Texas Metro News

MetroNews

I don’t know how many patients love their doctors, but I loved Dr. William Glaze.

From the very first visit to his office, I was in love.

Here was a brilliant doctor, who had a compassionate demeanor and was spiritually grounded. And his bedside manner was professional and impeccable and made me feel like he cared about my well-being.

There were a few occasions when I saw everything that made him special. One time he was called on the carpet because instead of a hysterectomy, he performed a myomectomy. The difference is that in my early 30s, I would still be able to have children. He gave me a chance, unlike so many of his colleagues who for centuries have violated the Hippocratic Oath and instead were hypocrites who should have been imprisoned.

Now, you may not recall the stories of doctors performing surgeries that were not medically necessary, but this has also happened during your lifetime.

As recently as 2020 in Virginia, Dr. Javaid Perwaiz, an obstetrician-gynecologist, was

Texas Metro News HONORS

The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex has six Black women who are known internationally for their service and leadership. These ladies were feted recently and each shared information about their organizations and their journeys.

View from the Cliff was the setting for a tribute to these valiant women who are leading during some challenging times.

South Dallas Club welcomes Rep. Maxine Waters to 60th Trailblazer Event

By

The year was 1964, Lyndon Baines Johnson was President of the United States, and the South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc. (SDBPWC) was already 10 years strong; serving citizens in the southern sector of Dallas.

As club history records, charter member V. Alyce Foster and her committee of four, “carried the idea of a Trailblazer Awards Luncheon to the club.”

Their expressed purpose for the event was to “focus attention on those Blacks who had achieved in a given field,” positions not previously held by Blacks.

With club approval, “the first Trailblazer Awards Luncheon was held March 30, 1964 at the Holiday Inn Central in Dallas.”

Now, 60 years later, African Americans blazing trails for

the very first time are still being identified. On April 27 at 12 noon, President Lavern J. Holyfield, DDS and her 75-member

We could call them mysteries of the universe. Then again, we could label them as debate topics for agnostics and believers. In whatever box you decide to place them, these questions ,on their own, are intriguing.

Patterned after the 20 Questions game, here are 20 of my own mysteries. You have permission to consider your own.

1. I was just thinking…, how can it be that rocks form almost exact images of humans and animals?

2. How can it be that a peacock has eyes on its feathers?

3. How can it be that a bird talks?

4. How can it be that some fourlegged animals can walk on only two on them?

5. How can it be that dolphins and chimpanzees (over gorillas) compete for the title of

Legal Legend Honored

Judge L. Clifford Davis, who successfully sued the Mansfield and Fort Worth, Texas school districts in 1955, was proclaimed a “Texas Legal Legend” by the Texas State Bar Association at a ceremony held Monday at the Texas A & M University School

Congresswoman Maxine Waters Keynote Speaker

Ella Goode Johnson Woman of the Year

Judge L. Clifford Davis

Elsie Cooke Holmes

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority joined in virtually

Judge Aiesha Redmond speaks

Black Americans Continue to Face Hurdles to Homeownership:

CFPB and National Association of Realtors cite drawbacks White House plan proposes solutions for an estimated 3.5 million first-time buyers

By Charlene Crowell

The approaching spring season signals not only a change in weather; but an annual surge in homebuying. Underscoring this long-standing trend is the annual April observance of Fair Housing Month.

Enacted in 1968, the Fair Housing Act banned discrimination on the basis of race, religion, and national origin in the sale or rental of housing by banks, insurers and real estate agents.

But fair housing for whom?

While homeownership has been the primary means for most American families to build and pass on inter-generational wealth, Blacks rank last in their ability to achieve the wealth-building benefits of buying a home.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2024 Snapshot of Race and Home Buying in America report, disparity between Black homeownership rates and those of other racial and ethnic groups has actually grown larger since 2012. Only 44.1 percent of Blacks owned homes compared to majorities of Asian-Americans (63.3 percent), and Latinos (51.1 percent).

“The connection between homeownership rates and net worth is a critical one. Net worth, or the total assets minus household liabilities, is an essential indicator of financial stability and economic well-being,” states the report.

After more than 50 years of federal laws – envisioned and enacted in hopes of helping Black America reduce lingering wealth disparities – NAR lists a litany of familiar reasons for homeownership disparities that read like a set of falling dominoes:

Median household income disparities between whites and Blacks continued to grow over the past decade. In 2012, the income gap between these two groups was $21,540. In 2022, the income gap grew to $27,840.

This gap in income is a determining factor in home affordability. In 45 of the nation’s 50 states, according to NAR, Black renters face greater affordability challenges than their white counterparts. The ability to save for a home down payment is seriously diminished when rental costs are already a financial stretch.

