account the his- and Drug Administration, thousands or hundreds; they we have access to quality tory, cultural differences, review boards, and expert Editorial Department: count them one-by-one – a health care, what we eat, and unique input and needs panels at the NIH—indeed, father, a teacher, a sister, and other socio-economic of the people it affects most. each institution and compa- [email protected] a friend, a nurse, a son, a conditions also drive health How do we do this? We ny conducting medical re- Tribal elder, a church mem- disparities. Online: start by offering reliable and search—rigorously review ber. And these losses hurt. As we grapple with the easily understood informa- every phase of a clinical www.NorthDallasGazette.com But some communi- effects of these health in- tion based on science, by trial, from before it begins www.twitter.com/NDGEditor ties feel the impact of CO- equities on our daily lives, dispelling myths, and by until after it ends. These www.facebook.com/NorthDallasGazette VID-19 more than others. we can take simple public explaining the importance review boards include not www.pinterest.com/NDallasGazette Latinos, along with African health measures to help pre- of research. CEAL is work- just scientists, doctors, and Americans and American vent the immediate spread ing with trusted members experts, but also commu- www.instagram.com/NorthDallasGazette Indians, account for more of this disease, starting with in communities like yours nity advocates who keep a than half of all COVID- wearing a mask, washing to ensure access to infor- watchful eye on the process. STAFF related cases, even though Chairman Emeritus Religious / Marketing Editor our hands, and maintaining mation that can be shared While these factors are they represent just a third Jim Bochum Shirley Demus Tarpley six feet of distance from through virtual town halls, critical to ending this public 1933-2009 of the population. Accord- (“Sister Tarpley”) others. But that won’t be infographics, animated vid- health emergency, we must ing to the Centers for Dis- Chief Editor Emeritus enough to end the pandemic eos, and in many other ways keep our eyes on an even ease Control and Prevention Ruth Ferguson NDG Columnist in communities of color. – like social media posts. bigger prize—a nation with- (CDC), these groups require 1965-2020 Allen R. Gray As the leaders of two Importantly, we also will out the disturbing health hospitalization at a rate public health research agen- be encouraging participa- inequities that compromise Published by about five times higher than Minority Opportunity News, Inc. Contributing Writers cies, we know we can’t tion in research studies the health of our whole soci- whites, due to the severity Fatema Biviji just devise solutions from designed to stamp out CO- ety. As clinicians who have Interim Editor Jackie Hardy of their illnesses or lack of Washington, D.C. We must David Wilfong early access to health care. VID-19 in high-risk com- cared for countless patients Jacquinette Murphy also work with those who And the mortality outcomes munities. That’s because of color, as mentors who Community Marketing Dwain Price are most trusted, respected, reflect this as well: Latinos clinical trials, the funda- have supported underrepre- Nadina Davis Terri Schlichenmeyer and closest to these hard-hit and American Indians die at mental part of the scientific sented groups, and as mem- David Wilfong communities. Through joint Senior Account Executive 1.5 times the rate of whites, process, show whether new bers of communities where Nina Garcia local efforts, we believe we and , at medicines and vaccines each one teaches one, we can ensure that the best, Production 2.4 times the rate. are effective at protecting fully understand the power most accurate information David Wilfong As scientists and NIH col- you against disease. When of community to make a reaches these communities, leagues with more than 60 a drug gets approved and difference in the long fight NDG Obituary Dept. and that they are informed Vicky Richardson-Stewart years of combined research your doctor prescribes it for against this conquerable about, and included in, di- VP of Operations experience in health dispari- you, you are not wrong to problem. verse research studies es- ties, we are not surprised by wonder whether it has been We firmly believe that by these discouraging statistics. sential for developing safe, tested and shown to work traveling this journey to- But these awful numbers effective treatments, and — and especially shown to gether—by sharing sound also feel deeply personal: vaccines for all. That is why work for people like you. information, by squashing they represent our friends, the National Institutes of This is why it is so impor- misinformation, by being re- our family, our loved ones, Health (NIH) has issued a tant for research studies to sponsible citizens and build- too, as our roots are in these $12 million award to sup- include people from all rac- ing trust in science—we can very communities—Phila- port teams in 11 states to es- es, genders, ages, socio-eco- push this deadly pandemic delphia’s African American tablish the Community En- nomic classes and more. We into retreat. Hopefully neighborhoods, Miami’s gagement Alliance (CEAL) simply need to learn who when that happens, we can Cuban immigrant diaspora. Against COVID-19 Dis- is likely to benefit the most embark on a path of inclu- COVID-19, the disease parities. from any given treatment. sion that gives everyone in North Dallas Gazette assumes no responsibility caused by the novel coro- This Alliance has already In other words, we can’t America a fighting chance for unsolicited material and reserves the right to navirus SARS-CoV-2, has brought together commu- develop effective drugs and for a long and healthy life. edit and make appropriate revisions. The North Dallas Gazette, formerly Minority Opportunity News, was founded in July 1991, by Mr. Jim Bochum and Mr. Thurman R. Jones. North Dallas Gazette is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Minority Opportunity News, Inc.

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 3 Health www.NorthDallasGazette.com AHF reminds HIV patients care is ‘just a call away’ during pandemic As COVID-19 escalates across the nation, AHF promotes its telemedicine services with the launch of a new billboard and transit ad campaign LOS ANGELES -- As wreaked such humanitar- social distancing to prevent service message features rates of COVID-19 esca- ian and economic devasta- new infections. an image of a hand hold- late in the US—with a re- tion across the country and Over the past few weeks ing up a phone with an ported 60,000 hospitalized around the globe. We urge (from late October to early image of two people on as of earlier this week and all our patients, as well as November) four different the phone screen—one, a more than 100,000 new those who may have fallen versions of “Just a Call medical provider, the other, infections logged daily out of care, to reach out and Away” billboards, bulle- a patient. A headline reads over the past week, AIDS find out that we are ‘Just a tins, bus bench ads, inte- “HIVCare.org” with a sub- Healthcare Foundation Call Away’.” rior cards and/or transit ads headline reminding view- (AHF) is rolling out a new Since the beginning of have posted in 25 cities in ers that care is ‘Just a Call nationwide public service the pandemic, COVID-19 12 states and the District of Away” billboard and transit adver- has infected 59.1 mil- Columbia. The four different ver- tising campaign to remind lion people globally and “Just a Call Away” pub- sions of the campaign differ

