IMessenger, January 24, 2025, Upload Copy

to aKing

Garland,Rowlett

I Messenger

MAILING ADDRESS

320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110

Cheryl Smith

PUBLISHER - EDITOR

editor@myimessenger.com www.myimessenger.com

S. Curet

GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com

NEWSLETTER EDITOR

Marva Sneed

EDITORIAL TEAM

Chelle Wilson

Dorothy J. Gentry

Eva Coleman

Lajuana Barton

Rebecca Aguilar

Vincent Hall

Valerie Fields-Hill

Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew Dr. Stacia Alexander

DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio

WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION

MB Distribution

Rep. Crockett, Sen. Cornyn introduce Bill to rename Dallas VA after Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

From Staff Reports

WASHINGTON, DC - On January 16, 2025, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) and Senator John Cornyn (TX) introduced legislation to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Dallas after the late Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

from Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station where the regional rail that she helped fund is connecting communities across North Texas, to the Eddie Bernice Johnson STEM Academy in Wilmer, Texas, where students are learning the skills they will need to forge a career in science and technology—sectors boosted by the CHIPS and Science Act

in 2019 and the Strengthening Mental Health Supports for BIPOC Communities Act in 2020.”

Crockett added, “I am grateful to my colleague, Senator John Cornyn, for working with me to honor Congresswoman Johnson’s legacy by leading this bill in the U.S. Senate. I am eager to walk through the doors of the Eddie Bernice Johnson

that Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson championed,” said Rep. Crockett.

Mesquite Richardson E.Dallas

Garland,Rowlett

Mesquite Richardson & E.Dallas

Editorial submissions editor@texasmetronews.com

(903) 450-1397 1

The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as (903) 450-1397 1

The bill would rename the facility as the “Eddie Bernice Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center,” to honor the Congresswoman’s 30 years of service as U.S. Representative for Texas’ 30th Congressional District and 10 years of service within the Texas Legislature.

Additionally, prior to being elected to public office, Congresswoman Johnson dedicated 16 years of service as the first Black American to serve as Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the Dallas Veterans Administration Hospital.

“As I carry on in the footsteps of my trailblazing predecessor, I see Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson’s legacy and impact in every corner of the district I represent:

“Throughout her 30 years of service to the people of North Texas, Congresswoman Johnson was guided by her service-driven heart and compassion for Texans in need —the same qualities that fueled her work as Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the Dallas Veterans Administration Hospital for nearly two decades.

“Congresswoman Johnson never forgot the servicemen and women she treated there, and fought to increase funding and resources for veteran and mental healthcare from her early days in the Texas Capitol to her last years in Congress, introducing the Department of Energy Veterans’ Health Initiative Act

Dallas VA Medical Center alongside Senator Cornyn and the Texas veterans that she cared for so dearly.”

“Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was a trailblazer and longtime advocate for veterans,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation to rename the VA Medical Center in Dallas in Congresswoman Johnson’s honor—nearly 70 years after she was hired as a nurse at this very hospital—would ensure her legacy of service is forever preserved.”

This bill is supported by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in the Senate and Representatives Al Green (TX-9), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Lance Gooden (TX-5).

Sen. John Cornyn

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

Rep. Jasmine Crockett

QUIT PLAYIN’

Your pocketbook is suffering. And whether your piggy bank has a hairline fracture, a gaping hole, or has been gutted, the time to repair it is now. The latest statistics published by the U.S. Department.

I WAS JUST THINKING... TO BE EQUAL

Sorry to disturb your tranquility. But spirit compels me to pay homage to a woman named Jane. History gave her the name Jane Elkins, though neither she nor any of her unknown family members had the privilege...

Every nation’s history includes unsettling truths that many would prefer to forget or deny. But true patriotism demands confronting the truths of our history—no matter how embarrassing or dishonorable...

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert Named Dallas City Manager

From Staff Reports

DALLAS - The Dallas City Council adopted a resolution appointing Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, to the position of City Manager. Tolbert is the 19th city manager for the City of Dallas dating back to 1931. The resolution also approved the terms of her employment and authorized the execution of an Agreement of Employment.

This appointment follows a national search for Dallas’ City Manager, led by the City Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on Administrative Affairs, with Mayor Pro Tem Tenell Atkins as its Chair. She was selected as one of three finalists for the role and in addition to interviews, participated in three candidate community engagement events.

Tolbert was appointed Interim City Manager in May 2024. At that time, Tolbert proactively launched a 100Day transition plan to address critical areas for process improvement and operation-

al enhancements. Some of her key successes within her first 100 days as Interim City Manager include delivering a balanced biennial FY 202425 budget with unanimous City Council Approval, cutting overall new construction commercial permitting median issuance time by 31%, restructuring the organizational chart to foster greater cross-departmental collaboration, consolidated multiple departments to enhance productivity, saving $13 million, and launched recruitment and retention incentives to enhance first responder competitiveness.

As Dallas’ City Manager, City Manager Tolbert will continue to oversee the City’s $5.2 billion budget and 13,000+ City of Dallas team members.

“I want to thank the City Council for their confidence in me to lead this City as we evolve on the world stage, with a thriving and inclusive community that sets the standard for excellence,” said Tolbert.

“I am certain that we can

collectively achieve this through innovation, efficient government, and targeted economic growth. But we cannot do it alone, each of our stakeholders make Dallas extraordinary, and we are committed to continuing to foster trust by delivering on our promise of Service First, with the urgency of Now! Finally, I want to thank our talented City of Dallas team. Their passion and dedication have inspired me during my tenure as Interim City Manager and I am excited to build upon the momentum we have already achieved.”

In a statement following the vote, City of Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson said:

“I am proud to support Kimberly Bizor Tolbert as Dallas’ new city manager. As Interim City Manager for the past 10 months, Tolbert has streamlined city operations, improved government efficiency, reduced taxpayer waste, and delivered a budget with the largest single-year property tax rate reduction in Dallas history.”

“With Tolbert now serving in a permanent role, Dallas is poised to take full advantage of the opportunities before us as we continue to reduce the tax rate, enhance government efficiency and transparency, and keep the people of Dallas safe. Now, Dallas can take the next steps toward hiring permanent police and fire chiefs to strengthen our standing as the safest major city in America.”

“Lastly, I want to thank Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins for his leadership in guiding the selection process as chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Administrative Affairs,” added Mayor Johnson.

The appointment was effective January 22, 2025.

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert

MY TRUTH by

Cheryl Smith Publisher

Another thanks to Vice President Harris and Dougie!

With the utmost respect, I send a heartfelt and sincere thanks to Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, the man who asked her to be his wife and then in turn willingly and dutifully accepted the role of “Second Gentleman.”

When you visited Dallas on the campaign trail, Dougie, I saw something in you. You really care! And that’s what I needed to see. You saw more in Sen. Harris than others that I won’t say they didn’t see; they just wouldn’t acknowledge.

Rather than cite her intelligence, brilliance, compassion, and methodically passionate pursuit of all things noble; folks let their biases and insecurities surround their ig-

norance, thus we were deluged with inappropriate, unconscionable acts and actions.

I know the last four years have not been a cakewalk for you.

Surely there have been times when you wanted to step out and open a few cans.

You wouldn’t be you, you wouldn’t be for real if you didn’t take issue with many of the ill-willed attacks on your “woman.”

Thanks for being a true gentleman and weathering the many storms. If you and your family didn’t have an idea of how some folks treat other folks in this country, you sure know now!

Equipped with that knowledge, maybe the future will be brighter as

those who have been enlightened will join together to shine a light that will make this world a better place.

Vice President Should Be President

There are no words that can adequately express my heartfelt appreciation for Vice President Kamala Harris’ journey.

It was one, that while standing on the shoulders of great people who came before her, carried a torch for those unborn.

Her journey will be celebrated by those who never got to see her. They will hear and read the stories - good and bad; true and totally false.

Realizing they were side of history, there who lie and say they and that they wanted You know? Like the they marched with Dr. King, Jr., or they supported Rock Nine or spoke cial injustice! I would love to hear ident reciting “Ego-Tripping,” late, great Nikki Giovanni. gone where no other country has gone with grace and love. out on faith, wearing Smokey Robinson sang about in “Tears

No One Is Above the Law?

WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE

BY E. FAYE WILLIAMS

All my life I’ve heard “No one is above the law.” If you’ve heard that and believed it, you’ve probably done all you could to stay out of trouble. Others don’t believe it’s true because they’ve seen too many people who look like them prove that statement wrong and wonder if that law only applies to Black people! When they see many of their friends in prison for minor crimes, they must be confused.

When they hear news about someone they know who has avoided the law repeatedly, they wonder what the exceptions are when they do something far less harmful yet end up behind bars. What they ultimately determine is that someone is above the law! That person is never Black!

– He was indicted in New York for falsifying business records to cover up “hush money” payments to Stormy Daniels.

– He was indicted for retaining top-secret national security documents at his private residence.

He led an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol to stop the certification of the 2020 election results, causing severe injuries and deaths — but Trump’s answer is “Pardon them all!”

