Garland Journal, May 1, 2025 (11.25) - Upload Copy
SERVING NORTH EAST TEXAS
MY TRUTH
Yes, I am saying it again!
This is another remix but I needed to look back in order to move forward.
Everyone can’t vote.
Which brings me to my truth!
Just because you don’t have a voter registration card does not mean you can’t work campaigns and the polls, or participate in voter education programs. You can also donate money!
Legally, there may be restrictions or past transgressions that render you ineligible.
Still, just because you aren’t on the ballot or you are but don’t have an opponent, doesn’t mean you get a pass!
Every darned election, you should be out working like your life depends on it because we’ve seen what happens when there’s low voter turnout.
Voters fail to realize that those they vote in during the presidential election need reinforcements that come during the midterm election.
Voters can be fickle.
See AGAIN, page 12
April Ryan, Black Press saluted at 2025 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire
This year, the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner looked much different. Without the presence of the President of the United States, an accomplished comedian, or the traditional crowd of politicians and celebrities, the evening instead became a nationally televised celebration of free speech.
The black-tie event was also a recognition of the benefit of diversity, a tribute to trailblazing journalists, and a major shout-out and acknowledgment to Black Press USA’s Washington Bureau Chief and White House Senior Correspondent, April Ryan. The event took place under the shadow of a second Trump administration that has launched fresh attacks on press freedom, barring the Associated Press from the presidential pool and moving to shut down the Voice of America broadcaster.
President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly branded the media “the enemy of the people,” stayed away
from the dinner, just as he did during his first term. Political figures, including Republican former House Speaker Paul Ryan and Maryland Democratic Governor Wes Moore, attended. In a typical year, the president attends to congratulate journalists, deliver a lighthearted speech, and endure jokes at their expense.
With Trump absent, the night focused squarely on the critical role of the press in a democracy and the First Amendment constitutional
protections of freedom of the press. “We journalists are a lot of things. We are competitive and pushy. We are impatient, and sometimes we think we know everything,” said WHCA President Eugene Daniels.
“What we are not is the opposition. What we are not is the enemy of people. What we are not is the enemy of the state.”
The dinner also honored the contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with
students recognized during the evening for achievements in journalism and public service.
The event made clear the association’s continuing commitment to diversity.
Daniels, the first openly gay person of color and the second Black president of the WHCA, officially passed the baton to CBS News Senior White House Correspondent Weijia Jiang, who will become the first woman of color to lead the organization. A highlight of the evening was the tribute to April Ryan, who received recognition as the longest-serving African American White House correspondent in history.
Daniels chose to salute Ryan’s groundbreaking career during the presentation of an award named for Alice Dunnigan and Ethel Payne—the first Black women to serve in the White House press corps.
“Many of us are here because they kicked down some doors for us, including Black Press USA’s April Ryan,” Daniels declared. “This year, April has officially become the longest-serv-
Superb Women
By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News
PATRICE ANGWENYI
Patrice Angwenyi, a Fort Worth native, is the co-founder of HustleBlendz® a specialty coffee shop specializing in cold brews. She is also the author of Faith Boss and works as a startup strategy coach at Reknown Tech. Patrice earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from East Texas A&M University. After becoming an educator, she focused on equity and inclusion for at-risk youth. She offers project management services, including copywriting, grant writing, and business planning, to faith-based startups. Through her diverse work, Patrice is dedicated to empowering others, fostering innovation, and driving positive change in the businesses and communities she serves.
ASANI’ LEWIS
Asani Lewis is a dynamic and driven professional, currently serving as a Personal Banker at Frost Bank, where she blends her expertise in marketing and strategic planning to provide exceptional service to clients. A proud graduate of Grambling State University with a degree in
where she sharpened her skills in customer service, marketing, and financial planning. Known for her ability to juggle multiple tasks with ease and attention to detail, Asani delivers excellent service while supporting her team’s goals in fast-paced environments.
Ariane (Ari) Badjo is a dedicated professional in the private aviation industry, serving as the Charter Sales Coordinator and Client Services Supervisor at GrandView Aviation. She holds a degree in Aviation Management from the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, and is a licensed Private Pilot. Fluent in both English and French, Ari offers a diverse perspective and builds lasting relationships with clients. Ari’s expertise lies in serving as the first point of contact for clients. Outside her career, Ari enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and cherishing quality time with her family. Her passion for aviation and commitment to exceptional service define her approach in the private aviation sector.
JESSICA TURNER
ing African American White House Correspondent in history. April—Ms. Dunnigan and Ms. Payne would have been so proud of you, and so are we.” Ryan shared her gratitude.
“It’s an honor to be the longest serving Black White House correspondent in history with Black Press USA, the company that started everything with pioneers like Harry McAlpin, Ethel Payne, and Alice Dunnigan,” Ryan remarked. “We’ve done groundbreaking work in the past, and we’re forging a new path to keep that legacy of groundbreaking work that informs the public, particularly Black Americans who still have the highest negatives in almost any category in America.”
Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president and CEO of the 198-year-old Black Press of America, called Ryan’s recognition a proud moment for the organization. “This recognition as being the longest serving White House correspondent is a tribute and an attribute to the Black Press of America,” Chavis said. “April Ryan is an icon of journalism.”
Debra Vines is the Founder and CEO of The Answer Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families affected by autism and developmental disorders. A graduate of Triton College, Debra founded the organization after her son’s autism diagnosis to provide vital resources, education, and advocacy. Based in Illinois, The Answer Inc. offers workshops, support groups, and community programs to help families navigate healthcare and education. As a mother, entrepreneur, and advocate, Debra is passionate about improving access to essential services and empowering underserved communities. Hailing from Opelika, Alabama, her work aims to create lasting change for individuals with autism and their families.
EGYPT SHERROD
Jessica Turner is a Dallas-based photographer and photo art director with more than 10 years of experience. She holds a BFA in Commercial Photography and Art Direction from Texas A&M University-Commerce and is an active member of the Alpha Phi Delta Beta Sorority. Her love for photography began at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Over the years, she’s worked as a Senior Photographer at Mary Kay and a Photo Art Director at Advocate Media, specializing in visual storytelling within beauty, fashion, and entertainment. Jessica is passionate about bringing creative visions to life and capturing impactful imagery.
CRYSTAL I BERGER
Crystal I. Berger is the Founder & CEO of EBO and Vettify™, pioneering AI-powered media booking automation. With more than a decade of experience as a Senior Producer at FOX News, she managed 140,000+ bookings and conducted high-profile interviews with icons like Simone Biles, Kelly Rowland, and John C. Maxwell. Crystal is dedicated to mentorship and empowering underrepresented voices, believing in the transformative power of storytelling. A graduate of the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, where she was a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Crystal also attended the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland.
Egypt Sherrod is a real estate broker, TV host, and author, known for Married to Real Estate and Property Virgins on HGTV. With more than 20 years in real estate, she provides expert home-buying guidance. She co-owns a renovation business and focuses on real estate investments. A former radio personality, she also promotes financial literacy. Egypt runs the Egypt Cares Family Foundation, supporting housing education. Her work centers on real estate, business, and community impact, making her a respected figure in the industry. A consummate professional, she studied at Temple University and New York University.
RAVEN NICOLE BARNES
Raven Nicole Barnes is a Dallas-based author, entrepreneur, and creative arts specialist. As Vice President of The Confidence Group, she has excelled for over 20 years. She has authored 50+ books, including 15 children’s books focused on values like honesty and kindness. Raven began writing to instill strong character in her children and now empowers youth through social-
ARIANE (ARI) BADJO
DEBRA VINES
Cheryl Smith
April Ryan, Black Press USA’s Washington Bureau Chief and White House Senior Correspondent
By Rita Cook Correspondent
AUSTIN – The Texas Senate passed a bill last week championing more filmmaking in Texas.
Or, at the very least, Senate Bill 22 will make it easier for filmmakers to find more money through the state’s movie incentive grant program.
SB22 is about generating significant returns for the Texas economy and was introduced by Republican Sen. Joan Huffman from Houston; who is also the Finance Committee chair.
“Texas is the nation’s number one leader in job creation year after year,” said Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick. “Our business-friendly environment with low regulation, lack of state income tax, plentiful workforce, and reasonable incentive packages attract businesses of all types to our great state.”
The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program was created in 2007 and gives movie and TV production rebates of up to 20% of expenditures spent in the state.
Over the years the grant program has seen $2.5 billion in economic activity with almost 200,000 jobs to Texas.
Huffman said Texas gets back $4.69 in economic benefit.
With this new bill SB22, it is hoped filmmakers will choose to film in Texas instead of New Mexico and Georgia, where there are currently healthier incentive programs.
Huffman’s bill would earmark $500 million each biennium into the program for the next decade to assure Texas is
the filmmaker’s first choice.
During the last legislative session there was an outlay toward the program of $200 million.
SB22 doubling that amount will give filmmakers an even stronger reason to find their way to the state.
To qualify for the grant program the production must shoot at least 60% of the schedule in Texas.
In addition, money spent must be spent on Texas labor or Texas goods.
“It’s all Texas based and it all has to be tied to impact in the state of Texas,” Huffman said.
“The bill would raise the cap on rebates to 25% of money spent in Texas, and includes additional bonuses, 2.5 percent each, for productions that film in rural Texas, that hire Texas veterans, or promote Texas values.
“An amendment to the bill would also let faith and family-focused productions qualify for a 2.5 percent bump. Incentives can raise the cap up to 31 percent, but no more.”
Huffman also explained in the past for every dollar spent
by filmmakers utilizing the grant program, Texas has seen a return of five dollars in economic activity.
SB22 won’t allow just any filmmaker the luxury of the grant program money either.
It clarifies the Office of the Governor, who is the administrator of the program, can reject grant applications for any reason, from questionable content to a negative depiction of Texas.
