Volume XXX, Number XXVI August 6-19, 2020 COVID-19 threatens Black businesses

- See Page 3 Dr. Fauci on coronavirus’ minority impact Visit us online at www.northdallasgazette.com - See Page 4 More Than A Vote: PCCLA looks for How Lebron James is leveraging public help for star power to empower voters benefit of kids By Alexandria Battle - See Page 5 NDG Special Contributor AdoptAClassroom

The man commonly known as lends a hand with “King James” is bringing his influ- school supplies ence to a new arena: the voting one. LeBron James, current Los An- - See Page 6 geles Laker and one of the NBA’s most talented and well-known play- NAACP files ers, has created a new nonprofit vot- lawsuit over ing initiative aimed at protecting the voting rights of Black Americans COVID-19 funds and other minorities. His new proj- ect, entitled “More Than A Vote,” - See Page 6 involves him partnering with sev- eral other prominent figures inside Throughout the country, concerns of voter suppression efforts are leading people to both Irving finances and outside the world of sports to action and protest. (Photo: Michael Fleshman / Flickr) on track despite encourage underrepresented com- the rising threat of voter suppres- the Black community and fight ra- munities to bring their voices to the sion. A fair amount of time will be cial injustice, myths and misinfor- COVID-19 ballot box. used to educate new and returning mation with knowledge and activ- “Change doesn’t happen sitting minorities on the history of voting, ism. - See Page 7 on the sideline,” he said on Twitter how to vote now, and what restric- The former Cleveland Cavalier while sharing the link to the orga- tions there are on voting. has practiced what he preaches Cowboys adjust, nization’s website last month. The Mr. James told the New York when it comes to social activism. words are also front and center on Times: “Yes, we want you to go Prior to this project, he previously set sights on the website itself. out and vote, but we’re also going helped low-income college students new season But their goals aren’t limited to to give you the tutorial.” He men- attend the University of Akron by increasing turnout at the Novem- tioned informing minorities of what assisting them with tuition, and ber presidential election—James, efforts the “other side” is making to started the I Promise School in Ak- - See Page 9 Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat, depress voter turnout, though he did ron in 2018 to offer a STEM-based businessman Maverick Carter, not name specific people or organi- education to low-income students Sister Tarpley: sports analyst Jalen Rose, comedian zations for the paper. This may be in grades one through eight. With Three Kevin Hart and other athletes and because the project is meant to be these programs firmly entrenched entertainers will also be using their party-neutral. Ultimately, the goal See JAMES, Page 12 Things considerable influence to combat of More Than A Vote is to protect - 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 ...... 7 City Briefs ...... 8 Sports ...... 9 Imogene McDaniel Harris Melissa Irby Entertainment ...... 10 Natti Natasha Marketplace ...... 11-12 Career / Obituaries ...... 13 NDG Quote of the Week: ”The African race is a rubber ball. The harder you dash it to the Church Directory ...... 14-15 ground, the higher it will rise.” — African Proverb NDG Book Review ...... 16 People in the News www.NorthDallasGazette.com Newspaper publisher, versity, in Bloomington, (established in the 1950s) and girls trying to earn Imogene McDaniel Harris educator, community activ- Indiana. and Gary INFO News- pocket change, to eventual The National Newspa- ist, matriarch Imogene Har- Imogene joined in nup- paper (founded in 1963). affluent and successful in- per Publishers Association ris, 88, of Gary, Indiana, tial bliss with her soulmate They diligently produced dividuals around the nation, (NNPA) expresses sincere completed her earthly as- James Templeton (J.T.) a publication that became “The Shop,” as Info’s mid- condolences to the fam- signment Wednesday, July Harris, Jr. on September 1, the voice of African Ameri- town location was affec- ily of Mrs. Imogene Mc- 22, 2020 after a lingering 1951. Their blessed union cans throughout Northwest tionately known, was more Daniel Harris (R.I.P.), the illness. lasted 51-years until J.T.’s Indiana for more than four than a place for workers to distinguished publisher of Imogene was born in the transition to glory in 2001. decades. hone their craft, it was a the Gary INFO Newspa- city she devoted a lifetime Imogene taught in the Imogene was a compas- launching pad for life. per (founded in 1963) who of love to: Gary, Indiana, Gary Public School Sys- sionate mentor, sage, and A lifelong resident of passed on July 22, 2020. on November 20, 1931, tem for many years, first, friend to people of all ages. Gary, Imogene was a mem- Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, the child of Lohney L. and at Froebel School, fol- Harris Printing Company ber of Delaney Memorial Jr., President and CEO of Geneva Scott McDaniel. lowed by Norton Elemen- and Gary INFO generated United Methodist Church the NNPA stated, “I have ing memory and legacy of She graduated from Gary tary School as a third-grade opportunities that contrib- which is now Christ Me- personally known the Har- NNPA publisher Imogene Roosevelt High School and teacher, and then she served uted to the growth of ex- morial Methodist Church. ris family in Gary, Indiana Harris. We pledge to keep briefly attended Hampton as Head Librarian at Lin- isting Black businesses Memberships included the for decades. Today, our ex- her spirit alive as we reded- Institute (University) in coln Elementary School. as well as the aspirations Gary branch NAACP, the tended NNPA families of icate to continue to sustain Hampton, Virginia. Imo- Imogene’s calling in life of budding entrepreneurs, Gary Urban League Guild, Black-owned newspapers the Black Press of America gene continued on to re- was partnering with J.T. to writers, photographers, and Delta Sigma Theta Soror- across the nation pause during these challenging ceive a Bachelor of Science run the family businesses printers. See HARRIS, Page 7 to salute the outstand- times. degree from Indiana Uni- – Harris Printing Company From newspaper boys Bachelor of Business Ad- for Disease Control (CDC), options. or assistance, contact admis- Melissa Irby ministration in Accounting the Texas Higher Education As a safety precaution, ap- [email protected]. The Collin College Board from McMurry University Coordinating Board, the Of- propriate face masks/cover- Collin College serves of Trustees appointed Me- in Abilene and a Master of fice of the Governor and lo- ings are required in all public more than 59,000 credit lissa A. Irby as the college’s Accounting from Abilene cal authorities. spaces on our campuses, as and continuing education new chief financial officer at Christian University. Irby Depending on the course well as in classrooms and students annually and of- its Aug. 4 meeting. is also a certified public ac- and program needs, students labs. fers more than 100 degrees Irby will serve as the in- countant with the Texas may choose among options Collin College demon- and certificates, including vestment officer of the col- Board of Accountancy. ranging from 100% online to strated an ability to adjust new Bachelor of Science in lege and as financial advisor Collin College has also 100% in person with social to changes when it moved Nursing (BSN) and Bach- to the District President and announced a return to col- distancing, as well as com- spring and summer classes elor of Applied Technology Board of Trustees. The CFO lege plan for the Fall 2020 binations of online and face- online and is prepared with (BAT) in Cybersecurity de- assures the integrity of finan- semester that offers students to-face. plans to ensure students can grees. The only public col- cial accounting and reporting choices on instructional de- Students will choose stay on track to graduate or lege based in Collin County, and serves as the custodian programs and services at the livery when they return on among available options meet their educational goals Collin College is a partner of all financial records and college. Aug. 24. The college contin- at the time of registration. should guidance change to business, government and contracts, except personnel, Irby worked for Abilene ues to place the highest pri- Students who have already from the CDC, state or local industry, providing custom- for the college. Irby will also Independent School Dis- ority on the health and safety registered should check their authorities. ized training and workforce serve as a member of the dis- trict for nearly two decades, of our students, faculty and schedule again beginning To register, visit www. development. For more in- trict’s executive leadership most recently serving as the staff and will follow recom- July 13 to see if their courses collin.edu/gettingstarted/ formation, visit www.collin. team to plan and implement district’s CFO. Irby holds a mendations from the Centers have been impacted by these admissions. For information edu.