What is holding up a pardon by President Joe Biden for former Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who was prosecuted for doing her job? She didn’t destroy public property. She didn’t kill or hurt anybody as Trump’s supporters did — supporters he promises to pardon once back in office. More than all those white people, Marilyn Mosby deserves a pardon for being convicted for doing her job.

were on the wrong there will be those they voted for her wanted her to win. the ones who said Dr. Martin Luther supported the Little spoke out against sohear our Vice Pres“Ego-Tripping,” by the Giovanni. She has other woman in this and she has led love. She has stepped wearing that face that and the Miracles “Tears of A Clown!”

Next Chapter

I don’t even care what Vice President Harris does next. If she wants to pursue another office, even the presidency, that is her prerogative. If she wants to write a book, teach, or be a stay-at-home wife, she deserves to decide.

After all, look at what she has done in her short life. Look at the impact she has had and how so many, without knowing it, have benefitted from her being in the room, at the table, in the seat!

Vice President Kamala Harris, thanks for your service.

With good reason, some people actually believe there is someone above the law, and they believe they are the one because they’ve always been able to live above punishment due to their skin color. It’s always been that way, so I urge any Black person to look at the exceptions before thinking about committing a crime. You are not now, and never have been able to use “I am above the law.”

Now look at who has been living above the law all his life. He has been labeled “the most corrupt and dangerous president in history.”

Just look at what this person has repeatedly done to prove he is above the law! Here’s just a sample of what he’s done, and he’s still adding on, confident he’ll never serve time for his recent crimes:

– He unlawfully attempted to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia. We heard him on the phone trying to persuade an official to join him in committing a crime.

Biden will be leaving office soon. Please sign the petition for him to pardon Attorney Mosby at justiceformarilynmosby.com. If Trump is above the law after 34 convictions, why should Marilyn be punished for doing her job?

Because he’s gotten away with so much due to his allies on the Supreme Court giving him sweeping immunity, he thinks he’s completely off the hook!

Trump has been convicted of 34 crimes by a unanimous jury. Judge Juan Merchan, presiding judge in Trump’s “hush money” case, has said Trump must report to court Jan. 10 for sentencing but already added he will not receive jail time!

Those of us who aren’t above the law just shake our heads and wonder what this man must do to be properly punished for his convictions and still be president!

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www. nationalcongressbw.org.

Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff

You Better Think!

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

Your pocketbook is suffering. And whether your piggy bank has a hairline fracture, a gaping hole, or has been gutted, the time to repair it is now.

The latest statistics published by the U.S. Department of Commerce show personal savings as a percentage of disposable income plummeted after the COVID-19 pandemic. That number fell from 5.8% in 2010 to 4.3% in the last quarter of 2024.

That means the average wage-earning American making $500 per week only has about $22 that can be saved.

Yo’ money is funny, and your change is strange, and it ain’t just you! Most of us run out of money long before we run out of month.

In 2025, my goal is to spend less and save more. I want to get comfortable with saving 10% or more each month.

Donald Trump’s executive orders and tariffs could kill economic trade, and high inflation may see a repeat performance. Your money may decline, but you can bet your bills won’t!

Trump also issued an order to have all qualified Negroes removed from the government payroll. His “anti-DEI” is nothing less than a frontal assault on Black and minority workers.

The federal workforce is 19% Black, while the nation is only 13% Black. Fairness

in hiring among government employers has always been our saving grace. From the hiring of postal clerk William Cooper Nell in 1863 until this present hour, the government has given our people a chance at becoming middle class.

If opportunities for Blacks and minorities is left to that racist Elon Musk, there would be no Black executives, and there would likely be a sharp increase in our unemployment rates. We need to get ready.

My mom inherited and maintained three pearls of personal wisdom: “Don’t break a dollar to spend a dime, always look for a bargain, and remember that a bargain ain’t a bargain if it ain’t something you can use.”

First, make an honest needs assessment before you break a 10, 20, or one of the “big head hundreds.”

Is it worth it? In the words of comedian Chris Rock, anytime you find yourself at the ATM in the morning’s wee hours, you must carefully consider what you are doing.

Smart shoppers realize that bargain shopping is not a hobby; it’s a skill. Learn to decipher ads. For example, “buy one, get one half off” only saves 25 percent. “Buy two, get one free” is 33 percent off and only qualifies as a bargain if you can use three.

Regarding banking, having automatic bill pay or deductions shouldn’t preclude checking your monthly statements. Debit cards are great, but like credit cards, they tend to make us spend more than if we paid the bill in cold, hard cash. Convenience cards put

Save some money and hide some too! Grandma always had some stashed at the house, and it’s time for us to follow suit before Trump issues an executive order outlawing Negroes having money in banks!

us all in a state of financial denial.

See what you can save by cutting down on your bad habits. Cigarettes cost $12 a pack, which is $360 per month. Coffee or energy drinks could cost $250 per household member per month. Booze at home is cheaper than at the bar. We borrow money we don’t have to impress people we don’t like.

Then there’s laundry, groceries, tuition, medical bills, prescriptions, and toll roads.

The “disposable income” list goes on and on.

Save some money and hide some too! Grandma always had some stashed at the house, and it’s time for us to follow suit before Trump issues an executive order outlawing Negroes having money in banks!

In the words of Aretha Franklin, “you better Think!”

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

89th Texas Legislative session is in

By Rita Cook Correspondent Texas Metro News

AUSTIN, TX. – The Texas 89th legislative session officially began last week on Jan. 14.

Sessions are held biennially and unless special sessions are called, the regular legislative session covers a five-month period at which time new bills are filed and passed.

Already there have been more than 2,400 bills filed, which reportedly is the highest number in state history.

While there are many lawmakers hoping their bills cross the governor’s desk, only one bill; HB 1 is required to be passed during session.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced his 2025 Texas Senate Committee appointments last week with Dallas Sen. Royce West named as Vice-Chair on the Senate Committee on Transportation, as well as being appointed to the Senate Committee on Education K-16, the Senate Committee on Finance, and the Senate Committee on Local Government.

Ellis County Sen. Brian Birdwell was named Chair of the Senate Committee on Border Security, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and he was appointed to the Senate Committee on Nominations, the Senate Committee on State Affairs, and the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs.

Patrick said, “Texas has the population and economic strength of a separate nation. With the 8th largest economy in the world, we would be the 39th largest nation in geographic size, and the 50th largest in population if we were a country.

“When it comes to legislative bodies, the Texas Senate is

AUSTIN

clearly the best in the world.”

ROUND-UP

Sen. West filed several bills to track during this session

In 2023 there was a bill passed for a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in higher education. Another bill passed too (HB 1521, SB 689), further enhancing the DEI bill, and expanding Texas governmental entities.

This year Sen. West has filed bills to create new exclusions to last year’s ban (SB 579-581) relating to “an exemption from certain requirements regarding diversity, equity, or inclusion initiatives for certain charitable funds at public institutions of higher education.”

West also filed Senate Bill 210 regarding municipal permitting requirements for certain development projects supported with low income housing tax credit allocations.

Rep. Brian Harrison looks toward removing property tax and “protecting civil liberties”

State Rep. Brian Harrison who represents Ellis County said he is about a Texas First Liberty Agenda during the 89th Session.

Harrison said he worked with President Trump during his first administration and explained “Texas is known for leading in freedom and liberty, but for too

long we have been simply coasting on our “small government” reputation.”

Rep. Harrison said he wants to put taxpayers first and eliminate property tax.

“Texans are being taxed out of their homes, and the Texas government has been abusing property owners and taxpayers for too long,” Harrison explained. “What is clear is that Texans, and my colleagues’ constituents, are ready to finally abolish property taxes and be able to own their own homes.”

He also wants to cut the state budget by at least 15%, placing spending caps on local governments, capping bureaucrat salaries, requiring zero based budgeting, and ending corporate welfare and crony corporatism.

“The Texas Legislature is forcing taxpayers to fund liberal Hollywood, crony capitalism, corporate welfare, transgender ideology in public universities, and is letting woke, multinational corporations pay less in property taxes than local small businesses and homeowners,” Harrison explained about his incentive to file a bill to cut these dollars.

He is also about making Texas a powerhouse for education. To him that means empowering all Texas families, “with school

choice, force ISDs to prioritize teachers, stop ISD electioneering, and end taxpayer funded obscenity and liberal indoctrination in K-12 and public universities.”

His other priorities include securing the border and working toward a permanent solution to the Border Protection Unit Act; defeating the regulatory state and occupational licenses; increasing oversight of executive agencies, term limiting bureaucrats and reducing their power, while ending Chevron Deference.

Harrison said another plan is to wean Texas off federal dollars that bring destructive regulations while also stopping state agencies from deferring to federal agencies.

Ending taxpayer’s funding of lobbying is high on his list during this session as well as limiting executive “Emergency Powers” of the Governor; defending medical freedom and free market healthcare by keeping decisions between doctors and patients; ensuring non-citizens do not vote in US elections; ending hostile governments from purchasing Texas farmland; and protecting the grid while reforming the energy market.