Another problem for wouldbe homeowners is that due to lower incomes and lack of savings, many Black borrowers often have high debt-to-income ratios. Together, these two factors frequently lead to higher rates of mortgage application denials. In 2022, the highest

mortgage denial rates occurred in three Southern states: Mississippi (34 percent), followed by Arkansas and Louisiana (each at 31percent).

A related and independent perspective from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) notes yet another hurdle to homeownership: closing costs.

“While home prices and interest rates often command our attention, closing costs also contribute to borrowers’ monthly burdens. One measure of closing costs is total loan costs,” wrote Julie Margetta Morgan in a March CFPB blog. “Total loan costs include origination fees, appraisal and credit report fees, title insurance, discount points, and other fees increased by 21.8 percent – nearly $6,000 – from 2021 to 2022. From 2021 to 2022, median total loan costs rose sharply, increasing by 21.8 percent on

home purchase loans.”

“Often, closing costs are simply rolled into the total loan amount, racking up interest for the life of the loan,” Morgan continued. “Borrowers who can’t bring cash to the table often have to pay more, through higher interest rates or mortgage insurance payments.”

But a new proposal by the Biden Administration has the potential to lessen the financial heft of these homebuying issues. In a March 12 speech before the Urban Institute, a DC-based progressive think-tank, Lael Brainard, the Biden Administration’s Economic Adviser, shared the White House plan.

“In today’s market, too many households that want to buy their first home are locked-out by high costs, while many homeowners looking to right-size their housing needs are locked-in be-

MY TRUTH: I had the best doctor

found guilty of among other charges, performing “unnecessary, invasive medical procedures.”

In Michigan, a cancer doctor, Dr. Vinay Malviya, a longtime gynecological oncologist abused his patients.

Talk about genocide. You may not have heard of the term, “Mississippi Appendectomy,” but I hope you have heard of civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer who had plenty of reasons to be sick and tired, and one was the non-consensual sterilization of poor and Black women.

She coined that phrase because she knew the value of the Black woman was devalued.

The numbers are startling and I am so glad that I had a caring doctor in my life.

Then later, as I dealt with blood clots, he told me how doctors who consulted on my case opted out of going into the operating room with him.

When I asked why, he told me that they didn’t think I would make it out of surgery because once the procedure began, they thought a blood clot would travel and end my life.

He, being the spiritually focused and faithful man of God, went into the operating room and saved my life.

That was 22 years ago!

He also trusted me with his daughter, Veronica, who participated in a journalism program with me, traveling to Seattle for the Unity Journalists of Color Convention.

The love I received from him, his wife Sheila who also was his office manager, and Veronica warms my heart, decades later.

I remember when he retired and closed down his office. I

cause the rate they’d get on a new mortgage is higher than the rate on their current mortgage,” said Brainard.

Central to the administration’s plan are targeted tax credits that would enable more than 3.5 million middle-class families to purchase their first home. Eligible consumers would receive up to $10,000 in mortgage relief credit for two years – the equivalent of reducing mortgage rates by 1.5 percentage points on a median home.

“These tax credits would serve as a bridge,” explained Brainard, “as rates are projected to continue to fall with inflation and as our supply investments come online.”

Peggy Bailey, vice president for housing and income security with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reacted favorably.

“If policies created the inequities that we have, then we have to have policies to reverse them,” noted Bailey. “The only way to do that is to actually talk about Black People, Latinx people, Native Americans very specifically because it’s going to take very specific and targeted community investments to make those changes.”

cont. from page 1

was devastated.

I knew he was also the physician for Dallas County’s jail, so I considered committing a crime (a minor one) to get in, feign sickness, and receive care from Dr. Glaze.

Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price just laughed at me when I told him my plan. He knew from protest days that I needed to find another way to see my beloved doctor. And I did.

I tracked Dr. Glaze down at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center Clinic and found

out he saw patients once a week there, and I did what I needed to do to get to see him.

You see, I knew a good thing when I saw it and I held on as long as I could.

The feeling in the pit of my stomach, as I celebrated his life last weekend, is not one I relish having.

It hurts. Here was someone who was so good to me and now he is gone.

I wish everyone could experience a doctor like the one I had!

All I can say is “Thank you, Dr. Glaze.”

Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending. org.

Level Up: How HBCUs Like Southern University Empower Black Students to Rise Above and Achieve Kenyae Stocker accepts job in Dallas

CHANDLER, AZ – HBCUs have long played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape for African American students; doing more to educate Black students than many larger, more well-resourced Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs).

HBCUs transcend the realm of mere education, transforming into vibrant communities that foster academic achievement, personal growth, and a profound sense of culture and belonging.

They produce more Black science and engineering majors than any PWI, and they have produced the majority of Black doctors, lawyers, judges, and academics for generations.

Their legacy is woven with stories of resilience, excellence, and individuals like Kenyae Stocker, whose journey at Southern University and A&M College, an HBCU, exemplifies the transformative power of HBCUs.