Senators who spoke in favor of SB22 included Weatherford Senator Phil King and Houston Senator Carol Alvarado who both agreed filmmaking in Texas is a positive economic source for the state.
Alvarado added, “Let’s make sure that when it’s Texas in the script, it’s Texas on the screen.”
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Violin’s Full Circle Tour by AT&T Performing Arts Center. Step into Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour, where GRAMMY-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus perform at the Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St., Dallas, at 7:30 pm. Tickets: https:// attpac.org/event/black-violin-25
Cinco de Mayo Day Party by DFW Social 40. From 4 pm-10 pm at Sambuca 360, 7200 Bishop Rd #270 Plano. WWW.DFWSOCIAL40.COM
5
ITSO Vegan Daytime Social Mixer & Review, Daytime social Mixer, DJ, Bartender, FREE Drinks, FREE Food. 5 – 7 pm. at ITSO Vegan 830 Mayfield Rd. #600, Grand Prairie. Tickets: https://bit.ly/44GSm5z
*** Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at the District by AT&T Discovery District, Cowboy Chow, and The Exchange Hall. Get ready to party District-style! We’re bringing the heat all day long with Walking tacos stand in the Plaza. 9 am – 10 pm at 208 S. Akard St., Dallas https://discoverydistrictdallas.com/
*** Met Gala 2025 Viewing Party by BLK Fashion Group. Get ready to slay at our Met Gala 2025 Viewing Party -Dress code: Superfine Tailoring Black Style. 5:30 – 7:30 at Don Morphy, 1500 Hi Line Drive #Suite A, Dallas. FREE https://bit.ly/3GDp8uk
Duncanville ISD Field Day by Duncanville ISD. Students who are in 4th- 6th grades will compete in various competitions at the district’s annual Field Day. At Duncanville Panther Stadium, 900 W. Camp Wisdom Rd, at 10 am. https://www. duncanvilleisd.com ***
Ascension Ensemble Concert Ascension Ensemble Concert Latino Cultural Center Tickets are $25 Dallas Black Dance Theatre
Duncanville ISD Field Day by Duncanville ISD. Students who are in 4th- 6th grades will compete in various competitions at the district’s annual Field Day. At Duncanville Panther Stadium, 900 W. Camp Wisdom Rd, at 10 am. https://www.duncanvilleisd.com
FREE Webinar Midweek Medicare Mental Health Benefits and more, by North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging. 10 am-11:30 am Registration: https://bit.ly/3RzOJGV 9
Live Music: Nnamdi and K Cooks Jazz Night by Nnamdi at Mudhook Bar & Grill 305 W FM1382 #410, Cedar Hill, from 9 – 11 pm. Great drinks and food! https:// www.mudhookbar.com/
Mother’s Day Concert feat. Lawyer Turner by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters Inc. A contemporary gospel artist saluting mothers. 9 pm at The Clarence Mues Café, 1309 Canton St., Dallas. Tickets: $10 https://www.ticketmaster.com/ mothers-day-concert-featuring-lawyer-turner-dallas-texas-05-09-2025
AAEAHP INDUCTS 10 DISTINGUISHED EDUCATORS IN HALL OF FAME CEREMONY
Two Prominent Leaders Were Named Presidential Awardees
(DALLAS, TX) – Ten distinguished, outstanding educators were inducted into the African American Education Archives and History Program Educators’ Hall of Fame on April 12.
The Class of 2025 includes Dr. Helen Benjamin, Cassandra Black, Robert Edison, Dr. Levatta Levels, Dr. Larry Lewis, Bertric Manning, Dr. Charles Matthews (deceased), Dora Wesley Morris, Cheryl Smith and Norma Wright. Alongside this stellar group, AAEAHP honored two prominent state leaders—Texas State Senator Royce West and Founder/President of the Black Academy of Arts and Letters Curtis King, and local educator Jessica Watts as Outstanding Young Educator.
Serving as Honorary Chair Sponsor for the AAEAHP Bobbie
L. Lang Hall of Fame Luncheon was the Credit Union of Texas (CUTX) represented by Troy Mathieu, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III served as Emcee for the event.
The Educators’ Hall of Fame identifies and recognizes educa-
tors and others for outstanding contributions to the educational experiences of African Americans in Dallas County. Inductees are historical and contemporary. Over the past 20 years, 183 individuals have been inducted into the AAEAHP Hall of Fame and 40 special awards have been presented recognizing outstanding members of the community.
In addition to celebrating the honorees, $15,000 was awarded to five high school students. AAEAHP has now awarded more than $90,000 since 2015 to students from Dallas County to help them attend college and become educators. You can make a donation to the scholarship fund via the website: www.aaeahp.org.
One Hell of an Optimist!
Vincent L. Hall
Pastor Thomas Hayden Garner strolled to the pulpit at our Holy Week mid-week musical. He was on to deliver a sermonette.
The late Dr. E. K. Bailey once warned that sermonettes make “Christianettes.”
But with our limited attention spans today, a well-placed homily may be all we can stand.
Anyway, amid his 11-minute oration, he laid out a sentence that led me back to a whole speech Dr. King wrote on toilet paper and scrap papers. Garner mused that “Holy Week turned into the week from Hell” as Jesus sojourned from the triumph of Palm Sunday to the tragedy on the cross on Calvary on Friday.
After coming off a successful Holy Week of planning and protests, Dr. King landed in a Birmingham jail on Good Friday. There is a lot of symbolism in that, but suffice it to know that for the White folks who preferred segregation, any Friday was a good Fri-
day to put a sassy, N!gg3R in jail!
There is little difference in the White Segregationists movement in 1963 and MAGA in 2025. The leaders have just gotten less blatant and more devious and demonic in their acts of racism and tribalism.
Trump would have had his imps send King to El Salvador to a fellow dictator.
I digress. But Garner’s graphic description of the Holy Week from Hell led me to a piece of Dr. King’s letter from a Birmingham Jail.
“Perhaps I have once again been too optimistic. Is organized religion too inextricably bound to the status quo to save our nation and the world? Perhaps I must turn my faith to the inner
spiritual church, the church within the church, as the true ecclesia and the hope of the world.
But again I am thankful to God that some noble souls from the ranks of organized religion have broken loose from the paralyzing chains of conformity and joined us as active partners in the struggle for freedom.
They have left their secure congregations and walked the streets of Albany, Georgia, with us. They have gone down the highways of the South on tortuous rides for freedom.
Yes, they have gone to jail with us. Some have been dismissed from their churches, have lost the support of their bishops and fellow ministers.
But they have acted in the faith that
right defeated is stronger than evil triumphant. Their witness has been the spiritual salt that has preserved the true meaning of the gospel in these troubled times.
They have carved a tunnel of hope through the dark mountain of disappointment. I hope the church as a whole will meet the challenge of this decisive hour.
But even if the church does not come to the aid of justice, I have no despair about the future.
I have no fear about the outcome of our struggle in Birmingham, even if our motives are at present misunderstood.
We will reach the goal of freedom in Birmingham and all over the nation, because the goal of America is freedom.”
We have to believe that the goal of America outside the MAGA regime is still freedom.
And as we watch another Holy Week turn into the week from Hell, we must, like King, hold onto our optimism, whether the White Church is with us or not.
Who Is Out Of Bounds With Student-Athletes, NIL and The NCAA?
James B. Ewers
Jr. Ed. D.
OUR VOICES
The NCAA is the governing body for college athletics in America. It has a long history since its inception in March 1906. This longevity has served the NCAA well. It has provided a template for athletic engagement for athletes, coaches, athletic directors and presidents.
Membership in the National Collegiate Athletic Association requires that colleges pay their monetary dues.
Championships are played at all three levels, namely, Division I, II and III.
Some of these championships are held on different college campuses across the country. At the Division I level, finals events are held on neutral sites. For example, the Women’s Final Four basketball games were played at the Ama-
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America, hereby reiterates our profound disgust and unwavering opposition to the continued disrespect shown toward Black America by Target Corporation.
Two months ago, the NNPA launched a National Selective Buying and Public Education Campaign in response to Target’s blatant
lie Arena in Tampa, Florida. It is the highlight of a student-athlete’s career to say they have played in the NCAAs. The memories made will last a lifetime.
The realization comes usually after your playing days are over. I played in an NCAA regional tennis tournament in New Jersey many years ago. There is now unprecedented publicity around the NCAA. Television rights have lined the coffers of the NCAA and conferences as well.
That is in part why you have seen colleges changing conferences, especially at the Division I level. For example, the University of Maryland once in the Atlantic Coast Conference is now in the Big Ten Conference. The University of Texas once in the Big 12 Conference, is now a member of the Southeastern Conference.
It is safe to say that these schools have gained much from aligning themselves with other conferences.
History says student-athletes
only received athletic scholarships. They usually consisted of tuition, room and board. Some critics have long said that this paradigm was unfair because the college athletes were making money for someone else, namely the colleges and the conferences.
Now there is a change in what college athletes are receiving. Many student-athletes are becoming millionaires while still in college. They are being paid to perform and to render their services to the colleges. College sports have taken a turn these days. What turn depends upon your viewpoint and maybe your experiences.
While I am a traditionist, I believe college athletes should be paid.
Let’s be clear. Student-athletes have made money for their colleges and coaches over the years.
Coaches’ contracts were tied to the number of wins they recorded. They still are along with bonuses.
In a funny yet very serious way, a coach’s livelihood is dependent upon young men and women, many in their teens. Duke University star basketball player, Cooper Flagg is eighteen years of age. Name Image and Likeness began in 2021 when the NCAA created a policy saying that student-athletes could benefit from their NIL. At present, the NIL train has left the station without a conductor.
