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M ESSENGER I

Philanthropist, executive, humanitarian, author, and mentor lifts as she climbs

I Messenger

Cheryl Smith

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editor@myimessenger.com www.myimessenger.com

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QUIT PLAYIN’

Reverend Frederick Douglas Haynes III is a master raconteur. If you are confused, a raconteur uses anecdotes skillfully to persuade or make a point.

BIG MAMA SAID

Hey Family Big Mama always told us at the end of every year, “Child keep a prayer on your lips.” She did not just mean kneeling at the bedside at night or bowing your head on Sundays...

DR. EMMETT J. CONRAD

Since 1993 area students have participated in this outstanding internship program founded by Texas State Senator Royce West (D-23) and is now under the leadership/administration of the University...

President Biden honors Fannie Lou Hamer, Denzel Washington, Magic Johnson with Presidential Medal of Freedom

Photos by Lauren Victoria Burke

President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients today. The award is the highest civilian honor and the event in the East Room today with only 16 days left in Biden’s presidency was tinged with nostalgia. Former President Bill Clinton, Vice President Harris and of course the current President were all in attendance.

President Biden’s list included the actor Denzel Washington, Magic Johnson, U2 lead singer Bono and a posthumous honor to civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer. The eclectic list of nineteen individuals honored by Biden “made America and the world a better place” and were “great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country

and the world” as defined in a statement by The White House.

The award also goes to friends and political donors who aren’t eligible for high military honors but have been loyal to the President or the party in power.

Other awardees were Hillary Clinton, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, Bill Nye (the Science Guy), actor Michael J. Fox, director George Stevens, Jr., philanthropist David Rubenstein, entrepreneur Tim Gill, and George Romney. His son, recently retired U.S. Senator Mitt Romney, accepted the award on behalf of his late father. Legendary soccer player Lionel Messi was announced as an awardee but did not attend.

President Barack Obama has given out the most Medals of Freedom (118) followed by Lyndon Johnson (89) and Ronald Reagan (86).

Chef José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen, points to heaven as he receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom. On April 1, 2024, seven World Central Kitchen workers were killed in Gaza by Israeli military airstrikes. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who recently helped saved the Washington Commander fans of the leadership of former team owner Dan Snyder, is seen receiving the Medal of Freedom on Jan. 4, 2025 at The White House.

MY TRUTH

by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Are you a joy to anyone?

Fifteen years ago, at the age of 59, Teddy Pendergrass died on January 13.

While I recall his many songs, his stage presence, and his movements as he belted out his many hits; I remember him most for sharing his testimony, about surviving a car accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down, a tetraplegic.

To his credit, he not only continued to record, but he performed on stage at concerts and also at the famed Apollo Theatre. He starred in the gospel musical, Your Arms Too Short to Box with God, won an award for the song, Joy, and wrote his autobiography, Truly Blessed.

A minister, ordained when

he was 10 years old, Mr. Pendergrass, who during the interview told me I could call him “Teddy,” made hit after hit, first with the group, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, and later as a solo artist.

His laughter could be felt through the phone as I told him about going to see him in concert with my 60-yearold aunt and her daughters when I was 18. I was too young to know what all the fuss was about!

While we talked about his career, we also talked about his life-changing injury and his work for his charity, The Teddy Pendergrass Alliance, which is now the Teddy and Joan Pendergrass Founda -

tion. The foundation was created to encourage and assist those with spinal cord injuries.

He told me he hoped to come to Dallas to perform.

I think of Mr. Pendergrass not only on the anniversary of his death, his birthday, or when I hear his beautiful voice.

When I see people who’ve given up on life because of an accident or setback, I think of him and how he bounced back. He also battled colon cancer and continued to live a productive life, while also thinking of working for the betterment of others; which he did until succumbing to respiratory failure.

I also think of Candace Wicks because she was in a hospital bed and many had probably written her off, especially after an infection led to multiple amputations.

Today, years later, Candace remains one of the hardest-working, volunteers, philanthropists, social activists, and humanitarians you will ever meet.

Like Mr. Pendergrass, she accepted the changes and challenges in her life and, instead of wallowing in selfpity, continued to be a joy to others.

And yet we have others without any of the challenges and they do nothing to make this world a better place.

Candace Wicks

Teddy Pendergrass in 2000

President Carter was a Great Humanitarian

OUR VOICES

BY M. BASHEER AHMED M. D.

The very first time that I visited former President Jimmy Carter was during a meeting in the White House on December 5t, 1979 as president of the Islamic Medical Association of North America.

At the time American hostages were being held in Iran and people of Muslim faith in the United States were highly-concerned about violence directed towards them.

President Carter, the first U.S. president to meet and build lasting relationships with leaders of Muslim grassroots organizations, assured me and other Muslim leaders from North America that he was focused on resolving the hostage crisis peacefully and building bridges with those who practiced Islam in America and throughout the world.

When I first glanced into his eyes I knew that President Carter, raised on a cotton and peanut farm in southwest Georgia, was an unusually special human being.

It was not surprising to me that he called for an end to racial discrimination soon after being elected governor of his home state.

I knew that he was someone who would heal the hearts of suffering people whether they lived in Karachi, Kansas City, Cologne or Cape Town.

No matter our party affiliations, all of us have lost a distinguished humanitarian, a courageous leader, and a man of integrity. He is one of the few U.S. presidents remembered for his post-presidential contributions to global health, world peace, and democracy.

In this century, he stands out as one of the most intelligent, hard-working, and decent individuals to ever lead the American nation.

Unlike some who called for U.S. military invention during the hostage crisis, President Carter insisted on allowing diplomacy to take its course, even though he knew that his stance might well harm his chance of reelection.

He was unwavering in his commitment to resolving war, and stood his ground.

That was the President Carter I came to know in that first White House meeting and during our subsequent meetings over the years in the Car-

ter Center in Atlanta. I distinctly recall his saying that human beings had an ethical obligation to prevent human suffering wherever it existed.

He spoke with me about his book, Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid and the elections in Gaza.

In 1978, President Carter played a crucial role in negotiating the Camp David Peace Accords between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, resulting in the first peace treaty between Israel and an Arab nation.

He was also unafraid to challenge Israel when neces-

ter Center in Atlanta that he and his wife, Rosalynn, established.

A pursuer of justice and fairness, President Carter’s personal history was grounded in equality. While a state senator in Georgia, he insisted to his fellow church members that African Americans be allowed to join their church; a position that the membership overwhelmingly opposed.

I recall vividly the very last time that I saw my dear friend. It was 10 years ago at the Car-

addressing global issues. Through decades of philanthropic work, he and Mrs. Carter fought disease, negotiated peace, monitored elections, and built homes for the underprivileged.

His commitment to humanitarian work was exemplified by his fight to eradicate Guinea worm disease, which affected millions in Africa and Asia.

Under his leadership, the Carter Center has helped reduce cases from millions to just 13 globally in 2023.

Sadly, in 2015, President Carter disclosed that he had been diagnosed with cancer. He faced the crisis with remarkable composure and faith, serenely accepting the outcome.

In February of 2023, my dear friend courageously decided to decline further life-extending medical treatment, opting for hospice care instead, becoming the first president known to do so. His decision brought widespread awareness of the importance of hospice care in providing comfort and dignity in the final stages of life.

President Carter’s life is a testament to the power of service, compassion, and moral leadership.

sary, urging the suspension of settlement expansion in the West Bank and advocating Palestinian self-rule.

His efforts to bring peace to the Middle East were rooted in fairness and a deep commitment to justice, even when it made him a target of unfair criticism. He was a more than worthy recipient of the Nobel Prize for Peace.

After leaving the White House, President Carter became the first former president to devote his life to

His contributions to humankind will shape our world for centuries to come. It was indeed a blessing to know him and to be his friend.

Dr. Basheer Ahmed is a nationally-recognized writer, psychiatrist and philanthropist. A former professor of psychiatry at U.T. South-western Medical School in Dallas, he is also the founder and chairperson emeritus of the Muslim Community Center for Human Services in Richland Hills, Texas. Dr. Ahmed is also the president of the American Muslims for Human Rights, a human rights advocacy organization.

Former U. T Southwestern Medical School professor Dr. Basheer Ahmed and President Jimmy Carter became friends in 1979 at a White House meeting regarding the Iranian hostage crisis.

A Miraculous Staircase!

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

Reverend Frederick Douglas Haynes III is a master raconteur. If you are confused, a raconteur uses anecdotes skillfully to persuade or make a point.

Freddy does it weekly at his pulpit at Friendship-West Baptist Church and crisscrosses the nation speaking to audiences hungry for his wisdom-filled oratories.

On one such Sunday morning, Doc recounted a spellbinding story about the Nuns of Loretto. The legend began in 1850 in New Mexico when Bishop Jean Baptiste Larry saw a need to educate the girls in the territory. The rest is miraculous.

The Loretto Chapel website spilled the tea, and I just want to hit the high points. What had happened was…

“Bishop Lamy sent a plea to Catholic teaching orders to open a school for girls. The Sisters of Loretto responded and sent six sisters to open the Loretto Academy.

Having been recently under Mexican rule, the Territory of New Mexico was full of Spanish-speaking citizens, so the six had to learn the Spanish language and, after an arduous trip during which the Mother Superior died, finally arrived in Santa Fe and opened their school in 1853.

By 1873, the Sisters were able to start the construction of a Chapel. Using the same French architect and builders as Saint Francis Cathedral Basilica, the Chapel of Our Lady of Light was patterned after

Archbishop Lamy’s favorite Sainte Chapelle in Paris.