Kenyae, a soon-to-be graduate in May 2024 with a stellar 3.7 GPA, in Mechanical Engineering, embodies the unwavering spirit that thrives within HBCU walls.

Hailing from Tucson, AZ, she arrived at Southern University just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit, presenting a unique set of challenges for her freshman year.

As Kenyae prepares to embark on her career at McCarthy Building Companies, a Dallas, TX based company, her aspirations reflect her unwavering commitment to both her chosen field and making a positive impact in her community.

Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for students everywhere, demonstrating that with perseverance, dedication, and the support offered by institutions like HBCUs, anything is possible.

Kenyae’s journey is far from over, and she serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power and relevance of HBCUs. As a testament to her dedication and academic excellence, Kenyae is a three-time recipient of the prestigious Southern University Alumni Federation Arizona Chapter (SUAF-AC) Excel Scholarship.

Yet, Kenyae’s story is a testament to the unique support system these institutions provide, empowering students to navigate challenges and embrace opportunities for growth.

Her unwavering determination and proactive nature allowed her to not only adapt to online learning but also thrive academically.

This is evidenced by her immediate acceptance into the prestigious Top Jags Program in fall 2020, a program reserved for students of exceptional academic achievement.

Throughout her four years, Kenyae has consistently remained a Top Jag; a testament to her dedication and resilience, as she has consistently earned a place on the Honors Roll and Dean’s List each semester, and is on track to graduate as an Honors College student.

These achievements speak volumes about her character and the nurturing environment fostered by the Southern University community, which empowers students to not only overcome adversity but also excel academically.

Beyond academics, Kenyae actively participated in extracurricular activities such as Beta Kappa Chi Honor Society, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

These experiences not only enriched her college experience but also helped her build a strong network within the engineering field and among her peers. Balancing these diverse commitments demonstrates her exceptional time management skills and dedication to her passions.

Southern University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and fostering a supportive alumnus has undeniably played a crucial role in shaping Kenyae’s success.

According to Kenyae, “The university’s emphasis on higher education, coupled with research programs and strong alumni engagement, provides students with valuable opportu-

Brittney Johnson named Honorary Chair of NAMIWalks North Texas

FRISCO, TX -- NAMI North Texas recently announced that Brittney Johnson, the Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of NBC 5 News at 10 p.m., is the honorary chair of NAMIWalks North Texas 2024.

With her dedication to journalism and community service, Johnson brings a powerful voice and commitment to raising awareness about mental health issues in the North Texas region.

Scheduled for Saturday, May 18th, at 9:00 a.m., NAMIWalks North Texas will take place at Riders Field, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034. The event features a resource fair, activities for kids, and free parking, making it a family-friendly outing for all to enjoy.

nities to learn, grow, and thrive.

“Dr. Brian Warren, a professor in the Mechanical Engineering (ME) Department, exemplifies this dedication. His mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in shaping Kenyae’s academic journey, along with countless other students at Southern University.”

This scholarship, fueled by the generous support of the Arizona community, empowers deserving students like Kenyae to reach their full potential.

Join alumni and supporters in making a difference. The annual “Jags on The Green” fundraising golf tournament tees off on April 20, 2024, at Oakwood Golf Course. Registration begins at 6:30 AM, with tee off at 8:00 AM. Whether you swing a club, sponsor the event, or donate, your contribution will directly impact the lives of future generations.

Be a part of the change! Visit www.suafac.org to learn more and register for the “Jags on The Green” golf tournament. Together, we can ensure that HBCUs continue to empower and uplift students like Kenyae.

“We are honored to have Brittney Johnson join us as the honorary chair of NAMIWalks North Texas,” said Dr. Athena Trentin, Executive Director of NAMI North Texas. “Her dedication to mental health awareness and community empowerment aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are excited to work together to make this year’s event a success.”

Johnson knows about the struggles of loved ones battling depression.

“I’m excited and honored to serve as the 2024 NAMIWalks chair because I’ve witnessed the impact that mental illness can have on individuals, families,

Additionally, the walk is pet-friendly, ensuring that everyone, including furry companions, can participate in supporting mental health advocacy. NBC 5 / Telemundo 39 is a media sponsor of the fundraiser.

and communities,” Johnson expressed. “People all around us need resources, support, and hope. NAMI is working tirelessly to provide all the above and at higher levels. I pray that more of us join the conversation, learn the signs, and work together to make tomorrow brighter.”

Registration for NAMIWalks

North Texas is free, with participants encouraged to collect donations to support mental health advocacy. Walkers raising $100 or more will receive a NAMIWalks North Texas event t-shirt and other recognition gifts. To participate, donate, or support a team, please visit naminorthtexas.org/namiwalksntx.

Founded in 1982, NAMI North Texas is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for equitable access to mental health services, treatment, support, and research.

Serving Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties, NAMI North Texas provides essential and free education, advocacy, and support group programs. For more information about NAMI North Texas and its programs, please visit www.naminorthtexas.org.