Recently, Tennessee quarterback Nico Lamaleava signed an NIL agreement reportedly worth 8 million dollars. He wanted more. Tennessee said no and according to reports will be signing with UCLA. Colin Cowherd of Fox Sports was the first to report this news. The transfer portal has now become an athletic expressway to more riches, acclaim and fame for student-athletes. Every day you see college athletes that you thought would stay leave for “greener” pastures.
Should Name, Image and
Likeness agreements be regulated in some way?
Craig Robertson, former New Orleans Saints linebacker believes it should. He said, “Transparency and protection of the student-athletes should be the main priority. The billion-dollar question is how? A lot must be agreed upon over the different conferences and divisions to make it work. A commissioner (separate from the NCAA and presidents) should be in place to help govern the conferences. Players should have a representative and association to help govern NIL from faulty deals and compliance. The college game is at a point where it should mirror the NFL game. It’s time to start getting ready for it.”
What Robertson said makes a lot of sense. Let’s get onboard.
America’s Slide into Tyranny
“For as in absolute governments the King is law, so in free countries the law ought to be king; and there ought to be no other.”
— Thomas Paine
In a stunning but unsurprising act of lawlessness, the Trump administration has refused to return a man wrongfully deported to El Salvador, even after a U.S. court ordered the government to do so. With this decision, the administration has crossed a chilling threshold — one that places it in open defiance of the Constitution, the courts and the very foundation of our democracy.
This is no longer the erosion of democratic norms. This is their outright collapse.
The deportee, who fled danger in his home country and sought asylum in the United States, was forcibly removed by federal agents despite a judicial order halting his deportation. His fate, now uncertain in a country he fled in fear, is a grotesque reminder that for many in today’s America, due process is not a right — it’s a suggestion.
The refusal to comply with a lawful court order is not just an immigration issue. It is a constitutional crisis. The executive branch, once again, is signaling that it is not bound by the rule of law.
This is how democracies die — not with a dramatic coup, but with a series of quiet refusals, deliberate omissions and willful negligence. There is a name for governments that imprison, exile or disappear individuals without judicial review: authoritarian. From Franco’s Spain to Pinochet’s Chile, history has no shortage of examples where unchecked power replaced fair trials with forced removals and “administrative detentions.” And in our own American past, we’ve seen this brand of injustice before — from the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II to the mass deportations during “Operation Wetback” in the 1950s. The common thread? The normalization of state violence cloaked in bureaucratic indifference.
Our Constitution was designed with a system of checks and balances — a safeguard against the very tyranny we now face. But those safeguards are failing. When courts are ignored, when Congress is silent and when federal agents act as enforcers of political will instead of protectors of the people, we are left with a government unmoored from accountability.
retreat from its stated commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This campaign is not simply about economic protest it’s about justice, dignity, and the unyielding demand for respect.
As far back as October 2024, we sent a formal letter to Target CEO Brian Cornell detailing the company’s persistent refusal to invest in Black-owned newspapers and media outlets. That letter was met with silence. Silence, in the face of truth, is complicity. By ignoring our appeal, Mr. Cornell and Target have made clear that they do not value the voices, institutions, or the economic power of Black America. Let us be clear: we will not shop where we are disrespected. Our dollars will not finance our own marginalization. The Black Press has,
Editor: editor@myimessenger.com
for over 198 years, amplified the stories and struggles of our communities when others would not, we continue to, “plead our own cause.”
Yet, in 2025, major corporations like Target continue to bypass us in favor of performative gestures and hollow statements. We therefore announce the continuation and intensification of the target-TAR-
GET national selective buying campaign. We call upon all freedom-loving people from across all segments of society who believe in economic justice, media equity, and corporate accountability to join us.
To those companies who do embrace the inclusion of their diverse consumer base, we say this: Stand with us not just in words, but in
deeds. Show your commitment by investing in our communities, supporting our businesses, and partnering with Black-owned media companies that have long carried the mantle of truth, justice, and advocacy.
This is not just about advertising. This is about visibility. This is about representation. This is about the moral obligation of, “Good corporate citizenship” by honoring its promises not with press releases, but with action.
The time for silence is over. The time for selective buying is now.
Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association and BlackPressUSA
Let’s be clear: This is not an isolated event. It is part of a broader pattern of constitutional degradation. From the violent suppression of protesters to the vilification of immigrants and the weaponization of executive orders, we are witnessing the federal government operate with impunity.
This moment demands outrage. It demands resistance. And above all, it demands clarity. We are not on the edge of authoritarianism — we are in it.
Our charge, as citizens and as a civil rights movement, is to expose this regime for what it is and to organize with relentless determination to hold it accountable. The stakes are not abstract. They are real, they are human and they are urgent.
If we are to preserve what is left of our democracy, we must act like democracy itself is at stake — because it is.
Bobby Henry, Sr. is the publisher of the Westside Gazette and chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association-NNPA Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.
Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, award-winning columnist and a lifelong Drapetomaniac!
Dr. Benjamin F Chavis Jr.
Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA
Bobby Henry, Sr.
Marc Morial
Legally Written: Women caregivers need to plan for the future
Kisha Brown Special to AFRO
OUR VOICES
Black women are caregivers. (Women comprise 81 percent of caregivers for older people worldwide).
I know them. They’re paid and unpaid. They’re in their 30s through their 70s. They have full time jobs. They’re part-time and full-time students. They’re retired. They’ve moved their parents into their home and retrofitted bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways. They’ve consolidated their
lifestyle and belongings and moved into their parents’ home.
Caregiving is a full time job. It’s cooking, serving and cleaning up breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s washing, brushing and grooming to someone else’s liking. It’s paying bills, changing the channel, refilling beverages and sliding off socks at the end of the day.
It’s handling the current affairs of a two-in-one household and the inevitable future affairs of a two-to-one household. It’s thoughtfully attending to someone else’s needs and subconsciously, yet knowingly, planning for the end
of said attention. It’s hard to plan for someone else’s day to day and also for when they’re gone. Starting at, what’s the plan for the funeral and the repast? Which pictures will be in the obituary and how many people are expected to account for how much chicken, string beans, dinner rolls and slices of cake are needed after service?
Going beyond that are considerations such as how to pay for it all, who is going to own the house, obtaining access to bank accounts and if the will is up to date.
Of all of the things to consider when thinking about the future, I’m going to give
you three questions to also please consider: Is there more than one person who is likely to inherit? Is there a house (with or without a mortgage), land, or other real property worth more than $10,000 that is owned solely by your parent/care receiver?
Are minor children or adult guardianship at stake?
If you answered yes to any of the questions, you may want to consult with an estate planning attorney to advise on steps you can take to create a personalized estate plan that may or may not include a will, trust, advance directives (medical
will), guardianship, power of attorney and more. You probably have more questions than answers about it all. But the truth is you don’t know what you don’t know, and time is of the essence to do right by our parents and grandparents who worked too hard for what they built. There are legal and other resources in our community designed to support us. It is up to you to ensure that what needs to get done gets done.
A graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and Wellesley College, Kisha previously served as director of both the Maryland Attorney General’s Legislative Affairs division and the Civil Rights department.
State of the People POWER Tour Launches
By Lauren Burke NNPA News
Organizers of the inaugural “State of the People POWER Tour” launched events around the U.S. starting last Saturday.
The tour seeks to amplify Black voices across the country. The nationwide tour will be anchored by a diverse coalition of community leaders, civil rights activists, entrepreneurs, influencers, and policy chiefs.
The effort is set to visit Black communities in ten states, beginning with a two-day series of events in Atlanta on April 26.
By
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is setting the record straight about her marriage, brushing off rumors of a split from former President Barack Obama and calling out the sexist assumptions that fueled them.
Different leaders and activists will be highlighted from city to city. The effort is designed to spotlight local leadership, elevate community-driven solutions, and help shape a national Black agenda ahead of Juneteenth 2025.
Organizers say the initiative is rooted in deep listening, movement build-
Leaders and participants of the nationwide effort include Angela Rye, President and CEO of IMPACT Strategies; Joy Reid, journalist; Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP; LaTosha Brown, Co-Founder of Black Voters Matter; Pastor Mike McBride, activist Tamika Mallory, Executive Director of Live Free USA and activist and strategist Gary Chambers, Jr. among many others.
ing, and networking among those most impacted by systemic inequity.
From the first 48 hours of his second term in the White House, President Donald Trump has been focused on policy to dismantling diversity and inclusion.
Additionally, his administration has made several anti-Black moves, including the removal and defunding of Black historical figures and sites, ad an ongoing assertion that inclusive policy means a lack of qualifications.
“Atlanta, widely known as the ‘Black Mecca,’ is the perfect starting point for this journey,” a press release on April 23 said. “Its historic legacy of civil
rights leadership and cultural excellence embodies the spirit of this movement — one grounded in vision, strategy, and collective power.”
Following its kickoff in Georgia, the tour will make stops in North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, New Jersey, Virginia, Michigan, California, and Kentucky, culminating in a Juneteenth General Assembly at a location yet to be announced. Throughout the tour, organizers will release policy reports addressing key issues impacting Black communities, including economic justice, education equity, health care access, criminal justice reform, en-
vironmental justice, and voting rights.
Each stop will feature local convenings, strategic workshops, and collaborative planning sessions, all aimed at strengthening the infrastructure of Black-led change.
With the 2026 midterms on the horizon and a national reckoning around equity still unfolding, the “State of the People POWER Tour” signals a new chapter in community-centered movement building.
“This is more than a tour — it’s an organizing strategy, a policy lab, and a call to action,” said one coalition leader. “We’re building power that lasts — and we’re doing it together.”
Harriet Tubman Scrubbed; DEI Dismantled
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
A photograph of Harriet Tubman has been removed from a National Park Service webpage about the Underground Railroad. Previously, the page opened with a photo of Tubman and a description that acknowledged slavery and the efforts of enslaved African Americans to escape bondage.