He also added he will promote Texas exceptionalism.

“Taxpayer-funded racism has no place in the great state of Texas,” Harrison said. “As Justice Thomas rightfully stated in his concurrence in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, race-based employment and admission policies that are predicated on a fallacious linking of race with individual outcomes ‘is an insult to individual achievement and cancerous to young minds seeking to push through barriers, rather than

See AUSTIN ROUND-UP, page 23

Sen. Brian Birdwell

Sen. Royce West

Recent years have helped tell world why Jane Elkins’ hanging in Dallas should be remembered

I WAS JUST THINKING...

NORMA ADAMS-WADE

Sorry to disturb your tranquility. But spirit compels me to pay homage to a woman named Jane. History gave her the name Jane Elkins, though neither she nor any of her unknown family members had the privilege of choosing the last name assigned to her. You may have heard a little about Jane here and there. She was an enslaved

African descendant officially executed by hanging in downtown Dallas -- the first female to be legally executed in Texas in the mid1800s. History tells us that hanging is legal execution. It is said to be different from lynching that is not legal and usually is done by a mob of persons bent on revenge or plain evil-doing.

I would prefer to simply call her a woman named Jane, because the Elkins name was not her unknown family’s choice. But for the sake of historical record, I

will acquiesce and accept the name Jane Elkins.

And like Breonna Taylor (2020), Atatiana Jefferson (2019), Sandra Bland (2015), and so, so many countless others – female and male –who died unjustly, we must say Jane Elkins’ name and remember that she existed and deserved a chance at life and freedom.

Because Jane is so littleknown, I was startled to discover the amount of history that does exist about her -- even though what we do know pales compared

to what we do NOT know about her. For instance, we still must wonder who gave her the name “Jane.” But our lack of knowledge is why I am writing today about the woman known as Jane.

I was surprised to discover how many other curious writers and researchers wanted to know more about Jane than the usual Dallas County records description: “the first woman to be legally hanged in Texas.” But I was just thinking... who was Jane – really? What were her thoughts and dreams, her

Ed Gray, who leads Dallas County Justice Initiative, stands in front of the Jane Elkins’ marker at Martyrs Park near downtown Dallas. Photo: The Dallas Morning News

hopes and goals?  Did she ever laugh or dance or joke or sit around a campfire with friends and family?

Who was Jane Elkins?

Jane Elkins was an enslaved African American female  hanged at the early Dallas County Courthouse in down-town Dallas, now known as the old Red Courthouse. The date was May 27, 1853 – a decade before U. S. Pres. Abe Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 declaring the end of slavery, even though the Civil War continued two additional years.

The March 17, 1844 Bill of Sale for her enslavement refers to her as “a negro woman named Jane.” (I personally found the description “negro” interesting for that period of time in the mid-1800s.) Historians gave her the last name Elkins from the Caucasian family that owned her as their property when she was hanged.

Jane was purchased for $400. Her age and place of birth were  unknown, but historians speculate that she was maybe in her 40s at the time. Along with her name, the bill of sale added that she was sold at the same time as a “child about 20 years.” The record does not specify whether said “child” was related to Jane and does not mention that “child” again. Historians cite the following details about the circumstances of Jane’s death: A jury of all-white males—with no defense attorney -- found Jane guilty of

murdering widower Andrew C. Wisdom, who the Elkins family assigned Jane to as a caretaker for Wisdom’s two small children. Jane allegedly murdered Wisdom by fatally slamming an axe in his head while he was sleeping. The murder occurred allegedly after Wisdom raped her, but there was no proof.

Jane remained silent throughout her one-day May 16, 1853 trial, her sentencing the next day, and her hanging 10 days later.  Hundreds of people from scattered places gathered in the courtyard to witness the hanging from a constructed gallows. Historians say Jane was buried in a shallow grave and her body later exhumed and used for medical research.

Dallas playwright/ poet helped shine the spotlight

Dallas playwright and poet

Anyika McMillan-Herod appears likely to be the most recent person to resurrect Elkins’ memory and tell her story. Many of you likely know that McMillan-Herod is a member of one of Dallas’ prominent and revered African American families. The McMillans carved places in local Black history for their activism, bravery, and dedication to the fight for equal rights, privileges, and respect for Dallas and national descendants of motherland Africa.

McMillan-Herod’s iconic mat-ernal grandmother was Eva Partee McMillan. That matriarch never turned away from a civil or human rights battle during

her 100 years and four months on earth from May 7, 1921 to Sept. 23, 2021. The playwright and poet’s uncle is Ernest McMillan, Eva’s son and a human rights rebel, Black Power activist, and change agent.  He picked up his mother’s mantle as a defiant youth who would not drink the South’s segregation Kool-Aid.

After all this timepublic discussions and action

My interest in the enslaved woman called Jane is that she remained virtually a non-person for well over a half-century. My head expanded to learn that more has been written and discussed over the last decade than I would ever imagine. Here is a summary of those writings about Jane:

1) October 28, 2014. People’s World. Discussed the play The Ballad of Jane Elkins.

2) January 22, 2016. A review of the book by Terry Baker, Hanging and Lynching in Dallas County, Texas:1853 to 1920 that mentions Jane Elkins.

3) [No date given]. For the group Human Rights Dallas, writer Donna Gosbee discusses the 1853 Jane Elkins hanging in downtown Dallas. [This same article also is published in the Find A Grave website.]

4) June 5, 2016. Gene Lantz, a labor activist and Dallas KNON radio labor show co-host, writes about an operetta he wrote chronicling the injustice of the Jane Elkins hanging in Dallas.

Martyrs Park marker with Shadow Lines sculpture in background that honors victims of racial violence.

Photo: The Dallas Morning News

5) Jan. 24, 2017. Dr. Daina Ramey Berry, University of California, Santa Barbara ,history professor and dean,  writes about Jane Elkins in the prize-winning book The Price for Their Pound of Flesh: The Value of the Enslaved from Womb to Grave, in the Building of a Nation.

6) August 6, 2018. Malanna Wheat, a 2018 writer with the SMU newspaper The Daily Campus, mentions Jane Elkins in the article, “The History of Hangings and Lynchings in Dallas County.”

7) September 28, 2018. The Dallas Morning News special contributor Robert Wilonsky mentions Jane Elkins in his 2018 article about an unmarked burial ground, believed to be a seemingly forgotten Freedman’s Cemetery. It is next to the small Garvin Memorial Cemetery for Confederate soldiers near Bachman Lake. Wilonsky mentions that his visit to the cemetery aroused memories of the 1977 book Dallas Yesterday in which writer Sam Acheson discusses the Jane Elkins trial and hanging.

8) November 23, 2020. CBSDFW.com news outlet interviewed playwright/poet Anyika McMillan-Herod about what motivated her to write her 2014 play The Ballad of Jane Elkins that increasingly has been performed at various sites around Dallas since then. The news outlet cites an August 1880 Galveston Daily News article written about the Elkins trial and  hanging. ...McMillan-Herod also wrote a

personal blog about the play repeating some of her comments made in new interviews about the drama.

9) March 7, 2022. Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation is a national network of groups organized to combat racism. The Dallas chapter wrote in 2022 about Jane Elkins and the inequities of her life and trial by an all-white male jury in 1853.

10) October 14, 2022. The YouTube video, Death Row, included a segment about Jane Elkins.

11) March 19, 2024. Sharon Grigsby writes in The Dallas Morning News about the then-upcoming March 26, 2024 dedication of the sculpture “Shadow Lines” at Martyrs Park near the grassy knoll and Triple Underpass in downtown Dallas. The public artwork, by artists Shane Allbritton and Norman Lee, commemorates Dallas-area victims of lynching and racial violence. Jane Elkins’ name is among the names carved into the sculpture.

12) June 22, 2024. The Dallas Morning News staff writers Aria Jones and Pavan Acharya report on the unveiling of two Texas Historical Commission markers. One memorializes Janes Elkins, the other paying homage to three enslaved Black men – Patrick Jennings, Cato Miller, and Rev. Samuel Smith -- who 1860 were lynched by a mob that accused them, without a trial, of attempting a slave

revolt and setting the destructive fire that burned much of downtown Dallas that year. Organizers said the purpose of the markers is to raise awareness of unjust racial violence in Dallas history.

13) July 31, 2024. A social media report about the Sunday, July 28, 2024 presentation of the play The Trial of Jane Elkins at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Oak Cliff. The play was presented by a women’s group, Chebe, in collaboration with individuals including labor organizer Gene Lantz, and community activist Olinka Green.

14) October 17, 2024. Renee Raven, a writer with FMX Radio 94.5, wrote the research piece “Notorious: The Life and Crimes of Every Woman Executed in Texas,” and included information about the 1853 Jane Elkins’ hanging.

Kudos to historians of Dallas African American history

Passing the torch and picking up the baton are important -- certainly where resurrecting and preserving Dallas Black history are concerned. The late Dr. George Keaton Jr. in 2015 founded and led the respected non profit Remembering Black Dallas (RBD). That group descended from Black Dallas Remembered founded in 1983 by the late beloved educator and historian Dr. Mamie McKnight who died Jan. 1, 2018 at age 88.