Kenyae Stocker

Brittney Johnson

Photo: Courtesy

That Last Eight Minutes!

By Vincent L. Hall

“You never picked any cotton, and I never owned any slaves, so cut the nonsense!”

- North Carolina Gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson.

I watch one motivational video bi-weekly. Don’t judge me, but my DVR has the last-minute eight minutes of Django Unchained. It makes me hopeful, but not for the reasons you might think.

After watching a few clips of North Carolina’s Gubernatorial candidate, Mark (Keith) Robinson, I use it as a daily devotional. This house negro, Step n’ Fetchit, oversized pickaninny, sends me into cultural convulsions.

Let me explain how Django plays into this whole thing.

The last eight minutes of my all-time favorite flick begin with Stephen escorting his White comrades back to the big house. “Uncle Stepen” serenades them with “In the Sweet by and By.” This 1836 hymn, penned by Sanford Fillmore Bennett, of-

fers a first stanza that justifies the song being picked for this final scene.

“There’s a land that is fairer than day,

And by faith we can see it afar, For the Father waits over the way

To prepare us a dwelling place there.”

Stephen and his entourage were heading toward their final dwelling place, unbeknownst to any of them. If you have yet to see the last eight minutes, do so. But let me tell you why it was important to me.

First, I was glad that Django got revenge on Billy Crash, who just three days later had his hands on Django’s gonads, fully intending to remove them. But now, he lay squirming on the

floor with gunshot wounds. “I’m gonna kill you Da-Jango!” Django shot back. “The D is silent, hillbilly,” as he squeezes off the kill shot.

Next, he relayed a message to the “mistress of the house” through the two black maids. “Tell Miss Lara goodbye.” “Huh,” they replied in perfect synchronization. “I said tell Miss Laura goodbye!”

Miss Laura had committed no acts commensurate with Billy or the other men on the Candie Land Plantation. Her genteel, passive resistance to the racism that doomed slaves owned by her family must have been a source of angst for Django. Donned in a striking western-style burgundy suit and hat, he dispatched a single shot that sent her flying around the corner to her death.

All of that was expected based on how the movie had been advertised. The movie’s trailer featured a slave having the joy and privilege of being paid to kill slave masters and their accomplices. But the best part was on the way. It will illuminate for most of you why MAGA candidate Mark Robinson invokes memories of Django.

Finally, Django came face to face with the greatest threat

to the freedom of the Colored/ Negro/Afro-American people since 1619. Stephen was a model house Negro, fully committed and dedicated to the demise of his people. A turncoat who spares no evil or self-respect to please his White master.

As Django sets to end the epilogue, his first encounter with Stephen must have come to mind. “Who’s that Nigga on that Nag?”, Stephen belted out. An obvious inference that horses were too good for black slaves. But now it was time for Django

to ask some questions and make some statements.

Stephen discards his cane, stands straight up, glares at Django, and shouts, “I count six shots.” Django unholsters another six-shooter and retorts, “I count two guns Nigga!” Django’s dialogue from that point on is reflective and prophetic. After he fells Stephen by shooting him in both kneecaps, Django says his final goodbyes, and lights the fuse to six strategically placed sticks of dynamite.

Candie Land is demolished. We never see the mood of those left on the plantation, but Django and his defiance undoubtedly multiplied their chances for freedom.

Obviously, Django is a movie character and not available for hire. Further, we wish no physical harm or danger on anybody. But if we don’t stop this MAGA Negro-in-Chief, Mark Robinson, he might try to resurrect Candie Land in North Carolina. If Robinson wins, we may all need eight minutes every hour of the day.

The Democrats, President Biden, and The Black Vote

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 anyone is held back.

While President Biden appears to be the only hope for America. As we know this nation, it does not follow that many who understand this crisis could and will engage in not voting this November out of the feeling that there is no real choice given Biden and Trump on the ballot. The sad truth is that a Third Party candidate on the Democratic side could almost for certain guarantee that former President Trump would be elected. A Third Par-

ty candidate on the Republican side would certainly guarantee that President Biden would be re-elected. Likewise, a stay at home vote on the Democratic side could also guarantee that Trump would be re-elected.

Let us not forget that it was the Black vote that put Biden in office. With all he has done to bring the country back from the brink of collapse, including having a Black Vice President, he has still failed the Black vote. He has not used the power of his office to break the filibuster in the Senate so that the George Floyd and John Lewis proposed laws could have a fighting chance to become a reality.

How is it that a man who spent 36 years in the Senate and 8 years as Vice President

has failed to learn how to use the power of those positions, as such men as the late President Lyndon Baines Johnson did, to get the Voting Rights and Civil Rights laws enacted? President Biden was more worked up over the Supreme Court’s Decision on Roe vs. Wade than the voting rights and civil rights legislation mentioned above. The President and the Democratic Party should understand that Black people can and will live with Donald Trump if necessary, because our fight for equality and inclusion has never ended.