That language is now gone. In its place are images of postage stamps and a reworded introduction that refers to the Underground Railroad as “one of the most significant expressions of the American civil rights movement” that “bridged the divides of race.” The updated version does not mention slavery.
The change follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump last month directing the Smithsonian Institution to eliminate
“divisive narratives.”
A review by The Washington Post found that since Trump’s return to office, dozens of webpages across the National Park Service have been edited to soften or eliminate references to slavery, racial injustice, and the historical struggles of African Americans.
On the website for the Stone National Historic Site in Maryland, mentions of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Stone owning enslaved people were removed. Elsewhere, references to “enslaved African Americans” were changed to “enslaved workers.”
A page exploring Benjamin Franklin’s views on slavery and his slave ownership was taken offline. The Defense Department also removed several webpages related to diversity and minority contributions to the U.S. military, including a tribute to Jackie Robinson’s Army service and
content honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, the Navajo Code Talkers, and the Marines at Iwo Jima.
Officials later said some content would be republished after public outcry. Nearly 400 books were removed from the library at the U.S. Naval Academy. The list includes Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Memorializing the Holocaust, Half American, and Pursuing Trayvon Martin. Officials cited Defense Sec-
retary Pete Hegseth’s directive to eliminate books that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Private companies contracting with the federal government have begun rolling back language diversity and initiatives in response to federal pressure. UnitedHealth Group removed DEI language from its website.
Goldman Sachs dropped its diversity requirement for companies it takes public and revised annual filings to reflect “developments in the law.” Bank of America replaced the term “diversity” with “talent” and “opportunity.”
Deloitte instructed U.S.based employees working with federal clients to remove pronouns from email signatures. Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Disney, Paramount, JPMorgan Chase, Victoria’s Secret, and others have renamed or eliminated DEI programs. Some, like Paramount, cit-
ed the need to comply with Trump’s executive orders. Target has faced financial and reputational fallout following its reversal of DEI commitments. The company has lost over $12.4 billion in revenue and faces multiple lawsuits related to its shifting policies.
Rev. Jamal Bryant launched a national “Target Fast,” urging community mobilization. Separately, the NAACP and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) initiated public education and selective buying campaigns to increase pressure on the retail giant.
“Black consumers helped build Target into a retail giant, and now they are making their voices heard,” said Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president and CEO of the NNPA. “If corporations believe they can roll back diversity commitments without consequence, they are mistaken.”
Big Mama Said: “A Hit Dog Will Holler.”
Big Mama would deliver this saying like a quiet warning: “A hit dog will holler.” She didn’t raise her voice—but she didn’t need to. The phrase was simple yet profound. If someone reacts loudly when confronted, it’s often because the truth struck a nerve. In today’s climate, those nerves are exposed. This idiom speaks volumes in the context of BIPOC communities, where systemic inequities are often denied until someone challenges them— and suddenly, the defensiveness begins. The backlash is rarely about misunderstanding. It’s about discomfort with
being seen, named, and held accountable.
Pathologically, this speaks to a long history of marginalized voices being dismissed— until the volume becomes undeniable. The repeated pattern is this: policy makers introduce harmful legislation or rhetoric under the guise of reform, and when communities speak up, they’re labeled as overreactive or ungrateful. But to speak out against injus-
tice is not weakness. It is clarity. It is courage. I remember Uncle Calvin Spann who was a decorated Tuskegee Airman but struggled to be a Pan Am Pilot and also to even be paid for his time. He was hit with rejection after rejection. He hollered at me and I increased his speaking fees. Consider Florida’s revisionist education policies, where officials attempted to reframe slavery as a form of beneficial
“skills training.” Educators, historians, and students of color immediately pushed back, refusing to let such distortion go unchallenged. Lawsuits were filed, curriculums were countered, and truth was defended in courtrooms and classrooms alike. Or take the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, where Black communities endured unsafe drinking water due to decades of neglect. Instead of quietly enduring, local organizers demanded federal attention, raised national awareness, and created community-led solutions in real time. These are not isolated incidents—they are part of a consistent pattern of advocacy, resistance, and rebuilding. These responses are not just noise. They are necessary interventions.
As Kendrick Lamar said, “You ain’t gotta lie to kick it.” That line is more than clever— it’s a cultural mirror. We don’t need to accept narratives designed to keep us docile. We need to question, correct, and when needed—make noise. Big Mama’s wisdom still holds. “A hit dog will holler” reminds us that when truth disrupts the comfortable, those affected will speak up. And in speaking up, we do more than react—we reclaim our dignity and drive change. Email me and tell me what you are hollering about at terryallenpr@gmail.com
Terry Allen is an
In part two of her appearance on the “Work in Progress” podcast hosted by Sophia Bush, Michelle Obama addressed the online speculation that ramped up earlier this year when Barack Obama appeared alone at several high-profile events, including the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter and the inauguration of Donald Trump.
Critics quickly jumped to conclusions — but Michelle Obama made it clear that her choices had nothing to do with marital discord. “This year people couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself,” Obama said. “They had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing. This couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself, right?”
She added, “That’s what society does to us. We start actually finally going, What am I doing? Who am I doing this for?’ And if it doesn’t fit into the stereotype of what people think we should do, then it gets labeled as something negative and horrible.”
The bestselling author and former First Lady, who spent eight years in the White House without scandal — unless one counts Barack Obama’s infamous tan suit — said her efforts to make room for her voice and decisions have often been misinterpreted. “I feel like it’s time for me to make some big girl decisions about my life and own it fully,” she said. “Because if not now, when? What am I waiting for? Look, the summers are—we’re in the summer countdown at 61, right? It’s not so tragic if something happens to you and you’re 80. So now is the time for me to start asking myself these hard questions of who do I truly want to be every day?”
Michelle also spoke about the discomfort women often feel when asserting themselves.
“When I say ‘no,’ for the most part, people are like, ‘I get it,’ and I’m OK,” she said. “That’s the thing that we, as women, I think we struggle with — disappointing people.” Despite the rumor mill, the Obamas have continued to share affectionate public messages. On Valentine’s Day, Barack posted a photo with Michelle, writing, “Thirty-two years together, and you still take my breath away.” Michelle echoed the sentiment in her post: “If there’s one person I can always count on, it’s you, @BarackObama. You’re my rock. Always have been. Always will be.”
The couple met in 1988 at a Chicago law firm. Michelle, a 25-yearold Harvard Law graduate, was assigned to mentor Barack, then a summer associate finishing law school. They married in 1992 and have two daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23.
Many on social media, especially in Black communities, were quick to ridicule the divorce rumors, pointing out that the Obamas — whose biggest scandal was wearing a tan suit — are still treated with more suspicion than Donald Trump, a twice-impeached and 34time convicted felon who routinely is ensconced in scandals.
“This couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself, right?” Michelle Obama said.
the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Her work has earned widespread recognition. Through her writing and advocacy, Raven inspires young minds and fosters positive growth.
ERICA TERRY DERRYCK
Erica Terry Derryck is the Vice President of Communications for Intuit’s Global Business Solutions Group, leading product, brand, and internal communications for QuickBooks. She holds a Master’s in Journalism from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Bachelor’s in Government and African American Studies from Wesleyan University. Known for her calm demeanor, insightful counsel, and flawless execution in crises, she is highly sought after. Her background as a journalist and press secretary gives her a sharp ability to craft compelling messages for any audience. She brings expertise, decisiveness, and a wicked sense of humor to every project she takes on.
PATRICIA ADAMS WILLIAMS
data. Aaliyah previously worked as a Financial Analyst Student with the Memphis Grizzlies, where she contributed to financial strategy. Her work centers on providing actionable insights to support economic mobility and inclusion, with a strong background in research and policy development to foster sustainable growth.
BRITTNEY JOHNSON
DR. RATRICE JACKSON
Brittney Johnson is an Emmy-nominated producer with a background in broadcast journalism, public relations, and digital content creation. She graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in African American Studies and Marketing. Brittney has worked at WFAA and WTOC-TV, where she created, wrote, and produced lifestyle shows, coordinated guests, and contributed to live broadcasts. She is passionate about sports, lifestyle, and entertainment media and enjoys film production, traveling, and community volunteer work. Brittney also founded a non-profit for young creatives.
RUQAYYA GIBSON
Dr. Ratrice Jackson is a pediatric dentist and author based in Irving, Texas. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Meharry Medical College and completed her pediatric dental residency at NYU Langone Health in Tampa. Dr. Jackson is the founder of Texas Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. She is also a published author of the motivational book Of Course, You Can’t. Dr. Jackson is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Known for her compassionate care, she is dedicated to empowering youth and serving underserved communities.
RAVEN
CROFT
Patricia Adams-Williams is the founder and CEO of American Care Academy and the American Care Foundation, with over 20 years of experience in business management and nonprofit leadership. A dedicated leader, coach, and mentor, she is passionate about supporting underserved families through education, training, and community programs like preschool graduations and after-school enrichment. Patricia holds a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on finance and is a proud graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She is also a licensed minister with a strong commitment to youth development and values both her family and the American Care Academy family.
TABITHA BROWN
Tabitha Brown is an actress, author, and social media personality known for her authenticity, positivity, and commitment to self-care. She promotes a healthy, plantbased lifestyle and encourages others to prioritize their well-being. With her nurturing, approachable demeanor, Tabitha has built a large following, inspiring millions to live with purpose and passion. She authored Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business) and founded “Tabitha Brown Foods,” offering vegan products. Beyond acting, Tabitha’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for uplifting others shine through. Her genuine, heart-centered approach to life has made her a beloved figure in the wellness and social media communities. Tabitha also graduated from the School of International Fine Arts and recently released a new children’s book called Hello There, Sunshine.