HIV and AIDS patients that / Unsplash Grote Taylor claimed over 1.3 million lic service messages are in that they feature different medical care is “Just a Call providing patients care via ingly important tool for the lives. The devastating ef- up now in California (Los medical providers and with Away” and can be arranged telemedicine. Telemedi- successful care and treat- fects of the pandemic on Angeles, San Francisco one image, a patient hold- through telemedicine ap- cine reduces the number ment of our patients,” said all aspects of human activ- and Oakland), Florida (Ft ing up a pill bottle—un- pointments by AHF via its of times patients have to Michael Wohlfeiler, MD, ity cannot be understated. Lauderdale, Homestead, derscoring the crucial role www.HIVcare.org website. actually physically go to a JD, Chief Medical Offi- The impact of the virus on Orlando, Pensacola and medication plays in the care The goal is to help AHF’s clinic facility—most often, cer for AHF. “Telemedi- public health, the global St Petersburg), Georgia of HIV and AIDS patients. patients—as well as to en- if they need any blood test- cine allows patients the economy, politics and civic (Atlanta), Illinois (Chi- “We want to strongly en- courage other HIV or AIDS ing. However, with patients convenience of continuity institutions will likely be cago), Louisiana (Baton courage both our own AHF patients who may be out who are already in care and of care for management felt for generations. Amid Rouge), Maryland (Balti- patients as well as other of care—to embrace and successfully on antiretrovi- of their disease. And as a this crisis, the possibility more), Mississippi (Jack- HIV or AIDS patients who maintain their health and ral treatment (ART), blood very basic form of social of an effective vaccine for son), Ohio (Cleveland and may have fallen out of care wellbeing during the coro- tests are routinely only distancing—with patients COVID-19 holds a hope- Columbus), Pennsylvania to seriously consider ex- navirus pandemic with taken from a patient two or remaining in their homes or ful promise for a gradual (Philadelphia), Texas (Dal- ploring telemedicine as an care provided by a medi- three times a year. apartments—telemedicine end to the pandemic. How- las and Houston), Washing- efficient, social distanced cal provider via telemedi- “Like many in the medi- also is a critical means to ever, until that time, our ton State (Seattle) and the way to receive their medi- cine. Since March, after cal field during this pan- reduce possible infection best course of action is to District of Columbia. cal care,” added Michael COVID-19 reached its first demic, we’ve found that with COVID-19, another deploy simple, yet effective The artwork for AHF’s Weinstein, President of crescendo, AHF has been telemedicine is an increas- viral infection that has measures like mask use and “Just a Call Away” public AHF. Texas is failing to control spread of COVID-19, reaching a new record-high Austin, Texas — The CO- from the virus. More than cases across the state. “Failed Republican Gov- save the economy by stop- bott must stop following VID-19 pandemic continues 130 counties are at the CO- And the worst is yet to ernor Abbott and the Re- ping the further spread of Trump’s disastrous legacy to ravage many parts of the VID-19 “tipping point.” On come. The medical com- publican Party are giving this disease that has taken on this pandemic and in- country, especially here in Saturday, Texas announced munity is concerned about Texans only choices in this too many already. How stead give our people the Texas. One person is dying 12,567 new cases. another large surge in cases pandemic: catch the coro- many Texans must die for resources, information, and from COVID-19 every min- Misinformation from Ab- and deaths after Thanksgiv- navirus and die, or catch the the Republicans to finally local power they need to ute in the . bott, Trump, and Texas Re- ing and the upcoming holi- coronavirus and hopefully take this seriously? For the have a fighting chance to In Texas, positive cases publicans about coronavirus day season. you don’t end up on life sake of all Texans, Gov. Ab- turn this around.” have already surpassed one prevention and the benefits Texas Democratic Party support. million cases and more than of staying home has also Chair Gilberto Hinojosa is- “True leadership would 20,000 Texans have died contributed to explosions of sued a statement: understand that we can only MedStar offers extra tips to keep Thanksgiving safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving is a time any storms that may be in while preparing the holiday leave the kitchen even for for family, fun and food. the area you are traveling. meal. a short time, turn off the MedStar wants to help Please be sure to use seat Keep anything that can stove. Check food regu- make sure the holiday is belts and, of course, no catch fire - potholders, larly. SAFE. In addition to the one should drink and drive. oven mitts, wooden uten- Keep children and pets COVID-19 guidelines, here Drivers should be well rest- sils, paper or plastic bags, away from the cooking are a few other safety tips ed and alert and give their food packaging, and towels area. Consider purchasing a as you enjoy the holiday full attention to the road – or curtains—away from the fire extinguisher to keep in weekend. avoid distractions. Make stove, oven or any other ap- the kitchen. Always check The day before Thanks- frequent stops and for long pliance in the kitchen that giving is the most traveled trips, rotate drivers. generates heat. the kitchen before going to day of the year. If your plans Cooking safety is also Use a timer as a reminder bed or leaving the home to include driving, check the important. Cooks should that the stove or oven is on. make sure all stoves, ovens, weather along your route avoid wearing loose cloth- Never leave the stove unat- and small appliances are and plan for travel around ing or dangling sleeves tended – if the cook has to turned off. 4 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Community COVID-19 doesn’t put a damper on Minnie’s Thanksgiving tradition On Saturday, November Thanksgiving meals, in- “With the uncertainties of zip code. To date, Minnie’s 21st, Minnie’s Food Pantry cluding a turkey and all the COVID-19 the impact it has Food Pantry has proudly (MFP) hosted their 12th trimmings, to families who had on our community made provided over 15 million Annual Feeding 10,000 would otherwise go without us create a giveaway experi- to families in need of food Thanksgiving Giveaway, in North Texas,” said Dr. ence that will put smiles on assistance (with over three made possible in support Cheryl Jackson, Founder, people’s faces behind their million meals being distrib- from USAA, HEB, Kroger, Minnie’s Food Pantry. mask. This year’s event is uted since the pandemic hit Tom Thumb Albertsons and “Minnie’s Food Pantry has anticipated to be larger and our community). Additional other community partners. been the leading food pan- better than ever before you information about Minnie’s MFP brought the redcar- try in North Texas, we have have to see it to believe it. ” Food Pantry can be found pet experience to thousands distributed over four million Minnie’s Food Pantry is a by visiting www.Minnies- of families and provided meals since the pandemic 501(c)(3) non-profit organi- FoodPantry.org, on Face- each with a Thanksgiving Media / Unsplash Church Pro hit in March. zation that provides healthy, book at www.Facebook. meal including a turkey and as many families registered entertain the families as “We will have several nutritious meals and re- com/MinniesFoodPantry, all the trimmings needed to from previous years, many they drive through the con- guests from the Dallas Mav- sources by way of red-car- and on Twitter at www. enjoy the holidays in their of which sleep in their cars tactless giveaway. ericks including the CEO, pet treatment to children and Twitter.com/MinniesPan- own homes with their loved overnight to receive their “Each year Minnie’s Cynt Marshall and the Mavs families in need. Minnie’s try. For more program and ones. turkey meals. Food Pantry hosts an An- Dancers to help entertain Food Pantry is the largest sponsorship information, This year’s event was Live music was provided nual Thanksgiving give- the crowd and show them food pantry in North Texas please email info@minnies- historical with almost twice by Emerald City Band to away to distribute complete love during the holidays. that distributes regardless of foodpantry.org.

as well, where we just want Broaden: It’s just a pas- as a Den Leader, working Motto: I’ve committed BROADEN, from Page 2 to support Colin and just sion. I’m not looking for with my various church my life to be a civil rights Defender: What mes- as men with no credibility. energize the Black com- attention. I’m not looking ministries at WVUMC and activist for people of color sage were you trying to get So, the shoot was just to munity. to make any money. I just quiet family time at home. since 2018. across? capture that. I was shocked We did another shoot want to make Black and Hometown: Baton Facebook: www.Face- Broaden: That Trayvon when it went viral and so- called “Don’t think about Brown people feel good Rouge book.com/FabianBroaden shoot was titled, “There’s cial media was very excited voting, just do it.” We also about themselves. millions just like us.” I about it and it made a lot of did a photo shoot celebrat- Education: Southern wanted to show that we’re people feel good. ing breast cancer aware- University Follow Black men, we went off to Defender: What are ness. Occupation: Architec- college. We all have dif- some of the other shoots Defender: How do you tural Sales us on ferent careers. We like to you’ve done? go from architecture to Organizations: Kappa INSTAGRAM! statement photo shoots? Is Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. dress nice. But also, dur- Broaden: I did a shoot in @northdallasgazette ing the weekend, we’re just honor of Colin Kaepernick, this something you want to Favorite pastime: Serv- regular guys and you won’t when he was being scruti- pursue professionally? ing with the Cub Scouts know us from any differ- nized by the NFL. When ent than Trayvon Martin. Nike picked him up, we We all just looked like just wanted to celebrate Colin average guys out in society. and Nike, so we all had on That’s how people view us. Nike tennis shoes, we were They don’t know our back- all dressed up in suits and ground; they don’t know we had our Black sons and our stories. They just see us that was a powerful piece

PLAY, from Page 2 I practice and learned from Before she arrived home watching players like Allen from tryouts, the university Iverson and Kobe Bryant,” coach had called her family Davis-Middleton said. “My with good news. dad and uncle taught me “Mommy and daddy everything about the basic hugged me so tight, and skills I needed to get bet- we cried together,” Davis- ter.” Middleton said. She added that she need- “Life experiences will ed all the encouragement teach you how to maneuver she could muster initially in society. Education im- trying out for the Jackson- proves your scope of think- ville University Dolphins. Before trying out, Davis- ing. Experience and educa- Middleton sprained her tion ties in together.” ankle. To purchase “How To: “I drove to tryouts bare- Play Basketball the Fun ly able to press on the gas Way,” visit amazon.com. pedal, but I ignored the To learn more about Davis- pain and continued,” she Middleton, visit www.Je- said. narie.wordpress.com. For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 5 Education www.NorthDallasGazette.com DHA’s Opportunity Rising announces scholarships for 10 high school students Opportunity Rising, the success through education, 2020 Graduate of Naaman for North Texas provides education foundation for and by providing educa- Forest High School quality, affordable hous- DHA, Housing Solutions tional scholarships to DHA • Sarah Apio, 2020 ing to low-income families for North Texas, awarded residents, it can help them Graduate of Lake Highland and individuals through 10 students with college achieve their self-suffi- High School the effective and efficient scholarships during the ciency goals. Students who • Destiny Cooper, 2020 administration of housing DHA Board of Commis- have received scholarships Graduate of L.G. Pinkston assistance programs. The sioners Meeting on Sep- continue on to attend top High School agency aims to create op- tember 14, 2020. The Foun- universities and historically • Kiara Euins, 2020 portunities for program dation presented awards in black colleges across the Graduate Harmony School participants to achieve self- the amounts of $1,500- country. Opportunity Ris- of Innovation-Dallas sufficiency and economic $4,000.00. ing Foundation scholarship • Isáilah Edwards Mer- independence. DHA pro- Scholarship recipients recipients have become at- vil, 2020 Graduate of Ray vides housing opportunities