The Black vote, just like all other votes in an election, needs more than the waving of the flag and promises, many of which have been made before. Dollars must be invested in our

Black communities the same way they are being, and will be, invested in other communities to get out the vote. It should be remembered that Black faces in the White House do not mean Black faces at the voting booths.

BLACK VOTERS should also remember that in addition to re-electing President Biden, the Democrats need four more seats in the House of Representatives to RESTORE A DEMOCRATIC MAJORITY and to make Hakeem Jefferies the first Black Speaker of the House of Representatives. It takes money to educate a public to save democracy, as we know it, rather than endure the browning of America.

Scene from Django

Mark Robinson

Total Eclipse of the Heart and Soul

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

By Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

Traffic has been insane. More than 500,000 people have descended upon the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to view the solar eclipse. We are in the “Path of Totality” or the area that will be directly under the moon’s shadow when it tracks across the region. People in these areas will experience total darkness. People are being warned to wear eclipse glasses to view the partial eclipse. If located in the full totality path, glasses are not needed during the full eclipse. This is so monumental because it only happens every 375 years. For just a few minutes, we will experience an event of our lifetime.

As frustrated as I am with the gridlock traffic, I’m also thinking

about what would happen if we had that kind of excitement and dedication to God. What would happen if we had the kind of planning to see the solar eclipse to treat those we are around well and with kindness?

There are people everywhere, driving so erratically with their only concern being their destination, often unaware of everything going around them. This oncein-a-lifetime event is important but we would be remiss not to see the contrast of light and darkness that is around us.

Could it be that the solar eclipse is a reminder that we cannot allow darkness to drown out the light even if temporarily? The Bible reminds us that “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

(John 1:5)

For many, our lights have been dimmed or even been out for a long time. We are so focused on seeing something spectacular that we are blind to what

is around us. For some, our rose-colored glasses have given us the illusion that “those” people are the problem instead of taking a deep, hard look at our faults, failures, and shortcomings. As a society, we have accepted the darkness surrounding us:

• It is estimated that between 15,000 to 50,000 women and children are forced into sexual slavery in the United States every year, and the total number varies wildly as it is very difficult to research.

• Currently, 16% of all children in the United States — 11.6 million kids total — are living in poverty. A family of four with annual earnings below $29,678 is considered poor.

• 8.4% or 27.6 million Americans of all ages did not have health insurance in 2022.

• The maternal mortality rate for Black women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.6 times the rate for White women (26.6). Rates for Black women

were significantly higher than rates for White and Hispanic women.

• Black people were overrepresented in most jails. In 2022, Black people made up 12% of the local population but 26% of the jail (not prison) population on average.

• 21% of adults in the US are illiterate in 2022. 54% of adults have literacy below sixth-grade level. 21% of Americans 18 and older are illiterate in 2022. This list is not exhaustive but we’ve become sedated and have selective memory about what is important especially when it pertains to others. As we spend the next few days reveling in this chance of a lifetime, I hope that we see it as symbolism for what is happening in our world.

Some of our hearts and eyes are closed. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of

light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” (Matthew 6:21-24)

Ask yourself the following:

• What is important to you?

• Who/what has your attention the most?

Those answers will tell you about your condition and if you need an eye or heart transplant. It will also illuminate if you are filled with light or if you are experiencing an eclipse of your soul and heart.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the President of Soulstice Consultancy, LLC and the Founder of the Reconciliation and Restoration (r2fdn.org) Foundation. The author of 4 books including Empowering Charity: A New Narrative of Philanthropy, Dr. Booker-Drew is also the host of the Tapestry Podcast.

Women’s History Is Not Over, Just The Month

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.

Each year we celebrate Women’s History Month in March. My mom, Mrs. Mildred H. Ewers was the first successful woman that I knew. She was a registered nurse in Winston-Salem NC.

Women’s History and Black History have some similarities. Each started off as a week. All the while, women have been largely absent from having their accomplishments recognized. Why has it taken so long? That is just one of many questions.

Like anything, if there is no pressure put on the powers that be, nothing will happen. It is my opinion that power only reacts to power. It was the power of the people that made Women’s History Month happen.

According to reports, President Jimmy Carter in February 1980 issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of

March 8th as National Women’s History Week. The Education Task Force of Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women in Santa Rosa, California planned a women’s-themed event during the week of March 8th to correspond with International Women’s Day.

In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month in perpetuity according to reports. It honors the extraordinary achievements of women. The theme for Women’s History Month 2024 centered around diversity, equity and inclusion. Research has shown that when DEI is included, we all get better and stronger together.

A report in 2023 showed women made up 41.9% of the workforce and 32.2% in senior leadership positions. More work is being done by advocacy groups to identify more qualified candidates.