Unfortunately, the architect died before access to the choir loft was built. Given the height of the loft and the small size of the Chapel, a staircase would have taken up too much floor space, thereby reducing the seating capacity to an unacceptably small level.”

Parenthetically, that’s kinda how Black Americans feel right now. We are in what’s supposed to be a sanctuary, we can see the choir loft, but our access is limited.

Anyway, back to the story.

“Legend states that seeking guidance and help, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a nine day novena to St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. A novena is a special prayer said for nine consecutive days.

On the final day of the novena, a carpenter appeared with only a hammer and carpenter’s square. He built what is now known as the Miraculous Staircase with simple tools and wooden pegs.

The rare wood is not native to the American Southwest. When the Staircase was complete, it is said that the car-

penter disappeared without receiving thanks or payment. The Sisters tried all local lumber stores but could not find accounts open for supplies for their stairs.

The Staircase has two complete 360-degree turns and no center pole for structural support. Its entire weight rests on the bottom stair. The banisters were added approximately ten years later due to the difficulty of climbing the tall, tapered stairs with no railing.

Some believe the carpenter was St. Joseph himself, while others think it was someone St. Joseph sent. What is known is that the Sisters of Loretto prayed, and their prayers were answered.”

My point in rehearsing this allegory or narrative is to declare that we are at a point in this nation whereby those of us who profess prayer and supplication actually practice what we preach. Our future is stuck between a belligerent former president bent on getting revenge and a nation that is navigating without a compass.

At some level, we must begin making the same assess-

ment Bishop Lamy made. The children need to be educated, and it is the church’s responsibility to shore up the sagging sides that “the state” does not care to fortify.

We also must assess the house sanctuaries and safe places every child deserves. And whether it’s a stray bullet in a Georgia suburb or aimless bombing in the Gaza Strip, we are not providing sufficient cover for their minds, bodies, or spirits.

It doesn’t matter to me who or how we fix our house; it must be repaired. The Sisters of Loretto called on the saints, and so must we. We may not see who or how it gets done, but that should be our least worry.

If we are to construct a new Miraculous Staircase, we must follow three steps that the nuns followed.

We must believe, pray after doing all that we can, and none of us can be concerned with who gets the credit.

L. Hall is an author, activist, award winning columnist and a lifelong Drapetomaniac!

Vincent

Enjoying a road less traveled

OUR VOICES

BY KENNETH L. HARDIN

I’m not the man I used to be and it’s not because of any life-altering event like a poor medical diagnosis or spiritual awakening.

It’s based solely on being hit upside my head continuously with a lifetime of vicious blows of hate, discrimination, bigotry, bias, denial, nullification and exclusion.

I don’t recognize the guy in pictures of me when I was 20 years old. I don’t know who he is anymore.

As a young adult, I used to be a fun-loving, carefree man-child who was ignorant of so many issues that would later impact and shape me.

I was clueless as to who I was and worked hard to maintain it. I wanted to love everyone without realizing there would be those who hated me simply because of the color of the uniform I was issued on my born day.

My poor social consciousness visual acuity rendered me blind to the complexities of life associated with the skin I was in and how the indignities would later impact me.

It didn’t take long after falling hard into the realities of life in my late 20s, after I returned home to the unforgiving south from traveling on Uncle Sam’s dime, to realize I didn’t feel the same level of love from society as I did in the protective bubble of my parent’s home or under the auspices of my government-issued life.

Returning home 40 years ago, I thought it would be like a fun game of Double Dutch

and I would just jump back in the rotation of the jump rope and life would be as it was as a freewheeling 19-year-old.

Nope, I was on the receiving end of so much hate and vitriol from people. I didn’t know how to handle it and took extreme measures to find where I fit in.

Initially, I felt it was my duty and responsibility to make white people feel comfortable with me. I wore non-threatening clothes and tried to carry myself similarly both in speech and behavior, but that didn’t appear to stop the hate.

I attended Nation of Islam meetings and started reading the original and new Black Panther Party’s literature. Yes, I was the epitome of the angry Black man.

When I look back on my writing career in the early 90s, I see the anger and passion in my words, but today, I see maturity and growth. In the 90s, I had no one to turn to nor anyone to guide me through the fog of hate.

So, I took it upon myself to handle it, and at times I did so poorly. Nearing the end of the decade, I was disillusioned and exhausted both mentally and emotionally.

I had a growing family with young children and knew I had to take a different road, one that they wouldn’t have to follow me down.

After entering the business world, hate didn’t cease, it just got more sophisticated. As I started what would become a 20-plus-year career working in hospital leadership roles around the country, I began to intellectualize my response to the hate bombs thrown at me.

The corporate me still believed in Malcolm more than

Martin, and it reflected in my writings, but my approach was more diplomatic. I sought reasoning and understanding more than physical and verbal retaliation.

But I always let the suits know I still had a little bit of hood in me and to not allow the bow ties and suspenders to mislead them. In the white-collar world, I falsely believed I wouldn’t be treated poorly because of my skin hue, but the only difference is they do it with a smile, a potted plant, a nice office and a welcome basket.

Then you’re bombarded with the “You speak so well,” and “I love how you dress” comments that make weak skinfolk feel they’ve arrived. I never got that comfortable, but in the early to mid2000s, I learned the game and

saw that a duality had to exist if you wanted to survive and advance.

By my 40s, I had climbed the corporate ladder but didn’t like the view from up there. There were few if any people who looked like me, and those who did, didn’t think like me.

My tolerance level for the game was gone and I was spending more time looking for a quiet exit. In 2015, I found one and have never looked back.

The 59-year-old me today got off that road of self-discovery completely. I no longer try to understand anyone’s warped views on race and ethnicity.

L.

Kenneth

(Kenny) Hardin is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

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January 20 belongs to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Dream

Realizing The Dream: Healthy Living Expo expands with Food for 250 families, Wellness, Cooking Demonstrations, Financial Literacy and Voter Education Sessions, Movies, and Beauty Activations

Sponsored by Comerica, The Realizing The Dream: Healthy Living Expo, an annual celebration of health, wellness, and empowerment in the Black community, returns Monday, January 20, 2025, from 10 am to 4 pm at the African American Museum of Dallas. Presented by Don’t Believe The Hype Foundation (DBTHF), this year’s event features an expanded lineup of engaging activities and initiatives that honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy of service and community building.

Attendees can look forward to:

• Mental Health Activation: Engaging workshops and discussions led by experts, designed to equip attendees with tools and strategies for managing emotional well-being.

• Health Screenings: Free health services, including blood pressure checks and other essential screenings, will be available to attendees.

• The Black Beauty Exchange: In partnership with Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide, this activation celebrates the artistry and cultural significance of Black beauty. Guests can explore Black-owned beauty brands, enjoy live beauty tutorials, and participate in discussions on the transformative power of Black beauty.

• Collard Greens and Cornbread Cook-Off: A spirited culinary competition showcasing local tal-

ent and traditional flavors, celebrating the rich history of Black cuisine.

• Food Demonstration with Chef Cassondra: Chef Cassondra will provide a live cooking demonstration featuring tips, techniques, and recipes inspired by soul food traditions.

• Food Drive in Partnership with Vivian’s Chapel CME Church Food Ministry: We’re giving out food to 250 families, ensuring that local families in need can benefit from this day of empowerment and celebration.

• Elections 2025 and Beyond: Voter Education, Registration and Engagement.

• KARAOKE KAMIKAZE: Try your hand at favorites and win prizes!

• Financial Literacy: Visit Comerica Bank and gather literature to help lead you on the way to financial growth and development

• HBCUs, UNCF, and colleges can be for everyone: Find out about scholarships, fellowships, and educational opportunities.

“This year’s Expo is all about connecting our community through health, wellness, and culture,” said Cheryl Smith, publisher of Texas Metro News and founder of the Expo. “From mental health to culinary traditions and beauty culture, we are celebrating every aspect of what makes our community strong and vibrant. We’re especially proud

to partner with local organizations to uplift families and honor the spirit of giving.”

Empowering the Community For Almost A Decade

Since launching in 2015, the Realizing The Dream: Healthy Living Expo continues to provide critical resources, celebrate Black culture and inspire positive change in the Dallas community.

Event Details:

• What: Realizing The Dream: Healthy Living Expo

• When: Monday, January 20, 2025, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Where: African American Museum of Dallas, 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210

• Key Activities:

• Mental health workshops and resources

• Health screenings by the American Red Cross

• The Black Beauty Exchange

• Collard Greens and Cornbread Cook-Off

• Food demonstration by Chef Cassondra

• Community food drive in partnership with Vivian’s Chapel CME Church Food Ministry

For more information and a full schedule of activities, visit www.realizingthedreamexpo. com.

Join us as we honor Dr. King’s legacy by celebrating health, culture, and community.

Keep a Prayer on Your Lips for 2025

BY TERRY ALLEN

Hey Family Big Mama always told us at the end of every year, “Child keep a prayer on your lips.” She did not just mean kneeling at the bedside at night or bowing your head on Sundays.

No, it means carrying a spirit of prayer with you all day, every day—whether you’re planning events to bring folks together, storytelling to inspire change, or advocating for your community’s needs. Prayer is not just what we do; it’s how we move through this world, guided by faith and grounded in hope.

As we step toward 2025, I can’t help but look back on

this past year and say Wow! 2024 was a whirlwind. From the power of young voices reshaping democracy to seeing communities rise together in times of crisis, there were moments that made us weep and moments that made us believe.

Vice President Kamala Harris led an unprecedented 100day campaign that inspired communities across the nation to lean into hope and take bold steps toward progress. Her unwavering presence in key cities reminded us of the power of representation and persistence in the face of challenges.