women a voice through her and has surpassed the 46 Natti Natasha songs. million views on YouTube. Natti Natasha continues In a mostly male-led The worldwide trending to reap success and recogni- genre, her talent, discipline single follows the success tion. In the midst of a global and consistency have taken of “Despacio” with Nicky pandemic, where the world her along way, making her Jam, Manuel Turizo and has come to a halt, music an unstoppable force in mu- Myke Towers which peaked continues to flourish and sic. During quarantine, Natti garnered prime positions on the Dominican singer, even has not sat idly by, helping both radio and sales charts during quarantine, released low-income families in on Billboard. communities in her native “Que mal te fue”, which im- Natasha was born in the Dominican Republic with mediately trended around Dominican Republic in the Pedro Martínez Founda- the world. At the heels of 1986. At the age of seven her latest single success, the tion and lending her voice to the project “Resistiré” she enrolled in the school of Latin superstar celebrates “Best Choreography” for Fine Arts in Santiago, tak- her first nomination for (Dominican Republic) in “Honey Boo”, her video ing classes in singing. Bob the 2020 MTV Video Mu- support of families of musi- collaboration with success- Marley and Jerry Rivera are sic Awards (VMAs). This ful Latin Pop group CNCO. cians there. some of her earliest influ- year’s VMAs will take place Recently, Billboard reported In addition, she released ences. After moving to the on Sunday, August 30, 2020 that “Honey Boo” was the “Que mal te fue” under the Bronx, she met and was from the Barclays Center in group’s “Fan Pick” as their Pina Records label, a quar- signed by Don Omar. She is New York City. “Best Female Collab” yet. antine-inspired track merg- The versatile artist re- As an icon of female em- ing Reggae and Reggaeton, also an enginer and worked ceived her first VMA nomi- powerment, Natasha has al- which has garnered over 15 in a makeup factory before nation in the category for ways stood out for giving all million streams on Spotify her music career took off. 2 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Op-Ed Without more help, Black-owned businesses might not survive the pandemic By Eugene Cornelius Jr. trouble finding capital to owned businesses will stay areas. For example, officials P.O. Box 763866 - Dallas, Texas 75736-3866 survive the pandemic. in business long enough can increase loan guaran- Phone: 972-432-5219 - Fax: 972-509-9058 (TriceEdneyWire.com) In the face of large-scale to survive the pandemic. tees to support construction - Black communities in shutdowns caused by the But we must also plan for of housing for individuals “Do what you say you are the United States not only COVID-19 crisis, there is a long-term recovery that earning from 80 percent represent a disproportion- a clear need for policies emphasizes inclusion. This to 200 percent of the local going to do ... when you say ate share of casualties from to support small business. will require us to remove average median income, or you are going to do it.” coronavirus, but they have But the spending programs historic inequities through offer special collateral guar- also been deeply affected passed by Congress thus far targeted support for Black- antees for minority-owned Publisher’s Office: by the economic impact of have ignored the challenges owned businesses and businesses with revenues [email protected] the disease. Longstanding of capital access facing Black workers. under $5 million to invest in racial discrimination in eco- Black-owned firms. We can begin by taking long-term assets. nomic and housing policy During the first round of three key steps: • Third, place-based in- Sales Department: has increased their risk for funding provided for small • First, federal and state vestments should empha- [email protected] exposure to the virus, as businesses, borrowers seek- governments should enact size environmental quality 972-509-9049 well as the resulting finan- ing Paycheck Protection robust credit enhancement in low-income and minor- cial crisis. Program loans were re- programs for minority bor- ity communities through Editorial Department: The economic effects of quired to work with banks rowers. These programs special support for projects [email protected] the pandemic on Black com- already participating in the provide incentives for banks with higher air and water munities can be explained US Small Business Admin- to lend to businesses in low- quality standards -including by several factors. Almost istration’s (SBA) primary and middle-income areas, the remediation of outdated Online: half of Black-owned busi- loan program, thereby ex- allowing more firms to re- water infrastructure. Using www.NorthDallasGazette.com nesses are in industries - cluding firms that worked main open and refrain from federal and state loan guar- www.twitter.com/NDGEditor such as administrative and with smaller community laying off workers. In states antees to fund these invest- www.facebook.com/NorthDallasGazette support services, health banks. Moreover, Congress with existing loan programs ments will simultaneously care and social assistance allocated just $10 million that provide credit enhance- support improvements to www.pinterest.com/NDallasGazette and retail - that are bearing to the Minority Business ment, treasury officials the health of minority popu- www.instagram.com/NorthDallasGazette the brunt of this pandemic. Development Agency. Ac- should make loans more lations and reduce their vul- These industries not only cording to the Center for flexible, easier to access and nerability to future health STAFF pose a health risk because Responsible Lending, these increase loan guarantees. crises. Chairman Emeritus Religious / Marketing Editor of the interaction between conditions may have pre- In others, where credit en- As we look beyond the Jim Bochum Shirley Demus Tarpley workers and customers, but vented 95 percent of Black- hancement programs do not pandemic, these steps are 1933-2009 (“Sister Tarpley”) they are also especially vul- owned businesses from re- yet exist, treasury officials crucial for ensuring the Chief Editor Emeritus nerable to lower consumer ceiving loans. should create loss reserve American dream is within Ruth Ferguson NDG Senior Columnist demand due to social dis- The second round of funds and collateral sup- reach of minorities across 1965-2020 Ed Gray tancing measures. small business funding as- port mechanisms, as well as the country. By addressing Over 90 percent of sistance specifically set a marketplace to pair pre- fundamental inequities in Published by Minority Opportunity News, Inc. Contributing Writers small businesses in major- aside $60 billion for com- qualified lenders with - bor our economic system, we Fatema Biviji ity Black communities hold munity banks and credit rowers in need of working can begin to pave a new Interim Editor Jackie Hardy cash reserves of fewer than unions that are tradition- capital. State governments avenue toward a more pros- David Wilfong ally a key source of capital can also authorize one-to- perous future. Jacquinette Murphy 14 days, so they are more likely to run out of operat- for minority-owned firms. one matches for philan- Eugene Cornelius Jr. Community Marketing Dwain Price ing funds when customers However, the measure did thropic funding to expand is senior director for the Nadina Davis Terri Schlichenmeyer stay at home. And the most not stipulate that minority- the pool of available capital. Milken Institute Center David Wilfong Senior Account Executive recently available Federal owned businesses would • Second, credit enhance- for Regional Economics. Nina Garcia Reserve data shows that have priority access to those ment programs should also He previously served as a Black business owners are funds. be used to support place- senior official in the U.S. Production David Wilfong denied loans at twice the Addressing these short- based investment, with a Small Business Administra- rate of white owners, so term lending gaps is cru- priority on housing and in- tion. This commentary first NDG Obituary Dept. they are more likely to have cial to ensuring that Black- frastructure in low-income appeared on CNN.com. Vicky Richardson-Stewart VP of Operations TOP weighs in on Trump cutting Census counting efforts By Jessica Azua ing efforts to stop a month ism. TOP will continue its Immigration Justice Director early. It is underhanded ac- We urge Congress to ex- work to inform our com- Texas Organizing Project tions like this that illustrate tend the Census counting munities of the importance Trump’s blatant disregard deadline into next year, en- of completing the Census. At a time when this pan- for everyone who is not in sure that a full count is ob- We are so far on pace to hit demic is so clearly show- his preferred demographic. tained with a robust door- our Census outreach goal ing how the distribution of Trump’s handling of the to-door effort done safely, of 50,000 Texans. We will resources can be a matter Census count has been as and forcefully call out the not be deterred by a narcis- of life and death for our bungled as his response to Trump administration for sistic bigot in the Oval Of- nation’s Black and Latino the COVID-19 pandemic, its intentional politicization fice who fails to grasp the communities, it is nothing and communities of color of this process that is key concept of leadership.” short of malfeasance for are bearing the brunt of his to determining an accurate For more information on North Dallas Gazette assumes no responsibility President Trump to abrupt- toxic combination of inept- distribution of power and the Texas Organizing Proj- for unsolicited material and reserves the right to ly call for Census count- ness, arrogance, and rac- money. ect, visit organizetexas.org. 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 August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 3 Health www.NorthDallasGazette.com Dr. Anthony Fauci discusses the impact and severity of COVID-19 disparities in African Americans By Stacy M. Brown best as we possibly can to Some places have low inci- Health Organization NNPA Senior Correspondent get children back to school dents and can open schools (WHO). However, Dr. Fau- because we know the psy- while some are high. Some ci told BlackPressUSA that During a 30-minute in- chological aspect of that areas rate of infection is so he still maintains a close terview with BlackPressU- and the unintended conse- high where it’s not prudent relationship with the orga- SA that was streamed live quences for mothers and to open schools. You don’t nization. over Facebook, YouTube, fathers who may need to want to endanger their “I still work closely with and www.BlackPressUSA. stop working, so we should health.” the World Health Organiza- com, Dr. Anthony Fauci, try to get back to school,” A member of the White tion,” said Dr. Fauci. “I’m director of the National Dr. Fauci said when asked House Coronavirus Task on a weekly phone call Institute of Allergy and In- about the impact of the Force, Fauci has at times with them, and I signed a fectious Diseases, spoke of pandemic on the upcoming found himself at odds with memorandum of under- the importance of convinc- During a live interview with BlackPressUSA, Dr. Anthony Fauci, school year. President Donald Trump. standing. We’re all in with ing African Americans to director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases “However, paramount For example, earlier this the WHO.” participate in clinical tri- and considered by many to be the nation’s foremost infectious disease needs to be the safety, year, the president an- During the interview, expert, demonstrates the proper way to wear a face mask. als. He also said that school health, and welfare of chil- nounced that he would which included National re-openings should depend given area. ly only a few months away. dren, teachers, and fami- withdraw U.S. funding See FAUCI, Page 12 mainly upon the location Fauci also said a viable “The fundamental princi- lies,” Dr. Fauci added. and support for the World and the infection rate in a coronavirus vaccine is like- ple is that we should try as “We live in a big country. July was Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month but increasing awareness of mental illness among minorities should be an all-year effort by Nsenga K. Burton Ph.D. daughter from the devastat- before the launch of her confident self to whom real- NNPA Newswire Culture ing effects of mental illness newest WE TV reality show, ity fans flocked in her earlier and Entertainment Editor (Bipolar disorder). “Get Ya Life!” chronicling reality career. Braxton ad- Campbell, the mother her life after a tumultuous mitted she had lost every- The resolution was spon- of actress Maia Campbell decade including the rise and thing and was starting over sored by Rep. Albert Wynn whose struggle with mental fall of her singing career, a and it was clear she had the (D-MD) and co-sponsored illness has been covered re- high-profile divorce and new weight of the world on her by a large bi-partisan group lentlessly by entertainment romance, motherhood, bank- shoulders. During the show, to achieve the following gossip sites, died in 2006 ruptcy, public hirings and fir- fans publicly questioned the goals: of brain cancer, before she ings and public feuding with network and Young on social • Improve access to mental could see how her activism her famous sisters and “The media about why they would health treatment and services around this issue planted Real” talk show co-hosts. continue the show when the • To enhance and promote the seeds that have sprouted Despite news reports of show’s star was hospitalized public awareness of mental this resolution and a myriad Tamar’s alleged suicide at- for attempting suicide due to illness and mental illness of organizations (No More tempt supported by audio misgivings about the show among minorities. Martyrs, Therapy for Black of the 911 call by her live-in among other things. BeBe Moore Campbell, a Girls, Black Mental Health boyfriend David Adefeso, New York Times best-selling Alliance, National Alliance WE TV debuted Braxton’s See HEALTH, Page 11 author, was a fierce advocate on Mental Health) and in- new reality show “Get Ya of destigmatizing mental dividuals committed to des- Life!” anyway, showing bla- health in minority commu- tigmatizing and promoting tant disregard for Braxton’s nities, going public with her awareness and treatment of fragile mental state. Braxton, struggle with raising a men- mental health issues in the who also stars on WE TV’s tally ill child. While Moore African American commu- Braxton Family Values and is best known for her 1992 nity. The recent explosion co-hosts To Catch a Beauti- critically acclaimed novel of the self-care movement cian on VH1, did not look Your Blue’s Ain’t Like Mine, driven largely by African like her “usual self.” During in 2003, Campbell authored American women, promotes the first episode, Braxton a children’s book Some- mental health fitness as an met with Executive Produc- times My Mommy Gets An- important part of overall er Mona Scott Young, who gry, which tells the story of health. had to cajole her into doing how a little girl copes with Interestingly enough, two the show when Braxton ex- a mother battling mental of July’s biggest news sto- pressed reservations about illness. The book won the ries involved African Ameri- filming. Braxton in turn 2003 National Alliance on can celebrities who struggle asked Young to manage her Mental Illness Outstanding with mental illness – Kanye career since her former hus- Literature Award. In 2005, West and his quest to be- band, who had helped usher Campbell’s bold novel 72 come president of the United her fledgling solo career into Hour Hold was released. The States on the Birthday Party stardom, had also dropped book chronicled an African Ticket, and reality star and her as a client. Braxton American mother’s strug- singer Tamar Braxton who seemed like a shadow of her gle to save her 18-year-old recently attempted suicide former bold, audacious and 4 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Community PCCLA, a long-time child resource in Plano, seeks help from the public The Plano Child Care are tax deductible. lowest funded budget line equipment, materials and Learning Academy (PC- The Plano Child Care items. Therefore, as a non- supplies needed CLA) Annual Fundraiser Learning Academy (PC- profit organization, PCCLA • Sponsor Ad for the An- will celebrate 50 years of CLA) opened in 1970 to depends heavily on dona- nual Fundraiser (August service to the community serve working families tions to continue to pro- 15, 2020) and the 107th birthday an- in the historic Douglass vide this valuable service • All the above. niversary of founder, John community of Plano. The to working families in the “As we are located in F. Hightower. goal was and is to pro- community. your neighborhood, please Due to the current envi- vide affordable child care “For this reason, we are encourage your family, ronment, the event will be for working parents in the calling on the Plano/DFW friends and/or employees conducted via a live virtual Douglass and surrounding community-minded indi- to take advantage of our presentation on Saturday, Plano community. viduals, organizations, and services if needed,” the August 15, 2020 at 5 p.m. “In these times of COV- companies, to help us con- school noted. “Anyone CST. The live-streaming is ID-19 and high unemploy- tinue this valuable service,” needing child care services available at https://m.face- ment, we are sure you are the school said. “All funds can contact the PCCLA book.com/PlanoCCLearn- aware of the financial chal- and/or in-kind support will Director, Ms. Diana Dues ingAcademy/. lenges facing low income be used to sustain and en- at 972.424.1121. You are This year’s theme is “Re- families,” the school said hance services to the chil- encouraged to come and membering Our Past, Cel- in a release. “Finding af- dren.” visit the Academy and see ebrating Our Present and fordable child care to go to Support can be in the how we are building our fu- Embracing the Future.” ment by Cedric D’vine. Through outreach to in- work or back to school is a form of: ture community and world The keynote speaker will There will be guest ap- dividuals, organizations, number one issue for work- • Direct financial con- through children.” be Mr. Albert Smith, Jr., pearances by Retired Dal- and companies, PCCLA ing couples and especially tribution online during the The fundraising Chair- Group Vice President and las Cowboy Emmitt Smith, hopes to raise funds to keep single parents (our larg- virtual program or before person, Carolyn Hamilton- Chief Social Innovation Of- Plano Chief of Police Ed the Academy operational, est percentage of patrons). or after at http://plano- day- Evans, can be reached ficer, Toyota Motor North Drain, Collin County Judge enhance programs and im- PCCLA offers the lowest center.square.site/ and click at 214.684.5553, cha- America. Other program Angela Tucker, Plano Dep- prove facility services. The priced quality child care in on Support Now to donate. [email protected] or highlights include presen- uty Mayor Pro Tem Antho- school is seeking help to the Plano area.” Checks can be made pay- Chairman, PCCLA Board tations by PCCLA Valedic- ny Ricciardelli, Rev. Isiah reach a goal of $100,000. Local, state, and federal able to the Plano Child of Directors, Ezekiel torian/Salutatorian, Execu- & First Lady Linda Joshua, All funds received will be funding for child and fam- Care Learning Academy Vaughn at 214.616.4752, tive Director Diana Dues, PCCLA Parents Ezra and used to benefit the school’s ily services is not a legisla- and mailed to the above ad- ezekielvaughn@sbcglobal. parent representative Tara Deidra O’Neal, and Former children. As the PCCLA is tive priority right now and dress. net for any additional infor- Addison and live entertain- Student Tori McCullough. a 501(c)(3), all donations continues to be among the • In-kind services, e.g., mation needed. Biden unveils campaign commitment to Latino voters On Tuesday, the Joe Biden has attempted time and time Texas. disparities by race. for President campaign again to steal Texans’ land to Joe Biden’s plan to build • Expanding access to unveiled Joe Biden’s new build a stupid wall nobody the Latino community back high-quality education and agenda for Latino communi- wants and waged an all-out better than ever before in- tackle racial inequity in our ties. assault on immigrant rights’ cludes: education system. “Joe Biden’s plan for our throughout his Presidency. • Investing in Latinos’ • Combatting hate crimes Latino communities is the Texas is 40% Latinx. The economic mobility. and gun violence. plan that our families need,” success of our Latinx com- • Making far-reaching in- • Securing our values as a said Texas Democratic Party munity is the success of vestments in ending health nation of immigrants. Chair Gilberto Hinojosa. “For too long, Republicans at all levels of government have undermined Latino success and took our hard work and communities for Texas Democrats are lauding the agenda presidential candidate Joe granted. This is wrong and Biden has set forward for the Hispanic community. (Photo: stingrayschuller / Flickr) it has directly led to the struggles including unequal dent Joe Biden’s new Latino Austin alone, Latinos make access to affordable housing plan -- a plan that will build up 40% of the population, and lending that our commu- back our communities and but account for nearly half nities face today. families even better than of all cases and deaths. Na- “The coronavirus has before. As President, Biden tionwide, Black and Latino made these disparities even will ensure everyone is treat- Americans make up 55% of worse. Latinos are getting ed with dignity – no matter all confirmed cases. sick and dying at unprec- their race, gender, identity, Additionally, Hispanic edented rates and our South sexual orientation, religion, Texans are less likely to Texas communities deserve disability, or zip code.” have health insurance than so much more than failed Latinx communities in their white counterparts and leaders at the federal and Texas have borne the brunt coronavirus has been ravag- state level that don’t give a of the COVID-19 crisis with ing predominately Latinx damn about us. more cases and more deaths communities, particularly in “That’s why I couldn’t be than any other group in South Texas. Even before more proud of Vice Presi- Texas. It is estimated that in the crisis, Donald Trump