Dallas has had significant historians of Black Dallas including Don Payton, Clarence Glover Jr., Dr. H. Rhett James, and others. Ed Gray, a close associate with Dr. Keaton Jr., picked up the Black history torch by heading the Dallas County Justice Initiative, an affiliate of the national Equal Justice Initiative. Gray still works closely with RBD president Deborah Hopes who picked up Dr. Keaton Jr’s baton after he died Dec. 7, 2022 at age 66. We know of individuals like Jane Elkins and other martyrs because of these past and present torch bearers. The flame still burns because of their dedication.

Community activist Olinka Green as Jane in the play The Trial of Jane Elkins that was performed free on June 15, 2024 at Pan African Connection bookstore. Presented by the Texas Alliance for Retired Americans. Photo: Facebook

Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas native. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! January 2025

Antonio and Ashley Kornegay 8 years

Shonta and Stevis Forward 9 years

Damion and Maria Brumfield 26 years

Isaiah and Precious Bunkley 4 years

Joseph and Deborah Jones 34 years

Darryl and Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 18 years

Ty and Kimberly Foster 4 years

JaLeisa and Tyler Coleman 18 years

Bryson and Alexia Lewis 11 years

Call issued to Support Black Businesses

Buy Black!

By

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

At Daq & Mag, they take pride in serving Authentic Fried Catfish, freshly breaded by hand, alongside their renowned Ox Tails, a recipe they’ve cherished since 2019. Their kitchen prepares quality meals daily, featuring fresh collard greens, savory southern cabbage, delicious candied yams, and a selection of mouth-watering party wings. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re craving comfort food or a taste of tradition. Visit the restaurant.

• 3431 W Camp Wisdom Rd., Dallas. Serving Lunch and Dinner.

• https://www.daqandmagdaiquiris.com/

• email: daqandmagdaiquiris@gmail.com

• 214-605-2309

LESHAE LUXE LEBEL

CREATOR & OWNER, DOMONIQUE L. DAVIS

A & A Angelic Gifts LLC, it’s the place that has it all. They have a great selection of products that will cover all your needs, no matter what they are. A & A Angelic Gifts LLC was founded with one goal in mind: providing high-quality, carefully developed products. Browse the inventory to discover new arrivals and best sellers and subscribe to stay in the know about upcoming deals and special offers. So, don’t settle for anything but the best, check them out for yourself. Visit the website.

• aagiftsllc.wixsite.com/aaangelicgiftsllc

• Phone: (804) 301-9970

• Email: aagiftsllc@gmail.com

MARY’S TWISTED KITCHEN, OWNER MARY DUDLEY

Mary Dudley, owner of Mary’s Twisted Kitchen. Mary has a passion for cooking and making people feel good. She extended this passion to a business and operated a small restaurant inside a gas station with the help of her son. Mary’s Twisted Kitchen has a full menu. You will find them downtown on Commerce St. You can also order online. Visit the website sign up for the email list and get updates and specials. There is more to explore.

• https://www.marystwistedkitchen.com/

• 921 W Commerce St Dallas TX 75208

• Mail: Mtwistedkitchen@gmail.com

• Tel: 214-710-8462

KAMIT SPORTS MS. DORRIS BOGUS, FOUNDER

Nails That Speak Studio is a full-service nail boutique that prioritizes care and creativity while cultivating community. Their skillful nail professionals specialize in natural nail and foot care. They are located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in the thriving community of Cedar Hill TX. They have extended hours and squeeze-in appointments may be available based on the studio availability by request by joining the waitlist on the website. Book your appointment today.

• https://www.nailsthatspeakstudio.com/

• email: info@nailsthatspeakstudio.com

Meet Domonique Davis, an organic skin and hair care product creator. Domonique has been using shea butter, cocoa butter, and organic oils ever since she can remember. Her loving mother, a cosmetologist, exposed her to these products. She has a bachelor’s in fashion styling. Domonique has always used her expertise and gifts in the beauty industry. However, in 2020 she decided to use her God-giving talents and passions elsewhere she created LeShae Luxe Lebel. Each recipe is handcrafted with love and luscious goodness. The products are 100% organic, chemical, preservative, and fragrance-free. Visit her website shop and learn more about LaShae Luxe Label.

• https://leshaeluxelebel.com/

• Email: leshaeluxelebel@gmail.com

• Phone: 214-766-0947

KAMIT Apparel was founded in 2008 by Dorris Bogus, a native Tennessean. As a mom of three children who had just moved to a new state and was trying to cram 28 hours into a 24-hour day, she needed time-saving strategies. Dorris’s varied roles included PTA Board member, Entrepreneur, Fitness Enthusiast, Mom, and Spouse. These various roles added outfit changes to an already full to-do list. KaMIT Sport, an active and casual wear brand was designed, developed, and marketed to help women just like herself transition through the day in comfort and style with minimal outfit changes and still look fabulous. Visit the website and explore your style.

• https://kamitsport.com/

• 811 E Plano Parkway, Plano

NAILS THAT SPEAK STUDIO

DAQ & MAG DAQUIRI’S

Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

Public Notice

24 Hour Wrecker Serv

24 Hour Wrecker Service Public Notice VSF 0514204

The The following vehicles will be sold at public auction on Monday 1/27/2025 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

1994 Chevrolet Astro

1998 Infiniti Q45

1998 Mercury Grand Marquis

2002 Lexus GS 300

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer

2004 Ford F150

2006 Dodge Ram 1500

2006 Honda Civic

2006 Pontiac G6

2007 Ford Explorer

2007 Infiniti G35

2008 Chevrolet Suburban

2008 Chevrolet Tahoe

2008 Hyundai Sonata

2009 Honda Civic

2011 Chevrolet Impala

2011 Kia Soul

2012 Honda Civic

2013 Cadillac Ats

2013 Cadillac Cts

2013 Chrysler 300

2013 Hyundai Sonata

2013 Toyota Corolla

2014 Audi A4

2014 NISSAN Altima

2015 Ford Fusion

2016 Chevrolet Corvette

2016 Jeep Compass

2016 NISSAN Altima

2016 NISSAN Altima

2017 NISSAN Maxima

2018 Honda Cbr300ra

2018 Toyota Camry

2020 Ford F150

2021 NISSAN Kicks

2022 Mercedes-Benz A 220

VIN

1GNDM15Z2RB211874

JNKBY31A3WM402587

2MEFM74W9WX622286

JT8BD69S520161630

1GNDS13SX32210992

1FTRX02W44KD55557 1D7HA18206S654995 JHMFA36226S009537 1G2ZG558364183933 1FMEU75E27UA61758 JNKBV61E77M715737 3GNFK16318G311043 1GNFC13C58R200903 5NPEU46F08H351115 2HGFA16569H365180 2G1WG5EK0B1257169 KNDJT2A29B7245574 2HGFB2F67CH568758 1G6AA5RAXD0123792 1G6DF5E56D0104325 2C3CCAAG1DH727272 5NPEB4ACXDH750112 5YFBU4EEXDP097132 WAUFFAFL0EA041629 1N4AL3APXEN387259 3FA6P0SU6FR211580 1G1YK2D72G5113714 1C4NJCEA8GD675832 1N4AL3AP2GC202233 1N4AL3APXGN327159 1N4AA6AP5HC420286 MLHNC5155J5400111 4T1B11HK3JU134640 1FTEW1E40LFB98814 3N1CP5BV8ML492898 W1K3G4EB0NJ361116

Trump Poised to Attack National Urban League Ready to Fight

TO BE EQUAL

BY MARC MORIAL

“Every nation’s history includes unsettling truths that many would prefer to forget or deny. But true patriotism demands confronting the truths of our history—no matter how embarrassing or dishonorable—and undertaking the difficult work of learning from the lessons of our past in order to move forward. For the United States, that work requires reckoning with our shameful legacy of racial subjugation of Black people in this country—from slavery and Jim Crow to mass incarceration and police violence—as well as our long history of express discrimination against other people of color, women, and LGBTQ persons.

Without uninhibited discussion and examination of that legacy, we are illequipped as a nation to address its ongoing manifestations in present-day forms of discrimination and bias.” — National Urban League v. Trump.

At the current rate of progress, it will take between 100 and 300 years for Black Americans to achieve parity with white Americans.

First annually and now biannually, the National Urban League publishes the Equality Index, a calculation of the social and economic status of African Americans relative to whites. Rooted in the Three-Fifths Compro-

mise of 1787, which counted enslaved African Americans as “three-fifths” of a person, the Index would be 100% under full equality. Currently 75.7%, the Index has moved less than 3% in 20 years, indicating a 180 year wait to achieve parity.

That squares with the findings of a McKinsey study showing it will take between 110 and 320 years at for “Black Americans to reach a level of economic prosperity and quality of life that’s on

This time around, Trump isn’t waiting to start stamping out racial justice initiatives. He’s vowed to rescind President Biden’s Executive Order On Advancing Racial Equity, issued on his first day in office.