are attending the Univer- Koloda / Unsplash Vasily torneys, epidemiologists, Braswell High School to ~55,000 people through sity of North Texas, Prai- they’ve given us and run provide our residents with entrepreneurs, pharmacists, • Briana Muhammad, public housing develop- rie View A&M University, with it, because not every- the boost that they need to- clinical audiologists, phy- 2020 Graduate iSchool Vir- ments and Housing Choice Grambling State Univer- one gets that opportunity.” ward self-sufficiency. With sician assistants, class case tual Academy of Texas Voucher (Section 8) pro- sity, , Read her full profile. the support of donors, Op- managers, registered nurses • Tierra Roper, 2020 grams. Our mission is to The University of Texas at UNT freshman and Lead- portunity Rising provides and educators,” said Troy Graduate of Skyline High provide affordable quality Dallas, Hardin-Simmons ership Award winner Sarah resources for postsecond- Broussard, President and School housing and access to sup- University, Chapman Uni- Apio took the initiative to ary education and success CEO of DHA. • Demarieh Wesley, portive resources across versity, Eastfield Com- apply for the scholarship for DHA students. Though Based on data, 71% of 2020 Graduate of Skyline North Texas. DHA is gov- munity College and Collin knowing how challenging it students from low-income the previous Opportunity High School erned by its Board of Com- County Community Col- would be for her mother to backgrounds graduate at Rising Foundation scholars • Kamari Wilkerson, missioners and administers lege at Plano and Frisco. send both her and her twin lower rates than their peers were first-generation col- 2020 Graduate of Frisco housing programs funded Scholarship winner brother to college. “I really from higher socioeconomic lege students and 76% were High School and regulated by the U.S. Isáilah Edwards Mervil, think the (Opportunity Ris- backgrounds, Opportunity able to move on to employ- • Adriann Wrice, 2020 Department of Housing who’s now attending Col- ing) foundation is a great Rising’s goal is to create ment and no longer receive Graduate of Booker T. and Urban Development. lin County Community idea,” Apio says. “It’s very a clear path for DHA stu- or need government assis- Washington High School DHA is an independent, lo- College, said, “Without the helpful for families that dents. The Opportunity tance. Opportunity Rising for the Performance and Vi- cal government entity, that help from DHA, and not aren’t able to afford col- Rising Foundation strives has provided 1,119 students sual Arts is separate from the Dallas only the scholarship, we lege. Any amount of money to be the catalyst in our stu- with more than $1.5 million To learn more about the City Housing/Community wouldn’t really be as far as is really helpful. I appreci- dents overcoming adversity in scholarship funds over foundation and support Services department, which we are now. With that being ate the foundation for that.” to achieve their educational the last 23 years. its mission, please visit: is governed by the City of said, it’s just a big thanks The Opportunity Ris- and professional goals. 2020 Scholarship recipi- https://opportunityrising- Dallas. For more informa- to them. It’s a blessing. ing Foundation believes “At Opportunity Rising, ents: foundation.org/. tion about DHA, please So I like to use everything that education helps to we know that we can power • Nahome Abraham, DHA, Housing Solutions visit www.dhantx.com. Student loan debt widens racial wealth gap By Stacy M. Brown outstanding federal student African American stu- the wealth gap in this coun- NNPA Senior National loans per borrower. dents are far more likely try better,” Pentis said. Correspondent According to data from to have large student debt “We are seeing that those the U.S. College Board, than their white, Hispanic loans are actually making President-elect Joe Biden that would mean erasing all or Asian classmates, with the racial wealth gap worse wants to immediately erase debt for more than three- 59.5 percent of African because the loans become student loan debt, a move quarters of borrowers. American students borrow- a burden on families that that could prove more Andrew Pentis, the stu- ing more than $29,500. are already disadvantaged meaningful for African dent loan debt policy ex- Pentis noted that the in terms of having a lower American students who, on pert at Student Loan Hero, Black borrowers are more household income, hav- average, owe much more pointed to an analysis than twice as likely as white ing a lower net worth, and than anyone. published by his company, borrowers to default on student loans can be a hin- With the freeze placed which shows student loan their student loans, which drance for families trying on student loan repayments “People having to make choices between paying their student loan portfolios now total $1.67 he said is a by-product of a to achieve financial goals and paying the rent … debt relief should be done immediately,” Biden set to end December 31, stated during a news conference on Monday, November 16. (Photo: trillion. U.S. median household in- like buying a house instead Biden has gotten behind iStockphoto / NNPA) Further, the data shows come that’s about $25,000 of helping those families the Democrat-led House’s that debt distribution is less for Black families than sort of climb the social lad- HEROES Act, which calls their student loan and pay- for much more debt relief. more massive among bor- whites. der and increase their finan- on the federal government ing the rent … debt relief Senate Minority Leader rowers of color, particular- The end of the federal cial wherewithal.” to pay off up to $10,000 in should be done immedi- Chuck Schumer (D-NY) ly Black students. loan moratorium would Student Loan Hero’s stu- private, non-federal student ately,” Biden stated during co-authored a resolution in Nearly 9 in 10 Black stu- disproportionately impact dent loan debt analysis also loans for economically dis- a news conference on Mon- September with Sen. Eliza- dents take out federal stu- Black and brown borrow- revealed that large amounts tressed borrowers. day, November 16. beth Warren (D-Mass.) call- dent loans to pay for col- ers, Pentis warned. of debt could act as a road- “People having to make NPR reported that Senate ing for the next president lege, compared with 7 in 10 “Student loans have long See LOAN, Page 15 choices between paying Democrats also are pushing to cancel up to $50,000 of white students. been seen as a tool to make

6 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Irving / Carrollton / Plano Women Assisting Women: Trucks and Blue Christmas On two consecutive Sat- has learned to keep edu- the Irving Police and Fire urdays, the Irving-Carroll- cating yourself, and go to Department to benefit their ton NAACP, National Asso- places (online during the BLUE CHRISTMAS event. ciation for the Advancement pandemic), join group meet- While keeping socially dis- of Colored People, held ings, ask the experts of their tanced and wearing masks both a virtual event and an experiences, and constantly outside, a total of 64 toys in-person event supporting build on yourself.” After and 22 food items were the community, and ulti- each encounter, she keeps collected and provided to mately led by women. track of what were the les- Blue Christmas Organizer The first Saturday, No- sons learned. Kim Paris. Special thanks vember 14, 2020, the Tony Grimes, President to these lovely ladies coor- “Women in Trucking and of the Irving-Carrollton dinating the in-person toy Women in Business” con- NAACP, and a small busi- event: Alicia Hinkle, Brit- ference was held online. ness owner himself, shared tany Fuller, Delia Watley, This complimentary event the advantages of accepting and Fatema Biviji. was to introduce, educate, small contract bids and the Also congrats to the $50 Members of the Irving Police and Fire Department join the Irving-Carrollton Branch NAACP for its an- and highlight that after ob- nual toy drive at the Georgia Farrow Recreation Center. (Courtesy Photo) benefits of gaining contacts Wal-Mart gift card raffle taining a CDL( commercial and marketing. The learn- winners who happen to be drivers license), women were discussed. If given others. achieve success. She stated ing, negotiating, and net- wonderful women in the can seek this nontraditional the opportunity to spread The other panelist was that having professional de- working opportunities are Irving community: Ernes- career pathway and some- her message on a billboard, Darlene Humphries, the velopment skills and a busi- endless. tine, Jennifer, and Lenore, times be just as successful it would read: “MERGE Purchasing Manager for the ness acumen/risk-taking The following Saturday, and Wanda. Overall, these as a college graduate. The LIKE A ZIPPER”. She em- City of Irving, concentrated acumen mix are significant November 21, 2020, was community events could not Women In Trucking Am- phasized trucking is essen- on the business segment factors to reaching profi- the toy donation drive at have been a success without bassador panelist was Kel- tial business and the pleth- of the conference. She dis- cient goals and objectives. the Georgia Farrow Rec- the caring neighbors and lylynn McLaughlin of Fris- ora of career opportunities cussed the importance for One actively engaged reation Center. Since the involved supporters. Even co, who once served in the in trucking, not just driving; entrepreneurs to review past participant, La’Kisha James City of Irving $ 3 million now, during these unprec- Peace Corps and now works logistics, IT, sales, etc. Kel- bid briefs to see how a busi- of Mooresville, North Caro- dollar project is underway edented times, these com- for Schneider. She has an lylynn reaffirmed the im- ness qualifies for a contract lina, discovered this event to renovate the park, trucks munity efforts will be trea- abundance of energy shar- portance and necessity for with the City. Her office particularly enlightening were able to meet just out- sured abundantly by local ing her profession. The chal- women to help each other staff of seven is always open as she is on her journey of side the entrance. This toy children, career –transition- lenges, the benefits, and the and reach back in the com- to answering questions and obtaining a transportation drive effort is a collabora- ers/job-seekers, and future changes within the industry munity to lead and guide helping business owners company. She says, “She tion and partnership with leaders.