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 5 Education www.NorthDallasGazette.com AdoptAClassroom seeks to help with cost of needed school supplies Award-winning non-prof- Burlington is encouraging a $1 at check-out will go with 70 percent mailing or continuing to support teach- Classroom.org surveyed it AdoptAClassroom.org their shoppers to donate $1 a long way in supporting delivering supplies such as ers and students in our store U.S. educators to find out and the national off-price or more at check-out at one teachers to help students worksheets, pens, pencils communities nationwide.” how much PreK-12 teach- retailer Burlington Stores of their more than 730 stores succeed this school year. and notebooks to students’ “This work wouldn’t be ers spend on school sup- are proud to team up for the nationwide. A portion of the Distance learning caused homes to help keep them possible without the amaz- plies in the era of distance fourth consecutive year to funds raised in their Dallas by the pandemic has cre- eager about learning. ing support from partners learning. help offset the money that stores will support teachers ated added challenges for “During these unique like Burlington,” said Ann AdoptAClassroom. teachers spend out of their and their students locally both teachers and students and extremely challenging Pifer, Executive Director, org received nearly 4,000 own pockets each year, to in the community. The bal- nationwide. Teachers es- times, students still need AdoptAClassroom.org. unique, completed surveys provide much-needed edu- ance will be used to support timate that 43 percent of to learn, and teachers still “Their ongoing commit- from PreK-12 teachers at cational materials for their those nationwide by pro- students have become need to teach. We want ment has made a significant public, private, and charter students to learn and suc- Teachers have long resorted to buying the extra school supplies students to be able to have difference for teachers and schools nationwide. The ceed. Since the partnership needed from their own money. (Photo: Tim Gouw / Unsplash) access to supplies wherever students nationwide, and survey found that during commenced, the campaign learning will take place this only emphasizes, regard- the 2019/2020 school year has funded nearly 36,000 viding essential resources, disengaged, often due to school year,” said Michael less of the unusual times, teachers are spending more teachers, supporting more like distance learning sup- lack of critical resources O’Sullivan, CEO, Burl- education continues to be than ever before, regard- than 900,000 students in plies and tools to teachers like the Internet. As a re- ington Stores. “We have a the foundation for success less if they are teaching in underserved communities at schools with high-need sult, 45 percent of teach- long-standing partnership - especially for our under- the classroom or from their across the nation. student populations within ers said that their spend- with AdoptAClassroom. served communities.” homes. To learn more, visit Now through Labor Day, Burlington store commu- ing has increased since org, and we are excited to In June 2020, in response the 2020 AdoptAClass- Monday, September 7th, nities. Donating as little as distance learning began, once again join them in to COVID-19, AdoptA- room.org survey. DART extends meal delivery to DISD students through Aug. 27 Dallas Area Rapid Transit Each Thursday, 11 a.m. (DISD) and DART volun- Trail Way, Dallas, TX 75232 partnered with DISD, Gar- liver meals to Brady Center (DART) buses and operators to 1 p.m., a DART bus will teers. • Janie Turner Recreation land ISD and Richardson ISD seniors, and with the Rich- will continue to make sure deliver 1,500 meals, enough Families can safely drive Center, 6424 Elam Rd, Dal- to deliver meals to students, ardson Network of Commu- students receive the weekly for 100 families per bus, 15 through three different sites las, TX 75217 the City of Dallas to distribute nity Missionaries to transport meals they need through meals per student, for a to- as the goods are placed in the • Highland Hills Branch care packages to seniors, with prepackaged meals to fami- August as the Dallas school tal of 4,500 meals weekly trunk of their vehicle: Library, 6200 Bonnie View DART paratransit customers lies in need. district works to ensure a safe for distribution by Dallas • Thurgood Marshall Rec- Rd, Dallas, TX 75241 to deliver food and medicine, Learn more at www.dart. school start. Independent School District reation Center, 5150 Mark Since March, DART has with Catholic Charities to de- org/dartserves. NAACP sues U.S. Education Secretary over COVID-19 school money By Stacy M. Brown lawsuit along with public share going to private lawsuit on behalf of a NNPA Senior Correspondent school families and school schools should have its ba- group of parents and their districts across the coun- sis on the number of Title children, who are enrolled The coronavirus pan- try, challenging this unfair, I students attending those in economically disadvan- demic has focused the na- unequal, and unjust rule. schools. taged public schools. The tion’s attention on the es- We’ll fight this as hard as DeVos did not follow Pasadena, California, Uni- sential role public schools it takes – for as long as it that rule, the NAACP con- fied School District, and play in families and com- takes – to protect our stu- tends, spelling out that hun- Stamford, Connecticut, munities’ lives. dents, schools, and com- dreds of millions of dollars School District, joined the The NAACP said it’s munities.” in CARES Act funds would NAACP in the lawsuit ask- also exposed severe racial The NAACP’s lawsuit immediately divert from ing for an injunction to pre- inequalities that continue to suggests that the CARES public schools to affluent vent DeVos from immedi- plague the country’s educa- The lawsuit claims the share going to private schools should have its Act, which was signed by private schools. ately instituting her change tion system and disadvan- basis on the number of Title I students attending those schools. DeVos President Donald Trump The controversial edu- to the rule. taged students of color. did not follow that rule, the NAACP contends, spelling out that hun- earlier this year, says ex- cation secretary reportedly “In this moment of dreds of millions of dollars in CARES Act funds would immediately Rather than addressing divert from public schools to affluent private schools. plicitly that local school holds a different interpre- crushing need for Amer- those problems, NAACP departments are to distrib- tation of how local school ica’s public schools, the President Derrick Johnson her to court,” Johnson an- “Recently, Secretary ute the fund based on the districts should distribute Rule directs public school declared that U.S. Secre- nounced. DeVos issued regulations number of Title I, or low- the money. districts to divert desper- tary of Education Betsy The NAACP formally that would force public wealth students, in a par- Her interim final rule ately needed CARES Act DeVos “exploited the pan- filed a lawsuit in federal school districts to divert ticular school. allows sharing the mon- 1 funds to affluent students demic to promote her per- court in Washington, D.C., federal emergency relief Congress allowed ey equally with private in private schools or face sonal agenda of funneling accusing DeVos of illegally funds from public schools CARES funds to go to in- schools based on the num- unlawful limitations on the taxpayer dollars to private changing the rules for al- and send them to private stitutions that depend on tu- ber of students in those way that those funds can be schools and taking resourc- locating $13.2 billion in schools. By one estimate, ition and donations because schools, regardless of how spent – both in direct con- es away from the schools Coronavirus Aid, Relief, over $1 billion would be lawmakers said they rec- many are Title I students. travention of the Act,” the and the students who need and Economic Security Act lost to private schools un- ognized that some students “The Rule is as immoral lawsuit reads. “The Rule it most.” (CARES) money to ben- der the rule,” Johnson de- from low-income families as it is illegal,” NAACP harms American children “We simply can’t let this efit wealthy private k-12 clared. attend private schools. lawyers argue. See NAACP, Page 7 happen. So, we’re taking schools. “So, the NAACP filed a The lawsuit claims the The NAACP filed the