CATINA BURKETT
Ruqayya Gibson is a distinguished keynote speaker, success student coach, and health equity director. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Iowa. As Executive Director of the Damani Gibson Foundation, she focuses on leadership development, empowering individuals, especially athletes navigating the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) landscape, and promoting health equity through CPR and AED
training in underserved communities. Her tenure as Assistant Coach at the University of Alabama highlights her dedication to mentorship. Ruqayya is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
NATALIA MCLAREN
Natalia McLaren is an accomplished associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, specializing in White Collar Defense and Investigations. With a strong academic background, she earned a JD from the University of Chicago Law School and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. A passionate advocate for justice, Natalia’s career journey began with a deep calling to law, which she pursued despite early challenges. She is also known for her leadership in various law school organizations and her commitment to public service, reflecting her dedication to both her faith and profession.
PRIMROSE MHUNDURU
Catina Burkett is a licensed clinical social worker and autism advocate based in Columbia, South Carolina. Diagnosed with autism in 2018, she raises awareness about autism in adults, particularly within the mental health field. Catina authored the article “Autistic While Black: How Autism Amplifies Stereotypes” and the book Seeking Solace: What Autistic People Think and Feel, offering insights into autistic experiences. She graduated from Columbia College with a degree in social work. As an approved clinical supervisor, she works to improve support for neurodivergent individuals. Catina’s resilience, compassion, and commitment to advocacy have made her a trusted voice in the autism community.
LASHANNA LINTAMO
Lashanna Lintamo, also known as “The Fashion Welder,” is a certified welder, fashion designer, entrepreneur, and social media influencer based in Northern California. She founded Ingraham, a brand that’s transforming workwear for women in welding with stylish and functional designs. Inspired by her family legacy—her grandfather was a self-taught welder during World War II, and her greatgrandmother a “Rosie the Riveter”—Lashanna combines her love for fashion and welding to create a bold statement in the industry. She graduated from Yuba College and has worked on major projects like the Golden One Center and the Sacramento Valley train station. Lashanna is proving that welding isn’t just about sparks—it’s about making a statement.
DR. SHAUNDRA DAILY
Primrose Mhunduru is a seasoned sports administrator with over a decade of experience in both Olympic and Paralympic movements across Africa and Europe. She currently serves as the Gender Equality and Inclusion Manager at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Her previous roles include Athletes’ Engagement Manager and Anti-Doping Coordinator at the International Paralympic Committee. Mhunduru has been committed to promoting gender equality in sports, with significant contributions to initiatives like the Play for Equity Fund. She celebrates the progress made towards 50-50 gender representation at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and is an advocate for women’s empowerment in sports.
MATTYE GOULDSBY-JONES
Mattye Gouldsby-Jones is a results-driven attorney and Director at Coats Rose, P.C. in Dallas, Texas. With over 30 years of legal experience, she specializes in affordable housing, tax credits, and community development. Hailing from Hooks’ TX., she is a graduate of The University of Texas School of Law and previously served as General Counsel and Sr. VP & COO of the Dallas Housing Authority. This proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, is known for her strategic leadership, legal expertise, and commitment to revitalizing underserved communities. Mattye has successfully led major redevelopment projects across multiple states and is recognized for her integrity, problem-solving skills, and passion for public service and advocacy.
LASHAWNDRA STORR
Dr. Shaundra “Shani B.” Daily is the Cue Family Professor of the Practice in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Duke University. Her research focuses on sociotechnical systems, examining how people, technology, and social structures interact to improve STEM participation. She designs technologies that support emotional development and learning while building programs that foster success in STEM. Previously, she was a tenured associate professor at the University of Florida and held leadership roles at Clemson University. With more than $40M in research funding, her work has been featured in USA Today, Forbes, and NPR.
AALIYAH PRICE
Aaliyah Price is a Research
Lashawndra Storr is a trusted and experienced HR leader with 20+ years in the field. Currently the Director, Human Resources Business Partner at Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, she brings strategic insight, empathy, and a passion for people. Lashawndra specializes in leadership coaching, talent development, DEI, and organizational change. Known for her thoughtful listening and intentional leadership, she has held key roles across The Walt Disney Company, including in Organizational Development and Culture Transformation. She holds a Business Administration degree from Florida State University, and this proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, is certified in Transformational Coaching, and is deeply committed to creating a lasting, positive impact.
MICAH DESCARTIN
Micah Descartin is a digital marketing strategist, content creator, and producer based in Dallas. She graduated from the University of North Texas, earning dual degrees in Communication Studies and Media Arts, along with a Minor in Marketing. With expertise in content strategy, video editing, copywriting, and creative direction, Micah thrives in developing tailored marketing campaigns. She is passionate about storytelling and connecting brands with their audience through digital media. Known for her strong soft skills like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, Micah honed her skills at T.D. Jakes Ministries, and American Land and Lakes LLC.
Raven Croft is an Assistant Brand Manager at Naterra International, Inc., a personal care company based in Coppell, Texas. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems and Marketing from Grambling State University. Known for her creativity, adaptability, and strong communication skills, Raven excels in developing innovative marketing strategies and building collaborative relationships. Her expertise includes project management, data analysis, and consumer insights, enabling her to craft compelling brand narratives and drive impactful campaigns. Raven gained experience at Naterra International, Inc. as an Assistant Brand Manager, at Mary Kay Global as a Marketing Coordinator, and at Lockton Dunning Benefits as a Senior Benefits Analyst.
REGENA PIPKIN
Regena Pipkin is the Vice President of Marketing at Mary Kay, Inc. She has spent over 20 years leading marketing strategies that have shaped the company’s global brand presence. With a BBA in Marketing from the University of Houston and an MBA in Strategic Leadership from Amberton University, Regena excels in strategic thinking, leadership, and customer service. She has held various leadership roles, including Director of U.S. Marketing, managing the strategic direction and brand execution for the U.S. product portfolio. Regena’s expertise in brand performance and campaign execution has earned her a reputation as a resultsdriven marketing leader.
TAMIKO BAILEY
Tamiko Bailey is an accomplished entrepreneur, pilot in training, and the President and CEO of Bailey’s Premier Services LLC Based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, she has a wealth of experience in aviation, having worked with major companies like Lockheed Martin and Bell Helicopter. Tamiko holds a BBA in Finance from The University of Texas at Arlington, where she was also an active Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority member. A proud U.S. Navy spouse, and has received recognition as the 2024 SBA Business of the Year for Texas.
BRITTANY COURSE
Brittany Course is a Data Engineering Manager at Charles Schwab, based in Ponder, Texas. She holds a Master of Science degree from Syracuse University and is the founder of On Course Tutoring, a business that has helped her son and others excel in mathematics. Brittany is also the former Basileus (president) of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.’s Psi Zeta Chapter in Fort Worth, Texas. In an interview with Watch The Yard, she shared that she is “most motivated by the sisterly support of my fellow chapter members” and values the encouragement to continue learning and sharing her experiences to uplift and enrich others. A dedicated mother, tutor, and entrepreneur, Brittany is passionate about empowering others through education.
NEISHA STRAMBLER-BUTLER
Neisha Strambler-Butler serves as the Vice President and Global Human Resources Executive, as well as the Chief Customer Success Officer at Intuit. Originally from Midland, Texas, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Southern Methodist University, where she was also a cheerleader and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her leadership and dedication to empowering others earned her a spot among the Top 50 Women Leaders of Texas for 2024. Beyond the boardroom, Neisha is a devoted wife and mother with a passion for mentorship and community building, and a founding member of the Texas Women’s Foundation Village Giving Circle.
LA KEISHA RIDER
La Keisha Rider, Ed.D. is a dedicated Principal in Garland ISD with over 20 years of experience in education. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Prairie View A&M University and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas A&MCommerce. Dr. Rider is a committed wife, mother, and grandmother who values building strong, inclusive school communities. She is known for her leadership in conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and data-driven decision-making. Passionate about student achievement and family engagement, Dr. Rider works to strengthen communication between schools and families, reduce absenteeism, and create environments where every student can succeed both academically and personally.
LATOYA MAXEY
LaToya Bills-Maxey is a well-loved and respected educator in the Dallas Independent School District, celebrating 20 years. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from Texas Woman’s University and a Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Prairie View A&M University. Hailing from El Paso, the member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is a graduate of Andress High School - Class of 1994.
LaToya is a member of the Alpha Rho Chapter of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa Incorporated and most recently she served as the Chairperson of their Deb-Beautillion. Passionate and devoted to her profession, LaToya cares about her students.
By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News
A Legacy of Greatness and Excellence Sallye R. Moore
When you think of a life well-lived and a legacy worth celebrating, Sallye Johnson Moore comes to mind for many.
Hailing from Waco, Texas, and born on May 30, 1933, she was the oldest child of Edward and Lillie Mae Johnson. An A.J. Moore High School graduate, she went on to Paul Quinn College where she received her B.S. Degree at age 19 and later, a M.Ed. Degree from Prairie View A&M University.
In addition to teaching, counseling, and being an administrator, she was a lifetime learner as she took courses at UT Arlington and SMU.
She died on April 15, 2025, after a lengthy illness. She was 91.
Her son, Greg Moore posted this message:
“I am writing to inform you of the passing of my dear mother, Sallye R. Moore. After facing health
Sallye R. Moore 1933-2025
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of Christ, Sallye R. Moore went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, in Plano, TX. She was 91 years old.
As the news of her passing spread, countless individuals shared how deeply she had impacted their lives. Throughout her remarkable 41-year career in education, Sallye dedicated herself to supporting and uplifting hundreds of teachers, administrators, staff, and students within the Grand Prairie Independent School District.