Take the elections this year—Generational diversity was on fire! Young folks, especially Gen Z, showed up and showed out, proving once again that they’re not just the future, they’re the right now.

They reminded us that even when the world feels heavy, we must push forward with prayer and purpose.

And Beyoncé—she gave us life this year. From her legendary Coachella performance that still echoes as a cultural milestone to her jaw-dropping Christmas halftime show that reminded us what Black excellence looks like, she showed us the power of creativity and resilience. Moments like these bring us together, bridging generations and lifting spirits.

Then there’s the everyday work we do—advocating for justice, crafting stories that spark action, and planning events that remind our communities of their power.

None of that is possible without faith. Prayer isn’t just for the quiet moments; it’s what keeps us grounded in

the chaos and what fuels us to keep going.

As we head into 2025, let’s remember that prayer isn’t just our anchor in the storm— it’s also our compass when the skies are clear.

So, whether you’re gathering your community to make a difference, standing up for what’s right, or simply trying to make it through the day, keep a prayer on your lips. And remember: God hears you even when your voice is just a whisper.

Here’s to a new year filled with faith, action, and grace. Email at TerryAllenpr@gmail. com share your new resolution.

Terry Allen is an award-winning media professional, journalist, and entrepreneur. He is also the founder of City Men Cook and 1016 Media. Reach him at terryallenpr@gmail.com

BIG MAMA SAID

Denton Black Film Festival announces 2025 Festival Schedule

DENTON, Texas – The Denton Black Film Festival recentlyunveiled its 2025 festival lineup, including an array of in-person and virtual experiences.

The in-person festival will run from January 22-26, 2025, with virtual programming extending through February 2, 2025. Festival passes and individual tickets are now available for this nationally acclaimed cultural event.

“We’re thrilled about this year’s festival,” said Harry Eaddy, executive director of the DBFF Institute and film festival. “Our packed program offers something for everyone—whether you’re a filmmaker, a film enthusiast, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable cultural experience.”

This year’s theme,“Resilience,” highlights the strength and determination that define us all. Through powerful storytelling, DBFF celebrates the moments of perseverance and triumph that inspire personal and collective growth.

A Community Effort

This year, DBFF’s sponsors and grantors include the City of Denton, Panavision, and NBC 5, marking a significant milestone as DBFF celebrates over a decade of amplifying diverse voices.

Additional support comes from esteemed partners, including the Texas Commission on the Arts, Meow Wolf, and Charles Schwab Bank.

2025 Festival Highlights

• Opening Night: The festival opens with the landmark film, The Spook Who Sat by the Door (1973), directed by Ivan Dixon and based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. Recently restored in stunning 4K by the Library of Congress and The Film Foundation with funding provided by the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation. this culturally significant film will be screened:

• Thursday, January 23: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Denton, TX

• Friday, January 24: Texas Theatre, Dallas, TX

• Following both screenings, there will be a special Q&A featuring Doris Nomathandé Dixon and Natiki Hope Pressley, daughters of Ivan Dixon and Sam Greenlee.

• Festival Programming: The 2025 DBFF will showcase 73 films, a New Texas Short Screenplay Competition with Award Sponsors- Austin Film Festival, Final Draft and Coverfly, featuring live reads. There also will be two art exhibits, spoken word performances, comedy, music, and a youth gaming competition. Workshops and panels will cover various topics, including storytelling, virtual production, budgeting for Indie

films, and much more. This year’s Social Justice Panel and Films on Human Trafficking addresses this urgent form of modern-day slavery.

• Closing Night: We invite you to an unforgettable musical experience with the multi-talented Frank McComb, joined by special guest Audra Scott.

• How to Attend

The festival offers a range of passes to fit every interest:

1. VIP All Experience Pass: Access to all festival events (excluding workshops and panels with additional fees).

2. Film Only Experience Pass: Access to all in-person and virtual film screenings.

3. Virtual Only Experience Pass: Access to all virtual film screenings and events (excludes geographically restricted or capped films).

4. Five Block Film Pass: Choose five individual

in-person or virtual film screening blocks (restrictions apply).

Passes and tickets are

available at discounted presale prices. Visit DentonBFF.com to explore options and secure your spot.

Stay Connected

Follow DBFF for updates on Instagram, Facebook,

TikTok, X and YouTube, and visit DentonBFF.com for the latest news, the full schedule, and ticket details.

Biden’s Last Weeks in Office

Local Leaders say what their final moves would be if they were president

On Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over a joint session of Congress and certified President-elect Donald Trump as the incoming President of the United States. Now, as the Biden administration comes to an end, we asked local politicians on both sides of the aisle what they would do if it were their last weeks in office.

Carl O. Sherman, Former Texas State Representative, District 109, said “If I were Biden I think one of the things I would do first would be to throw a reception party for President-Elect Donald Trump. I think it could be a great tradition to start and don’t wait until the President-Elect takes over but do the reception where all of America and the world can see that you are throwing this reception for the incoming President and invite individuals statewide, nationally and internationally.”

Sherman also said early on he would consider education and, “No child should have to pay for their educa-

tion just as we did early on to ensure children from first to twelfth grade receive an education from our public school system. And we recently added more pre-K and I think we should do the same for a bachelor’s degree since in most industrialized nations this is not an issue, I should make sure the baseline of education is established higher.”

Sherman said regarding the criminal justice system, it should be established that always similar cases need to be treated the same as that would bring a lot more confidence and trust in the criminal justice system overall.

He also said while this idea has seen resistance politically to provide health care for all, perhaps it could be started like what is done at the Mayo Clinic.

“The doctors there are not incentivized by what procedures they are doing,” Sherman said. “For instance, in our medical system if you are getting an amputation the doctor might get paid more and so maybe he is not incentivized to try and save your foot or finger.”

Finally, he said “These are things that politically they are very polarized but I think America has to do a better job of being compassionate about its citizens.”

Ellis County Judge

Todd Little said, “Both the outgoing and the incoming President must ensure that all constituents, regardless of who they supported, understand that the new President is there to serve all Americans and look after the interests of the nation as whole – primarily the Federal Government’s role in national security, a strong defense, and safeguarding our liberties and freedoms as Americans. This would include making sure that federal agencies do these essential jobs, and no more.

It is well known that elections have consequences. Many times, changes in authority can alter the government’s direction according to the will of the people. Currently, the American people are calling for secure borders, controlled immigration, and a strong farm bill to help support an economically-viable and healthier food supply. The Democrats and the Biden Administration must be available to ensure a smooth transition of power to the Repub-

licans and the Trump Administration, who now have control of the Presidency, the House, and the Senate, and who the American people have tasked with pursuing these goals. Regardless of who is in power, the preservation of the Presidency as an institution ultimately accountable to the American people is paramount.”

Justin Coffman, Mayor, City of Midlothian, said he would be solely focused on five things.

“Make this the most efficient transition of power in American history; build support from my party for the next regime (when America wins, we all win); finishing strong in my role; bringing value to individuals by using my position in honoring people; working to leave a legacy by having final memories of my presidency being positive ones.”

Sheila Petta, Mayor, City of Wilmer, said, “I would work with the incoming administration to be sure there will be a smooth transition on the matters of importance relating to the

southern border.”

Clyde Hairston, Mayor, City of Lancaster, said “If I was President Biden serving out my last few weeks in office, I would have a big presidential rally on the floor of Congress. I would bring the Democrats, Republicans, Independents and all who would listen and try to unite our country on major issues that matters to us as a people.

“This includes protecting our country and our Constitution, Social Security and those who are affected by its system, lowering our interest rates, job security, fair housing, our economy, gun control, combat drugs and crime, stabilize energy resources, health and mental care, defending our democracy, and border control. In the

Hon. Carl O. Sherman

Hon. Judge Todd Little

Hon. Justin Coffman

Hon. Sheila Petta

Hon. Clyde Hairston

last few weeks of my presidency and before my exit, I would do all I could to bring our country together.”

Tommy Scott, Mayor Pro-Tem, City of Ferris, said, “I would be working on gun control and that is one thing I would have sunk my teeth into and improved by the time I left in a few weeks.”

He added, “ I would do all I could regarding the border problem because that is what the people want and if there is anything else I could do to work on that I would; I would do anything necessary re-

garding luxury tax and add any stipulations on that before I left office. There should be a luxury tax, but not taxes on needed items like food and transportation, and I would make it such that the decision on this can’t be quickly overturned; and any last thing necessary to make sure the American people are protected when I am gone.

Gary Vineyard, Midlothian ISD School Board Trustee, President said he would do “Whatever is necessary to stop all illegal entries into the US and deploy necessary national

guardsmen to patrol the border areas.”

He also added that he would send aid to affected regions of the US due to this terrible decision; demand that all US hostages be freed from Gaza or face sanctions and military force from the US. In response to their being a peace treaty between Israel and Palestinians the US would help in rebuild efforts; re-open the keystone pipeline; hold off on sending any more money to Ukraine; create a funding bill to help businesses in cities like San Francisco that have been ravaged by looters in crime ridden areas; create a bill that applies to every state with automatic jail-time for any theft cases over $250; ensure that every state is properly funding public education and holding the Governor accountable; and en-

courage all NATO parties to put a halt on all imports/exports with Russia to end the war on Ukraine in 90 days.

Randy Bellomy, Chairman of Ellis County Republican Party, said “The five things I would do before leaving office if I was president would be “Pardon most, if not all, the J6 patriots and ask the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate and prosecute the capitol officer who shot and killed Ashli Babbitt on that day.”