Seizing on the widely-accepted myth that increasing diversity is synonymous with “anti-white discrimination,” the Trump administration plans to use civil rights laws to reinforce white privilege in every facet of

par with that of their White neighbors.”President-elect Donald Trump and his allies are determined to make sure that it takes even longer.

At the end of his first term, Trump issued an executive order banning policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion for federal agencies, contractors, and grant recipients. The National Urban League immediately filed a lawsuit; Trump lost reelection and President Biden overturned it immediately upon taking office.

society, public and private.

Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee for Defense Secretary has promoted the racist fallacythat the long-overdue elevation of Black officers to senior leadership positions compromises military readiness.

In fact, Trump’s proposed cabinet includes only one Black member, a former NFL player whose only qualification to head the Department of Housing and Urban Development is his history of opposingaffordable housing,

protection for poor tenants, and aid for the homeless.

Trump will eliminate federal funding for any school that promotes racial equity or confronts the reality of racism in the nation’s history. He has even vowed to direct the Department of Justice to pursue federal “civil rights cases” against them.

He plans to resurrect the failed 1776 Commission, which historians reviled as a plot to “elevate ignorance about the past to a civic virtue.

Hoping to avoid attacks from the incoming administration and its most fanatical defenders. many private corporations are retreating from their commitment to DEI. The board of Costco, in contrast, recently rejected an anti-DEI shareholder proposal.

While post-election surveys show that Trumps’ election was largely a misguided reaction to the cost of groceries, Trump and his allies have taken it as an endorsement of their every vicious and bigoted policies. Americans overwhelmingly support corporate diversity policies. President Biden’s administration — like most diverse institutions, was more innovative, adaptable, resilient, and able to solve problems more quickly because of its diversity.

If the incoming administration doesn’t realize the benefits of DEI early on, the National Urban League and our civil rights allies are on hand to hold it to account.

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

Big Mama Said: Every Grin Ain’t a Friend

BIG MAMA SAID

BY TERRY ALLEN

Big Mama had a way of delivering wisdom so sharp and clear, it cut through the noise like a whistle on a still evening. One of her most poignant lessons came from her “Back Porch Playbook,” where she often reminded us: “Every grin ain’t a friend.”

This wasn’t just a warning for her children and grandchildren to be cautious. It was a call to action to look beyond surface smiles and dig deep into the true intentions of those who claim to be in our corner.

Today, Big Mama’s words resonate louder than ever as we watch the shuffle of new appointments and decisions in Washington, D.C. It’s a season of fresh faces, friendly handshakes, and promises. But we’d be wise to heed Big Mama’s advice: trust but verify.

Take, for instance, the ongoing debates around artificial intelligence and technology regulation. On the surface, big tech companies grin and assure us they’re working in our best interest. Yet, as whistleblowers and reports reveal, some of these same corporations prioritize

profits over privacy, leaving everyday folks vulnerable to exploitation. Every friendly pledge to “protect user data” isn’t always backed by action.

Consider also the resurgence of public health conversations. Politicians and leaders are smiling on podiums, assuring communities that new health initiatives will bridge disparities. Yet, when you scratch the surface, funding often fails to reach the neighborhoods most in need, leaving promises unfulfilled and communities disillusioned.

Then there’s the ongoing push for economic equity. While some grin and pledge

support for small businesses, the numbers tell a different story. Minority-owned enterprises often face systemic barriers to federal funding despite assurances of inclusivity. Big Mama would say, “That smile might look sweet,

This wasn’t just a warning for her children and grandchildren to be cautious. It was a call to action to look beyond surface smiles and dig deep into the true intentions of those who claim to be in our corner.

but where’s the sugar in the cup?”

Big Mama wasn’t a cynic; she was a realist. She taught us to believe in the good of people but also to pay attention to their actions. Another ally of mine,Ester Davis repeated what Big Mama also said, “A true friend—or leader—is someone whose deeds match their words.” So, as we watch the decisions unfold in D.C. and beyond, let’s apply

Big Mama’s timeless wisdom. Please email me at Terryallenpr@gmail.com and share your experience in this topic. Look deeper. Ask questions. Verify intentions. Because as she always said, “Every grin ain’t a friend.”

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

Terry Allen with Dr. Ester Davis

Big Mama

Austin Round-Up

cont. from 7

consign themselves to permanent victimhood.’

Texas should not tolerate these racist policies but instead should make Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream of living in a state and nation where people will “not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character’ a reality.”

Reform Bills filed for the 89th session

Other key reform bills that were filed include protecting Texans from the remote kill switch mandate. Sen. Mayes Middleton filed SB 381 to ban manufacturers and car dealers from making or selling vehicles with remote kill switches in Texas. Rep. Nate Schatzline, District 93 filed bill HB 1074 called the “Right

to Drive Act” to forbid registration of vehicles with kill switches in them, allowing for drivers to decide and to protect the right to drive gas-powered vehicle.

A reform bill to de-criminalize unpaid toll bills was filed by Sen. Middleton who is leading the charge with SB 756 to de-criminalize unpaid toll bills and remove the ability of the government to block vehicle registration over unpaid toll bills.

Sen. Bob Hall and Harrison also filed bills on toll reform, with fine/fee caps and to de-criminalize unpaid toll bills, and prevent the government from blocking vehicle registration, impounding vehicles, etc. over unpaid toll bills.”

CLASS OF 2024

Wend-Toe Congo Prairie View A&M University

Akela Woodard-Mardis Prairie View A&M University

Damon Smith Prairie View A&M University

Mayah Weekly Prairie View A&M University

Niya Simone Jackson State University

Addy Brown Tennessee State University Nashville Tennessee

METRO SALUTE

Congressman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss.

Gladys Lee

Commissioner Roderick Miles Jr.

Simone Biles

Shanelle Booker

She will be inducted into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame 2025.

Received one of the highest civilian honors when President Joe Biden awarded him the Presidential Citizens Medal.

Swearing-in Ceremony as a Tarrant County Commissioner.

Named Sports Illustrated 2024 Sportsperson of the Year.

Becomes 1st Black Woman Appointed To Acting US Attorney For The Middle District Of Georgia

Lamar Jackson

Breaks Michael Vick’s Career-Rushing Record for Quarterbacks.

Expo fit for a KING! Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo 2025

It was cold outside but that didn’t stop a steady flow from entering the African American Museum in Dallas to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo.

Despite temperatures that remained in the low 30s, City of Dallas Cultural Arts Program artist Reuben Lael was a crowd pleaser as he led sing-a-longs featuring popular hits. There were health screenings were conducted by Parkland, Beauty, Mental Health, Healthy Eating, and more. Vendors sold books, jewelry, clothing, information, eyewear, health drinks and auto insurance. Sponsored by Comerica, Cre8ive Concepts, SAADIA, City Men Cook, Multiplex, Heroe’s House, and Celebrating Life Foundation; the event continues to grow annually.

Pleasing to a King Soul food cook off during expo crowns winners

By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor

The celebrity judges in attendance did not take their jobs lightly. They possibly packed on a pound or two! The Collard Greens and Cornbread Cook Off during the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Jan. 20, 2025 at the African American Museum in Dallas had tastebuds dancing with praise.

Founded by Cheryl Smith, publisher of I Messenger Media LLC, which includes the publications I Messenger, Texas Metro News and the Garland Journal, the Healthy Living Expo brings the community together to take charge of our health and well being. In its ninth year, many flooded the museum to take part in the vendor showcase, health screenings and fun. Each expo includes a cookoff of some of Dr. King’s favorites. Inside the solarium, serious business was being handled.

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Harrison Blair, Fox 4 News reporter Steven Dial, WFAA News 8 reporter Scoop Jefferson, Retired Dallas Municipal Judge Victor Lander and Silky Smoove, the alter ego of At Ease products owner Ozell Graham all served as celebrity judges for the cookoff. Seven variations each of collard greens and cornbread were entered. The judges took their time, giving attention to each entry in the categories of: look, taste, texture, smell and overall.

Congratulations to Jackie Williams whose Collard Greens with Smoked Neck Bones came out on top! Cheron Sneed’s cornbread won first place in its category. See winners list:

COLLARD GREENS

• 1st Place *WINNER - Jackie Williams

- Collard Greens with Smoked Neck Bones

• 2nd Place - Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes) - African Greens (Vegan)

• 3rd Place - Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes) - Collard Green Dip with Smoked Ox Tails

• HONORABLE MENTION

• Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes) - Collard Greens with Double Smoked Turkey Neck

• Janel Tanner - Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Wings

• Gwendolyn Hardy - Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

• Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

CORNBREAD

• 1st Place *WINNER - Cheron SneedCornbread

• 2nd Place - Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes) - Honey Butter Cornbread

• 3rd Place - Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes) - Cajun Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread

HONORABLE MENTION

• Jackie Williams - Honey Buttermilk Cornbread

• Janel Turner - Cornbread with Diced Jalapenos

• Chef Fe (Felicia Guimont, OMG Cakes)

- Hot Water Cornbread (Vegan)

• Gwendolyn Hardy - Cornbread Muffins

Thanks to all who entered the cook off this year!