Women comprise 74% of all teachers. There are over 3,842,796 teachers in the United States of America. Teaching careers have been one of the most rewarding as teachers are able to

shape the minds of future generations. I was fortunate to have teachers who helped to shape my career path as an educator.

I will never forget my teachers at St. Benedict The Moor Elementary School in Winston-Salem NC as they were all women. My friends and I were fortunate because they gave us the early fundamentals to read, to write and to think.

My high school and college years were fulfilling because of women like Dr. Manderline Scales and Dr. Maxine Scott. They gave us their best. Their goal was always to make the next generation the best.

In my opinion, it is impossible to keep Women’s History Month within the month of March. Celebrations and commemorations must occur throughout the year. Girls and women of both races must know more about whose shoulders they stand on for their own success.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have benefited greatly from having African American female presidents. Dr. Mary McLeod

Bethune founded Bethune Cookman College (now University) in Daytona Beach Florida in 1904. Since that time, many African American women have assumed the top job at both HBCUs and (PWIs) Predominately White Institutions.

The record shows that Dr. Dorothy Cowser Yancy (Johnson C. Smith University), Dr. Ruth Simmons (Brown University and Prairie View A&M University), Dr. Beverly Wade Hogan (Tougaloo College) and Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins (Bennett College) were college presidents and served with distinction.

The mantle of leadership has now been given to new college and university female presidents. Dr. Valerie Kinloch (Johnson C. Smith University), Dr. Rochelle Ford (Dillard University), Dr. Lori S, White (DePauw University) and Dr. Helene D. Gayle (Spelman College) are becoming trailblazers at their respective institutions.

Women in sports is now one of the most talked about topics in all the land. On Sunday, Coach Dawn Staley led the Universi-

ty of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team to the NCAA Championship. The oldest African American college athletic conference, the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) is led by Jacqie McWilliams-Parker. Her innovative stewardship has made it a premier athletic conference.

Let’s honor women who are creating new paradigms of success. They are breaking down barriers every day.

This column is dedicated to the women in the East Winston section of Winston-Salem North Carolina who gave me inspiration and motivation.

Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is a longtime educator who hails from Winston Salem, N.C. One of the top tennis players in the state, he was inducted into the Black Tennis Hall of Fame in January 2021. A graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, he received his M. A. degree in Education from Catholic University in Washington, DC, and Ed. D. degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA. He has also done post-doctoral studies at Harvard University and Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Biden Centers on NUL’s ‘D3’ Agenda

TO BE EQUAL

By Marc Morial

“When you get to my age, certain things become clearer than ever before. I know the American story. Again and again, I’ve seen the contest between competing forces in the battle for the soul of our nation. Between those who want to pull America back to the past and those who want to move America into the future. My lifetime has taught me to embrace freedom and democracy. A future based on core values that have defined America. Honesty, decency, dignity, equality. To respect everyone. To give everyone a fair shot. To give hate no safe harbor.”

— President Joe Biden, 2024 State of the Union Address

President Biden’s third State of the Union Address was met with overwhelmingly positive reviews

for both its powerful content and his energetic delivery.

Falling as it did just days after the release of the National Urban League’s 2024 State of Black America report — which included a special section, “Evaluation for Progress: Report on the Biden Harris Administration” — it’s worth noting the contrast between this address and the 1976 address by President Gerald Ford that inspired the original State of Black America report.

Both President Ford’s address and Sen. Edmund Muskie’s opposition conspicuously failed to mention the challenges facing Black Americans at the time. In contrast, President Biden not only wove racial equity throughout his speech, but he also delivered it on the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a transformational moment in the civil rights movement.

Encouragingly, the speech explicitly addressed all three “Ds” in the National Urban League’s “D3” agenda: Defend Democracy, Demand Diversity, Defeat Poverty.

“I ask all of you, without regard to party, to join together and de-

fend democracy,” President Biden said. “Respect free and fair elections. Restore trust in our institutions. And make clear — political violence has absolutely no place, no place in America.”

Highlighting the anniversary of Bloody Sunday and pointing out the marchers in the chamber, he said, “Hundreds of foot soldiers for justice marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, named after the Grand Dragon of the Ku Klux Klan, to claim their fundamental right to vote. They were beaten.

They were bloodied and left for dead … Five months later, the Voting Rights Act passed and was signed into law. But 59 years later, there are forces taking us back in time: voter suppression, election subversion, unlimited dark money, extreme gerrymandering.”

He called on Congress to pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Right Act, two bills that are at the heart of the National Urban League’s advocacy.

In calling for an end to book bans and the erasure of America’s history of racial violence and discrimination, President Biden called diversity a “core value of America.”

In addition to assembling the most diverse Cabinet, senior leadership, and federal judiciary in history — including the first woman and person of color to serve as Vice President and the first Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court — President Biden on his first day in office disbanded the Trump administration’s 1776 Commission, which has sought to erase America’s history of racial injustice, and

revoked Trump’s damaging executive order restricting diversity and inclusion training.