A proud native of Waco, TX, Sallye was born on May 30, 1933, the first of four children of Edward and Lillie Mae Johnson. Raised in a household where love, faith, and family were central values, the Johnson children developed resilience and courage under their parents’ guidance. The family worshiped at Toliver Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, which instilled in Sallye a lifelong commitment to Christian service. Sallye graduated from A.J. Moore High School, Waco’s Black high school, and remained actively involved in its alumni reunions for many years. In 2004, she was honored as one of Waco Independent School District’s Distinguished Alumni.
At just 19, Sallye earned her B.S. degree from Paul Quinn College. Her first teaching assignment was in Slaton, TX, where she taught a combined fifth/sixth grade class, a high school class, and coached girls’ basketball. In 1954, she and her husband, Vandine Moore, moved to Grand Prairie after he began working for North American Aviation. Sallye later earned a Master of Education from Prairie View A&M University and continued her studies at the University of Texas at Arlington and Southern Methodist University. She often reflected on how education was a cornerstone in her upbringing and a pathway to success.
In Grand Prairie, Sallye began teaching high school English, social studies, and history at the all-Black Dalworth School. Her impact there was profound—one of her fondest memories was chaperoning the debate team to Prairie View A&M for several years, winning each time against schools from all over the state. Many of her former students went on to become leaders in education, business, public service, education and athletics.
Following the integration of schools in the late 1960s, Dalworth transitioned to an elementary school. Sallye was invited by Superintendent H.H. Chambers to teach English at Grand Prairie High School, where she later became a counselor. Although she loved counseling, she took on a new challenge as principal of Dalworth Elementary. There, she launched an early childhood program, special education initiatives,
challenges in recent years, she is now at peace and has joined my father, her husband of over 70 years, her parents Lillie and Edward Johnson, her sisters Eddie Bernice and Lee Helen, and her only brother, Carl. I can only imagine their reunion in Heaven.
“My mother deeply loved her family, her friends, her former students, the Dalworth community, and she was equally loved by them. She dedicated her life to serving others and considered it a great honor to have the Sallye R. Moore College & Career Preparatory Academy in the Grand Prairie ISD named after her.
“She lived a full and wonderful life of over 90 years as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother. We will miss her dearly.”
Bryan Parra - Grand Prairie ISD Trustee Place 2, was one of many who took to social media to express sentiments upon hearing the news.
Praising her more than four decades of service and her distinction of becoming the first African American to hold the Associate Superintendent position in GPISD, Parra expressed sadness in his post.
In addition to family and church, holding memberships in business, education, and community/ professional organizations; her close alliances spread to her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and The Links, Incorporated.
Her work didn’t go unnoticed.
“Educators are the backbone of society. We, at the African American Education Archives and History Program (AAEAHP), join in celebrating the life and legacy of esteemed educator, Sallye Moore, who dedicated her career to our children and future leaders,” said AAEAHP President Dr. Alfred L. Roberts Sr.
He also pointed out that she was
inducted into the AAEAHP Hall of Fame in 2010 and her picture appears on the wall of the Dallas African American Museum.
That was one of many honors bestowed upon Mrs. Moore.
Angela Luckey-Vaughn remembers submitting the name for a new school in Grand Prairie.
For Mrs. Luckey-Vaughn, it was a moment she will always cherish.
“One of my proudest memories was sitting on the GPISD school board committee with Mrs. Ruthe Jackson, Kirk England, and others, but I was the only African American on the committee,” recalled Mrs. Luckey-Vaughn. “I submitted and nominated Sallye Moore for the new school, and the committee allowed me to pick the location.”
Mrs. Luckey-Vaughn said Mrs. Moore was one of her favorite role models and in addition to the school first being named Sallye Moore Elementary, then Sallye Moore College and Career Preparatory
Academy; she’d like to see the street name changed in front of the school in Mrs. Moore’s honor.
For the family, Mrs. Moore’s passing hit hard, coming on the heels of the loss of her sister, the Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson, a mere 16 months prior.
The outpouring of love, however, was comforting for the family as they prepared for the Celebration of Life.
Son and daughter-in-law Greg and Juna shared a special message with Texas Metro News.
“We are deeply grateful for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. She shared her time, talents, and resources with unwavering generosity — to her family, her community, her work, and above all, her church.
“She represented Grand Prairie and our family with grace, strength, and dignity. We couldn’t be more proud of the legacy she leaves behind.”
“We are deeply grateful for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. She shared her time, talents, and resources with unwavering generosity — to her family, her community, her work, and above all, her church.
“She represented Grand Prairie and our family with grace, strength, and dignity.”
and an alternative program for pregnant students. Her proudest accomplishments included establishing honors programs, creating support for at-risk students, and aligning curriculum with state standards—all while emphasizing the nurturing role of teachers in shaping good citizens.
Sallye’s final role in the district was as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, later serving as Associate Superintendent. Her leadership left an indelible mark on the entire district. She was recognized in The Weekly as an “Unsung Hero” and praised for her more than four decades of distinguished service as a teacher, counselor, principal, and administrator. Through her words and actions, Sallye encouraged students to dream big—becoming teachers,
business leaders, military officers, professional athletes, doctors, nurses, and civic leaders. Of all her accomplishments, she may be best remembered as the beloved principal of the formerly segregated Dalworth Elementary School. She often said, “I can’t think of anything better than being an educator. You get to be a teacher, a counselor, and you get to make a difference.”
In 2001, Grand Prairie ISD honored her legacy by naming an elementary school after her. In 2017, it was renamed Sallye R. Moore College and Career Preparatory. Sallye believed public education was essential to building a better world—through teaching, kindness, understanding, and tolerance.
Sallye was also an esteemed civic leader and received numerous honors, including the 1983 Public
Service Award, the 1985 Citizen of the Year Award from the Chamber of Commerce, the National PTA Honorary Life Membership, and the 1991 Leadership Award from the Texas Council of Women School Executives. She served as President of the Dallas County School Administrators, Chair of the Grand Prairie Civil Service Commission, and President of both the Grand Prairie Federation of Women’s Clubs and the Grand Prairie Parks Board. She was an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Beta Mu Omega Chapter), a founding member of the Mid-Cities Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and a member of Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie.
A faithful member of St. John Church since 1974, Sallye served in many capacities: Announcement Clerk, Executive Leadership
Team, Senior Women of Faith, Trustee Ministry, Shepherd’s Ministry President, the Pulpit Search Committee (1990–1991), the Mission Society, and the Sallye Moore/SJBC Education Scholarship Committee. She also played a key role in developing the church’s S.T.E.M. program and its Computer Lab.
Sallye was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Lillie Mae Johnson; her sisters, The Honorable Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Lee Helen Johnson Willis; her brother, Carl Edward Johnson; and her beloved husband of 70 years, Vandine Moore. She is survived by her son, Gregory Dean Moore, Sr. (Juna Jones-Moore); grandsons, Gregory Dean Moore II (Lorena Lopez Moore) and Preston Andrew Moore; great-grandchildren, Clara Laniah Moore, Cameron Preston Moore, and Cortez Miguel Moore; nephews, D. Kirk Johnson, Sr. (Sondra Johnson) and Karlton Jamar Johnson, Sr. (Rhonda Johnson); niece, Kanisha JaKayel Johnson; and a host of other loving relatives and friends.
We are Family!!
Sallye Moore with President Biden
In Memoriam of a true Legend - Sallye Moore
Sallye Moore, Rep. Clyburn and Pres. Biden
Swearing in of Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson
Sallye Moore and South Dalworth Historical Society
Sallye R. Moore Elementary School
The Moores
Sallye Moore in Grand Prairie
Sally Moore School Staff
National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. Celebrates Over a Century of Impact; Alpha Rho Chapter Marks 75 Years in Dallas
DALLAS, TX — The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Incorporated (NSPDK, Inc.), a distinguished professional organization for women in education, is celebrating over 102 years of leadership, service, and academic excellence. Founded on May 23, 1923, in Jersey City, New Jersey, the sorority’s mission is “to foster the spirit of sisterhood among teachers and to promote the highest ideals of the teaching profession.”
As part of this nationwide legacy, the Alpha Rho Chapter, based
in Dallas, Texas, is proud to celebrate its own milestone—75 years of service to the Dallas educational community. Chartered on May 11, 1950, Alpha Rho has upheld the organization’s core values of sisterhood, scholarship, and service while making a lasting impact in classrooms, schools, districts, and communities across the region.
Throughout its history, Alpha Rho has been home to some of the city’s most respected and influential educators—principals, superintendents, university pro-
fessors, curriculum leaders, and advocates who have helped shape the future of public education. For more than seven decades, Alpha Rho has supported generations of educators and students, providing mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities. Cultivating a powerful network of professional support for educators at every level.
The chapter is also well known for its impactful youth programs, including the Xinos and Kudos initiatives, which have mentored and nurtured thousands of young
people over the years offering academic guidance, life skills, cultural exposure, and leadership training. Many former Xinos and Kudos participants have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, educators, business leaders, and public servants. Their success stories are a living testament to Alpha Rho’s powerful legacy of achievement that spans families and communities.
To honor its enduring legacy, Alpha Rho invites the public to attend its Annual Founders’ Luncheon on Saturday, May 17, 2025,
at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Dallas. The celebration will begin at 11:30 A.M. and will recognize ongoing contributions to education and community. Tickets are available via Zelle at pdkalpharho@gmail.com.
As Alpha Rho celebrates 75 years of excellence, its members remain committed to advancing education, strengthening community ties, and inspiring the next generation of leaders—carrying forward a powerful legacy built by extraordinary women in education.
Amid Calls to Reform Bail, Judges in St. Louis Embrace Ankle Monitors
In the heat of an argument last spring, Khyla Mason raised a handgun into the air on a neighbor’s porch. She was acting in self-defense, she said, and never fired, but the confrontation was captured on video, and some children were nearby. Ms. Mason wound up in a St. Louis jail charged with unlawful use of a weapon.