Dallas Alumnae Deltas celebrate 50 and 25-year Members

The Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will honor several sorority members on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at its annual Founders Day Luncheon when the organization celebrates the 22 founders who gathered together on January 13, 1913.

Gayla D. Mitchell Burton

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974 at Zeta Eta Chapter, University of North Texas

• Golden Life Member

• Received Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (University of North Texas), Master of Arts in Professional Development (Amberton University)

• Retired Sr. Community Development Representative, United States Department of HUD

• Member of Good Street Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes DeSoto Steppers, Concerned DeSoto Citizens, DeSoto Planning and Zoning Commissioner, DeSoto ISD PTA, HUD Retirees Association, Good Street Baptist Church: Social Service Board, Choir Member, and Sunday School Teacher, Zeta Eta (ZH) Alumni and NAACP Life Member

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Physical and Mental Health, Scholarship and Standards, Rituals and Ceremonies Committee Co-Chair, Delta Voices, Delta DEARS, and Gems and Jewels

• Hobbies include listening to music, singing and line dancing

• Family: daughter Veda Frazier Thompson and grandson Ian Frazier Thompson

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Pinning my daughter at her initiation into the sisterhood at Saint Augustine's University. Also the honor of participating as soloist at many Omega Omega services for our dearly departed Sorors.

Denise Clements Foxx

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Spring 1975 at Zeta Eta Chapter, University of North Texas

• Received Bachelor of Arts

• Retired

• Member of Zion United Methodist Church

• Community Involvement includes member of Michaelson Museum of Art, volunteering at George Washington Carver Community Center and member of New Town Neighborhood Association

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Previous Chair of Arts and Letters, Chaplain Council, Rituals and Ceremonies, EMBODI, Membership Services, Nursing Home

• Other Chapter Affiliations include Marshall Alumnae and Arlington Alumnae

• Honors include Women of Distinction: National Council of Negro Women Minnie H. Goodlow Page Section, Campus (2) Teacher of the Year - Dallas Independent School District

• Hobbies include trying different cuisines, traveling and reading

• Family: daughter Alicia Foxx , sons Lonnie (Brenda) Perryman, Larry, Brent (Sascha) and Joseph (Melissa) Foxx, twelve grandchildren, bothers John Phillip (Royshell) Osborne, Allen Clements, sisters who are also Deltas: JonEvette Osborne, Anita E. Osborne-Lee Esq., Jeannine Dion Osborne, nieces who are Deltas: Dr. Tracie Washington, Tyrannie Anderson

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Surprising my niece Tyrannie during her initiation and pinning her. I can still see the look on her face. Priceless!

Jo Anna Warren-Lewis

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974, Zeta Eta Chapter, University of North Texas

• Received Bachelor of Art

• Educator

• Member of Community Missionary Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes Career P.E.T.S. (Professionals Encouraging the Students), Founder, Tutor, free resume writing clinics-Eastfield & GED Program, Church Choir, Church Usher, Vacation Bible School Instructor, Drifters, Inc., Top Ladies of Distinction, Storyteller, Sunshine Committee, Breast Cancer 5K Walk, Juvenile Diabetes Walk-Nortel Networks, Motivational Speaker

• Honors includes Dallas Association of School Administrators, President and 25 Year Delta Honoree

• Hobbies include reading, traveling, shopping and dining out

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Nominating, Founder’s Day, Gems and Jewels, Jabberwock, Protocol and Traditions, Policies and Procedures, Minerva Circle and Program Planning and Development

• Family: late parents Grady and Lovie Warren, husband Jonathan; god-daughter Iesha Sims Johnson; sister Twinda Williams; brothers: Ernest, Randy, Milton and Dennis, nieces: LaToy, Elizabeth, Jasmine, Gwen, and Ja’Lisha; nephews: Milton Jr., Jared, and Cameron; bonus daughters Candice King and LaShedra Crockett, little guy Christian Corbin and best friends: Albert Wright, Jimmy Paton, and Patsy Smith Needum

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Feeling the pride and positivity during the 100th year celebration in D.C. while painting the town RED, as stated by Tom Joyner on the radio.

Sylvia Humphrey Hamilton

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974 at Beta Gamma Chapter, Dillard University

• Golden Life Member

• Received Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

• Retired IT Project Manager

• Member of Friendship West Baptist Church (FWBC)

• Hobbies include reading, puzzles and traveling

• Community Involvement includes member of Dillard University DFW Area Alumni Association, Charter Member and Past Recording Secretary, Dillard University National Alumni Association-Member, American Heart Association – Red Women Luncheon volunteer, FWBC Hospitality Ministry and Voter Registration, financial donor to North Texas Giving Day

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Chair of Election Committee, Delta DEARS, Policies and Procedures, and Program Planning and Development (PPAD). Former Chair of Communication, Delta Related Events and Evaluations committees; Assistant Chair of Evaluations committee; Sub-lead for Community Market, & Money Smart and Savvy of PPAD: Jabberwock Team Lead for Miss Jabberwock Pageant (1989, 2012, 2019); Former member of Social, Opening Party, Jabberwock, Membership, Nominating, Physical and Mental Health, Technology, Founders Day, Delta, Academy and TASPers committees

• Other Chapter Affiliations are 1985 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Convention: Registration, 2007 Southwest Regional Conference: Elections, 2010 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Convention: Election; 2018 Southwest Regional Conference: Registration, and Charter member of Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

• Family: husband, Stephen (married for 44 years), daughters Stephanie and Staci

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Pinning my sister, Dianne Humphrey Williams, as my soror when she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., through the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter.

Debra Chachere

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974 at Eta Epsilon Chapter, West Texas State University

• Received Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Biology

• Retired AT & T Engineer

• Member of Friendship West Baptist Church (FWBC)

• Community Involvement includes FWBC Usher and Benevolence Leader; Baylor Scott White Hospital Auxiliary Volunteer and Corresponding Secretary

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Delta DEARS

• Hobbies include reading, crocheting and going to movies

• Family: husband Greg, daughters Savannah and Meah, granddaughter Ryane

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Traveling with my line sister, Donna Taylor, and good friend Dr. Pat Smith to Langston University to pin my daughter, Meah.

Mary Delores White

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Spring 1975 , Amarillo Alumnae Chapter

• Attended Prairie View A & M University

• Received Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education

• Educator

• Member of Friendship West Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Tri-city NAACP, Hospitality and Tourism Association, Industry Expo 21st Century Girl Clinic, Retired Teachers Association, Heads Up Foundation/ Board of Directors, Director of ICAP Summer Youth Program (DISD), and Education is Freedom Summer Youth Program (City of Dallas)

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Chair of Delta DEARS, Social Action, Delta Academy, Arts and Letters Committee, Membership Services and Mental and Physical Health

• Other Chapter Affiliations include President/Midland Alumnae Chapter and President/Hayward California Tri-City Chapter

• Honors includes Business and Professional Women’s Award, National Top Honor Academy of Hospitality and Tourism ( First in DISD), Kimball High School Teacher of the Year, Miss Prairie View A&M University 1968-69, Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers

• Hobbies include Interior Design and Fashion Design, serving the Community, working with young ladies and Shopping

• Family: husband Ronnie, daughters Trelita Perry and Travise Montgomery

Most Memorable Delta Moment: When my daughters Trelita Perry and Travise Montgomery were initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority at Prairie View A&M University.

Donna Robinson Taylor

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974, Eta Epsilon Chapter, West Texas State University

• Received Bachelor of Science in Biology

• Biology Laboratory Management

• Member of St. Paul Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes South Dallas Concert Choir, Dallas Metroplex Musicians Association, Henosis (Unity) D9 Choir, Leadership Southwest National Association of Parliamentarians, West Texas A&M University Alumni Board of Directors/Co Chair Student Food Pantry, West Texas State University African American Student Reunion Committee, Project Still I Rise, Heads Up Foundation

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes May Week Chair, Heritage and Archives Chair, Protocol and Traditions Chair, Delta Voices Chair, Founders Day, Rituals and Ceremonies, Housing and Properties, Membership Services, Policies and Procedures, Social, and Nominating committees

• Other Chapter Affiliations are Fort Worth Alumnae Chapter Choir and Regional Conference Transportation Committee Chair

• Honors includes M.A. Professional Development, M.S. Human Relations and Business, Dallas College Longevity-30 Year Plus, 1st Blue Diamond Inaugural Class Dallas CCCD - Longevity Awards 5, 10, 15, 25, & 30 Plus, Brookhaven-Campus Tree-25th Year, Consortium Leadership and Renewal Academy, Brookhaven Professional Support Staff Association President, Leadership DCCCD, Black/Women Employee Resource Groups, AAWCC, PSSEC -Parliamentarian

• Hobbies include singing with various concert choirs and musical groups throughout the Metroplex, traveling, collecting China and teaching dining etiquette to youth and adults

• Family: husband Calvin (45 years), daughter/soror Caldonnaye, Delta aunt, niece, cousins, beloved line sisters Debra Savannah Chachere and Susan Hurrington Gooden

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Serving as the 2013 Delta Centennial Torch Custodian - Dallas & Washington, DC and welcoming my daughter Caldonnaye into the sisterhood in 2014.