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 7 Feature www.northdallasgazette.com Biden’s First 100-Day Challenge: Transitioning to a more inclusive economy By Charlene Crowell familiar and often ineffec- consumers with low or no investors. tive remedies. Preserving cushions in their bank ac- The financial playing The tumultuous 2020 the status quo will never counts. These are the same field could better serve presidential election trig- provide help that is desper- consumers who can least Black and other businesses gered a record number of ately needed. afford added fees in already of color with more robust participating voters. Never Toward this end, CRL tight budgets. CRL propos- capital support and techni- before had so many people has proposed a 100-day es to halt these regressive cal assistance, according cast their preferences. And agenda for the incoming fees until the economy has to CRL. A direct grant pro- similarly, together substan- Administration and the recovered. Once achieved, gram tailored to the special- tiated how divided the na- new Congress to address CRL recommends a per- ized needs off businesses of tion is. financial justice in all of its manent limit to the number color, as well as increased For Black America, the forms. of fees that can be charged lending capacity at minor- financial ravages of the To expand fair, inclusive, monthly and annually. ity deposit institutions and All indications are that Joe Biden will be the 46th President, and the and sustainable homeown- One action the federal year have brought deeper community development and more devastating cir- task at hand for creating a more equitable economic environment is ership, CRL calls for sev- government did take in great. (Photo: Saeima / Flickr) financial institutions would cumstances to bear. Dis- eral actions including: the COVID-19 crisis was be key to accessing afford- proportionately affected by ever. neighborhoods are well- • Targeted reparations in to fund small businesses able credit when needed. the COVID-19 pandemic, While pundits focus on resourced. It also assured a homeownership program threatened with closure. Nor is CRL alone in call- our communities have been the first 100 days of the that local residents would that includes direct down However, Black small busi- ing for change that brings denied the opportunity to next Administration, peo- have access to housing op- payment grants for low- nesses and entrepreneurs genuine relief to Black comfort loved ones hos- ple from all walks of life portunities. wealth, first-time Black and were largely shut out of tis pitalized, or even to col- hope in earnest for an in- Under President Trump. Brown homebuyers as well aid. A key remedy for CRL America. Civil rights lectively mourn the loss clusive economic recovery, The Department of Housing as others disadvantaged by is to launch a focused ef- groups like the National of family and friends. The one that includes commu- and Urban Development, exclusionary federal home- fort to meaningfully assist Fair Housing Alliance and continuing pandemic has nities long-marginalized. HUD, repealed the regula- ownership policies; and them. the National Urban League also depleted the financial And lest anyone purport tion and replaced it with a • Eliminating reliance on The achievements of have also identified action resources of those who that communities of color rule that was described as credit-scoring systems that Black businesses are often plans that will deliver a bet- lack sufficient resources to are overly-sensitive, we “weak and toothless” by entrench historic discrimi- overlooked in analyses of ter day. cover financial emergen- need only remind naysay- Lisa Rice, President and nation. America’s economy. Ac- If some of these propos- cies. When these same eco- ers of how the housing re- CEO of the National Fair Recognizing that the cording to the U.S. Census als seem familiar to read- nomically- disadvantaged covery from the Great Re- Housing Alliance. broken higher education Bureau, America’s estimat- ers, it is because our fight consumers also suffer job cession left behind the very Similarly, the outgoing financing system also - per ed 2 million Black busi- for freedom, equality and losses, lay-offs and reduced people who were harmed leadership at HUD pro- petuates the racial wealth nesses are about 10 per- the American Dream have working hours, mounting the most: Black and Latino mulgated an administrative gap, CRL suggests a range cent of all U.S. businesses remained a quest instead of household debts are inevi- communities. rule that would defang the of reforms to immediately and about 30 percent of an achievement. table. If this recovery is to be “disparate impact” stan- relieve the crushing burden all minority-owned busi- On April 16, 1963 – 57 “We are in the midst of a different, the calls for ac- dard, a critical legal tool to of student debt, including nesses. Collectively, Black years ago, Rev. Dr. Martin pandemic caused by an ab- tion must be heeded. Now uncover and stop harmful broad-based cancellation. businesses have an annual Luther King, Jr. penned ject failure of federal lead- is the time to stand up and mortgage discrimination. “Too often, predatory fi- payroll of $23.9 billion and his immortal, Letter from ership that has left tens of speak out not just for what Nikitra Bailey, Executive nancial services and prod- employ 920,000 people. a Birmingham Jail. In part, millions unemployed, the we want, but for what we Vice President with the ucts prevent families and As impressive as these he wrote, “[W]hen you are economy in collapse, near- also deserve. Center for Responsible small businesses from ac- numbers are, several re- harried by day and haunted ly half of the nation’s Black A straightforward first Lending (CRL) argued that cessing opportunities, and ports, including a recent by night by the fact that small businesses decimat- step is for President-Elect “[I]t is unfathomable that instead impede our ability one by Citi Global Perspec- you are a Negro, living to reduce poverty and close tive and Solutions, show ed, 40 million Americans Biden to move swiftly to HUD would gut one of the constantly at tiptoe stance, at risk of foreclosure and the racial wealth gap”, that if Black businesses had restore fair housing rules primary anti-discrimination never quite knowing what eviction, and Black home- that were gutted by Presi- instruments as the nation states a new CRL policy greater access to affordable to expect next, and are ownership at levels not seen dent Trump’s Administra- reckons with systemic rac- brief that includes a com- credit, this key sector of plagued with inner fears since the 1960, when racial tion. ism.” bination of administrative the economy would grow and outward resentments; discrimination in hous- In 2015, President Even the collection of and legislative actions. significantly and boost the when you are forever fight- ing was legal,” noted the Obama’s Administration data on mortgage discrimi- Even before the dual cri- nation’s economy as well. ing a degenerating sense National Urban League’s issued the Affirmatively nation has been cut. These ses of the pandemic and a Black businesses are President and CEO, Marc Furthering Fair Housing rollbacks and others are de- faltering economy, U.S. more often created with of ‘nobodiness’ – then you Morial. (AFFH) regulation, which scribed in a report entitled, household debt was on the their own personal resourc- will understand why we In the throes of these provided long-overdue Turning Back the Clock: rise, reaching $14 trillion. es than are white start-ups. find it difficult to wait.” challenges, the President- guidance for local govern- How the Trump Adminis- CRL’s policy recommen- Instead of business loans, As a people, let’s call Elect has yet to receive co- ments and others to imple- tration Has Undermined dations include an end to Black entrepreneurs are upon a new Administration operation in our hallmarked ment a key mandate of 50 Years of Fair Housing the collection of so-called more likely to use personal to end our long-suffering peaceful transition of pow- the same name in the Fair Progress released by Ohio’s “zombie debt”, bills that and business credit cards wait. er. He must instead draw Housing Act of 1968. This Sen. Sherrod Brown, the are too old to be legally that can carry higher inter- Charlene Crowell is a Se- upon the expertise and in- key development in civil Ranking Member on the collected. est rates and fees. Addition- nior Fellow with the Cen- sights of those proficient rights law’s AFFH mandate U.S. Banking Committee. Another practice of ally, Black-owned busi- ter for Responsible Lend- in key areas of concern to required active steps to At the same time, we heightened concern is the nesses are the least likely to ing. She can be reached at construct a myriad of reme- end segregation, promote know that real progress increased use of bank over- receive approval for loans charlene.crowell@respon- dies needed now more than integration, and ensure all must be pursued beyond draft fees. These fees harm from large banks, or from siblelending.org. 8 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Dallas Cowboys Dallas Cowboys chalk up a much-needed win against Vikings By Dwain Price Dalton slid at the end of a Cowboys a 13-7 lead with and also tossed a two-point NDG Sports running play. 4:55 remaining in the sec- conversion to Lamb. And while Dalton was ond quarter. The all-round perfor- After suffering through recovering from that unfor- “My first competitive mance by Elliott offset the so much misery and suffer- tunate injury, he also tested catch for a touchdown in 60 yards rushing produced ing through so many inju- positive for the coronavi- the NFL,” Lamb said. “I by backup running back ries to so many key players rus. So, Dalton was just saw the ball up in the air, Tony Pollard, who also ran this season, it has come to elated to be back on the they gave me a chance and 42 yards for a touchdown. this for the Dallas Cow- football field, and he even- I definitely didn’t want it to In all, the Cowboys rushed boys. tually tossed a game-win- hit the ground, so I came for a season-high 180 yards If the Cowboys win their ning two-yard touchdown up and made a competitive against the Vikings. Thanksgiving Day game pass to Dalton Schultz with play.” “I play as hard as I can against the Washington 1:37 remaining in the game. Lamb wound up with and then (Pollard) comes in