“I would shut down the borders and deport all the illegal aliens and

build the border wall; declare war on the cartels and defend our nation from all the poison and human carnage they are inflicting on Americans; remove a lot of the burdensome regulations on business so our economy can flourish and reduce the national debt; and defund Planned Parenthood and National Public Broadcasting and abolish most of the three-letter agencies.”

Commissioner

John Wiley Price, Dallas County Commissioner, District 3 was intentionally focused. “I would be granting clemency,” he said.

LEGAL NOTICES

A TODAS LAS PERSONAS Y PARTES INTERESADAS:

Solar Turbines Incorporated ha solicitado a la Comisión de Calidad Ambiental de Texas (TCEQ) una enmienda al Permiso de Calidad del Aire Número 20041, la enmienda al Permiso de Incumplimiento Número N196M2 y la enmienda al Permiso de Calidad del Aire de Prevención de Deterioro Significativo (PSD) PSDTX1590M1, que autorizaría la modificación del Centro de Reparaciones de Solar Turbines Dallas en 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Condado de Dallas, Texas 75115. Esta solicitud se procesó de manera expedita, según lo permiten las reglas de la comisión en el Título 30 del Código Administrativo de Texas, Capítulo 101, Subcapítulo J. Se incluye información adicional sobre esta solicitud en la sección de avisos públicos de este periódico.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:

Solar Turbines Incorporated, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment of Air Quality Permit Number 20041, amendment of Nonattainment Permit Number N196M2, and amendment of Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) Air Quality Permit PSDTX1590M1, which would authorize modification to the Solar Turbines Dallas Overhaul Center at 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Dallas County, Texas 75115. This application was processed in an expedited manner, as allowed by the commission’s rules in 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 101, Subchapter J. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.

Hon. Tommy Scott

Hon. Gary Vineyard

Hon. Randy Bellomy

John Wiley Price

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! January 2025

Roderick Sr. and Andrea Williams 34 years

Kim and Jimmy Howard 32 years

Laila Ali and Curtis Conway 19 years

Marsha and Harold Thornton 21 years

Joy and Joel Trout 1 year

Shaeeda and Bilal Hazziez 2 years

Gwendolyn and Charles Jones 44 years

LeNette and Rodnie Hanson 35 years

Earl and Ella Johnson 52 years

Call issued to Support Black Businesses

Buy Black!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

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

Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III

In creating Focus & Frame Eyewear, I wanted to curate a custom selection of quality frames that capture culture, confidence, and creativity, and a choice that could highlight every aspect of who we are. Focus and Frame Eyewear provides a product that can cater to style and improve health by way of vision is a winning scenario. Brittney Adams researched the industry, partnered with Optometrists and Opticians to provide top-tier lenses for our prescription fulfillment, and sourced quality-made frames. Visit the website shop and get 10% off when you sign up for the newsletter.

• https://focusandframeeyewear.com/

• Email: support@focusandframeeyewear.com

• 469-900-7128/

BLOOM INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS CENTER, FOUNDER TIFFANY REYNOLDS, MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC

Meet the creator of BFlyByDesigns, Domonique Jacobs, a mixed-media artist who pays tribute to the strength of Black women. Domonique’s paintings are different they jump off the page. The art mediums she uses are canvas, sculpture, and much more. It’s original and custom-shown in art galleries. Visit the B Fly By Designs website shop join the newsletter and learn more about Domonique Jacobs.

• hhttps://bflybydesign.com/

• Email: bflybydesign@gmail.com

• Fb/IG @bflybydesignm

PURPLE LIGHT TOUCH FOUNDATION, FOUNDER VALERIE KELSO

LES BBQ SANDWICHES OWNER LES RHODES, JR.

Meet Les Rhodes, Jr. owner of Les BBQ Sandwiches. He was born and raised in Texas, and eating BBQ was a family event. The smell of the smoke, music playing, and tasting samples from Grandpa’s smoker. Those are the memories he’ll never forget. Les hopes to deliver the same atmosphere and memorable moments for families, across the country, with their famous Briskets. Les has a deep passion for smoking meats and delivers the great-tasting BBQ to your front door. Visit the website and order and get a discount delivered to your door.

• https://lesbbq.com/

• Email: Catering@lesbbq.com

• or 801-613-1586

Bloom Integrative is a restorative wellness center designed to revolutionize traditional clinical settings and the delivery of women’s healthcare. It offers the community of South Dallas and surrounding DFW areas premium beauty and wellness services to meet their needs. At our Health and Wellness Center, we allow women to disengage from life and everyday stress with proven and tested medical procedures. Visit the website, explore their services, join the newsletter, and book appointments.

• https://bloomintegrativewellnesscenter.com/

• Phone: 1-844-864-8928

• Address: 400 S Zang Blvd., #815, Dallas

BFLY BY DESIGNS ARTIST & CREATOR DOMONIQUE JACOBS

M The Purple Light Touch Foundation (PLTF) is dedicated to helping women and young girls reclaim their lives and find hope on their healing journeys. They are committed to delivering quality care to everyone who comes to them, offering accessible, outcome-oriented, and culturally sensitive services. Their range of programs addresses all types of trauma, childhood bullying, abuse, and cancer care. The programs include: Awareness Programs, Reflection Classes: Safe spaces for introspection and healing, Therapeutic Massages, Meditation and Prayer Time, Grief Support, Drug and Alcohol Awareness, Empowerment Sessions, and much more, they also offer scholarships. Visit the website for more information

• https://www.purplelighttouchfoundation.org/

• 5757 Rufe Snow Dr. Suite B, North Richland Hills

• Office (682)-334-6272 Cell (817) 350-0444

• Email: vlrkelso@purplelighttouchfoundation.org

VEGAN FOOD HOUSE

The Husband & Wife team, Anthony and Elizabeth Anderson, wanted to fill the void in the Dallas vegan food scene, which they did. Vegan Food House is a home favorite. A wide array of options to meet the desires of vegans who feel underserved has won this little house of food local awards and foodie fans nationally. Some of their favorites are the Southern Dinner Catch, Rotating Pata Bowl, Fried Lasagna, and more delicious items on the menu.

• Stop by Vegan Food House, 832 West 7th St, Dallas,

• 469.248.0297

• https://www.veganfoodhouse. com/

FOCUS AND FRAME EYEWEAR OWNER BRITTNEY ADAMS

Red Cross helps Family Create Memories

By Sylvia Powers Correspondent Texas Metro News

Most holiday memories fade over time, but for the Bach family, this year’s holiday experience was one they will cherish forever.

Thanks to the compassionate efforts of the American Red Cross, Sr. Airman Aaron Bach, stationed in Japan, was able to reunite with his family in a way they never imagined—surprising them in front of 45,000 football fans at the Armed Forces Bowl at Amon G. Carter Stadium.

Preparing for the game was somewhat challenging because Aaron’s mother speaks little English and doesn’t like being around large crowds.

“Leading up to the event, it was awesome. Going out onto the field was even more special. But watching that video message from my brother really

warmed my heart,” said Aaron’s brother, David Bach. “At the end of the video, when they announced they had flown Aaron in, I thought it was a joke. Then I turned around and saw him running from the tunnel.

“A tingling sensation went through my whole body. I couldn’t believe it was real.”

The reunion was especially

meaningful for the Bach family, who had faced a challenging year. Aaron’s mother, Thu Thi Ho, originally from Vietnam, had recently completed radiation treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis in May.

The close-knit family, consisting of Aaron, his brother, and their mother, found strength and comfort in being together during the holidays.

“Sr. Airman Bach and his family are wonderful people. We’re honored to play a part in bringing them together for the new year,” said Linda Braddy, CEO of the American Red Cross, North Texas Region.

The Red Cross, known for its unwavering support of military families, worked with military leadership and American Airlines to coordinate Aaron’s travel back to the United States. Aaron’s journey was seamless and memorable.

“I got to fly business class for the first time, which was amazing. From Tokyo to Dallas, the whole experience was unforgettable,” said Aaron. “Being on the field, with my family at the center of attention, felt like a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Since returning home, Aaron has spent his time catching up with family and friends and en-

joying his favorite foods. He and his brother even shared another first—trying lobster at a seafood boil.

Reflecting on the experience, Aaron encouraged other service members to pursue similar opportunities,” said Aaron. “No matter how far-fetched it seems, everyone has a story to tell. I felt like I had little hope of getting my story heard because I was competing with people from different branches of the military. But others believed in my story and helped me get my message across. All you can do is put your message out there and hope for the best.”

Aaron, who serves as a medical materials technician in the U.S. Air Force, had nominated himself for the opportunity through a program sponsored by ESPN. His story, like so many others, showcases the incredible sacrifices of service members and their families and the importance of initiatives like this one.

The Red Cross’s assistance to Aaron is part of its broader mission through the Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) program, which provides emergency communications, financial assistance, and resources to service members during times of need.

For the Red Cross, stories like Aaron’s illustrate the profound impact of their mission. By ensuring that service members remain connected to the people who matter most, they bring hope, healing, and joy to families when it matters most.

Aaron felt that his reunion with his family was bigger than their personal story. He wants the Bach family’s unforgettable reunion to be a testament to the enduring power of community, compassion, and love and an inspiration for other service personnel stationed overseas.

David Bach and Aaron Bach embrace their mother, Thu Thi Ho, with love following their surprise reunion. The Red Cross helped create this heartfelt moment which was made even more special as the family celebrated her completion of radiation treatment after her breast cancer diagnosis.

After surprising his family on the field during the Armed Forces Bowl, Airman Aaron Bach shares a heartfelt moment with his mother, Thu Thi Ho.

Join the Don't Believe the Hype Foundation for the 9th annual Healthy Living Expo on January 20, 2025.