6 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Irving / Carrollton / Plano Irving tackles budget as parking issues reemerge; honors John Boyle By Fatema Biviji own residents’ vehicles and appearance and cleanliness Enforcement’s extended NDG Special Contributor how one-bedroom apart- of neighborhoods. hours and were probably ments often need three During the Work Session leaving complaints on the July 30, 2020 marked to four parking spaces. Meeting, Code Enforce- police non-emergency hot- a full day of meetings for Hence, parking congestion ment director Teresa Adrian line. After some discussion, Irving’s City Council. The is becoming a real issue for updated on the progress of the City Council reached a day started with a Bud- neighborhoods and apart- the “Extended Hours” pilot consensus to direct Code get and Strategic Planning ment associations should program seeking direction Enforcement to revert back Meeting, followed by a be approached. The city for the future. The pilot be- to their traditional hours. Work Session, and ending manager said that this park- gan in Feb 2019 after seek- Finally, the City Council with a City Council Meet- ing / towing issue would ing resident input recom- Meeting began with Stop- ing. be brought back in a future mending extended hours. fer honoring the memory of

Staff reassured the City City of Irving Public Safety meeting. Hours were extended Tues- long-time resident and past Council that they plan to revenue may be affected. shortfalls. The results of a 2020 days to Thursdays from 5 City Attorney John Boyle maintain a structurally bal- Property taxes are an- During discussion of add- Resident Survey were pre- p.m. to 7 p.m. and Satur- who recently passed away. anced budget despite the other major area of uncer- ing new towing fees to off- sented. Highlights of the days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. “The City of Irving lost a uncertainties brought about tainty as a record number of set operating costs for cars survey include a high ap- Only 34 calls were received true statesman and gentle- by the COVID-19 closures. property tax protests, over towed by the Irving Police, proval rating of 77% on during the T-Th extended man in this last two weeks The City was initially ex- 20,000, were filed at the the topic of parking issues questions about quality of hours and a total of 72 calls in John Boyle,” the Mayor pecting a budget shortfall Dallas County Appraisal in South Irving reemerged. life in Irving. However, Ir- were received on Saturdays stated. of $16.6 million when clo- District. A major source of Councilman Kyle Taylor ving got a very low rating of from the time period of 2/19 John Boyle was com- sures began taking a stead- revenue for the city comes mentioned that he has re- 38% approval with regards till 6/20. She recommended mitted to serving the City fast hold in April. The pro- from property taxes and ceived complaints from to shopping opportunities, that the Extended Hours pi- and the State. As City At- jection was revised to $9 were initially expected to apartment dwellers whose with respondents from the lot be discontinued as C.E. torney, he was instrumental million in June, and as of be strong this year. How- cars have been towed away zip code of 75060 giving can effectively address is- in major water projects and July 17, the City predicts a ever, with the record num- from their apartment com- an abysmal 26% approval. sues through their tradition- flood districts, Texas Sta- deficit of $6.1 million. ber of protests coming from plexes due to lack of sig- Residents also cited com- al hours while occasionally dium and Valley Ranch. He The reason for the short- both commercial and resi- nage and proper warning. plaints of litter along major organizing Saturday and served in the Texas Legis- fall prediction being scaled dential property owners, He said that their cars are corridors of 183, Loop 12, extended hours events as lature for two years in addi- back to $6.1 million from the City Manager recom- valuable assets, and tow- and Beltline. Also notewor- needed. Councilman Al- tion to the Texas Historical an initial $16.6 million mends that the tax rate be ing could lead to job loss if thy were complaints about lan Meagher mentioned Society and various other is strong online sales tax maintained at the effective they cannot drive to work. feral cats and stray dogs that many residents likely areas including state parks revenue. Though many tra- rate of $0.5941. Mayor Rick Stopfer also negatively impacting the were unaware of Code and monuments. ditional brick and mortar While new construction mentioned the complaints store sales have suffered, of housing continues to he has received from home- online sales have increased add revenue, commercial owners in South Irving who enough to buoy revenue as growth has come to a com- cannot park in front of their 1,000 new vendors were plete halt leaving the city own homes due to nearby added in June. However, it with a substantial revenue apartment dwellers parking is unclear how federally- loss. Through furloughs, there instead. The mayor funded stimulus checks vacancies, and reduction of pointed out how variances may have impacted retail services, the city adminis- have allowed for this situ- spending and if stimulus is tration believes it can bal- ation in which apartments not renewed, how sales tax ance the budget despite the cannot accommodate their

Shariene Fleming, Joseph HARRIS, from Page 2 Harris Fleming, and Terilyn ity, Inc. Betu Nu Chapter sentative Peter J. Visclosky Marshelle Fleming; great- (1962). Imogene was rec- in 1994 for their commit- grandson Nathaniel Joseph ognized by the NNPA and ment to instill equality and Williams; sister-in-law maintained a collegial rela- justice throughout the City Emma Harris (Lorenzo), tionship with the founding of Gary. godchildren Calvin, Dare- members of the (NNPA) Imogene will be fondly sia and Cheryl Pruitt, com- that was founded in 1940. remembered by all for her mitted goddaughter Djua- Harris was also a founding dedication to excellence, na Anderson, and a host member of the Lake Coun- her deep compassion, of nieces, nephews, and ty Association of Black unswerving principles, friends. Imogene is preced- Communicators. thoughtful leadership, de- ed in death by her parents Her many lifetime ac- votion to family and com- and her sister Levevian Mc- colades included the Drum munity, and loyal friend- Daniel Benton (Norman). Major Award presented to ship. The family will hold a her and J.T. by the Gary Imogene is survived by Memorial Service to re- Frontiers Service Club, two loving and devoted member the life of Imo- for their commitment to daughters Temple-Jene gene at a future date where eliminate inequality, preju- Harris Fleming (Joseph) her transition will truly be dice, and racism. They also and Gaylyn Harris. The celebrated. Arrangements proudly received a Con- pride of her heart, her are being handled by Guy gressional Record from the five grandchildren, Lavon & Allen Funeral Home in Hon. Indiana State Repre- Robin Fleming, Lateefah Gary, IN. For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 7 City Briefs www.NorthDallasGazette.com Carrollton and effectiveness,” Bob CFR is a multi-func- Dallas EMS Gold Award for Chamber of Commerce The City of Carrollton Scott, Assistant City Man- tion emergency and non- Dallas Area Rapid Tran- implementing quality im- will be hosting a virtual was awarded the 2019 Ex- ager/Chief Financial Offi- emergency department sit is planning to implement provement measures for the discussion, “Pivoting in treatment of patients who a Pandemic” with special emplary Knighton Award cer said. “Overtime for Car- providing various services service changes on Mon- rollton Fire Rescue (CFR) including fire suppres- day, Oct. 19. experience severe heart at- guest speaker Tarsha Polk, by the Association of Lo- is complicated due to the sion, medical services, DART will host an in- tacks. director of LiftFund Dal- cal Government Auditors unique shift arrangements, ambulance transportation, person event at noon Sat- “For the seventh consec- las Fort Worth’s Women’s (ALGA) for Best Perfor- minimum staffing require- incident and specialized urday, Aug. 8, and a virtual utive year, GFD has been Business Center. The Zoom mance Audit in the Extra- ments, and the application rescues, emergency pre- event at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, recognized by the Ameri- meeting will take place on Small Shop category for of the federal Fair Labor vention, public education, Aug. 11, to collect public can Heart Association,” Aug. 13 from 6:30-7:30 its internal audit report en- Standards Act (FLSA) to emergency management, comments regarding the said Garland Fire Chief p.m. The Chamber is look- titled, “2018 Fire Depart- the fire service. The ability and code compliance. plan. Comments may also Mark Lee. “There is an elite ing for input on questions ment Overtime Expense to thoroughly and objec- It employs 161 civil ser- be submitted via email. group of providers who are for the panelist. To partici- awarded this Gold Level pate, virtual attendees need Review.” tively analyze statistics and vice personnel, five non- Award and even fewer to be to register for the event on “These types of audits situations gives insight into civil service personnel, and Garland The Garland Fire De- recognized for seven years Zoom. Registration and help keep the City’s depart- the best practices suited to currently utilizes eight fire partment has received the in a row!” more can be found by visit- mental budgeting on track Carrollton’s individual cir- stations, one training build- American Heart Asso- McKinney ing the Chamber website at cumstances now and in the ing, and Fire Administra- and focus on improving ciation’s Mission: Lifeline The Collin County Black www.ccblackchamber.org. governmental efficiency future.” tion offices. Texas entrepreneur charged with spending COVID relief funds on improper expenses including Lamborghini and strip club A Houston, Texas man Price is charged with allegedly received more roll expenses, but for lavish economic effects resulting nesses must use PPP loan has been taken into custody making false statements than $900,000, while a loan personal purchases, such as from the COVID-19 pan- proceeds for payroll costs, on allegations he fraudu- to a financial institution, application listing 713 Con- expending the loan money demic. One source of relief interest on mortgages, rent lently obtained more than wire fraud, bank fraud and struction was approved for on a Lamborghini Urus, a the CARES Act provides is and utilities. The PPP al- $1.6 million in Paycheck engaging in unlawful mon- over $700,000. The loan ap- Rolex watch and real estate the authorization of up to lows the interest and prin- Protection Program (PPP) etary transactions. plications allegedly asserted transactions. He also alleg- $349 billion in forgivable cipal to be forgiven if busi- loans, announced Acting The complaint alleges both entities each had nu- edly spent thousands at strip loans to small businesses nesses spend the proceeds Assistant Attorney General Price was involved in a merous employees and sig- clubs and other Houston for job retention and certain on these expenses within a Brian C. Rabbitt of the Jus- scheme to submit fraudu- nificant payroll expenses. night clubs. The complaint other expenses through the set time period and use at tice Department’s Criminal lent PPP loan applications According to the charges, further alleges Price used a PPP. In April 2020, Con- least a certain percentage Division and U.S. Attor- to federally insured banks however, neither entity has portion of the loan money gress authorized over $300 of the loan towards payroll ney Ryan K. Patrick of the and other lenders. The employees nor pays wages to buy a 2020 Ford F-350 billion in additional PPP expenses. Southern District of Texas. Small Business Administra- consistent with the amounts pickup truck. funding. A federal criminal com- Lee Price III, 29, spent tion (SBA) guarantees the claimed in the loan applica- The CARES Act is a fed- The PPP allows qualify- plaint is merely an ac- the money on luxury items, loans for COVID-19 relief tions. Further, the individual eral law enacted March 29. ing small businesses and cusation. A defendant is real estate and personal en- through the PPP under the listed as CEO on the 713 It is designed to provide other organizations to re- presumed innocent until tertainment, according to Coronavirus Aid, Relief Construction loan applica- emergency financial assis- ceive loans with a maturity proven guilty beyond a rea- the complaint unsealed to- and Economic Security tion died in April 2020, a tance to millions of Ameri- of two years and an interest sonable doubt in a court of day upon his arrest. He is (CARES) Act. month before the applica- cans who are suffering the rate of one percent. Busi- law. expected to make his ini- Two fraudulent applica- tion was submitted, accord- tial appearance before U.S. tions received funding, ac- ing to the complaint. Magistrate Judge Sam S. cording to the complaint. Price allegedly used the Sheldon in Houston today. Price Enterprises Holdings loan proceeds not for pay-