Football Team on Thurs- Reels / Flickr All Pro “I missed the game of four receptions for 34 yards and plays as hard as he can, day at 3:30 p.m. at AT&T advanced to within a hair need to build off this win. It football while I was out and now has 48 catches on and then I go back in,” El- Stadium in Arlington, they of the top spot in their divi- needs to mean something. for the three weeks,” said the season. That broke the liott said. “We don’t really will miraculously be in sole sion with Sunday’s pulsat- “Obviously, coming off Dalton, who was 22-of-32 Cowboys’ rookie record have a strategy about it at possession of first place in ing 31-28 victory over the this win it’s going to be a for 203 yards against Min- for receptions of 46 set by all, but it’s definitely work- the NFC East. And who Minnesota Vikings. It was quick turnaround for the nesota. “To have to sit at Hall of Famer “Bullet” Bob ing out. saw that coming back on the first road win of the sea- Thanksgiving game against home and watch our guys Hayes in 1965. “I can’t remember how Oct. 11 when son for the Cowboys, who Washington. We definitely play, that was tough. “I’m so glad he’s a Dallas long it’s been since our Dak Prescott sustained a snapped a four-game losing took a big step in the right “But I’m very thankful to Cowboy,” McCarthy said last win. We been strug- gruesome season-ending streak and also put a halt direction.” be back out here, thankful of Lamb. “I think we’re all gling, but (Sunday) we put compound fracture and dis- to the Vikings’ three-game Dalton certainly took a to be healthy and help this seeing the beginnings of a it together, we played four location of his right ankle winning streak. big step in the right direc- team win.” tremendous career.” quarters of good football during a win over the New “It took us a little longer tion, too. The game against One of Dalton’s three Elliott showed everyone and we pulled it out.” York Giants? to get here (Sunday), but I the Vikings was his first touchdown passes went to a sample size of the tre- One reason the Cowboys Behind three touchdown clearly think the journey since he suffered a concus- rookie CeeDee Lamb, who mendous career he’s had to pulled out the win over the passes from Andy Dalton will make us stronger,” sion after Washington line- twisted his body like a pret- date. The five-year veteran Vikings is because safety and Ezekiel Elliott’s first head coach Mike McCarthy backer Jon Bostic launched zel and made a mind-bog- rushed 21 times for 103 Donovan Wilson caused 100-yard rushing day of said. “We need to do some- himself at him and violent- gling spectacular reception yards, caught two passes See COWBOYS, Page 11 the season, the Cowboys thing with this win. We ly hit him in the head while in the end zone to give the – one for a touchdown -- Film Review: Sound of Metal By Dwight Brown NNPA Film Critic

It’s a struggle. Losing one of your senses can be devastating. But that’s the reality a punk-metal drum- mer faces. Hearing loss. He’s banging drums he can no longer hear. Ruben (Riz Ahmed, Nightcrawler), a percus- sionist, and his lover Lou Riz Ahmed in sound of metal. (Courtesy photo) (Olivia Cooke, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl), a lead ing test—left ear at 24% as “Jucifer” who is hailed singer and guitarist, form capacity, right ear 28%— for extreme volume, was a two-person metal band. an audiologist delivers the developed into a very en- They travel to small clubs harsh news: “The hearing grossing script by writer/ and gigs in their RV, like you have lost is not com- director Darius Marder. low-budget indie rock stars. ing back.” With love in her Two mutually dependent, The music they play is ear- heart, Lou talks Ruben into nomadic loving souls bare- splitting. Even the applause becoming a resident at so- ly eking out a living. Solid they receive is loud. But ber house for the deaf. Then in their dedication to music, more and more for Ruben, she’s gone. He’s left to ad- performing and fighting for everything is muffled. just to a progressive pro- sobriety. It’s a brave Bo- It’s a major adjustment gram that doesn’t believe hemian existence but no- for a recovering heroin ad- deafness is a handicap. He ticeably fragile, especially dict whose life ambition is is not so sure. when they encounter a ma- music. His ability to under- The premise, based on jor challenge. stand conversations, deci- a documentary by Derek It’s no wonder the for- pher low tones and listen to Cianfrance about the hus- mer addict is mortified and phone calls decreases dra- band-and-wife American See METAL, Page 12 matically. After an alarm- sludge metal duo known

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 9 City of Dallas www.NorthDallasGazette.com

10 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com Contact Marketing at 972-432-5219 for Career Opportunity Advertising NDG Bookshelf NDG Bookshelf: ‘Dear Justyce’ is a good read for teens and adults By Terri Schlichenmeyer to the park, where he met criminal” and three months Justyce and how their lives you enough. Not to be a Justyce McAllister, who in youth detention. By then, were so different. And so spoiler, but Quan’s letters Your birthday card had was also taking an after- his mother had stopped car- he took out a piece of paper to Justyce are a gut-punch a Black History postage dark break from home. ing what happened to him. and took a chance at friend- and what’s toughest to take stamp on it. They kinda knew one And so Quan found his ship... is that teens – particularly As always, it was from another; they lived a block own family. He joined the Argue this: sometimes, boys, particularly Black Grandma and though it’s apart in Southwest At- Black Jihads, led by a man is a choice really a choice? boys – may recognize the kind of corny, you look lanta and as it turned out, named Martel who ruled Or is it like a narrow al- raw authenticity of every forward to it ever year: a Justyce’s best friend was his “men.” Suddenly, there ley with one way out, and page of it. blue or red envelope out- Quan’s cousin but that was was someone who cared somebody’s pushing from The second half, though, side, a sentimental saying it. See, Justyce kept clean, where Quan was and that behind? That’s one of the is more fictional, with a with a few bucks tucked stayed in school, studied he had something to eat. hard questions inside “Dear Hollywood-worthy court- inside. Other than bills, hard, and went to some The Black Jihad took care Justyce.” room drama that’s a little ballots, and ads, she’s the fancy white college after of their own. Really, the entire first predictable but that’ll none- only person you know who graduation, while Quan And in return, Quan took part of this book is hard, theless please an adult as snail-mails anything, but His mother’s new man was arrested the first time care of them when some- starting with author Nic much as it will a 14-to-17- in “Dear Justyce” by Nic had been beating her again at age thirteen for stealing thing happened, quick- Stone’s note to her readers, year-old. So hand this book Stone, help can be deliv- and though Quan hated a deck of cards from a con- quick-quick. explaining how this book to your teen, and be sure to ered, too. leaving his little brother venience store. The second Once, Justyce had visited came to be. sneak it back for yourself. The first time Vernell and sister there, he knew it time was for possession of Quan in prison and Quan It sets you up for what’s “Dear Justyce” deserves LaQuan Banks ran away, was safer for them if he left a firearm. His third arrest never forgot it. On his about to happen in the sto- both your stamps of ap- he was nine years old. the house. And so he went got him labeled as a “career darkest days, he thought of ry, though it can’t prepare proval. For the first time, an all-Black crew will officiate an NFL game By Stacy M. Brown footsteps will accomplish on pire – 14-year NFL official on a officiating Five of the officials work third Black referee in NFL NNPA Senior National November 23 during Mon- • Anthony Jeffries – Side crew. together regularly, with An- history when he earned a Correspondent day Night Football. Judge – 3-year NFL official Boger was the referee for derson, Mapp, Shaw, and promotion from his position For the first time in NFL • Carl Johnson – Line Super Bowl XLVII to con- Jeffries part of Boger’s crew. as a line judge in 2006, with In 1965, after beginning history, an all-Black crew Judge – 17-year NFL official clude the 2012 season. Johnson and Steed will join Johnny Grier being the first his officiating career work- will officiate an NFL game. • Julian Mapp – Down “This historic Week 11 the group for Monday’s at the start of the 1988 NFL ing college games in the The historic occasion will Judge – 12-year NFL official crew is a testament to the game. season. San Francisco Bay Area, happen when the Los An- • Dale Shaw – Field Judge countless and immeasur- In 2020, the NFL assigned “I am proud of my heri- the NFL hired Burl Toler as geles Rams visit the Tampa – 8-year NFL official able contributions of Black crews based on geography tage and excited about my a head linesman — making Bay Buccaneers in the 8:15 • Greg Steed – Back Judge officials to the game, their in an effort to limit travel. participation in this historic him the first Black official p.m. EST, nationally tele- – 18-year NFL official exemplary performance, Crew assignment guidelines game,” Boger said. “The in any major professional vised ESPN game. Previously, five Black of- and to the power of inclu- have also been relaxed in opportunity to work with a sports league. Jerome Bogar, 17-year ficials worked Super Bowl sion that is the hallmark of the current environment to great group of Black offi- Toler, who died in 2009 at veteran referee, will lead the LIV in 2019, including An- this great game,” said Troy assign officials to games cials and exhibit our profi- the age of 81, almost certain- seven-person crew, which derson, Johnson, and Steed. Vincent, NFL Executive closer to their homes when ciency in executing our as- ly would be proud of what includes: At that time, it marked the Vice President of Football feasible. signment is something I am those who followed in his • Barry Anderson – Um- most minority officials ever Operations. Boger became just the really looking forward to.”