All are welcome to this day of celebration and community fellowship featuring health screenings, financial literacy workshops, a vendor marketplace, performances, contests and more!

Did somebody say contest?

This year we're looking for the best collard greens and cornbread, so if you think that's you, follow the registration link below for more details.

The event will be held at the African American Museum of Dallas from 10am - 4pm.

Vendor and Contest Opportunities Available… Register today.

CLASS OF 2024

Justice

Armoni Burns,

Major Criminal

Grambling State University

Ashley Turner University of South Carolina

Brianna Baucum University of Texas at Arlington

DeMarco Pittman Jackson State University

Kaiden Ivey Jackson State University

Kendaija Witt University of South Carolina

METRO SALUTE

Active WNBA Players

Averaging Over 20 PPG in Their Careers: A’ja Wilson – 21.1 PPG; Breanna Stewart – 20.8 PPG; Arike Ogunbowale – 20.6 PPG

Shanice Williams

portrayal

She retired her parents and takes care of all their bills now. GloRilla says “I can’t make this much money and they are still working. Making sure to take care of all their needs and even things they don’t need.”

He won a Grammy, OFFICIALLY Dropped an Epic film, and My Wiki got “thicky.”

A Black Woman Developer Makes History, Raises $310 Million for Affordable Housing Projects.

The couple has just acquired a 120-room hotel in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This landmark deal, backed by Black investors and managed by Synergy Hospitality Group, will transform the property into an upscale Wyndham destination.

Justin Rhodes

Gina Merritt

GloRilla

Richard and Janelle Howard

Shanice’s

of “Johnnie Bell” in “Six Triple Eight”. Shanice is the daughter of Jersey City’s proud father, Shanice Williams Black excellence at its best.

Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program Orientation

Since 1993 area students have participated in this outstanding internship program founded by Texas State Senator Royce West (D-23) and is now under the leadership/administration of the University of North Texas at Dallas and Conrad alum Dr. Sabrina Hodge. More than 3500 students have been placed in internships and students have garnered thousands of hours of community service and scholarship dollars. Check out pictures and videos from this year’s class who will begin their assignments this summer.

Cynt Marshall’s Next Act

By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor

Usually, when people think of retirement, they think of sunny skies, laying on the beach, and doing nothing at all…or doing whatever you want.

All day, every day.

Not so for 65-year-old Cynt Marshall whose seven year tenure as the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks came to an end Dec. 31 with her retirement. Originally hired on a three-year contract, Marshall not only transformed the organization, but left an indelible mark on the greater Dallas community.

“Bringing Cynt to the Mavericks six years ago was one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made,” said Mark Cuban, the Mavs’ minority owner who was the ma jority owner of the team at the time when he brought Cynt to the franchise.

report detailed years of sexual harassment and misconduct in the franchise.

During her tenure, Marshall created a 100day plan to revamp the corporate culture and set new standards for inclusion, business effectiveness, and corporate responsibility.

As a result, two years after her arrival, the Mavs received the NBA’s Inclusion Leadership Award in 2020 and 2022.

“She has led this organization to new heights with grace and integrity, and her light will continue to shine bright throughout the community. Thank you, Cynt.”

ENTER CYNT MARSHALL

Marshall became the first Black female CEO in NBA history when she was hired in 2018 to reshape the Mavericks after a Sports Illustrated

Under her leadership, the organization built a foundation of trust, and fostered a culture rooted in transparency, respect, and accountability.

She redefined the Mavericks’ culture through a comprehensive overhaul of their workplace policies and as a result, the Mavs became one of the most diverse and inclusive workplaces in sports, with a focus on empowering everyone, including women and people of color at all levels of the organization.

Her dedication to creating a more equitable workplace has garnered national attention and established the Mavericks as a role model for businesses across the sports industry and beyond.

“I’m proud that our values didn’t just hang on the walls, but that they operated in the halls is what I wanted…and people are living out those values,” Marshall told Texas Metro News recently.

“Our vision to be a value-based employer come to life and our workplace promise ery voice matters and everybody belongs,’ guess I’m the most proud of the fact that just a tagline, it’s true.

“As a team, we made it better. It is a organization on the business side now fore. I’m proud of what we put in place blessed that the Lord and Mark Cuban me to lead it. We are not perfect. We have way to go. But we are not the organization were in 2018.”

RETIREMENT AND ACT III

Instead of jetting off into the sunset retirees rightfully get to do, the always always busy, always bustling Marshall preparing for what she affectionately “Three B’s - books, boards and the which will make up her Act III in life. Act 1 ended when she experienced retirement in 2017 from AT&T after 36 its chief diversity officer and senior vice dent of human resources.

She created a consulting firm, Marshalling Resources and was consulting when called with the offer to lead the Mavs’ ing.

Now that Act II has ended with her retirement, Marshall is ready for Act includes transitioning to a consulting

Texas Metro News

employer has promise is ‘evbelongs,’ and I that it’s not

a different now than beplace and I’m Cuban called have a long organization we

Philanthropist, executive, humanitarian, author, and mentor lifts as she climbs

the Mavs through December 2025.

“I am excited about it (Mavs consultant). We have some big things going on, a big vision and business plan,” Marshall said. “We have just launched Mavs TV and I’m proud of the leg acy there where we have our own broadcasting studio, then when I think about what we will do interna tionally and to evolve our brand, I’m excited.

like many always bubbly, Marshall is busy affectionately calls her babies -”

experienced her first 36 years as vice presi-

Marshalling when Cuban Mavs’ rebrand-

her second III which consulting role with

“We have much coming, including the renovation of the arena, so I’ll have my hands in a lot of stuff that Rick (Welts, new CEO) and Patrick (Du mont, Mavs owner) want me to have my hands on.”

And she’ll also begin her “Three B’s,” the first of which will see Marshall embarking on a long-awaited book tour for her first book, “You’ve Been Chosen: Thriving Through the Unexpected,” which was released at the end of 2022.

“I said for a long time that from ages 65 to 75, I wanted to run hard for kids, and so my next phase begins,” Marshall said. “The first B is with my book I wrote. So many families are dealing with cancer diagnoses and other issues, I want to use that book to go out and inspire people and let them know that God and great people will always show up and we’ve all been chosen for the things we’ve gone through.

“And we’ve been chosen to be there for those people,” Marshall continued. “So I really want to go out with that message right now so I will probably finally do a book tour.”

Marshall plans to write two more books - including one on leadership featuring her three L’s of leadership- listen to the people, learn from the people and love the people.

“These are all the things I’ve learned during my decades in leadership,” Marshall said.

“I’ll then write one on motherhood. I remember how my mom put two books in my hand at an early age - a math book and a Bible - and I want to talk about her and those two books and the early start she gave me and I want to celebrate my mother,” Marshall said of her 88-year-old mother Carolyn.

The book will also celebrate Marshall’s own motherhood journey. “I’ll fold in my journey, the miscarriages, the death of my daughter (infant Karolyn) then adopting and raising four kids,” she said. “There are different paths to motherhood so it’s a tribute

to mothers.”

The second “b” in Marshall’s Act III stands for “boards”and Marshall is looking forward to spending more time on the corporate boards that she serves on.

“I really want to help corporations focus more on people and social corporate responsibility. Now I will be able to attend board meetings and lead some committees and really put my corporate background to great use - which I did as CEO as well, which was great.”

Her last “b” stands for “better,” Marshall plans to join people who are trying to make this world better for our children; like our educators. “They need support from people to help pour into these kids and so I want to do something around education,” Marshall said.

“I don’t know if that’s the president of a college - people have come to me about that even before I got this job - adoption or foster care - I don’t know what it is but what I do know is when I wake up every morning, I will know that some kids’ life is significantly better because of something I did the day before - something my head, heart and hands touched. She continued.

“And I don’t know what that is yet. I’ll just go in that prayer closet in January, and pray Lord reveal to me where I am to have an impact - just like this came out of nowhere, that call from Mark Cubansomething is going to come out of nowhere that will allow me to impact children and make their lives better.”

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

During her seven years with the Mavericks, Marshall was recognized for her work

in promoting human rights, diversity, and social justice. She was named to Forbes World’s Most Inspiring Female Leaders in 2021, a Texas Metro News Superb Woman, and Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business in 2022. Her legacy as Mavs’ CEO is one of transformation, both within the organization and throughout the community. Her leadership, grounded in authenticity and a commitment to building a better and more profitable future for the organization, has set a new standard for corporate responsibility and community engagement in professional sports.

Marshall and the Mavericks have been the recipients of several honors and awards during her tenure including, but not limited to:

Adweek’s Most Powerful Women in Sports (2019, 2020) Honored for her influence in the sports industry and for spearheading cultural transformation within the Dallas Mavericks.

NBA Inclusion Leadership Award (2020, 2022) This award recognizes the team that has demonstrated excellence in creating and executing outstanding programming and that promotes inclusion and inclusive practices.

NBA Game Experience Satisfaction Award (2020, 2023) Given to the top three teams with the highest percentage in overall game experience satisfaction as determined by the Fan Loyalty Tracker (FLT).

Forbes World’s Most Inspiring Female Leaders (2021) During Women’s History Month, Cynt was listed as one of 15 women globally who are breaking the glass ceiling and paving their own paths—all while lifting others around them and setting the example for the next genera-

CEO Cynt Marshall, Owner Patrick Mavs Foundation President Katie For Oak Cliff

tion of female leaders.

NBA Partnership Growth Award (2022) Awarded to the top three teams with the highest percentage of partnership growth.