8 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Sports Cowboys adjusting to the ‘new normal’ in season preparations By Dwain Price homes, to a record-break- numbers he’s produced, lington. NDG Sports ing contract extension last his detractors believe not The Cowboys are hoping month that could invari- only can he not win the big Prescott will become the Because of the corona- ably pay him as much as game, but he can’t even get benefactor of McCarthy’s virus pandemic and all of $503 million over the next the Cowboys there. magical touch. But if it the dangers that it entails, 12 years, thus re-setting the However, that could all doesn’t happen this season, many things are different market for quarterbacks of change this season since the the Cowboys will have to these days for the Dallas Prescott’s ilk. Cowboys parted ways with find a way to sign Prescott Cowboys. Prescott is coming off a long-time head coach Jason to another contract during For starters, that summer magnificent season where Garrett over the offsea- the next offseason. trip the Cowboys annu- he threw 30 touchdowns son and replaced him with “We made a lot of prog- ally took to Oxnard, Ca- and finished second in Mike McCarthy. Known ress and you’ve got to lif., for training camp has the NFL with 4,902 yards as a quarterback coaching continue to make progress Dak Prescott is back in the fold under the terms of a one-year contract been scratched. Instead, with the Cowboys. (Photo: All Pro Reels / Flickr) passing yards. In addition, guru, McCarthy spent 13 in terms of these types of the Cowboys will hold a the Cowboys were first in years with the Green Bay negotiations,” Stephen streamlined version of their negotiate another contract in the team’s long-term the league in total offense Packers while coaching Jones said, referring to the summer camp at their world with Prescott until after the plans. with 6,904 yards, and also quarterback Aaron Rodgers contract stalemate with headquarters in Frisco. 2020 season, which could “I still have nothing but manufactured 450 or more to superstar status. Prescott. “We’ve never had But at least the Cowboys, put them in a precarious 100 percent belief in Dak yards in seven games. Overall under McCarthy, one quite like it. who start training camp position and his future here with the The architect of that the Packers were in the top “But he’s got such a great in less than two weeks, At that time, Prescott Dallas Cowboys and that video-game offense was five in the NFL in points outlook on the Dallas Cow- will have quarterback Dak can either sign a long-term we can ultimately get a deal Prescott, a four-year vet- scored on five occasions, boys (and) on our football Prescott back in the fold. contract, or take the pains- done,” Jones said. “He’s eran who is generally re- and in the top 10 in total team. He’s ready to go out For a year, anyway. taking route of signing yet special. As (owner) Jerry garded as one of the game’s offense nine times. They and win a Super Bowl, All the off-season drama another one-year franchise (Jones) and I have said, best quarterbacks. But also won the Super Bowl in which would only create that unfolded surrounding tag deal that’ll pay him $38 we’re 110 percent behind since he doesn’t have any 2010, the year it was played more value for him (and) whether or not the Cow- million next season. By not him and ultimately feel like Super Bowl sheepskin to inside the Cowboys’ home more value for the Cow- boys would offer their ul- getting Prescott under lock we’ll get this done.” show for the eye-popping at AT&T Stadium in Ar- boys.” tra-talented quarterback a and key long-term wise this Seemingly, the longer the feasible long-term contract offseason, it’s a gamble the Cowboys wait to put pen ended last month with the Cowboys were more than to paper with Prescott on a team signing Prescott to the willing to make. long-term basis, the price team’s one-year franchise However, Cowboys chief of doing business increases. tag contract of $31.4 mil- operating officer Stephen Especially since the Kansas lion. In layman’s term, that Jones steadfastly acknowl- City Chiefs signed their means the Cowboys can’t edged that Prescott remains quarterback, Patrick Ma- Dangers in the Car: TxDOT’s new augmented reality game urges drivers to never drive distracted AUSTIN – Despite stay This new AR game “Dart by distracted driving and at home orders and less Those Distractions” is de- one death is one too many,” traffic the past few months, signed to increase aware- TxDOT Executive Director Texas has continued to see ness about the dangers of James Bass said. “We are about the same amount distracted driving in an in- doing all we can to make of fatalities on our state’s teractive, engaging way that sure every Texan knows roadways. In an effort to resonates with all ages. In- the dangers of driving dis- reach drivers more cre- spired by a classic carnival tracted. Distracted driving atively about the dangers of game, players will throw crashes are preventable and distracted driving, TxDOT darts over a car windshield we hope this new AR game has launched a new web- to hit balloons symbolizing will help drivers realize based augmented reality driving distractions like eat- there are more dangers than (AR) game that reinforces ing, programming music or just your cell phone in the the importance of paying navigation and self-groom- car.” attention behind the wheel ing. This is an important re- TxDOT will promote the and reminds drivers to keep minder that distracted driv- “Heads up, Texas” cam- their heads up. Around 1 in ing isn’t just about texting paign and new AR game 5 crashes on Texas roads or talking from the driver’s through social media, so- are caused by distracted seat. cial influencers and digital driving and all of them are “Every driver and every preventable. passenger can be impacted See TXDOT, Page 12

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 9 Entertainment To advertise your upcoming entertainment event contact [email protected] Dallas Children’s Theater and partners invite families to a virtual Lunch & Learn Talkback Event focused on children and racism For those looking for “A Kids Play About Rac- to adapt Memory’s play and possible in Dallas was also meaningful ways to talk ism” was available free via make it available to families provided by The Melinda with children about race and Broadway on Demand all everywhere. and Jim Johnson Fam- racism, but are uncertain on weekend through a col- Due to popular demand, ily Fund and Deborah and where to begin, children’s laboration that involved 41 the 30-minute play will now Craig Sutton. theaters across the country family-focused theaters in stream free through August Dallas Children’s Theater are committed to providing the country. 7 on Broadway on Demand. features professional actors assistance. “When I wrote A Kids Kids have said “It was su- performing for an annual This Friday, August 7 at Book About Racism, I per good!” and “I just really audience of 250,000 young Noon, Dallas Children’s wrote it from my own kids,” liked the play and I think it people and their families Theater and longtime part- said Jelani Memory. “I describes racism in a real through mainstage produc- ners Texas Instruments never could have imagined honest way,” and “I like the tions (9 in the 2019-2020 along with Capital One are it would have spread so far music!” season), a national -touring hosting a virtual event fo- and wide to thousands of We are delighted to be company, and an arts-in- cused on how to talk with kids all over the world, or able to share this with you education program. As the children about race. Access turned into a nationwide the- for FIVE more days! Rec- only major organization in to the virtual event is locat- atrical event.” Now, more ommended for ages pre-K Dallas focusing solely on ed at: dct.org/akidsplay. Jelani Memory is a black man married to a white woman and they have than ever, families are eager and up, this play explains youth and family theater, On the heels of “A Kids a blended family of 6 kids and the topic of race comes up often in life to participate in the conver- what racism is, how to DCT builds bridges of un- and in conversation with the kids, so Jelani wrote a straight-forward Play About Racism,” now book about it called “A Kids Book About Racism.” (Courtesy photo) sation, and do their part to know it when you see it, derstanding between gener- extended to be available educate. Dallas Children’s and ideas for what you can ations and cultures, instill- until Aug. 7, the day of the cator, Anthony Peterson, as and Director, Khalia Davis. Theater is proud to be a do about it. ing an early appreciation of talkback, the event will fea- well as Jelani Memory, au- Families are encouraged to part of the TYA(Theater for In addition to Texas In- literature, art, and the per- ture national cultural com- thor of “A Kids Book about listen in on the conversation Young Audiences) collabo- struments and Capital One, forming arts in tomorrow’s petence researcher and edu- Racism,” and Play Adaptor and pose questions online. ration that pulled together funding to make this effort artists and patrons. NFL chief doctor says teams, players must be educated about risks of COVID By Stacy M. Brown other each day, they’re go- going to play or not,” he about the basics of COV- NNPA Senior Correspondent ing to share risk. They also added. ID-19, so everyone has “to share a responsibility to Dr. Sills conceded that make the best decision for Following a disastrous re- each other, which means much is still unknown themselves.” opening by Major League that they’re each making Baseball, where as many as good choices when they’re 17 Miami Marlins players away from the facility,” Dr. and personnel have tested Sills said. positive for COVID-19 “We’ve tracked the CDC forcing the postponement risk guidelines, made de- of several games, the Na- cisions on which ones put tional Football League re- our players at high risk, and mains cautiously optimistic players can rely on those as training camps open. risk factors to make deci- “It’s about education and sions about whether they’re understanding,” NFL Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen

Sills told BlackPressUSA. iStockphoto / NNPA “I think people are try- report by August 4, but as Reportedly, training ing to be really thought- many as 22 already have camps are equipped with ful about this, and I think opted out of the 2020 sea- proximity tracking de- people do look at risk and son. vices that will alert play- risk mitigation in different The season is scheduled ers or staff when they are ways. But I feel like it’s the to kick-off on Thursday, too close to one other. The right thing to do, to try to September 10. device also collects data, learn to live with this vi- “Players and coaches making contact tracing eas- rus.” [and other personnel] have ier if someone does become A big part of the chal- to make the best decisions infected with the coronavi- lenge remains findings for them,” Sills stated. The rus. ways to carry on safely, league announced that it NFL players will live in Sills agreed. has put in place safety mea- and travel from their own This week the heavy con- sures that include increased homes, a contrast to the tact sport re-opened camps, sanitizing. Social distanc- National Basketball Asso- but officials have decided ing would be enforcement, ciation, which has isolated not to hold traditional pre- including in player treat- all teams and personnel at season games to help keep ment rooms, weight rooms, one location in Orlando, risks at a minimum. All mealtime, and on the play- Florida. players are scheduled to ing field. “If they’re around each