rounding the corner in what sion is struggling this year “We’ve got to build on take a step forward, espe- COWBOYS, from Page 9 has been a topsy-turvy sea- and we know we’re right this success so we can cially against a divisional two fumbles that led to nine celebrate this week, but it’s son. there where we need to be. come out and assure we opponent.” points for Dallas. a short week. “It was huge for us and “He’s a stud,” McCarthy “So we’ve got to put this a confidence boost for us said. “I just love the way behind us quick and move going into the game on he plays. I’m just proud of on to Washington. We Thursday,” Lamb said. “It’s him. He’s probably one of know what they did to us a division game, so we’re our best players. He’s al- the last time.” looking forward to putting ways on the football.” The 31 points the Cow- our best foot forward and The Cowboys know boys tallied against the coming out and fighting they’ll have to be on the Vikings represent the most and being prepared to get football on Thursday if they points they’ve scored in a ready for Washington.” plan on exacting revenge game since they defeated The Philadelphia Ea- from last month’s 25-3 loss the Giants, 37-34, in the gles lead the NFC East to Washington. game when Prescott was with a 3-6-1 record, while “The whole way that we injured. the Cowboys, Giants and played the game (against In fact, until the match- Washington are each snug- Minnesota) and kept fight- up against Minnesota, the gled together and nursing a ing, I think that’s the ul- Cowboys had scored a to- 3-7 worksheet. Thus, with timate thing that we can tal of only 41 points in the six games remaining this hang our hat on and that four games since Prescott’s season, the division is to- we can gain confidence injury. tally up for grabs. off of and just keep it roll- For now, the Cowboys “We never thought that ing,” linebacker Leighton are hoping the win over we were out of it,” Elliott Vander Esch said. “We can Minnesota means they’re said. “We know our divi-

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 11 Marketplace www.NorthDallasGazette.com National African American Insurance Association’s founder and executive director inducted into 2020 Insurance Business America Hall of Fame Washington, DC – The every area of the industry,” founder, is also founder and an association dedicated to journey includes officer mittee and currently, the Ex- National African Ameri- writes IBA editors in the owner of JL Tillman Insur- diversification by encour- level positions with CNA, ecutive Director for the or- can Insurance Association 2020 Hall of Fame special ance Agency, an indepen- aging African Americans to CNA UniSource, MetLife, ganization. A thought leader (NAAIA) recently an- report. “The 26 insurance dent insurance agency that build successful careers in and Lambent Risk Manage- with vision and a dedicated nounced that Jerald L. Till- professionals who make up represents many of the top the insurance industry. Jer- ment, a full service, Insur- focus on excellence, Mar- man, Founder, and Margaret IBA’s fourth annual Hall of insurers in the marketplace ald received a Bachelor of ance Brokerage located in garet is fully committed to N. Redd, Executive Direc- Fame have tirelessly given today. With 40 years of ex- Arts in Business Adminis- , IL. Margaret’s af- Diversity, Equity and Inclu- tor, have been inducted into their time and expertise to perience in the insurance tration from Miami Univer- filiation with NAAIA dates sion and works diligently to Insurance Business Ameri- the industry for more than business, Jerald has been an sity, Oxford, Ohio. back to 2001 when she drive DE&I in the industry. ca’s 2020 Hall of Fame. 35 years; along the way, industry leader both locally Margaret N. Redd, a served as a founding mem- The NAAIA Board is ex- “The insurance industry, they’ve improved the lives and nationally specializing graduate of Jackson State ber of the organization’s tremely proud of Jerald and at its core, is about people of countless insureds and in commercial insurance. University, began her career first chapter, NAAIA Chi- Margaret for their much-de- – a fact that has never been have leveled the playing As founder of the National in the insurance industry cago. Her service later ex- served recognition and the more apparent that this year, field for the colleagues who African American Insurance as a Casualty underwriter tended to Chapter President distinguished awards that in the middle of a global came after them.” Association, Jerald’s vision trainee with The St. Paul for seven years, the NAAIA have been bestowed upon pandemic that has tested Jerald L. Tillman, NAAIA and focus was to establish Companies. Her career National Executive Com- them. NIFA awards $16M for Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase II KANSAS CITY, Mo. ports small businesses that of projects planned for SBIR chargeable Antimicrobial dried, leaves a thin transpar- line of small, low-cost, yet -- The USDA’s National are working to create in- Phase II. Here are some ex- Coating for Food Equip- ent film on a surface that accurate, electrochemical Institute of Food and Ag- novative, disruptive tech- amples: ment” (Halomine Inc.) – The reduces/resists pathogens on gas sensors that will greatly riculture (NIFA) awarded nologies and helps move • “Shielding Spruce and Centers for Disease Control food equipment. enhance safety, personal ex- over $16 million in FY 2020 research advancements from Douglas Fir Trees from and Prevention estimates 48 • “Ultraflow Power Sen- posure monitoring, and air grants for 29 projects in the conception into the market,” Bark Beetle Attack” (ISCA million people get sick from sors for Firefighter Safety quality monitoring for wild- Small Business Innovation said NIFA Acting Director Technologies, Inc.) - This foodborne illnesses, 128,000 and Monitoring of Sur- land fires. Research Program (SBIR), Parag Chitnis. “Since 1983, project aims to revolution- are hospitalized, and 3,000 rounding Air Quality” • “Drivetrain for High Phase II. this program has funded ize the production of syn- people die each year in the (KWJ Engineering Inc.) - Capacity Factor Distributed The USDA-NIFA Small over 2,000 research and thetic insect pheromones to United States. In addition, Wildland fires produce a Wind Turbine” (Pecos Wind Business Innovation Re- development projects, al- control agricultural pests. the cost to food companies significant amount of air Power, Inc.) - This project search (SBIR) Program fo- lowing hundreds of small Pheromones are nontoxic, also can be steep. Until pollution, often over very will demonstrate that in- cuses on transforming scien- businesses to explore their typically affect only the tar- now, no commercially avail- large areas. These pollutants creasing small-scale distrib- tific discovery into products technological potential, and geted pest species, leave no able antimicrobial materials pose health and safety risks uted wind turbines is a tech- and services with commer- providing an incentive for harmful residues on food have been broadly effective to first responders, as well nically and economically cial potential and/or societal the commercialization of in- produce, and cause little or against pathogens. Halo- as residents in nearby areas feasible solution to provid- benefit. novative ideas.” no environmental pollution. Film™ is a breakthrough, and downwind communi- ing lower cost electricity to “Our SBIR program sup- There are a wide variety • “A Scalable and Re- spray-on product that, when ties. KWJ has developed a rural areas nationwide.