Additionally, during her tenure, Marshall unofficially became the face of the franchise off the court, as much as star Luka Doncic was the face of the franchise on the court. She humbly acknowledges that while that may have ended up being the outcome, it certainly wasn’t the plan.

“It wasn’t intentional to become the face of the franchise. Ideally, the job I am in, you don’t even know who the team president and CEO is, but because of the way I came in - people know me because of my introduction to the

Mavs via a press conference.”

“We had a lot of work to do when I got here and then the way I approached my job… it’s internal and external. It’s about people. You touch people,” Marshall continued. “It’s about making a difference and so I’m blessed that I was able to join Mark Cuban and be the face because we had some image repairing to do.”

Marshall said the job as CEO was “very visible and you have to show up. You must be present to win and that’s what I tried to do. Wherever we were needed. I would show up. Our community leaders, wherever they needed me I’d show up. Our sponsors. I’m there. And fortunately I have a lot of energy,” she said with a laugh.

OFF THE COURT

Marshall, a Richmond, California native, said she plans to stay in Dallas with her husband, Kenneth, who has battled multiple myeloma for the past two years. Her battle with cancer 14 years ago prepared her for her husband’s journey. Through chemotherapy, he is doing better and has been given a positive prognosis.

“He’s still battling it but he’s better,” Marshall said of her husband of 41 years. “It’s hard on him but he laughs because someone said ‘now you’ll get a chance to see her more.’ He goes, ‘no and that’s not necessary,’” Marshall recalls with a laugh adding that he

will see her a little bit more as they continue with doctor appointments and his care.

Between her books, boards, making things better for youth, enjoying life, taking care of her husband and whatever else comes her wayMarshall’s second retirement, her third act in life promises to be a full and active one.

“I’m running hard from 65 to 75 and I plan to live to 102. I got cancer at 51 and that was my midlife crisis. So I’ll be running hard for a long time.”

As she reflects on the legacy that she is still building, when asked to finish the phrase, ‘Cynt Marshall was…,’ she leaves behind two thoughts and told me to use them both: “Cynt Marshall was…a force of nature… and heaven cynt.”

Jason Kidd, Cynt Marshall, and Nico Harrison at 2023 Mavs Ball

LEGAL NOTICES

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION FOR AN AIR QUALITY PERMIT

AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBERS: 20041, N196M1, AND PSDTX1590

APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. Solar Turbines Incorporated, 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Texas 751152481, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment of Air Quality Permit Number 20041, amendment of Nonattainment Permit Number N196M2, and amendment of Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) Air Quality Permit PSDTX1590M1, which would authorize modification to the Solar Turbines Dallas Overhaul Center at 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Dallas County, Texas 75115. This application was processed in an expedited manner, as allowed by the commission’s rules in 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 101, Subchapter J. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This application was submitted to the TCEQ on June 26, 2024. The existing facility will emit the following air contaminants in a significant amount: carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. In addition, the facility will emit: organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide. No other pollutant emission increase will result from this facility.

Dallas County has been designated nonattainment for ozone because Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring Stations have shown that ambient concentrations of ozone exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone. Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air but is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). The Federal Clean Air Act (FCAA) requires that new major stationary sources and major modifications at sources in designated nonattainment areas must satisfy nonattainment new source review prior to commencement of construction.

As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to 1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally, the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary determination to issue this permit.

A full PSD increment analysis was not required because the predicted impacts of all pollutants subject to PSD increment review were below the significant impact level for each pollutant.

The executive director has determined that the emissions of air contaminants from the proposed facility which are subject to PSD review will not violate any state or federal air quality regulations and will not have any significant adverse impact on soils, vegetation, or visibility. All air contaminants have been evaluated, and “best available control technology” will be used for the control of these contaminants.

The executive director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The permit application, the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary, and the executive director’s air quality analysis will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Dallas/Fort Worth regional office, and at the DeSoto Public Library, 211 East Pleasant Run Road, Suite C, DeSoto, Dallas County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review at the TCEQ Dallas/Fort Worth Regional Office, 2309 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. These documents are accessible through the Commission’s Web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/

cid: the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary, the air quality analysis, and, once available, the executive director’s response to comments and the final decision on this application. Access the Commissioners’ Integrated Database (CID) using the above link and enter the permit number for this application. The public location mentioned above, the DeSoto Public Library, provides public access to the internet. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https:// gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-96.850277,32.6275&level=13.

PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public comments or request a public meeting about this application. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comment or to ask questions about the application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting if the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest in the application, if requested by an interested person, or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing. You may submit additional written public comments within 30 days of the date of newspaper publication of this notice in the manner set forth in the AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION paragraph below.

After the deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider the comments and prepare a response to all public comment. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application. The mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested case hearing or reconsideration of the executive director’s decision.

OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in a state district court. A person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility is entitled to request a hearing. A contested case hearing request must include the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “I/we request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 30 days following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk, at the address provided in the information section below.

A contested case hearing will only be granted based on disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law that are relevant and material to the Commission’s decisions on the application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. Issues that are not submitted in public comments may not be considered during a hearing.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. If a timely contested case hearing request is not received or if all timely contested case hearing requests are withdrawn, the executive director may issue final approval of the application. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the application will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application and will be posted electronically to the CID. If any timely hearing requests are received and not withdrawn, the executive director will not issue final approval of the permit and will forward the application and requests to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled commission meeting.

MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas. gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1 800 687 4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800687-4040.

Further information may also be obtained from Solar Turbines Incorporated at the address stated above or by calling Mr. Gil P. Diekhoff, EHS Manager at (972) 228-6157.

Notice Issuance Date: 12-20-2024

COMISIÓN

AVISO DE SOLICITUD Y DECISIÓN PRELIMINAR PARA UN PERMISO DE CALIDAD DEL AIRE

NÚMEROS DE PERMISO DE CALIDAD DEL AIRE: 20041, N196M1, AND PSDTX1590

SOLICITUD Y DECISIÓN PRELIMINAR. Solar Turbines Incorporated, 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Texas 75115-2481, ha solicitado a la Comisión de Calidad Ambiental de Texas (TCEQ) una enmienda al Permiso de Calidad del Aire Número 20041, enmienda al Permiso de Incumplimiento Número N196M2 y enmienda al Permiso de Calidad del Aire de Prevención de Deterioro Significativo (PSD) PSDTX1590M1, que autorizaría la modificación del Centro de Revisión de Solar Turbines Dallas en 215 East Centre Park Boulevard, DeSoto, Condado de Dallas, Texas 75115. Esta solicitud se procesó de manera expedita, según lo permiten las reglas de la comisión en el Título 30 del Código Administrativo de Texas, Capítulo 101, Subcapítulo J. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. Esta solicitud se presentó a la TCEQ el 26 de junio de 2024. La instalación existente emitirá los siguientes contaminantes del aire en una cantidad significativa: monóxido de carbono y óxidos de nitrógeno. Además, la instalación emitirá: compuestos orgánicos, material particulado, incluido material particulado con diámetros de 10 micrones o menos y 2,5 micrones o menos, y dióxido de azufre. No se producirá ningún otro aumento en las emisiones de contaminantes a partir de esta instalación.

El condado de Dallas ha sido designado como incumplimiento por ozono porque las Estaciones de Monitoreo Continuo del Aire Ambiental han demostrado que las concentraciones ambientales de ozono exceden los Estándares Nacionales de Calidad del Aire Ambiental (NAAQS) para ozono. El ozono a nivel del suelo no se emite directamente al aire, sino que se crea mediante reacciones químicas entre los óxidos de nitrógeno (NOX) y los compuestos orgánicos volátiles (COV). La Ley Federal de Aire Limpio (FCAA) requiere que las nuevas fuentes estacionarias importantes y las modificaciones importantes en las fuentes en áreas designadas de incumplimiento deben satisfacer la revisión de nuevas fuentes de incumplimiento antes de comenzar la construcción.

Como lo requiere la revisión de incumplimiento, se han evaluado todos los contaminantes del aire y se ha abordado la “tasa de emisión más baja posible” para el control de estos contaminantes. Los aumentos de emisiones de este proyecto se compensarán con reducciones de emisiones en una proporción de 1.3 a 1. Además, el solicitante ha demostrado que los beneficios de la instalación existente superan significativamente los costos ambientales y sociales impuestos como resultado de su ubicación, construcción. Finalmente, el solicitante ha certificado que todas las principales fuentes estacionarias que posee o opera el solicitante en el estado están en cumplimiento o en un cronograma de cumplimiento con todas las limitaciones y estándares de emisiones estatales y federales aplicables. El director ejecutivo, por lo tanto, ha tomado la determinación preliminar para emitir este permiso.

No fue necesario un análisis completo del incremento de PSD porque los impactos previstos de todos los contaminantes sujetos a la revisión del incremento de PSD estaban por debajo del nivel de impacto significativo para cada contaminante.

El director ejecutivo ha determinado que las emisiones de contaminantes atmosféricos de la instalación propuesta que están sujetas a la revisión del PSD no violarán ninguna reglamentación estatal o federal de calidad del aire y no tendrán ningún impacto adverso significativo en el suelo, la vegetación o la visibilidad. Se han evaluado todos los contaminantes del aire y se utilizará la “mejor tecnología de control disponible” para el control de estos contaminantes.