Valencia Nell Lewis

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974 at Epsilon Beta, University of Texas at Austin

• Diamond Life Member

• Received Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

• Sales, AT & T Yellow Pages

• Member of Greater Providence Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes GPBC Usher, VIP & Sunday School Ministry, Volunteer Hope Restored Missions & North Texas Food Bank

• Chapter Committee Involvement include Delta DEARS

• Hobbies include traveling, reading, listening to music, dancing and playing board games

• Family: mother Clydia Wyatt; daughter Jamila LeRat Starwell; sons: Alfred E. Craig II, Malcolm Jamal Craig I; six grandchildren: Clyde, Khaliq, Alfred III, Genesis, Malcom III, and A’Lani; sisters and Sorors: Cassandra Ringer and Reyhana Khalil

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Pinning my youngest Sister, Reyhana, at her initiation into the Sisterhood on April 2, 2023, York Alumnae Chapter, York, Pennsylvania.

Evelyn Yvonne Reed

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Fall 1974, Zeta Eta, University of North Texas

• Received Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor in Rehabilitation; Master of Arts in Psychology

• Educational K-12 Assessment Director

• Member of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church

• Community Involvement includes volunteering at The Stewpot for the Homeless at First Presbyterian Church, participating in voter registration, volunteering with the elderly at Grace Presbyterian Church and conducting state mandated assessment tutoring for DISD students

• Other Chapter affiliation is North Dallas Suburban Alumnae

• Hobbies include cattle ranching, traveling, reading, ancestry and astrology

• Family: late parents Isom and Vivian Morgan Reed; six surviving siblings (of 13): Robert, Kenneth, Sharon, Charles, Eileen and Tammy; nieces and nephews: Valerie, Jerry, Brandon, Shaharah and Isaac; special aunt and uncle the late Elwood and Vera Reed Livingston

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Special moments with Amazing Zeta Eta and Dallas Alumnae sorors over the years especially at the Centennial celebration in Washington D.C. and other national conventions.

Antoinette Mitchell-Morgan

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Spring 1975, Zeta Eta, University of North Texas

• Received Bachelor of Arts in Journalism

• Sr. Talent Acquisition Partner

• Community Involvement includes North Texas Food Bank and CGI Breast Cancer Awareness Planning Team

• Honors includes recognition as a top sales development representative, effective niche recruiting successes and work-related social media campaigns

• Hobbies include traveling, genealogy, and reading

• Family: husband Michael, dog Sully, sister Jackie and host of nieces, great nieces and nephews

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and being initiated through the Zeta Eta Chapter!

Mythe Y. Kirven

50 Year Golden Honoree

• Initiated Spring 1975, Eta Lambda Chapter, Texas Tech University

• Golden Life Member

• Received Bachelor of Science (Texas Tech University), Master of Public Administration (Atlanta University)

• United States Housing and Urban Development Policy Analyst

• Member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church

• Community Involvement includes Chaired Skyline High School, Class of 1974, 50th High School Reunion, May 2024; Chaired National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs National Convention, Dallas Texas, 1990; 17th President, South Dallas Business & Professional Women’s Club, Inc. 1987-1989; Chaired the 24th, 25th (Silver), & 55th (Emerald) Trailblazer Awards Luncheons, South Dallas B&PW Club

• Chapter Committee Involvement includes Dallas Alumnae Social Action Chair, 2017-2021; Chaired Dallas’ 1st Female Police Chief’s Reception, 2018, Southwest Region, Social Action Texas-New Mexico Co-Coordinator, 2018-2022. Led Texas’ delegation to Delta Days at the Nation’s Capital, 2019-2022 and Red and White Day at the Texas Legislature

• Other Chapter Affiliation: President, Eta Lambda Chapter 1976-1977

• Honors includes served on Delta Sigma Theta National Nominating Committee 1990; organized Red and White Day at the Texas Capitol defeating voter suppression bills during the 2019 and 2021 Legislative Sessions as Texas Social Action Co-Coordinator; Coordinated Delta’s North Texas’ National/Regional leadership, chapter presidents, for the only US Census Bureau 2020 partnership meeting with any community-based organization nationally with the Deputy Secretary of Commerce

• Hobbies include being owner of TELM Apparel, special occasion apparel for tall women and donating clothing to at-risk women

• Family: aunt, Verdene Austin; brothers Kirven Powers and Thomas (Vanessa) Kirven

Most Memorable Delta Moment: Co-chaired the First Red and White Day at the Texas State Capitol in 1990 where Barbara Jordan was keynote speaker.

25-year Members

Tanja Barrett

Bashie Howard

Kaliska Comoneci Dominick Majaliwa Bass Beverly Rice

Dallas Alumnae Deltas celebrate 50 and 25-year Members

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority honors service and Sisterhood

The Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., will pay tribute to several 50 and 25-year members at the organization’s annual Founders Day Luncheon. As members celebrate the founding of Delta Sigma Theta, they will receive a message from one of their founder’s granddaughters. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the sorority’s International Chaplain and granddaughter of Founder Vashi Turley Murphyl Karla McGary is president of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter.

25 year Honoree

Lawmakers protect minors from social media

By Nolan D. McCaskill

The Dallas Morning News

AUSTIN — Texas lawmakers vowed Tuesday to hold Big Tech accountable for failing to protect minors from harm on social media, including exposure to pornography and sex trafficking.

“There’s been no significant change to protect minors from the harms we continue to see on social media,” said Rep. Jared Patterson, R-Frisco, co-chair of the Joint Committee to Study the Effects of Media on Minors, which met Tuesday at the state Capitol.

“Study after study shows an increase in self-harm, an increase in body dysmorphia in our girls, an increase in porn addiction and aggression in our boys and the steady increase in suicide for all youth,” Patterson said.

Patterson called it “a slap in the face to every Texan” that no social media company made a representative available to testify at the committee’s hearing.

Meta, X, TikTok and Snap declined the panel’s invitation to testify.

Patterson filed legislation in the 2023 legislative session to bar children between 13 and 18 from using any social media platforms. His proposal was referred to the Select Committee on Youth Health and Safety in March but no action was taken.

He filed a similar bill in November to restrict children younger than 18 from using social media.

“I refuse to sit idly by and allow our children to be present on social media platforms when the very same social media companies will not show up for a study committee addressing the concerns expressed by Texans and oth-

ers across the nation,” Patterson said.

The hearing came a week before Texas’ biennial legislative session begins and weeks after the 118th Congress left Washington without passing a pair of children’s online safety bills that overwhelmingly passed the U.S. Senate in July.

Committee members and

is becoming more harmful to the nation’s youth than smoking, drinking or substance abuse.

“Software engineers now work closely with behavioral engineers to design and optimize online content that keeps young people glued to their computers and mobile devices during all their wak-

witnesses highlighted the dangers Texas youth face from platforms they argued are addictive by design, such as access to porn that later contributes to divorce, single-parent households, emulation of violent acts children think are normal, sexual assaults, erectile dysfunction and unhealthy standards for relationships. They also said such platforms leave children susceptible to peer pressure and bullying and limits their attention spans.

Proposals discussed included teaching students about digital literacy, limiting screen time on school-issued devices, taking students’ phones during instructional time, requiring users to opt in to data collection rather than having to opt out and strengthening Texas Education Association guidelines for school districts to force compliance.

Robert Epstein, a senior research psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology, said internet addiction

playing explicit material.

“Today’s parents weren’t parented through this,” Paxton said. “Parents are really in a tough spot because they’re having to parent their children through very difficult, challenging, confusing, complex issues in a way that they haven’t seen modeled for themselves.”

Lindy McGee, a Houston pediatrician, said social media is “a danger to the fabric of our society.”

ing hours,” Epstein said.

Joshua Broome, a former porn actor turned pastor, called himself an “anomaly” for getting healthy after overcoming a porn addiction at age 13. He lamented that people “care more about what we have the freedom to watch than the harm that it causes.”

Deasia Wiggins — a youth peer counselor at the Harris Center for Mental Health IDD, an acronym for intellectual development disabilities, who grew up in foster and group homes — told the committee her friends have been “choked, slapped, spanked and raped because that’s what people using pornography think sex is about.”

Wiggins advocated for passage of a Senate bill introduced last session by Sens. Angela Paxton, R-McKinney; Bob Hall, R-Edgewood; and Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston. That proposal would have required manufacturers to automatically enable a filter to prevent minors from accessing, downloading or dis-

“It’s just staying alone in your room and not having friends. We know that social interaction is such a huge part of being human,” she told the committee. “And this isn’t social interaction. The kids think it is, and it’s not. All of us who are old enough to have this experience with healthy relationships know that this isn’t the same thing.”

Rep. Lacey Hull, R-Houston, framed the issue as “a massive public safety crisis” the government needs to figure out.

Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, apologized for her naivete in not fully grasping the pervasiveness of youth online culture. But she argued Texas can be a leader on this issue.