Just a few years ago, someone facing the same charge in St. Louis was likely to pay a small bond and resume life as usual until trial, local attorneys said. But Ms. Mason, who was then 21, was released from jail with a box the size of a deck of cards strapped to her right ankle. It tracked her every move.
For weeks, the device alerted officials each time she missed her court-imposed curfew or left her house without approval. Sometimes, she was buying food or diapers for her 2-year-old son, or taking him to the hospital, she said. After more than two dozen violations, she was sent back to jail.
She remained there for a month.
More and more defendants across the country are being placed on electronic monitors, part of an ambitious effort to prevent overcrowding in the nation’s jails and keep people from being imprisoned while awaiting trial for minor offenses.
Like courts in Baltimore, Dallas and Los Angeles, the St. Louis city circuit court is among those that have embraced electronic monitoring as a powerful reform of the cash bail system. The number of new monitors activated here more than doubled from the first half of 2021 to the first half of 2024, when it surpassed 550, a New York Times analysis found.
But in that time, St. Louis has had to grapple with some unforeseen complications — including technological mishaps, privacy concerns and high costs — that offer lessons to other courts. More significantly, the devices are now worn by hundreds of people who most likely would not have stayed in jail anyway.
The Times analysis found that about three-quarters of the people monitored in St. Louis in the first half of 2024, including a small number ordered to download monitoring apps, were charged with misdemeanors or lower-level felonies such as unlawful gun possession, driving while intoxicated and third-degree assault. In the past, people facing those kinds of charges would generally have been offered a cash bail, four local criminal attorneys said.
The devices have subjected some defendants to more scrutiny than those individuals would have otherwise faced. They have also made it more obvious that the defendants were accused of a crime, and several said that having a visible monitor cost them a job or made it hard to attend school or care for a child or an older relative.
In a statement, Joel Currier, a St. Louis city circuit court spokesman, acknowledged that monitoring was “an imperfect tool,” but said that the court’s program balanced “the rights of the accused as well as the safety of crime victims and the community.”
Michael K. Mullen, a retired St. Louis city circuit judge who supports monitors, said the devices were better for defendants than jail.
“That’s what they have to be reminded of when they come in front of me,” he said.
But Matthew Mahaffey, who runs the city’s public defender office, which represents people who cannot afford attorneys, said that monitoring was too often required of people who posed no flight risk or threat to public safety.
was later charged with fleeing, resisting arrest and drug and firearm possession, court records show.
Mr. Neal, 42, was not allowed to carry a weapon because of a past felony conviction. He said he kept one anyway because of the city’s high crime rates.
Once the monitor was installed, Mr. Neal had to charge the device by connecting it to an outlet and sitting tethered to the wall for hours at a time. That was especially difficult while he was looking after his young son, he said.
Mr. Neal received violations because the battery died and because he left his house without the court’s permission, court records show. Once, he was cited for spending two nights at his mother’s house after a death in the family, the records confirm.
Making matters worse, he said, the devices have occasionally malfunctioned and provided inaccurate readings.
“Until it gets cleared, it looks like a violation, which can put the client in a tricky spot,” Mr. Mahaffey said, adding that defendants had been sent back to jail or issued harsher sentences as a result.
Research has also shown that electronic monitoring can lead to isolation and prejudice from landlords and employers, said Kate Weisburd, an expert on surveillance and technology who teaches at U.C. Law San Francisco. She raised further concerns about privacy.
“As there is a growing appetite to end incarceration, there’s this kneejerk reaction to want to substitute incarceration with something,” she said. “We can’t just strip people of their privacy rights the moment they are arrested for a crime.”
Dead Batteries and Missed Curfews
Last year, The Times sat in on dozens of pretrial bond hearings, which are held to determine whether a person who has been arrested will be released or held in jail, and interviewed more than 20 people who wore ankle monitors. The charges against them ranged from harassment and property damage to domestic assault.
James Neal wore a monitor for about six months last year after he sped away from a traffic stop. He
Mr. Neal pleaded guilty in July and was sentenced to probation.
Ms. Mason, who was sent back to jail last summer for the violations her monitor flagged, fell behind on her rent while she was incarcerated, she said. By the time she was released in August, she had been evicted from her north St. Louis apartment. She was in the second trimester of a new pregnancy.
Ms. Mason said the monitor affected her life in other ways. After wearing it to the hospital where she worked as a dietary worker, she lost her job. The hospital said she was let go because of poor attendance, but Ms. Mason said she had covered her absences with sick time.
In the months that followed, she said, potential employers zeroed in on her ankle at job interviews.
“I can’t really get a job or any good opportunities because people instantly judge me,” she said in October.
In December, a judge reduced Ms. Mason’s felony charges to a single misdemeanor. If she stays out of trouble for two years, the remaining charge will be expunged from her record.
She had the ankle monitor removed two weeks before giving birth in the new year.
‘Least Restrictive’ Conditions
The
small number of
cuit court has paid for almost 90 percent of people who were being monitored, data shows.
In addition, the court’s pretrial services office offers bus passes and mental health and shelter referrals to people with pending cases, Mr. Currier said.
Total Court Services, a company based in Michigan, is the court’s contractor for monitoring services. It rents a small office across the street from the courthouse; there, four or five employees keep tabs on more than 400 defendants at a time.
The vice president for sales and marketing, Jason Tizedes, said the company was trying to make monitoring less intrusive. It recently released a smartphone app that judges in the St. Louis city circuit court have started to use in a limited number of cases.
defendants about a decade ago. At first, the initiative drew criticism because of how it was funded: The private company running the program charged defendants installation and surveillance fees, and those who could not afford those fees could be sent back to jail.
The program remained small for years. But in 2019, amid a wave of bipartisan bail reform policies, the Missouri Supreme Court directed judges across the state to seek out alternatives to incarceration for defendants who could not afford bond.
In St. Louis, the number of people ordered to wear monitors spiked, data shows. The numbers held steady during the pandemic, when public health officials called for fewer people to be held in jails, and then surged when Gabe Gore — who cast
himself as a law-and-order candidate — became circuit attorney and ramped up prosecutions.
In the cases The Times observed last year, prosecutors regularly recommended monitoring for people being considered for release. In a statement, Mr. Gore’s office said that monitors were not the default, and that prosecutors evaluated the facts of each individual case.
While defense lawyers can weigh in on the recommendation, judges ultimately decide whether a defendant will be detained or released, and whether monitoring is necessary. Judges are supposed to impose the “least restrictive” conditions to ensure public safety as well as the defendant’s return to court.
Mr. Currier declined to make Judge Christopher E. McGraugh, who became the court’s presiding judge in January, available for an interview.
In many ways, the St. Louis court has done more than most to make the monitors less disruptive to defendants’ lives. It now covers the costs of monitoring for those who cannot afford to pay, something many other courts across the country, including the neighboring St. Louis County circuit court, do not do. In recent months, the city’s cir-
“If folks are lower risk, you don’t want to overmonitor them,” Mr. Tizedes said in an interview. “If you oversupervise, overmonitor people that don’t need it, it’s essentially setting them up for failure.”
As for the privacy concerns, Mr. Tizedes said, the company shares people’s location data only with court officials and law enforcement officers who have warrants. He blamed the job loss and the discrimination people with monitors sometimes face on unsympathetic employers.
David D. Hemphill, who works in home renovation, said he felt that discrimination while wearing a visible monitor last year. After landing fewer contracts than he expected, he fell into a depression.
Mr. Hemphill, 38, said that he had been arrested after failing to pull over for a traffic stop and leading the police on a 30-minute chase. He said that the officer who had initiated the stop was a neighbor, and that he did not trust the police.
Four months after the arrest, the charges against Mr. Hemphill were dropped, he said. But in that time, Mr. Hemphill became increasingly paranoid. His monitor beeped constantly and issued loud voice alerts. Sometimes he did not know whether the noises meant that the equipment was faulty or that he had unknowingly violated the terms of his release.
Once he began wearing his monitor, he noticed just how many of his co-workers on construction sites were wearing the same kind of device. He started talking to them about their experiences and realized that many felt the same as he did.
“Each violation plays on your mental,” he said. “You don’t know what the outcome is going to be. These people have your life in their hands.”
A Record Budget
Though many see it as a reform, electronic monitoring has drawn wide-ranging criticism both in St. Louis and across the country.
Blake Strode, the executive director of ArchCity Defenders, a St. Louis civil rights law firm that has challenged the use of cash bail and inhumane jail conditions, called the city circuit court’s monitoring program “an incarceration scheme” that set people up to be jailed for technical violations.
Mr. Strode acknowledged that judges used cash bail less frequently now, and that the jail population had shrunk. But electronic monitoring starts punishing people as soon as they are charged with a crime, he said, not after a finding of guilt.
“We should ask whether that trade-off is worth it,” Mr. Strode said.
The policy has also faced a different critique: that letting people accused of crimes await trial at home undermines public safety. Some critics have also said that court officials and prosecutors have not been aggressive enough in punishing people for violations.
In St. Louis, that argument gained traction in 2023, after a man awaiting trial on robbery charges ran a
St. Louis city circuit court began using devices with GPS technology to monitor a
After Khyla Mason was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon, she was released with an ankle monitor.
Credit:Julia Rendleman for The New York Times
By Taylor Tiamoyo Harris Special to Texas Metro News from The New York Times
Ms. Mason crossed the street
Ms. Mason’s ankle monitor. As she neared the end of her pregnancy, the device became more uncomfortable, she said. Credit: Julia Rendleman for The New York Times
David D. Hemphill, who works in home renovation, said he had trouble landing construction contracts while wearing a visible monitor last year.