El director ejecutivo completó la revisión técnica de la solicitud y preparó un borrador de permiso que, si se aprueba, establecería las condiciones bajo las cuales la instalación debe operar. La solicitud de permiso, la decisión preliminar del director ejecutivo que incluye el permiso preliminar, el resumen de la determinación preliminar del director ejecutivo y el análisis de la calidad del aire del director ejecutivo estarán disponibles para su visualización y copia en la oficina central de la TCEQ, la oficina regional de la TCEQ Dallas / Fort Worth, y en la Biblioteca Pública de DeSoto, 211 East Pleasant Run Road, Suite C, DeSoto, Condado de Dallas, Texas a partir del primer día de publicación de este aviso. El archivo de cumplimiento de la instalación, si existe, está disponible para revisión pública en la Oficina Regional de TCEQ Dallas / Fort Worth, 2309 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas.

INFORMACIÓN DISPONIBLE EN LÍNEA. Estos documentos son accesibles a través del sitio web de la Comisión en www.tceq.texas.gov/ goto/cid: la decisión preliminar del director ejecutivo que incluye el permiso preliminar, el resumen de la determinación preliminar del director ejecutivo, el análisis de la calidad del aire y, una vez disponible, la respuesta del director ejecutivo a los comentarios y la decisión final sobre

esta solicitud. Acceda a la base de datos integrada de los comisionados (CID) utilizando el enlace anterior e ingrese el número de permiso para esta solicitud. La ubicación pública mencionada anteriormente, la Biblioteca Pública DeSoto, proporciona acceso público a Internet. Este enlace a un mapa electrónico del sitio o la ubicación general de la instalación se proporciona como cortesía pública y no forma parte de la solicitud o aviso. Para conocer la ubicación exacta, consulte la solicitud. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-96.850277,32.6275&level=13.

COMENTARIO PÚBLICO / ENCUENTRO PÚBLICO. Puede enviar comentarios públicos o solicitar una reunión pública sobre esta solicitud. El propósito de una reunión pública es brindar la oportunidad de enviar comentarios o hacer preguntas sobre la solicitud. La TCEQ celebrará una reunión pública si el director ejecutivo determina que existe un grado significativo de interés público en la solicitud, si lo solicita una persona interesada o si lo solicita un legislador local. Una reunión pública no es una audiencia de caso impugnado. Puede enviar comentarios públicos por escrito adicionales dentro de los 30 días posteriores a la fecha de publicación en el periódico de este aviso de la manera establecida en el párrafo CONTACTOS E INFORMACIÓN DE LA AGENCIA a continuación.

Después de la fecha límite para comentarios públicos, el director ejecutivo considerará los comentarios y preparará una respuesta a todos los comentarios públicos. La respuesta a los comentarios, junto con la decisión del director ejecutivo sobre la solicitud, se enviará por correo a todos los que enviaron comentarios públicos o están en una lista de correo para esta solicitud. El correo también proporcionará instrucciones para solicitar una audiencia de caso impugnado o la reconsideración de la decisión del director ejecutivo.

OPORTUNIDAD DE AUDIENCIA DE CASO CONTESTADO. Una audiencia de caso impugnado es un procedimiento legal similar a un juicio civil en un tribunal de distrito estatal. Una persona que pueda verse afectada por las emisiones de contaminantes atmosféricos de la instalación tiene derecho a solicitar una audiencia. Una solicitud de audiencia de caso impugnado debe incluir lo siguiente: (1) su nombre (o para un grupo o asociación, un representante oficial), dirección postal, número de teléfono durante el día; (2) nombre del solicitante y número de permiso; (3) la declaración “Solicito / solicitamos una audiencia de caso impugnado”; (4) una descripción específica de cómo se vería afectado adversamente por la aplicación y las emisiones al aire de la instalación de una manera que no es común para el público en general; (5) la ubicación y la distancia de su propiedad en relación con la instalación; (6) una descripción de cómo usa la propiedad que puede verse afectada por la instalación; y (7) una lista de todas las cuestiones de hecho en disputa que envíe durante el período de comentarios. Si la solicitud es realizada por un grupo o asociación, uno o más miembros que tengan derecho a solicitar una audiencia deben ser identificados por su nombre y dirección física. También se deben identificar los intereses que el grupo o asociación busca proteger. También puede enviar los ajustes propuestos a la solicitud / permiso que satisfagan sus inquietudes. Solicitudes de audiencia de caso impugnado debe presentarse por escrito dentro de los 30 días siguientes a este aviso a la Oficina del Secretario en Jefe, en la dirección proporcionada en la sección de información a continuación.

Una audiencia de caso impugnado solo se otorgará sobre la base de cuestiones de hecho controvertidas o cuestiones mixtas de hecho y de derecho que sean relevantes y materiales para las decisiones de la Comisión sobre la solicitud. La Comisión solo puede conceder una solicitud de audiencia de caso impugnado sobre cuestiones que el solicitante presentó en sus comentarios oportunos que no fueron retirados posteriormente. Es posible que los asuntos que no se presenten en los comentarios públicos no se consideren durante una audiencia.

ACCIÓN DEL DIRECTOR EJECUTIVO. Si no se recibe una solicitud de audiencia de caso impugnado oportuna o si se retiran todas las solicitudes de audiencia de caso impugnado, el director ejecutivo puede emitir la aprobación final de la solicitud. La respuesta a los comentarios, junto con la decisión del director ejecutivo sobre la solicitud, se enviará por correo a todas las personas que enviaron comentarios públicos o que estén en una lista de correo para esta solicitud, y se publicarán electrónicamente en el CID. Si se recibe alguna solicitud de audiencia oportuna y no se retira, el director ejecutivo no emitirá la aprobación final del permiso y enviará la solicitud y las solicitudes a los Comisionados para su consideración en una reunión programada de la comisión.

LISTA DE CORREO. Puede solicitar que lo incluyan en una lista de correo para obtener información adicional sobre esta solicitud enviando una solicitud a la Oficina del Secretario en Jefe a la dirección que figura a continuación.

INFORMACIÓN Y CONTACTOS DE LA AGENCIA. Los comentarios y solicitudes del público deben enviarse electrónicamente en www14. tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, o por escrito a la Comisión de Calidad Ambiental de Texas, Oficina del Secretario en Jefe, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Tenga en cuenta que cualquier información de contacto que proporcione, incluido su nombre, número de teléfono, dirección de correo electrónico y dirección física, pasará a formar parte del registro público de la agencia. Para obtener más información sobre esta solicitud de permiso o el proceso de obtención de permisos, llame gratis al Programa de Educación Pública al 1-800-6874040. Si desea información en español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.

También se puede obtener más información de Solar Turbines Incorporated en la dirección indicada anteriormente o llamando al Sr. Gil Diekhoff, Gerente de EHS al (972) 228-6157.

Fecha de emisión del aviso: 12-20-2024

Public Notice

24 Hour Wrecker Serv

24 Hour Wrecker Service Public Notice VSF 0514204

The following vehicles will be sold at public auction on Monday 1/13/2025 if not released to register owners. Any announcements made the day of sale supercede any advertised announcments. The auction will be held at On line at www.jdnewell.com. If you have any questions, please call 972-227-5188.

Year/make, VIN, Tag. ALL VEHICLES ARE SOLD AS IS.

Vehicle

1996 GMC Sierra

1999 Dodge Ram 1500

2002 Mercedes-Benz E320

2003 GMC Yukon

2003 NISSAN Maxima

2004 NISSAN Sentra

2005 Honda Accord

2006 Volkswagen Jetta

2007 Chevrolet Malibu

2007 freightliner Columbia

2008 Honda Accord

2008 Infiniti G35

2008 NISSAN Versa

2009 Mercedes-Benz C300

2010 Dodge Challenger

2010 GMC Acadia

2010 Lexus IS 250

2011 Dodge Caliber

2013 Hyundai Elantra

2013 Hyundai Sonata S

2013 Lexus RX 350

2013 Mazda MAZDA5

2014 Cadillac Ats

2015 Hyundai Genesis)

2016 Chevrolet Trax

2016 NISSAN Frontier

2018 Chrysler 300

2018 freightliner M2 106

2020 NISSAN Rogue

homemade trailer

VIN

2GTEC19W0T1544288

1B7HC13Y2XJ534848

WDBJF65J92B432048

1GKFK16Z53J120220

JN1DA31D73T509946

3N1CB51D54L855021

3HGCM564X5G702243

3VWRF71K06M803943

1G1ZT68N47F127903

1FVHF0DE17PY37532

1HGCP26848A056595

JNKBV61E28M202378

3N1BC13E98L399117

WDDGF54X49R061853

2B3CJ4DV5AH135173

1GKLRKEDXAJ164317

JTHBF5C20A5111801

1B3CB9HA8BD295158

KMHDH4AE2DU805908

5NPEC4AB5DH712744

2T2ZK1BAXDC125642

JM1CW2BL2D0146906

1G6AB5RX1E0122727

KMHGN4JE3FU068968

KL7CJKSB6GB759347

1N6AD0CU4GN903897

2C3CCAAGXJH264480

3ALACWFC8JDJS1971

JN8AT2MT0LW032125

NO VIN

JANUARY

10

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

BIRTHDATE OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

DALLAS COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Drinking Liberally McKinney Friday, January 17·6:30 – 7:30pm

The Greater Fort Worth MLK Jr. Holiday Committee warmly invites you to an extraordinary evening of celebration at the MLK Dreamer Awards Gala at The Worthington Renaissance in Fort Worth, TX honoring Ms. Gladys Lee for her outstanding contributions, at 6:00pm $100 per individual ticket $1,000 per table (seats 10 guests and includes priority seating) To reserve your tickets or table: Email: gfwmlk@gmail.com Phone: 817-233-5613

College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic – at AT&T Stadium in Arlington