“And Texas is big enough to move the needle and be aggressive,” she added. “So anybody out there lobbying for Big Tech or the search engines or the apps, come ready, OK? Come with a heart full of goodness so we can literally get rid of this scourge that is destroying the lives of our children and future generations.”

This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.

Desoto PD first agency to introduce first responder drones

DESOTO – For months now residents in cities around the United States have been reporting drones in the sky.

It began in New Jersey and has quickly turned into a pandemic of drones around the country including sightings in Texas.

An article at https://www. csis.org/analysis/why-arethere-so-many-unexplaineddrones-flying-over-united-states from December 2024 ask “Why Are There So Many Unexplained Drones Flying Over the United States.” Even more disturbing is the fact that for some reason the government is ignoring that question as well as ignoring the drones as if it will go away if ignored and the public will stop asking questions.

The article at CSIS.org states that federal and state authorities cannot explain the unidentified drones, but do not believe the sightings “pose a public safety or national security threat.”

How do they know it is not a security threat if they do not even know what these drones are and who is operating them?

Foreign objects in US airspace and residents told to look the other way.

For the last month and as recent as this week residents in Dallas have seen and taken video footage of unknown drones and orbs overhead in a variety of locations, specifically over Lake Ray Hubbard.

In late December, the White Settlement Police Department reported unknown drones near military properties.

I only half-jokingly ask DeSoto PD Police Chief Joe Costa if his new first emergency responder drones were weaponized yet.

Costa of course replied “no.”

To me the question is not a matter of “if” but “when” and Costa and I both concurred hopefully not on our watch.

The City of DeSoto Police De-

partment is the first department in the area to introduce first responder drones in the Best Southwest according to Costa.

While DeSoto and other local cities do have drones for police work, the first responder drone from Paladin Drones is the first of its kind in the area.

Lieutenant R. Heath Penwarden, Support Service, Commander SRRG-SRT explained the Paladin Drones are used to “enhance its small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) operations with the DJI 30T. The DJI 30T is a highly capable sUAS, designed to operate in adverse weather conditions such as rain and strong winds. Its thermal imaging capability allows for a range

of applications, such as locating missing persons, tracking fleeing suspects, and assisting the Fire Department during structure fires. This technology elevates situational awareness and operational efficiency for public safety.”

DeSoto already has a robust drone program that began in 2017 and funded through seizure funds. The total cost of the sUAS program, which includes hardware, software, extended modules like cellular signal devices, unlimited battery replacements, drone replacement warranties, FAA waiver support, and a week-long training program, is $49,000.

Desoto PD currently has 10 trained sUAS pilots capable of

operating the department’s various sUAS, that include one DJI 30T housed in a docking station, one portable DJI 30T for transportable missions, one smaller DJI 3 without thermal imaging, one smaller DJI 3T with thermal imaging and two older DJI Mini sUAS for specific missions.

The most recently first responder drone purchase, the DJI 30T shares some capabilities with the department’s existing sUAS, but Penwarden said “It can respond to emergencies directly from its docking station, significantly reducing response time. Unlike previous models that required manual deployment, this sUAS can be remotely activated and piloted to a scene, offering quicker situational awareness and operational efficiency.”

The DJI 30T also operates under a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waiver issued by the FAA. This waiver, secured with assistance from Paladin Drones, allows the sUAS to be piloted remotely without the operator maintaining direct visual contact. Equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, the sUAS integrates with air traffic systems to ensure real-time aircraft surveillance and avoid conflicts in airspace.

The location of the docking station is confidential to ensure the security of the sUAS and prevent tampering or theft.

It is noteworthy to add that Penwarden confirmed “Texas law, specifically outlined in Chapter 423 of the Government Code, governs the use of sUAS to protect privacy. These regulations ensure that law enforcement and private entities cannot misuse drone technology for unauthorized surveillance, offering peace of mind to residents.

So, that leads back to the earlier question who is flying the unidentified drones in the Dallas

area and throughout the United States and why is the US government acting like they do not know the answer? While it is legal to fly a drone in most locations there are rules. Rules that state a person can fly their drone as a recreational flyer or under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule following appropriate provisions.

Several anonymous law enforcement sources I have ask regarding the unidentified drones said they believe the drones are government related.

President Donald Trump said in a recent press conference “I am going to give you a report on drones about one day into the administration because I think it is ridiculous that they are not telling you what is going on with the drones.”

An article in Military Embedded Systems has already said too that a company called Palantir along with Shield AI are working together using Hivemind technology “To allow drones and other uncrewed systems to autonomously detect and respond to threats without direct human control, while also allowing operators to oversee missions in real-time and manage multiple vehicles from a single platform.”

Meanwhile, as you are looking up in the Best Southwest if you see a drone, it might possible be DeSoto’s latest drone fleet addition.

“DeSoto PD has consistently been a leader in adopting advanced law enforcement technologies and is the first agency in the area to implement a DFR program,” Penwarden concluded. “The introduction of the DFR program builds on this foundation and represents the next evolution in law enforcement capabilities. By staying proactive and partnering with industry experts, DeSoto PD is setting a benchmark for other departments in the area.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

JANUARY

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. 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

28

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett’s District Swearing-In, 6 - 7:30pm CST at The Hall of State in Fair Park. RSVP required — no exceptions! Questions, call Dallas office at 214-9228885

31

One of the greatest classic Westerns of the last century – Shane – finds new life as it makes its Texas debut Jan. 31 at the Kalita Humphreys Theater (3636 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, 75204). Presented by Dallas Theater Center, the western drama – which runs through Feb. 16 – tells the story of Shane, a mysterious ex-gunfighter with a dangerous past who finds kinship with a family and helps protect their farm in 1889 Wyoming.

FEB

1

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.

Paul Quinn Basketball Jarvis Christian University 1:00 pm

With a mission to help young people find success in a variety of ways – and not only in sports – the Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center will host an Open Model and Talent Call on Saturday, Jan. 25, for models, actors, singers and dancers ages 16 and up. While the event is free and open to the public, pre-registration is required at eventbrite. com. Check-in opens at 9:30 a.m. with live auditions from 10 a.m.-noon.

International Tennis Hall of Fame inductees Kim Clijsters and Martina Hingis will play in the Dallas Open’s annual Women’s Tennis Classic presented by Baker Tilly to kick off the fourth year of the Dallas Open. The two players will play a three-set singles match at 8:00 p.m. CT.

HBCU College Panel and FairJoin Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omega Alpha Omega Chapter for annual HBCU College Panel & Fair. 9:00 am until 12:00 pm, Little Elm ISD Admin Building, 400 Lobo Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068

The 2025 Dallas Open, set for February 1-9, 2025, will move to the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, the headquarters and training facility of the Dallas Cowboys. 7

The African American Education Archives and History Program (AAEAHP) will observe Founders Day Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas. Distinguished educator Dr. Juanita Cleaver Simmons will be the guest speaker. To learn more about AAEAHP, go to www.aaeahp.org. 8

Paul Quinn Basketball Texas College at 1:00 pm

Mark your calendar and come join Ruby Faye Woolridge at The Dock Book Store 6637 Meadowbrook Drive Ft. Worth, TX 76112 as she launches her first book, “Bent…but… Unbroken, at 3:00 pm

Paul Quinn Basketball Xavier at 5:30 pm

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People - GARLAND UNIT, 24th Annual Winter Ball, Celebrating EROS LOVE on Valentine’s” Hyatt Place Garland, 5101 N. George Bush Highway, Garland, Texas 7:00 pm

23

Pianist Janise White, the cousin of the late Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson, Congresswoman will perform “Glory Hallelujah Jazz Variations” by Howlett Smith on Sunday, February 23, 2025 @7pm with the Mansfield Symphony, Maestro Eldred Marshall, Conductor. FREE ADMISSION: First Methodist Mansfield. 777 N. Walnut Creek Dr. Mansfield, TX 76063

Paul Quinn Basketball Louisiana Christian University at 1:00 pm

MARCH 6

NBA great Julius “Dr. J” Erving will headline the 25th-annual Destiny Award Luncheon, benefiting St. Philip’s School & Community Center at 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Anatole.

8

45 Annual Jack & Jill Beautillion 07:00 PM Hyatt Regency Dallas, Reunion Boulevard, Dallas

9

Dallas-D/FW Metroplex Alumnae Chapters will host the 2025 DFW Area Joint Founders Day Observance at the Irving Convention Center. This year’s theme is “From the Vision to Victory: Moving Forward with Fortitude.” Tickets are now available! Purchase your tickets here: https://dstndsa.org/ dfwjfd2025/ 21

UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is proud to announce Lael and Peter Brodsky as co-chairs of the ninth annual North Texas Mayors’ Masked Ball, at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. The evening will be hosted by media personality Lady Jade and features student testimonials, along with silent and live auctions. Guests will dance to Professor D.

Women of Influence Awards luncheon in Dallas to honor women during Women’s History Month. The event – now in its third year - will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CDT at the Statler Hotel, 1914 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Sheraton Downtown Dallas at 7pm

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.