10 | August 6-19, 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 Marketplace DeSoto takes aim at increasing minority business opportunities Much has been written According to the plan, • All formal proposals by other certifying organi- about how low the African the city seeks to reach a over $25,000 shall contain zations, or agencies that use American unemployment 20% Diversity Vendor par- the attachment “Official the same essential criteria rate had gotten prior to the ticipation rate with quali- Proposal Form and Certifi- for certification.The City COVID-19 pandemic, but fying city contracts and cation for the City of DeSo- will contact at least two (2) movement toward econom- purchases. It will actively to Texas” and “subcontrac- diversity vendors on City ic parity for minorities re- “conduct outreach func- tor questionnaire form” to purchases between $3,000 quires business ownership. tions to communicate con- verify from the vendor their and $24,999.99. Black-owned businesses tracting and procurement current diversity vendor The city will also sup- have faced an uphill battle opportunities to Diversity status. The document shall port a grant program for in past years trying to com- Vendors.” The efforts will be submitted with each bid Diversity Vendors as well pete with more established be reported monthly to the proposal. as offering opportunities white-owned companies in This week the DeSoto City Council passed a resolution aimed at city council, with compari- • The City is a member of for increased exposure, key industries. increasing minority participation in contracts awarded by the city. sons to the stated 20% goal. (Photo: Cytonn Photography / Unsplash) the NCTRCA. The agency training and seminars The City of DeSoto City staff will commit to passed a resolution this nesses (HUB). Collectively as land surveying, con- the following steps to en- assists the City of DeSoto through membership with week aimed at increasing these groups are termed as struction consulting and en- courage Diversity Vendor in advertising bid opportu- NCTRCA. The program is opportunities for Minority “Diversity Vendors” in a gineering firms, as well as participation: nities to diversity vendors geared toward marketing and Women-Owned Busi- plan which went before the many others; and accord- • The City will contact and certifying DeSoto busi- the City of DeSoto as an ness (M/WBE) and Small DeSoto City Council on ing to the plan DeSoto will at least two (2) diversity nesses. economically viable place Businesses Enterprises Aug. 4. actively seek to widen its vendors on City purchas- • The City reserves the to do business in DFW and (SBE), as well as Histori- The city routinely con- scope of resources in such es between $3,000 and right to accept diversity a city friendly to Diversity cally Underutilized Busi- tracts with businesses such areas. $24,999.99. vendor certifications issued Vendor participation.

exploitive practices of reality when they don’t appear to be health issues and wellness in don’t be shy about letting HEALTH, from Page 4 television show production playing the caretaker role in the African American com- people know you want and Braxton is not the first re- overworked, and underpaid. that led her down this path. the way society defines it. munity, which is obviously need help. ality star to publicly discuss I wrote a letter over 2 months Subsequently, WE TV has Nonetheless, Tamar Brax- still needed. If you need help or are mental illness or to beg the ago asking to be freed from severed ties with the star and ton’s willingness to deal As the we move farther contemplating suicide, production company to re- what I believed was exces- will run the show as taped with this issue in the public into August and 2020, re- please contact the National lease them from their con- sive and unfair. I explained and edited despite Braxton’s eye is yet another testament member to take control of Suicide Prevention Lifeline tract before they harmed in personal detail the demise claims. of the strides that have been your mental health wellness, at 1-800-273-8255 or online themselves. In 2018, Love I was experiencing. My cry Braxton’s battle and trans- made in talking about mental seek help if you need it and here. and Hip-Hop Los Ange- for help went totally ignored. parency around her strug- les star Moniece Slaughter However, the demands per- gles with mental illness is begged to be released from sisted. It was my spirit, and a testament to the extent to her contract citing mental my soul that was tainted the which destigmatization has health issues and being “on most. There are a few things occurred around this issue the brink of another mental I count on most to be, a good in society in general and breakdown.” Fans, mostly mother, a good daughter, a among African Americans in black women, asked the net- good partner, a good sister, particular. work to release Slaughter and a good person. Who I As someone with family from her contract fearing the was, begun to mean little to members who suffer from worst. Subsequently Slaugh- nothing, because it would mental illness, I can assure ter was moved to another only be how I was portrayed you the family is always franchise while she sought on television that would worried and traumatized treatment for her mental matter. It was witnessing the by the waiting and hoping health issues. slow death of the woman I that nothing really bad will Like Slaughter, fans on became, that discouraged happen before the person social media, pushed back my will to fight. I felt like I chooses to get help of al- against the network until the was no longer living, I was lows you to help them. The network finally decided to existing for the purpose of stress of dealing with men- suspend the show until Sep- a corporations gain and rat- tally ill people and not hav- tember of 2020 in the wake ings, and that killed me. ing the professional tools, of Braxton’s suicide attempt. “Mental illness is real. We social support or financial Since then, Braxton, who have to normalize acknowl- resources to do so are sub- added the word ‘Slave” to edging it and stop associat- jects for another article. Kim her Instagram profile has ing it with shame and humil- Kardashian West’s decision released a statement on In- iation. The pain that I have to not allow her reality show stagram thanking her fans experienced over the past 11 producers to film Kanye’s for their support and calling years has slowly ate away at freefall is an indicator of out WE TV for ignoring her my spirit and my mental.” how much she actually cares worsening mental health for Braxton who was hospi- for him and their children. ratings. Here is an excerpt: talized nearly two weeks ago The constant abuse she and “Over the past 11 years for overdosing on alcohol other women take online there were promises made and pills acknowledged her when dealing with mentally to protect and portray my pain, desire to rediscover her ill relatives is an indicator story, with the authenticity authentic self, continue her of the displaced anger to- and honesty I gave. I was be- journey towards healing and wards women in general and trayed, taken advantage of, vowed to fight against the women of color in particular For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 11 Marketplace II www.NorthDallasGazette.com Civic groups renew call for passage of reparations bill WASHINGTON, DC tablish a commission to ties Union (ACLU), and now support the creation of introduced by the late Con- gest and most consistent – The National African investigate the legacy of the National Coalition of the HR 40 commission ac- gressman John Conyers supporters. American Reparations slavery and its ongoing Blacks for Reparations in cording to a new poll from during every legislative “We can’t recover the Commission is calling on harm, and come up with America (N’COBRA). Democracy in Color and session between 1989 and lives lost to systemic anti- the US Congress to ad- proposals to Congress for The campaign begins as Civiqs released this week. 2017, after which it was Blackness and heinous dress systemic racism by reparations. both reparations and HR 40 According to the poll, sup- reintroduced by Congress- racial terror,” the letter to bringing House Resolution The organizations mo- have experienced a surge in port for HR 40 jumped 19 woman Sheila Jackson Lee Congress reads. “We can’t (HR) 40 to a full vote once bilized under the new support, amid the nation- percentage points since last in January 2019. undo the trauma that has it reaches the floor. campaign “Why We Can’t wide protests against sys- year, from 31 percent to 50 It has garnered a record More than 100 civil Wait,” initiated by groups temic racism – by far the percent, and 56 percent of number of co-sponsors in wreaked havoc on Black rights, human rights, and including the National Afri- largest social movement in Americans who responded the past year amid Ameri- communities and bodies. civil society organizations can American Reparations the US – and an increasing said that Congress is “do- cans’ growing concerns But what we can do is pass and businesses announced Commission (NAARC), number of local reparations ing too little” to address about racial justice. The HR 40, and its Senate com- their support on Tuesday. Human Rights Watch, the initiatives. racial inequality. late Congressman John panion S 1083. It is what The federal bill would es- American Civil Liber- A majority of Americans HR 40 was originally Lewis was among its stron- the moment requires.”

ing African Americans and seriously consider closing he wears a mask every- what the duration of that is. FAUCI, from Page 4 Caucasians, Dr. Fauci pro- bars and getting people where goes and demanded There are varying levels of Newspaper Publishers As- and Native Americans oc- claimed. who go to bars to stop or do that doing so shouldn’t be antibodies in people who sociation President and cupying essential jobs that “In many respects, it’s it outside, and wash hands about politics. recover, and what we’re CEO, Dr. Benjamin F. Cha- provide employees with unacceptable that it should frequently either with “This is about protecting following is how long they vis, Jr., Dr. Fauci also dem- little — or no — protection. be that way,” he said, not- soap and water or alcohol each other. We’re all in this last. Some people find that onstrated the proper way to “On the one hand, there’s ing that the hospitalization Purell.” together,” Dr. Fauci said. it doesn’t last very long.” wear a facemask. a greater opportunity and rate per 100,000 African Clinical trials are vital, “I’m pleased to see that He continued: “Early on, there was a risk of getting infected, but Americans stands at 247, Dr. Fauci said. we now have the president “There are other types of shortage of masks because even as important is that compared to 53 per 100,000 “We hope that we will talking about wearing a immunity that go beyond, we didn’t want to take once you get infected, you whites. have an effective vaccine mask where he didn’t be- and they’re called T-cells masks away from health have prevalence and in- “In other words, that’s al- by the end of the year, fore, and the vice president or cellular immunity, which providers who needed cidence of co-morbidities most five times the chance which means that as we wears a mask everywhere may also play a role in pro- them,” Dr. Fauci remarked. that make it more likely of getting hospitalized even get into 2021, we want to he goes. We’ve got to pull tecting people from being “It’s easy to get a cloth you’ll get a severe outcome though African Americans distribute it for those who together.” infected. Likely a degree mask now.” from the infection,” Dr. comprise just 13 percent of could benefit,” he added. Whether reinfection of of protection is pretty good Dr. Fauci explained fur- Fauci noted. the [U.S.] population,” Dr. “We need to spend extra the coronavirus can oc- for a finite period. ther that, “when there are “Those co-morbidities Fauci observed. effort to protect African cur remains somewhat of “There are no well-doc- droplets when someone are like diabetes, hyperten- “That’s more than some- Americans, and the way a mystery, Dr. Fauci ex- umented cases of people sneezes or coughs, you [are sion, heart disease, chronic thing we need to deal with.” you find out if the vaccine plained. actually being re-infected. protected]. You can take kidney disease, and lung Dr. Fauci added that is effective is the enroll- “When you get infected There have been some an- it and wash it with soap disease. It’s very clear that there are five fundamental ment in a vaccine trial. It with any virus, generally, ecdotally stories of people and water or stick it in the African Americans have a things everyone could do to would be a terrible shame if when you recover, your recovering who seemed to washing machine.” higher incidence, and the help stop the spread of the African Americans stayed body has made a good im- have gotten infected, but Addressing the dispari- reality is that you suffer coronavirus. away from clinical trials, mune response to recover,” we don’t know. There’s no ties surrounding COV- more.” “Wear a mask, avoid and they didn’t provide for Dr. Fauci noted. real hard evidence that’s ID-19 and other illnesses, The hospitalization rates crowds of more than 10, themselves the vaccine that “We know that happens happening.” Dr. Fauci pointed to many per 100,000 people are keep a distance of at least could protect them.” in people who had CO- African Americans, Latinx, stunning when compar- six feet, locations should Dr. Fauci suggested that VID-19. We don’t know

can visit the website on a TxDOT’s annual “Heads encourages drivers to make hol or other drugs. Nov. 7, TXDOT, from Page 9 desktop computer to ac- up, Texas” campaign of- safer choices while behind 2000, was the last deathless advertising. These efforts dart those distractions. The cess the game through a ficially launches August the wheel, like wearing a day on Texas roadways and are to raise awareness of AR game can be played on QR code. Players should 4 and is a key component seat belt, driving the speed #EndTheStreakTX asks all the game and encourage any smartphone or tablet never play while behind the of #EndTheStreakTX, a limit, never texting and Texans to commit to driv- people to share their results by visiting www.dartthose- wheel, don’t add another broader social media and driving and never driving ing safely to help end the and recruit other players to distractions.com or players distraction! word-of-mouth effort that under the influence of alco- streak of daily deaths.