City Council Ad Hoc Committee for Administrative Affairs invites residents to participate in three “Meet and Greet” community input sessions to interact with the City Manager candidates and hear their perspectives on the future of Dallas at 10:00 AM – Dallas City Hall (Main Lobby, 1500 Marilla St., Dallas, TX) and 3:00 pm – Singing Hills Recreation Center (6805 Patrol Way, Dallas, TX)

12

City Council Ad Hoc Committee for Administrative Affairs invites residents to participate in three “Meet and Greet” community input sessions to interact with the City Manager candidates and hear their perspectives on the future of Dallas at 1:00 pm – Fretz Recreation Center (6950 Beltline, Dallas, TX)

13

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (ΔΣΘ) is a historically African American sorority. The organization was founded by college-educated women dedicated to public service with an emphasis on programs that assist the African American community. Delta Sigma Theta was founded on January 13, 1913 by 22 women at Howard University

15

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (ΑΚΑ) is the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority, founded on January 15, 1908, at the historically Black Howard University in Washington, D.C.,

Dallas County East Democrats Meeting

7:00 – 8:00pm

Black Bear Diner Mesquite, 3730 Towne Crossing Blvd, Mesquite, TX 75150

RELAX, REFRESH, RECONNECT

Make time to reconnect with yourself for the new year. Inspiring Speakers, Food, Meditation, Fun. 10am - 2pm CST. The Nature & Retreat Center, 5901 Los Rios Boulevard Plano, TX 75074

Garland Area Democratic Club Blue Fedora Lunch 12:00 – 1:00pm Jason’s Deli, 165 S Plano Rd, Richardson, TX 75081 17

An unforgettable evening celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the 15th and final Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oration Competition & Gala, presented by Linking Cultures of Frisco. This special event will occur at 7:00 pm at Verona Villa, 6591 Dallas Parkway, Frisco, Texas. The evening will feature an inspirational keynote address by Martin Luther King III, renowned human rights advocate and son of the legendary Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mellow Mushroom McKinney, 218 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

17-19

Student performance on Friday at TBAAL Naomi Bruton Theatre at 10am Public peformance featuring Eric Benet at Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2501 Flora St. at 7:30 pm

18

The 2025 Black Sports Professionals North Texas Sneaker Soirée, the third edition of the chapter’s annual sneaker ball, is slated from 6-10 pm Stay tuned on BSPNTX.com and the chapter’s social media handles for location and event details and ticket pricing information.

20

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ) is an International collegiate sorority that is historically African American founded in 1920 by five women at Howard University

23

Join Kellie Fischer, CFO of the Texas Rangers, Odessa Jenkins, Founder of the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC), Monica Paul, Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission, and Pauline MacDonald, Head Coach of Dallas Trinity FC as they share their unique experiences and insights on navigating a male-dominated field. This empowering discussion will highlight the challenges and triumphs of women in sports, inspiring thoughtful dialogue about what it means to be a woman in the industry. 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm Cotton Bowl (200 Level), 3809 Grand Ave., Dallas, Texas 75210 Guests: $50

Paul Quinn Basketball Texas A&M San Texarkana 5:30 pm

25

Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Frederica Chase Dodd Founders Day Public Luncheon, at 11:30 AM, Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 Olive St, Dallas, TX 75201+ Celebrate 100 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action with the Dallas Alumnae Chapter and speaker, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie

2nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Impact Brunch - 11:00am – 12:00pm at The Bedford Center YMCA, 2801 Forest Ridge Dr, Bedford, TX 76021

The North Central Texas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma

Theta Sorority, Inc. honors and reflects upon the inspiring life, legacy and social impact of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Impact Brunch

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo, 10a -4p African American Museum. Vendors, entertainment, cooking contests, lectures, health screenings, games, yoga lessons, financial literacy and voter education sessions, and more. Call 214941-0110 to register or get your vendor booth.

Where you can find Texas Metro News/Garland Journal

Balch Spring:

• Walmart: Lake June Rd.

Carrollton:

• Texaco: 2680 Old Denton Rd.

• 7-Eleven: 3700 Old Denton Rd. & Trinity Mill Rd.

• Texaco: Old Denton Rd./ Rosemeade Pkwy.

• Josey Ranch Library: 1700 Keller Springs

Coppell:

• North Lake College: 101 S. Royal Lane

Dallas:

• Tom Thumb Supermarket: S. Hampton Rd.

• Valero: West Jefferson St.

• Fiesta Supermarket: West Jefferson St.

• Valero: Marsalis and I-35 Stemmons Fwy.

• Oak Cliff Municipal: East Jefferson St.

• 7-Eleven: Marsalis and 8th St.

• Shell Station: 8th Street & I-35

• Exxon / Sonic: Riverfront Blvd.

• The Black Academy of Arts & Letter: S. Griffin St.

• K&T Smokes & More: Corinth & Morrell

• Shamrock Gas: Corinth & Morrell

• Exxon on Lancaster Rd & Saner

• Convenience Store Marsalis & Saner

• Smokey John’s BBQ: Mockingbird Lane

• Blue Bros. Restaurant: Mockingbird Lane

• IHOP Restaurant: Mockingbird Lane

• 7-Eleven: Gaston Ave. & Haskell St.

• The Volunteer Center: Live Oak & Liberty St.

• Walmart Stores: Retail Road

• Hamilton Baptist Church:

Schroeder Lane

• Tom Thumb: E. Lovers Lane

• 7-Eleven: Skillman Blvd. & Loop 12

• Chevron / McDonalds: N. Central Expressway

• Walmart Stores: N. Central Expressway

• 7-Eleven: N. Central Expressway

• Walmart: Northwest Hwy. @ Skillman

• Wash & Dry: Skillman @ Audelia

Downtown Dallas:

• Hall’s Honey Fried Chicken: Med Dist Dr & I-35

• Marriott: North Stemmons Freeway & I-35

• Happy Mart & McDonald’s: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• DoubleTree Hilton on Market Center Blvd.

• Best Western: Market Center Blvd.

• Courtyard by Marriott: Market Center Blvd.

• Comfort Inn & Suites: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• Home Suites Hilton: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• Embassy Suites: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• Extended Stay: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• Holiday Inn: N. Stemmons Fwy.

• 7-Eleven: N. Stemmons Fwy.

South Dallas/Oak Cliff:

• DJ’s Blackjack Pizza: MLK Blvd.

• 2 Podners Restaurant: R. B. Cullum Blvd.

• Elaine’s Jamaican Restaurant: MLK Blvd.

• Aunt Irene’s Kitchen: Malcolm X Blvd.

• Martin Luther King Center: MLK Blvd.

• SouthSide on Lamar: S. Lamar St.

• Fiesta Supermarket: R. B.

Cullum & MLK Blvd.

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.: MLK Blvd.

• Muhammad Mosque on MLK Blvd.

• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. on MLK Blvd.

• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. MLK Blvd.

• 7-Eleven: Ledbetter & Bonnie View Rd.

• Valero Gas: Ledbetter & Bonnie View Rd.

• CostPlus/CashSaver: Ledbetter & Lancaster Rd.

• Hall’s Honey Fried Chicken: S. Lancaster Rd.

• Lounas Convenience Store: S. Lancaster Rd.

• Convenience Store: Lea Crest Dr. & S. Lancaster Rd.

• Dunbar US Post office: Kiest Blvd.

• Black and Clark Funeral Home: S. Illinois Ave.

• Texaco Station: S. Illinois Ave.

• EatZone Restaurant: S. Illinois Ave.

• Pan-African Connection: Ann Arbor Rd. Plaza

• Convenience Store: Ann Arbor Rd. Plaza

• 99-cents Convenience: Ann Arbor Rd. Plaza

• Papa Mart: Overton Rd. & Ramona

• Bank of America: S. Lancaster & Overton Rd.

• Fiesta Supermarket: S. Lancaster & Kiest Blvd.

• Family Dollar: S. Lancaster Rd. & Illinois Ave.

• TacoMart: S. Lancaster Rd & Overton Rd.

• Wing Daddy Restaurant: S. Lancaster Rd. & Overton Rd.

• 7-Eleven: S. Lancaster Rd. and Overton Rd.

• Louisiana Catfish: Stuart Simpson & Bonnie View Rd.

• Save U More Supermarket: Stuart Simpson Rd.

• Valero Gas: Stuart Simpson Rd.

• Exxon Convenience: Stuart Simpson Rd.

• Sweet Georgia Brown Restaurant: Ledbetter & Bonnie View Rd.

• Wells Fargo Bank: Hampton Rd.

• Glen’s Kitchen: Camp Wisdom Rd.

• South Dallas Cafe: Camp Wisdom Rd.

• Popeyes Exxon: S. Lancaster Rd.

• Cash Saver/Cost Plus: W. Camp Wisdom Rd.

West Dallas:

• Jerry’s Mart: Westmoreland Rd.

• Circle K: Westmoreland & S. Hampton Rd.

• 7-Eleven: Westmoreland & S. Hampton Rd.

• CostPlus Cash Saver: S.Hampton Rd.

• 7-Eleven: S. Hampton Rd.

DeSoto/Lancaster:

• Walmart on Beltline Rd & I-35

• 7-Eleven: Beltline Rd.

• DeSoto Grocery: Beltline Rd.

• Tom Thumb: Pleasant Run Rd.

• DeSoto Convenience Store: Pleasant Run Rd.

• B&B Tax: Pleasant Run Rd.

Duncanville:

• WinCo Food Stores: I-67

• Hilton Express: I-67

• Louisiana Fried Chicken: W. Wheatland Rd.

• Louisiana Catfish: East Danieldale Road & I-67

• Shell Gas: I-67 and E. Danieldale Rd.

• Pantera Convenience: I-67 & E. Danieldale Rd.