Ahmed’s deeply emotional, moments when Ahmed and Ahmed is his vessel, muse aters November 20th, 2020 METAL, from Page 9 Oscar-worthy performance Cooke’s performances are and interpreter. He’s the and available on Prime Vid- manifests his fear in angry genious stroke of creativ- compels you to want to so emotionally raw and pri- soul-searching guide who eo December 4th, 2020. outbursts and feelings of ity and through innova- stick with him, through the mal they rival those of Gary introduces viewers to a Visit NNPA News Wire abandonment. He’s an un- tive sound design, lets the worst of times, until he has Oldman and Chloe Webb’s side of life that is too rarely Film Critic Dwight Brown likely protagonist fighting audience hear or not hear or doesn’t have an epipha- in Sid and Nancy. shown. at DwightBrownInk.com an invisible and seemingly just like Ruben. The screen ny. How despondent is he? The film’s very simple, Released in select the- and BlackPressUSA.com. insurmountable adversary. goes increasingly silent as Ruben: “What I need is a cinema verité look comes An enemy that forces him his ears fail. It’s a drum- fu--ing gun in my mouth!” from Daniël Bouquet’s in- to look to others for guid- mer’s worst nightmare and Yes, this is Riz Ahmed’s obtrusive yet intimate cin- ance and within for a solu- messing with the audio showcase and his ultimate ematography, Megan Stark tion. track adds an authenticity moment, thus far. But, Evans’ authentic costum- Ruben is the kind of that underlines his despera- excellent performances ing, Tara Pavoni and Ruth high-potential, anti-hero tion. He’s trapped. Not able abound. Paul Raci, a CODA Peeters’ very informal sets character seasoned actors to go back to the old world, (Child of Deaf Parents), as and Jeremy Woodard’s vie to play. Considering the not accepting the new. Then the director of the group low-key production design. high stakes, it isn’t evident there are moments when home builds a portrait of a The musical score by Nico- by Ahmed’s filmography you can hear what others seasoned counselor who is las Becker and Abraham that he could do justice to can hear, and he cannot. It’s as transparent and nurtur- Marder couldn’t be more a role that would be a su- a very profound juxtaposi- ing as he is demanding and audacious or subtly perfect preme challenge even for tion. disciplined. Lauren Ridloff and the tight editing by a chameleon like Daniel Ahmed invests his all in (TV’s The Walking Dead), Mikkel E.G. Nielsen makes Day-Lewis. Yet there he is, the rebellious but loving a former Miss Deaf Ameri- 2h 10min wiz by like 90 a British/Pakistani former drummer, expressing his ca, enlivens the role of Di- minutes. rapper, now with bleached disappointment and mak- ane, a congenial elementary Innovative filmmaker blonde hair, blanketed with ing you feel and experience school teacher. Mathieu Darius Marder examines tattoos and trying to con- his disorientation. Ruben’s Amalric (Munich) as Lou’s the psychology of deafness, vince viewers that Ruben’s stubborn attempts to cling dad casts a very paternal creates indelible characters struggle is worth their at- to his past life and not ac- shadow. While Oliva Cooke and molds a totally absorb- tention. cept his future is a paradox perfectly counterbalances ing atmosphere. But that’s Darius Marder, in an in- he must reconcile. And Ahmed. In fact, there are just the beginning. Riz

12 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Legal Notices / Career / Church Happenings JOB FAIRS CHURCH HAPPENINGS On-going BETHEL BIBLE Please join us in our quiet Services as we praise and U.S. Army FELLOWSHIP, time, “Prayer and Medita- Check “The Ship’s” web- worship God in the Joycie Opportunity CARROLLTON tion” followed by Morn- site for details of their ser- Turner Fellowship Hall, (A NEW PLACE TO ing Worship. You will be vices until further notice followed by our Worship The United States Army is BELONG) blessed and inspired as we because of the Coronavirus. Services; and bring some- hiring for over 150 different celebrate service to God, one with you, you will be career fields. NOTICE: New You, Pas- our community and all November 29 blessed. It’s for God’s glo- PART TIME OPPOR- tor Woodson serves the mankind. You are invited to join us TUNITIES - 1 weekend a House of Blues community by providing in our Sunday Morning See CHURCH, Page 14 month, 2 weeks in the early Want a cool job in live “Professional Therapy December 2, 7 pm summer. Stay local, Money music? House of Blues Dal- and Counseling Servic- You are invited to join us for school, healthcare, paid las is hiring! Spruce up your es” on a “Sliding Fee” via video-conferencing for drills and skill training, and resume and join us on Mon- scale. To schedule an ap- Prayer and Bible Study up to $20,000 enlistment bo- day, August 26th for a Job pointment call the Pasto- from 7 to 8:45 pm as we nus. Fair in our Cambridge Room ral Counseling Center at pray for the world’s Coro- FULL TIME OPPORTU- from 1-5PM. All depart- 972-526-4525 or email the navirus. NITIES - Full time hours ments are hiring. View job church at www.bethelbi- with off time and weekends openings at http://livenatio- blefellowship.org Dr. Terrance Woodson, just like regular jobs. 30 days nentertainment.com/careers. Senior Pastor paid vacation per year. Mon- Note: Until further no- 1944 E. Hebron Parkway ey for school, free health- On-going tice, all services at Bethel Carrollton, TX 75007 care, paid skill training, and First Fridays church will be via Video- 972-492-4300 Conferencing and perhaps www.bethelbiblefellow- up to $40,000 enlistment Virtual Job Fair other churches as well; ship.org bonus. Every month computer log on individual churches ______Jobs in science, intel- professionals can participate websites for details. See in the monthly job fair in ligence, combat, aviation, Bethel’s website www. FELLOWSHIP the comfort of your PJs. Job engineering, law and more. bethelbiblefellowship.org CHRISTIAN Contact 214-406 - 3737 Seekers must complete pro- for their details because of CENTER CHURCH IN Prerequisites: file on https://tao.ai/p/fff/_/ the Coronavirus. ALLEN • GED/High School Di- dfw “THE SHIP” We are ploma #FirstFridayFair (#FFF) November 29, 9:45 am Saving You a Seat! • Between the ages of 17- is estimated to be largest 34 attended career fair with • No felonies around 8,000 professionals • No major medical issues and 500 recruiting compa- • U.S. Citizen or perma- nies. The data science and nent resident software development fo- cussed career fair is deliv- Ongoing ered right at your desktop. Census Bureau No need to travel anywhere, The Census Bureau con- just signup and wait for ducts continuous surveys to TAO.ai to organize your in- supply the nation with im- teractions. portant statistics on people, places and our economy. Lo- cal field workers know their communities best, and are instrumental in conducting surveys with residents on a variety of topics. Visit cen- sus.gov to apply.

Ongoing City of Dallas The City of Dallas’ HR Dept is currently accept- ing apps for the Budget and Contract Administrator po- sition. Bachelor’s degree in a business/public adminis- tration, human resources or healthcare administration field, plus 7 yrs exp. For more info and to apply, visit: http://bit.ly/2NcCfVP.