ida), and partnering with like Kentucky, Georgia and prominent figures in sports. to better society through ac- JAMES, from Page 1 Michigan election officials Wisconsin. Chiney Ogwumike, star of tion, and we do that by vot- in his home state, it appears was profoundly affected by and NBA teams to identify There has been little word the WNBA L.A. Sparks and ing.” that James is now ready to Floyd’s death. The resulting and prepare large sites (such so far on whether the orga- commenter on ESPN, is a With any luck, More use his star power on a na- protests stirred his desire to as basketball arenas) for nization’s efforts to break Houston native and excited Than A Vote will provide tional level. “get out and do a little bit in-person balloting while down minority voter sup- to work in her home state to plenty of opportunities for Unsurprisingly, this ini- more.” So far, that ‘little bit observing safety measures pression will extend to Tex- amplify women and minori- local celebrities and activ- tiative is inspired by the more’ has included donat- put into place to combat the as, long considered a con- ties’ voices this November ists to improve voting ac- recent murder of George ing $100,000 to the Florida COVID-19 pandemic. And servative bastion and known and beyond. cess for Dallas Black com- Floyd in May by Officer Rights Restoration Com- along with Michigan and to struggle with maintaining Speaking of James’ initia- munities in the lead up to Derek Chauvin and several mission (a group started to Florida, More Than A Vote equitable access to the bal- tive, she said, “One thing I the presidential election and other Minneapolis police help ex-felons register to has set its sights on increas- lot box for all its citizens. love about this is we’re all in the years to come. More officers. Like many others vote and combat rampant ing voter turnout and inter- But there is no doubt that athletes who are focused on information can be found at across the country, James voter suppression in Flor- est in battleground states the interest is there for other the same goal…. We want www.morethanavote.org.

12 | August 6-19, 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 time, “Prayer and Medita- vices until further notice Services; and bring some- U.S. Army FELLOWSHIP, tion” followed by Morn- because of the coronavirus. one with you, you will be Opportunity CARROLLTON ing Worship. You will be blessed. It’s for God’s glo- The United States Army is (A NEW PLACE TO blessed and inspired as we August 9 ry and honor. hiring for over 150 different BELONG) celebrate service to God, You are invited to join us career fields. our community and all in our Sunday Morning August 12 PART TIME OPPOR- NOTICE: New You, Pas- mankind. Services as we praise and Join us in our Wednesday’s TUNITIES - 1 weekend a tor Woodson serves the worship God in the Joycie 12 Noon-Day Live, Prayer ments are hiring. View job month, 2 weeks in the early community by providing August 12, 7 pm Turner Fellowship Hall, openings at http://livenatio- See CHURCH, Page 14 summer. Stay local, Money “Professional Therapy nentertainment.com/careers. You are invited to join us followed by our Worship for school, healthcare, paid and Counseling Servic- via video-conferencing drills and skill training, and On-going es” on a “Sliding Fee” for Prayer from 7 to 8 pm up to $20,000 enlistment bo- scale. To schedule an ap- as we pray for the world’s nus. First Fridays pointment call the Pasto- coronavirus. FULL TIME OPPORTU- Virtual Job Fair NITIES - Full time hours Every month computer ral Counseling Center at with off time and weekends professionals can participate 972-526-4525 or email the Dr. Terrance Woodson, just like regular jobs. 30 days in the monthly job fair in church at www.bethelbi- Senior Pastor paid vacation per year. Mon- the comfort of your PJs. Job blefelloswhip.org 1944 E. Hebron Parkway ey for school, free health- Seekers must complete pro- Carrollton, TX 75007 care, paid skill training, and file on https://tao.ai/p/fff/_/ Note: Until further no- 972-492-4300 up to $40,000 enlistment dfw tice, all services at Bethel www.bethelbiblefellow- bonus. #FirstFridayFair (#FFF) church will be via Video- ship.org is estimated to be largest Jobs in science, intel- Conferencing and perhaps ______attended career fair with ligence, combat, aviation, other churches as well; around 8,000 professionals engineering, law and more. log on individual churches FELLOWSHIP Contact 214-406 - 3737 and 500 recruiting compa- nies. The data science and websites for details. See CHRISTIAN Prerequisites: Bethel’s website www. CENTER CHURCH IN • GED/High School Di- software development fo- bethelbiblefellowship.org ALLEN ploma cussed career fair is deliv- • Between the ages of 17- ered right at your desktop. for their details because of “THE SHIP” We are 34 No need to travel anywhere, the coronavirus. Saving You a Seat! • No felonies just signup and wait for • No major medical issues TAO.ai to organize your in- August 9, 9:45 am Check “The Ship’s” web- • U.S. Citizen or perma- teractions. Please join us in our quiet site for details of their ser- nent resident Ongoing Census Bureau The Census Bureau con- ducts continuous surveys to supply the nation with im- portant statistics on people, places and our economy. Lo- cal field workers know their communities best, and are August 3, 2020 instrumental in conducting Ed Bell Construction is a Dallas based heavy highway contractor doing busi- surveys with residents on a ness in the North Texas market since 1963. With clients such as TxDOT, variety of topics. Visit cen- Dallas County Public Works, and the Cities of Dallas, Fort Worth, Richardson sus.gov to apply. and Mansfield (plus many others), we have a strong backlog of work in the highway market locally. Ongoing We are currently hiring for the following positions: City of Dallas • Paving Machine Operator The City of Dallas’ HR • CDL Drivers (Boom Truck, Haul Truck) Dept is currently accept- • Finishers (Structures, Paving) ing apps for the Budget and • Loader Operator (Earthwork) Contract Administrator po- • Form Setters (Structures, Paving) sition. Bachelor’s degree in • Motor Grader Operator (Earthwork) a business/public adminis- • Laborers (Structures, Earthwork, Paving) tration, human resources or • Excavator Operator (Underground, Earthwork) healthcare administration • Dozer Operator (Earthwork) Available: multiple openings field, plus 7 yrs exp. Rate: Negotiable For more info and to apply, Must have own transportation visit: http://bit.ly/2NcCfVP. Years of Experience required will vary, from 6 months to 2 years (depending on position) Ongoing Physical and Drug Screen Required House of Blues Must have a Clear Background Want a cool job in live Must be at least 18 years old (CDL Driver, 21 yrs) music? House of Blues Dal- las is hiring! Spruce up your resume and join us on Mon- day, August 26th for a Job Fair in our Cambridge Room from 1-5PM. All depart- For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 13 Church Happenings / Obituaries www.NorthDallasGazette.com Out to Pastor: I love a mystery when it’s a mystery Dr. James L. Snyder books as well as watching for creating problems. Getting back to those comes a mysterious little forth this proposal. the movies based on these A few nights ago, I got up movie mysteries. chuckle. I know where it’s “If I win, you will have to Because of the situa- books. in the middle of the night to For example, the other coming from, and so I look give up eating apple fritters tion we are in these days, I especially like those sto- go to the bathroom, as I nor- night, we watched this fas- at her and say, “Do you for a whole month.” That the Gracious Mistress of ries where the mystery is a mally do 150 times a night. cinating mystery, “The Mid- think I’m right?” Of course, was her proposal. the Parsonage and I have challenge to figure out until As I left the bathroom, I somer Murders,” a British I’m waiting for an affirma- “And if I win,” I said back spent some significant time the very end. slipped and grabbed hold of production. tive answer. to her, “I get to eat an apple watching mysteries. We en- That is not the case with the towel rack on the wall. I The program began with “No,” she says, chuck- fritter every day.” joy a mystery movie. the Gracious Mistress of the do not have to tell you what a murder. The murderer is ling, “it’s that lady there in We both agreed to those I have always loved mys- Parsonage. happened. not revealed at the begin- the blue dress.” terms, and both of us were teries. I have read all of the When people say every- There was this loud noise, ning, and the rest of the pro- There was just no way smiling. Sherlock Holmes stories by body is equal, they obvious- I crashed to the floor, and gram is trying to solve that possible that that person As we continued watch- Arthur Conan Doyle. I have ly have not met the Gracious then the voice from the bed- mystery of who murdered could have been the one to ing this mystery, the lady in read the Father Brown sto- Mistress of the Parsonage. If room said, “What have you that person. commit the crime. None of the blue dress seemed to be ries by G. K. Chesterton. there is ever a day, I thought broken now?” As soon as I think I have the evidence in the story out of the picture. The man I And, don’t forget Agatha I was equal to her, that was She went to the bathroom, figured it out, I present it to pointed to her. picked out seemed to collect Christie with Hercule Poirot the worst day of my life. saw the mess I had made, my wife. “That man right “What do you want to more evidence to put him in and Miss Marple. What No matter what the prob- simply shook her head, and there is the one who com- bet?” She challenged me. a sure place of conviction. wonderful mysteries cre- lem, she can solve it. She went back to bed. The next mitted the crime.” “How about a quarter?” I was smiling, and I solves problems while I, on day, of course, she fixed it— No sooner do I say this She looked at me, slowly ated by these authors, and See MYSTERY, Page 15 I have enjoyed reading the the other hand, have a talent no mystery about that. when across the room shook her head, and then put