Credit: Julia Rendleman for The New York Times
Call 1-855948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936
Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189
Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads
Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306
Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-8590405
Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower
In a unique blend of Southern hospitality and basketball excitement, the Dallas Wings welcomed their 2025 WNBA Draft Class on Wednesday at Dallas City Hall. Five promising rookies showcasing a mix of size, grit, finesse, and culture-setting qualities were greeted by Wings leadership, city officials, and an eager fanbase, all excited to witness the team’s future unfold.
Curt Miller, the Governor of the Dallas Wings, likened the day to “New Year’s Day.” “After 35 years in women’s basketball, stepping off the sideline for the first time is thrilling. It’s an exciting time for women’s basketball, and the role of the General Manager is playing a key part in our league’s growth.”
The Dallas Wings experienced significant growth with their five draft picks, which included No. 1 overall selection Paige Bueckers from UConn, No. 12 Aziaha James from NC State, No. 14 Madison Scott from Ole Miss, No. 27 JJ Quinerly from West Virginia, and No. 31 Aaronette Vonleh from Baylor, all selected just nine days ago. Each player brings unique talents and skills to the team culture according to General Manager Greg Bibb who expressed his desire to recruit “winners, ballhandlers, impactful scorers, and post depth.”
This draft class checked many of those boxes.
The Wings’ roster boasts depth and size, featuring Arike Ogunbowale and newly signed free agent Myisha Hines-Allen, who won a WNBA championship in 2019. A strong winning culture is firmly established within the team, especially with Paige Bueckers coming off her championship victory with UConn. Playing alongside a former college champion like Ogunbowale is incredibly appealing.
“Obviously, I’m excited. She’s electric and can score at all three levels. She’s definitely a bucket getter. I’m looking to assist her a lot, space the floor to get her open looks, and play off each other. I’m just excited for everybody on the team,” Paige said. “We have some tough players, and with the excitement of the new system and coaching staff, I’m eager to build something great with everyone,” she shared.
For JJ Quinerly, hailing from the mountainous region of West Virginia and widely recognized for
Aaronette Vonleh, celebrated for her exquisite post-footwork developed at Baylor, expresses her elation about returning home. “I’m just excited to play at the next level and be able to learn from such a great group of vets and just have a great team. Dallas is an amazing city, so I’m excited to be here full-time.”
Aziaha James, known for her tenacity and heart, emerges from NC State with a fierce grit mentality. With her words bursting with determination, ready for any type of matchup as she says, “Feel it in my heart being that dog, you know, being that sponge learning from my vets. This whole team is full of dogs, and I’m ready to be a part of it.”
As for Madison Scott, who comes from Ole Miss, her journey isn’t solely about translating the lessons learned from her coach into the WNBA.
It’s also about embracing and celebrating the vibrant culture surrounding her. “Looking forward to growing you know as a person and as a player, looking forward to winning and looking forward to rocking my boots in my hat”.
Head Coach Chris Koclanes emphasized the players they brought onto the team and the people they are. “You win with good people, and the talent we added in this draft is remarkable. Each player leads with gratitude and humility, along with a unique confidence.” He added, “It’s all about the connection you can create, and we have a lot of vets, um, but they’re youthful vets. We’re a young team, and that balance is exciting. They have all these experiences, and they’re still very youthful.”
In a heartfelt nod to Texas traditions, Dallas City Mayor Eric Johnson and City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert presented each rookie with a white cowboy hat, a gesture that was enthusiastically received.
The Dallas Wings are set for an exciting future, highlighted by a 15-year, $19 million use agreement for the team to play in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas Memorial Arena starting in 2026. With a young roster, they are poised for a strong season. A new broadcast deal will also expand viewership for Wings games across Texas, making the team’s prospects even more promising. To summarize the day’s excitement, Wings GM Curt Miller proclaimed, “Catch the wave. The wave is coming.” And fast
Amid Calls to Reform Bail, Judges in St. Louis Embrace Ankle Monitors
red light and seriously injured a teenage pedestrian. The defendant, Daniel Riley, had amassed dozens of GPS violations before the crash, but was never ordered to appear in court over the infractions.
The city’s circuit attorney at the time, Kim Gardner, resigned amid the controversy.
National proponents of electronic monitoring like Carl Wicklund, a former executive director of the American Probation and Parole Association, continue to see the value in the system. But
Mr. Wicklund said that people with the devices must be able to hold jobs, secure housing and be involved with their families, churches and communities. Without those things, he said, defendants become “higher risk, because they have nothing to lose.”
According to the St. Louis circuit court’s 2023 annual report — the most recent it has published — nearly 87 percent of defendants who wore monitors completed their pretrial periods without a new arrest. The figure was nearly the same for defendants who awaited trial at home without monitors. (The court cautioned against using the statistics to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of monitoring, saying that the figures did not account for factors such as age, criminal history and substance abuse.)
Court officials’ investment in the program continues to grow.
This fiscal year, the city budgeted more than $850,000 for the initiative, a record high for St. Louis. Budget documents show the court is on track to spend more than $1 million on the initiative.
In the spring, the court plans to solicit proposals from contractors interested in providing monitoring services after its
current contract expires. Mr. Tizedes said Total Court Services was likely to submit a bid.
Justin Mayo contributed reporting. Susan C. Beachy contributed research.
This article was reported in partnership with Big Local News at Stanford University.
ABOUT THE ANALYSIS
To calculate the number of new ankle monitors activated in St. Louis, The Times analyzed hundreds of pages of monthly invoices that Total Court Services sent to the St. Louis City 22nd Circuit Court from October 2020 through June 2024. The invoices, obtained through a public records request, show how much Total Court Services billed for each defendant (identified by case number) who used 24/7 ankle monitoring services. The Times excluded defendants monitored only via the company’s smartphone app, CourtFact, which has a limited GPS component. The invoices specify start and end dates, as well as whether the court or the defendant was responsible for payment.
To calculate the share of monitored defendants who were charged with misdemeanors or class D or E felonies, The Times analyzed the court’s monthly pretrial data reports. The reports, which are available online, include monthly counts of defendants released from jail with GPS monitors broken down by class of charge.
Discrepancies between the invoices and the court’s reports are because the reports indicate the month judges ordered defendants to wear GPS monitors while the invoices indicate when the monitors were activated, and the two dates can be different. Additionally, pretrial data reports included defendants released with CourtFact smartphone monitoring in
totals. Beginning in June 2024, the reports
cluded only defendants with
her relentless defensive prowess, her passion for the game shines through as she proclaims, “I love
defense; I love creating havoc on that side of the ball, so I’m definitely going to do that.”
(Left to right) During the introductory press conference, Paige Bueckers, Aziaha James, Madison Scott, JJ Quinerly, and Aaronette Vonleh hold their jerseys as the newest members of the Dallas Wings.
SOSOCity/Texas Metro News
Chris Koclanes at Dallas Wings press conference at City Hall.
City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert and Dallas City Mayor Eric Johnson stand to the side of (Left to right) Aaronette Vonleh, JJ Quinerly, Madison Scott, Aziaha James, and Paige Bueckers, as they wear cowboy hats given by the city of Dallas during the introductory press conference. Credit: SOSOCity/Texas Metro News
“THE GARLAND MINUTES” by The City Of Garland.
A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: BUILD GARLAND DAY
its third facility, dating to the original home of the Garland Fire Department at the corner of Sixth Street and Avenue A. The 20,000 square foot, two-story facility will replace an
on Austin Street. Garland is about 75% into its record $423.7 million bond program. In about two years, all work will have been completed.
Garland City Council Increases Homestead and Senior Tax Exemptions
Garland homeowners eligible for Homestead and Senior Exemptions on their property taxes will see an increase in the amount of those exemptions beginning in the 2025 tax year.
At its April 15 meeting, the Garland City Council passed a 1% increase to the Homestead Exemption and a $4,000 increase to the Senior Exemption. The increased exemptions will be reflected on October 2025 tax bills.
Those who are able to claim a Homestead Exemption on their property taxes will receive an 11% exemption beginning in the 2025 tax year, compared to 10% in previous years.
Senior citizens 65 years or older, as well as those who are disabled, will also have an additional $4,000 in appraised value exempted from taxation for a total of $60,000 in 2025, compared to $56,000 in previous years.
For a resident under the age of 65 with a home valued at $200,000, the increased Homestead Exemption will save the
taxpayer approximately $10 for the year.
For a resident age 65 or older with a home valued at $200,000, the additional Senior Exemption will save $39 for the year.
The plan was proposed to Council by the Administrative Services Committee, which evaluates these exemptions annually. In a presentation to Council, Matt Watson, Chief Financial Officer for the City of Garland, said this recommendation is in line with the City’s history of providing relief to both seniors and those eligible for the homestead exemption.
Sample property tax calculation:
Assessed Value = $200,000
Homestead Exemption = - $22,000
Senior Exemption = - $60,000
Taxable Value = $118,000
Divide by 100 = $1,180
City of Garland Tax Rate = x 0.689746
Annual Tax Bill = $813.90
And while many voters take their responsibility seriously and focus on ensuring that they are aware of the issues and the stances of the candidates or propositions; there are so many who are not prepared.
I salute the organizations and foot soldiers helping educate potential voters. Don’t let anything deter you.
Having people serving who will do the right thing can make the difference in a meal on your table, you having a table, you having a place to set a table, or you being the main course! Go to the polls. Vote early. If you have to vote absentee, pay attention to the deadlines and get your document in.
When you are voting, read every single page — those last pages of the ballot are just as important as the first one, just ask President Joe Biden who first served on a City Council. Not voting the entire ballot could cause you to pass over some very strong candidates!
Texas has already been cited as having some of the most oppressive and disenfranchising voter laws in the country. If you aren’t going to vote, Texas doesn’t need to worry about keeping those legislators responsible for that distinction in office— they have all the help they need, YOU!
You will be reading a lot about voting on these pages. Please know that this is news that you need, even if you are not aware!