Ongoing For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 13 Church Happenings www.NorthDallasGazette.com Being nice does have its rewards Dr. James L. Snyder I thought it would be. Of weeks. to be nice, because I do. I have taken notes, but I case my vehicle was listen- course, I was happy about I took the vehicle back to guess one person’s nice is didn’t. ing. But I was happy. It was one of those that, and as I drove my ve- the garage, and they solved another person’s naughty. After everything that When I got back from weeks. It seems that every hicle home, I sang one of the problem very quickly, Why is it naughty seems went wrong this week, I the bank, my wife saw that week of mine is “one of my happy songs. which made me happy. Re- much better than nice? was very much tempted I was smiling and asked those weeks.” Just when I The next day, the ve- membering the last time I The Gracious Mistress of just to give up. I’m not sure what I was happy about. think everything was look- hicle had the issue again. brought the vehicle home, the Parsonage always re- what I would give up, but So, being the “nice” person ing fine, I discovered I was I guess he heard me sing I did not sing my happy minds me when I’m going I was tempted to go in that that I am, I told her. And looking in the wrong direc- that happy song and was song, at least out loud. somewhere, “You better be direction. she was happy for me. tion. I should know better going to try to prove me When everything goes nice today!” Then things changed. It was just the beginning than thinking. wrong. I should’ve worn a wrong, it is tough to be I remembered years ago, First off, I got a check of the “nice” attitude in my Several problems devel- mask while singing so he nice. Having a nice attitude I asked her to define for me from my publisher, which week. oped with my vehicle, and I wouldn’t understand what takes a lot of work, and I what nice really means. I I was not expecting. As I My wife was away for had to take it to the garage. I was singing. When am I must say it is beyond my won’t do that again because drove to the bank to deposit lunch the other day, and Fortunately, when I took it going to learn? pay grade. she told me her view of be- the check, I kept from sing- in, it wasn’t as serious as Oh well, it’s one of those It’s not that I don’t try ing nice. I suppose I should ing my happy song just in See NICE, Page 15

Check “IBOC’s” website School to see what God has through service to each II Men Bible Study in the CHURCH, from Page 13 for details of their services to say to us in His Holy other and the world. Youth Church Sanctuary ry and honor. www.theship3c.org until further notice because Word. (Chapel). www.visitF3c.org of the Coronavirus. Check “SMBC’s” website December 2, 7 pm ______Pastor Rickie Rush for details of their services December 2, 7 pm Join us in our Wednesday’s November 27, 7 pm 7701 S Westmoreland Road until further notice because You’re invited to our 12 Noon-Day Live, Prayer INSPIRING BODY OF All men are invited to Dallas, TX 75237 of the coronavirus. Wednesday’s Bible Study and Bible Study class and/ CHRIST CHURCH, Men’s Ministry meeting 972-372-4262 class; you will learn what or our Wednesday Night Let’s Go Fishing! each Friday night at 8 pm, www.Ibocchurch.org November 29, God has to say to Live, Prayer and Bible MATTHEW 4:19 (IBOC promotes proactive ______8 and 11 am us. Come and be encour- Study at 7 p.m. to learn male leadership.) You are invited to our Wor- aged by God’s plan for more about God’s Word. “Bring the whole tithe into SHILOH MBC ship Services as we honor your spiritual growth and Be encouraged by God’s the storehouse, that there November 29, 10 a.m. IN PLANO God for His goodness and His glory. plan for your maturity and may be food in my house. Join us for our Morning (WHERE COMMUNITY faithfulness. His glory; and most of all; Test me in this,” says the Service; and don’t forget BECOMES FAMILY) Dr. Isaiah Joshua, Jr. be prepared to grow. Lord Almighty, “and see if to invite family and friends November 30, 7 to 8 pm Senior Pastor I will not open the windows to join us as we celebrate Connect to God through Every Monday Night 920 E. 14th Street Dr. W. L. Stafford, Sr., Ed. D. of heaven and pour you out our Lord and Savior, Jesus Shiloh, Grow in Christ Sister II Sister (Women’s Plano, TX 75074 Senior Pastor a blessing that there will Christ. through the study of the Mission) in the Main Fel- 972-423-6695 2450 K Avenue #300 not be room to receive.” Word of God, Serve God lowship Hall and the Men www.smbcplano.org Plano, TX 75074 - Malachi 3:8-10 November 30, 7 pm 972-379-3287 You are invited to Monday

14 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Church Directory Like a Shepherd bringing other dogs on his in our lives when Jesus children that come from Sister visits. They made them- knows that we cannot make that union. Tarpley selves welcome in his front it up our own hill in life. Instead, there are step- NDG foyer. It may be because we parents, step-siblings, half- Religion One of them was an older are facing financial ruin, brothers and half-sisters, Editor cocker spaniel named Joe debilitating health or insur- foster children, parents Cocker. But unlike Buddy, mountable grief. But no who have been married Joe didn’t leave after thirty matter what the reason, we more than once, and such a “He tends his flock like minutes. He ended up stay- can trust that Jesus is there mixture of people from dif- a shepherd: He gathers ing for two days! Finally to carry us. ferent backgrounds. the lambs in his arms and Harry called the name list- Allow Him to pick you This is a difficult life– carries them close to his ed on his dog tag and found up so you can find rest in to blend together and heart.” out that his owner lived up His arms and comfort in build happy, positive, and (Isaiah 40:11a) the road. hearing His heartbeat as healthy relationships. Pray Sometimes we can see As Harry started to walk He carries you close to his that God will be the cen- Christ modeled in the most him home Joe stopped as heart. ter of these families and unusual ways. The story is soon as he reached the hill Evangelist Ida Eggins celebrated another birthday from her children. Go before God today on that His love will flow told of a man and his neigh- because he was too weak to behalf of blended families. down through each and bor named Harry, Harry his climb it. So Harry picked let him stay at his house for ry to see how he was, he So many families are not every one, helping them to neighbor is like a shepherd him up and carried him days at a time and Joe was choked back the tears as he the “traditional” family, achieve peace and harmo- to the neighborhood dogs. home. It was not a short content to just hang out talked about him. with one mother, father and ny. In Jesus’ name. Once Buddy, the roving walk and Joe was not a with him and loved to sleep Jesus is often referred to black lab of the neighbor- small dog. on top of his dirty laundry. as the good shepherd in the hood discovered that Harry Day after day this rou- Then one day Harry got scriptures and His follow- was a wellspring of treats tine continued and I was a call from Joe’s owner to ers are referred to as His by simply pushing open his amazed at how much Harry let him know that Joe had sheep He carries close to broken front door, he began grew to love that dog. He’d died. When we called Har- His heart. There are times

feel a little happy with a ye mete withal it shall be NICE, from Page 8 customer like me. measured to you again” so I had to get my lunch. As I was thinking about I could see quite a bit of (Luke 6:38). I stopped at Wendy’s and how nice the week was go- strain in the lady at the cash After this little incident, I got my lunch, and I have ing, I decided to celebrate it register, and I’m sure she’s will take more time practic- one of those coupons for a by getting an Apple Fritter. had one of those days like I ing to be nice to the people free Frosty. I used my cou- What better way to cele- have every once in a while. I meet each day. pon, and when I picked up brate a nice week? After all, She looked at me, smiled Dr. James L. Snyder is my food, there were two an Apple Fritter eaten with- (probably the first time that pastor of the Family of Frostys. out my wife’s knowledge is day), and said, “That’s the God Fellowship, Ocala, “Excuse me,” I said to a pretty nice deal. nicest thing anybody has FL 34472, where he lives the waiter, “I only ordered Driving over to where I said to me all day. Sure I with the Gracious Mistress one frosty, but you gave me get my Apple Fritters, I had can give you a discount. In of the Parsonage. Call him two.” a thought in my mind. What fact, this Apple Fritter is on at 352-216-3025 or e-mail The person at the win- if I could get a discount on the house. Go ahead and [email protected]. The dow looked at me, smiled, my Apple Fritter? take it.” Then she smiled as church web site is www. and said, “I just wanted to The gray cells upstairs I walked out the door. whatafellowship.com. do something nice for you. started bouncing around, Driving home, I thought Go ahead, keep it.” I smiled and I came up with a plan. about it and that being nice back at him and thanked I went in, got my Apple sometimes has nice results. him. Fritter, and took it to the Nothing could be nicer for When you get something cashier. When I got there, me than a free Apple Frit- free, and you’re not expect- I looked at the cashier and ter. ing it, it really is nice. said, “If I mention how nice I thought about the words Driving home, I was you look today, could you of Jesus, “Give, and it shall thinking to myself, “How give me a discount on my be given unto you; good can my week get any bet- Apple Fritter?” measure, pressed down, ter?” For all practical pur- and shaken together, and It started out bad, but poses, I never expected a running over, shall men was beginning to change discount. I just thought I give into your bosom. For course. would make the cashier with the same measure that

spectively. LOAN, from Page 6 Conversely, more Black block to completing college among Black students and students – 40.7 percent on time. 29.7 percent among His- – took over six years to Data showed that while panic students. graduate college, com- 42.6 percent of students in For white and Asian stu- pared with 35.2 percent the Class of 2017 graduated dents, Student Loan Hero for Hispanic students, 25.3 in four years or less. said the rates were higher percent for white students, However, that num- than average at 46.7 per- and 19.7 percent for Asian ber drops to 28.8 percent cent and 48.5 percent, re- students. For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 15 Cadillac www.NorthDallasGazette.com

16 | November 26 - December 2, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com