until further notice because to say to us in His Holy through service to each II Men Bible Study in the CHURCH, from Page 13 of the coronavirus. Word. other and the world. Youth Church Sanctuary and Bible Study class and/ INSPIRING BODY OF (Chapel). or our Wednesday Night CHRIST CHURCH, Aug. 7, 7 pm Pastor Rickie Rush Check “SMBC’s” website Live, Prayer and Bible Let’s Go Fishing! All men are invited to 7701 S Westmoreland Road for details of their services August 12, 7 pm Study at 7 p.m. to learn MATTHEW 4:19 Men’s Ministry meeting Dallas, TX 75237 until further notice because You’re invited to our Wednesday’s Bible Study more about God’s Word. each Friday night at 8 pm, 972-372-4262 of the coronavirus. (IBOC promotes proactive www.Ibocchurch.org class; you will learn what Be encouraged by God’s “Bring the whole tithe into God has to say to plan for your maturity and the storehouse, that there male leadership.) ______August 9, 8 and 11 am You are invited to our Wor- us. Come and be encour- His glory; and most of all; may be food in my house. aged by God’s plan for August 9, 10 a.m. SHILOH MBC ship Services as we honor be prepared to grow. Test me in this,” says the your spiritual growth and Join us for our Morning IN PLANO God for His goodness and Lord Almighty, “and see if His glory. Service; and don’t forget (WHERE COMMUNITY faithfulness. Dr. W. L. Stafford, Sr., Ed. D. I will not open the windows to invite family and friends BECOMES FAMILY) of heaven and pour you out Dr. Isaiah Joshua, Jr. Senior Pastor to join us as we celebrate August 10, 7 to 8 pm a blessing that there will Senior Pastor 2450 K Avenue #300 our Lord and Savior, Jesus Connect to God through Every Monday Night not be room to receive.” 920 E. 14th Street Plano, TX 75074 Christ. Shiloh, Grow in Christ Sister II Sister (Women’s - Malachi 3:8-10 Plano, TX 75074 972-379-3287 through the study of the Mission) in the Main Fel- 972-423-6695 Word of God, Serve God lowship Hall and the Men www.theship3c.org August 12, 7 p.m. www.smbcplano.org Check “IBOC’s” website You are invited to Monday www.visitF3c.org for details of their services School to see what God has Death Notices - [email protected] Juan Audrey Franklin Zen Santanna Hilton 2020 at 2 p.m. Born: 01/21/1941 Born: 07/17/2020 Eternal Rest Funeral Died: 07/25/2020 Died: 07/22/2020 Home of DeSoto Eternal Rest Funeral Graveside Service: Home of DeSoto Wednesday, July 29,2020; John Louis Davis 2PM Born: 03/28/1946 Eternal Rest Funeral Died: 07/26/2020. Trini Jackson Home of DeSoto Visitation: Friday, July 31, Born: 03/24/1970 2020 from 2-6 p.m. Died: 07/22/2020 O. D. Price Funeral: Saturday, August Funeral: Saturday, July 27, Born: 08/27/1944 1, 2020 at 11 a.m. 2020 at 11a.m. Died: 07/20/2020 Location: Friendship West Eternal Rest Funeral Visitation: Wednesday, Missionary Baptist Church Home of DeSoto July 29, 2020; 2PM-6PM Eternal Rest Funeral Funeral: Thursday, July 30, Home of DeSoto Curlee Watkins 2020; 2PM Born: 08/04/1939 Eternal Rest Funeral Dennis L. Gladney Died: 07/21/2020 Home of DeSoto Born: 10/28/1945 Visitation: Tuesday, July Died: 07/21/2020 Grace Humby Visitation: Friday, August 28, 2020 Born: 02/03/1945 7, 2020 from 2-6 p.m. Funeral: Friday, July 29, Died: 07/21/2020 Funeral: Saturday, August 2020 at 2 p.m. Visitation: Thursday, July 8, 2020 at 11 a.m. Eternal Rest Funeral 30, 2020 from 2-6 p.m. Eternal Rest Funeral Home of DeSoto Funeral: Friday, July 31, Home of DeSoto

14 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com www.NorthDallasGazette.com Church Directory Three Things desires those he is leading sometimes. But over the Ask God to help you to Sister to follow his example. years, I’ve learned that of- remember that He is in Tarpley First, God wants you ten during the worst mess- control and to know when NDG to have the eyes of your es of life, God will do the to stop trying to do it all by Religion heart enlightened in order most work on you. Feel yourself and let God step in Editor to know the hope to which God’s presence and expe- to do His work. Thank God He has called you. God has rienced His power in these for His strength and love, in called each of us to a fu- times of need. the Name of Jesus. “I pray also that the ture and a hope. Some do eyes of your heart may be not ever realize the dreams enlightened in order that they envision for their you may know the hope to lives. Paul prays they will which He has called you, experience this. Second, God wants you the riches of His glorious to know there is an inheri- inheritance in the saints, tance for each believer in is available to every be- Spirit to us. and His incomparably Jesus Christ. There are liever. Paul often exhorted Pray that God reveals great power for us who be- riches to be had – not fi- believers not to look at his the hope that exists inside lieve” nancial riches – but spiri- persuasive words, but the of you, be encouraged (Ephesians 1:18-19). tual riches that are laid up demonstration of the power that there is an inheritance Paul’s letter to the Ephe- for every saint. As you are of God in his life. He wants awaiting you, and know sians exhorts believers to faithful to His calling in you to know this same pow- that you have power that experience three important your life, there will be a re- er is available to you. After resides in you that awaits things in their spiritual lives ward for your faithfulness. all, Jesus said we would do those who exercise their that he experienced person- Third, God desires you even greater works than He faith to release it. ally. As a good mentor, he to tap into the power that did after He sent the Holy Life sure can be a mess I thought about what Sol- Fellowship. The church web MYSTERY, from Page 14 omon said, “Whoso boast- site is www.whatafellow- would glance at her and see evidence piled up in her di- eth himself of a false gift is ship.com. she was smiling back at me. rection until finally, she was like clouds and wind with- In the last scene, every- arrested. out rain” (Proverbs 25:14). thing seemed to turn. All “Well,” my wife said a I believe the biggest mys- the evidence that pointed to little more dramatic than I tery in life is with the person my person fell through the appreciated, “I guess you’re who thinks they know ev- floor. Suddenly, the lady in giving up your apple fritters erything. the blue dress appears to be for the next month.” Then, Dr. James L. Snyder is the murderer. Evidence after she laughed. pastor of the Family of God

For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette | 15 NDG Book Review www.NorthDallasGazette.com NDG Book Review: ‘The Shared Room’ is a tough, wonderful work By Terri Schlichenmeyer wall but it was hard to look The house was quiet, ex- But he would never have ness over the story that at them because they re- cept when someone would her back. Would he miss his stays well beyond the final Sometimes, things minded the family inside play a video of the girl on sister forever? page, and you’ll feel it in change in a minute. the house that one of them their phone, and everyone Is “The Shared Room” a your chest. You look, and it’s one was missing. It had been watched. book for children? And yet, if you can with- way. You look again, it’s seven months since the girl But then, something You may wonder that af- stand the pall, there’s a different, and you didn’t with the shiny brown hair shifted. ter you’ve read it through sliver of hope inside this even see the change hap- and big toothy smile, the Ever since the youngest once – and you should, to book and a reminder that pening. You might not like happy little girl in a framed brother was born, the oldest gauge its appropriateness life goes on. It also serves it but that never matters. picture, had walked into a brother shared a bedroom for your child before you to tell a child that it’s best As in the new picture book lake, misstepped, and acci- with him in the house in present it. It’s a lovely sto- to come to terms with death “The Shared Room” by dentally drowned. east St. Paul. There were ry, but it’s also deeply, un- but that never forgetting is Kao Kalia Yang, illustra- to melt and you could al- Nobody had seen it hap- four bedrooms, four chil- bearably sad. okay, too. tions by Xee Reiter, that’s most see that spring was pen and nobody in the fam- dren and two parents, so While the artwork by Again, read this book when it’s best just to take coming. But inside the ily could forget. The moth- there had to be sharing – Xee Reiter may soften through once before you a deep breath, roll your house in east St. Paul, there er and the father couldn’t until the parents asked the things a bit, author Kao Ka- give it to your 8-to-12-year- shoulders, and move on. were shadows across a dark even bear to take the sheets oldest brother if he’d like lia Yang’s tale starts with old. “The Shared Room” If it were any other win- fireplace and quiet floors. off the girl’s bed and for to have his sister’s room. silence and ends like a grey may prove to be too much, ter day in Minnesota, it There was light in the seven months, they visited He’d have her bed. He tattered shawl draped over too early, too overwhelm- might’ve been nice. It was house, but no sunshine. her room and cried once, would have her dresser and every page. This profound ing – or it may change your warm enough for the snow Pictures hung on the twice, three times a day. her closet. mourning leaves a heavi- child’s grieving. Push back by Republicans after Trump floats idea of delaying elections By Lauren Victoria Burke into an electoral college ingly clear, at least to me, elections. Trump wants to anti-Trump Lincoln Proj- NNPA Contributor and massive popular vote that the majority of Re- delay the election because ect. loss. Many fear he may not publicans in Congress and he knows he has a .00006% Lauren Victoria Burke is With polls tanking and recognize the legitimacy of in the White House are an chance of winning,” wrote an independent journalist prognosticators openly the election but few have a existential threat to this Re- Ron Perlman on social me- for NNPA and the host of the stating President Trump is specific answer regarding public,” wrote Princeton dia. podcast BURKEFILE. She likely to lose to former Vice who will enforce his depar- professor Eddie Glaude on “The inability to imag- is also a political strategist President Joe Biden on No- ture if he loses which is fol- July 30. ine Donald Trump has al- as Principal of Win Digital vember 3rd, the President Over 150,000 Americans have lowed by a formal change “Over the past 20 years ways been one of Trump’s Media LLC. She may be floated the idea delaying died during the COVID-19 of power at noon on Janu- there’s been .00006% cases greatest strengths,” said contacted at LBurke007@ the November 3rd election. pandemic. Infection numbers ary 20, 2001. of fraud in all mail-in bal- Republican strategist Stuart gmail.com and on twitter at Trump’s suggestion lines continue to spike in many states. “It has become increas- lots cast in presidential Stevens who is part of the @LVBurke No comprehensive federal plan up with several other com- for testing, treatment and fund- ments he has made under- ing has been put in place by the mining the legitimacy of Trump Administration. mail-in ballots. Massive November 3rd,” Republi- job less since March due to can Senate Majority Leader the COVID-19 pandemic, Mitch McConnell during which the Trump White an interview with WNKY. House has offered no sus- “I think that’s probably tained plan to confront, has a statement that gets some led to a record-breaking 9 press attention, but I doubt percent loss in gross na- it gets any serious traction. tional product. I think we’ve had elections Over 150,000 Americans every November since have died during the COV- about 1788, and I expect ID-19 pandemic. Infection that will be the case again numbers continue to spike this year,” Thune said. in many states. No com- Early on July 30, Trump prehensive federal plan for tweeted, “With Universal testing, treatment and fund- Mail-In Voting (not Absen- ing has been put in place by tee Voting, which is good), the Trump Administration. 2020 will be the most IN- Trump’s suggestion regard- ACCURATE & FRAUDU- ing delaying the Novem- LENT Election in history. ber 3 election arrives after It will be a great embarrass- more evidence. ment to the USA. Delay the “Never in the history of Election until people can the country, through wars, properly, securely and safe- depressions and the Civil ly vote???” War, have we ever not had What has been less inac- a federally-scheduled elec- curate are polls and other tion on time. We’ll find a indicators leading many to way to do that again this believe Trump is staring

16 | August 6-19, 2020 | North Dallas Gazette For the 411 in the community, go to www.northdallasgazette.com