Several times during the speech, President Biden referenced the American Rescue Plan, which lifted more people out of poverty than any piece of legislation in the past 50 years, spurring the greatest single-year reduction in child poverty on record, and driving child poverty to a record low.

“The child tax credit I passed [as part of the American Rescue Plan] cut taxes for millions of working families and cut child poverty in half. Restore that child tax credit. No child should go hungry in this country.”

The National Urban League is proud to have worked with the Biden administration to help defend democracy, demand diversity, and defeat poverty, and we are committed to continue holding President Biden and all elected officials accountable to the imperatives of racial equity and economic opportunity.

A Silent Killer No More

By Hamil R. Harris NNPA Contributing Writer

Political provocateurs are determined to stir up controversy over Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s failure to tell President Biden about his treatment for prostate cancer. Yet, his desire to keep the matter private—and out of the public eye—is in line with what many men, particularly men of color, have done for decades. The reticence to share details of a medical condition is understandable, but prostate cancer is a silent killer in the Black community and the time has come to give it a voice.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose son Dexter recently passed from prostate cancer, I ask: How long? How long will Men of color suffer in silence and die alone? How long will too many brothers hide their plight?

When he finally commented publicly about his condition, Austin offered regrets about keeping silent and then made an important pledge. He said that by not

initially disclosing his diagnosis, he “missed an opportunity to send a message on an important public health issue,” while noting the prevalence of prostate cancer, particularly among Black men. Encouraging all men to get screened, Austin promised, “You can count on me to set a better example on this issue today and for the rest of my life.”

Any cancer diagnosis is a private matter. But men like Dexter King and Austin can help so many others who are prone to prostate cancer. Keeping the surgery and treatment a secret would only have continued to add to the stigma surrounding prostate cancer. That would have been a disservice to the thousands of men of color diagnosed annually.

Indeed, data from Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City shows that more than 13 percent of African American men between the ages 45 and 79 will develop prostate cancer in their lifetimes. And Black men have a 70 percent higher rate of developing pros-

tate cancer than White men. The American Cancer Society also shockingly predicts that Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than their White counterparts.

These figures are appalling when considering that prostate cancer is one of the most treatable forms of the disease with the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed with it being greater than 99 percent if the cancer is detected during the early stage.

While there are numerous reasons for why this disparity between Black and white men exists – decades of structural racism, environmental issues, certain comorbidities, different molecular pathways in the body of Black men – a great deal of the reason comes down to the fact that Black men are disproportionately not being screened for prostate cancer as early or as regularly as White men.

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology by a team at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center found that Black men

get fewer PSA (prostate specific antigen) screenings; they are more likely to be diagnosed with later stage cancer; they are less likely to have health insurance; and they have less access to high-quality care and other disparities that can be linked to a lower overall socioeconomic status.

Given his platform as Secretary of Defense, I am happy that Austin recognized his duty to be open and honest about his battle with this disease. And in doing so, he now joins groups and individuals who are already working on spreading awareness for prostate screenings who can act as guideposts.

For example, Mount Sinai Medical Center recently unveiled the Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit, which will visit New York City neighborhoods where men could be at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. The mobile home sized bus is named after the African American philanthropist and venture capitalist who donated almost $4 million to launch the program. Smith,

who has led many philanthropic endeavors aimed at supporting the African-American community, obviously realizes that it takes a preemptive approach to combat the scourge of prostate cancer by going directly into the communities most affected by the disease. In announcing the prostate screening initiative, Smith tied it to larger inequities in our society that leave African Americans behind. “It’s unconscionable that in our great country and at this moment of technological breakthrough, Black Americans are still subject to staggeringly worse health outcomes,” he said. “We can fix this.”

Thankfully there are individuals like Smith and now Austin to use their platforms to spread awareness for this deadly – yet very treatable – form of cancer and ensure that more people don’t die needlessly.

Hamil R. Harris is an awardwinning journalist and contributing writer for

the NNPA

President Joe Biden delivers the 2024 State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol on March 7.

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

The Democrats

At the end of the day, Donald Trump is not the problem but the instrument of an old idea that says America has to be ‘white in order to be right’. This idea only sees “We the People” as White. Fortunately, there are still people in this nation Black, White, Brown, Yellow and Red, immigrants and citizens by birth who believe that America is all of us, even when

cont. from page 4

we disagree with each other. The Black vote is still strong enough to once again make the difference. The question is, will WE get the support necessary to make that vote once again, go to the polls and re-elect this President who must do more. The issue is not his age, but his commitment to getting our vote. People are not as concerned about “sav-

ing democracy” or the number of jobs recovered as much as they are concerned about the value of our dollars, food, rent, housing and gas. If the Democrats reach us where we live on these issues, the salvation of democracy will follow.

Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

Texas Metro News Honors

Dr. Yolanda Lawson - National Medical Association, Margarette

Galloway - Phi Delta Kappa Sorority, Charlotte Berry - Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Danette Anthony Reed - Alpha Kappa Alpha

Sorority, and Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford - Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, and Elsie Cooke Holmes - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority are leading with grace, vision and focus. Valiant, bold, and brilliant are just a few of the words used to describe these women who travel the world, effecting change and making a difference in the lives of so many. Whether they are talking about voting, DEI, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, food deserts, violence against women or misogyny; these women are game changers and they call D/FW home!

South Dallas Club Trailblazers

cont. from page 1

club of business and professional women will host their 60th V. Alyce Foster Trailblazer Awards Luncheon at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, 2201 N. Stemmons Freeway in Dallas.

The Honorable Maxine Waters, (D-CA) will present the keynote address. Frost Bank and Parrish Restaurants, Ltd.

are corporate sponsors of the event.

Luncheon Chair Gwendolyn E. Hunt, Esq. and her committee are busy preparing for an elite slate of honorees that will be recognized during the Club’s annual signature event.

Honorees include the recipient of the National Association

of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. highest award, The Sojourner Truth Award; three Trailblazer awardees; Woman of the Year; Man of the Year; the Mabel Meshach White Businesswoman; Meritorious Service awardee; Volunteer Service awardee; Professional Woman awardee;

Ombudsman awardee; and a dynamic Youth Achiever. In addition to outstanding individuals in Greater Dallas, SDBPWC will award 12 worthy high school seniors with scholarships, and the ever-popular silent auction will be available in the foyer of the ballroom.

Channel 8 News Anchor Cleo

Greene will serve as guest MC and entertainment will be presented by “The Inspirational Band.”

For tickets to the luncheon, visit the SDBPWC website at southdallasbpwc.org and select the Donate button, or email the organization at southdallas1954@yahoo.com.

US Rep. Jasmine Crockett Sojourner Truth Award

Michael Akinnibosun Cedar Hill Collegiate High School

Reginald Turner Naaman Forest High School Quincy Roberts Trailblazer

Abiba Moneriffe DeSoto High School

Jourdan Jones Faith Family Academy

Carol Blakes Volunteer Service Award

Dr. Joseph Seabrooks Man of the Year

William Anoka Grand Prairie High School

Xyler Myles South Oak Cliff High School

Rep. Carl Sherman Ombudsman Award

Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford Waters Trailblazer

Xavier Wright Lakeview Centennial High School

Ray C. Gulley, III Rowlett High School

Captain Harry Hoskins Meritorious Service Award

Pastor Virzola Law Trailblazer Skylar Phifer South Oak Cliff High School

Miles Johnson Barack Obama ML High School

Regina Caldwell Professional Woman Award

Barbara Washington Mabel Meshach White Businesswoman

Ava Horton James Martin High School

Isaiah Gardner Skyline High School

Miles Johnson Youth Achiever

Legal Legend Honored

cont. from page 1

of Law in Fort Worth.

“The purpose of this recognition is to memorialize the stories of legendary lawyers who have practiced in Texas,” said Federal Judge Christine Stetson, who presented the award to Judge Davis.

Several attorneys and citizens were on hand tohonor the Judge, who will celebrate his 100th birthday on October 12, 2024.

“Judge Davis is one of the finest lawyers and legal scholars to have ever practiced law in our state, and in our country, said Michael Heiskell, the president of the National Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, who shared a law practice with Judge Davis in North Texas.

A graduate of the Howard University Law School, Judge Davis, a native of Arkansas, founded one of the first Black law practices in Texas. Among the legal scholars he regularly worked with was former U. S. Supreme Court

Associate Justice Thurgood Marshall.

Exactly one year after the U. S. Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education ruled separate but equal schools unconstitutional, Judge Davis filed successful discrimination law suits against two North Texas School Districts.

“My law practice and my life have been inspired and enhanced by Judge Davis, said Bobbie Edmonds, a North Texas attorney who has written a biography about Judge Davis, a member of Saint Andrews United Methodist Church in Fort Worth.

“I believe that life requires all of us to pursue justice, equality and fairness for all people without regard to race, gender or status,” Judge said at the conclusion of the 60-minute ceremony with nearly 100 in attendance at the ceremony that was sponsored by the Texas A & M University School of Law. “We all must work for the general welfare of people.”

Questions to ponder:

“smartest animal in the world” – behind humans?

6. How can it be that humans shed unnoticeable skin cells, but snakes shed a whole layer of skin at once?

7. How can it be that a Mali woman in 2021 gave birth to nonuplets, 9 babies at once, reportedly without fertility medicines?

8. How can it be that a volcano spits up its innards?

9. How can it be that beach sand can be totally pink in color?

10. How can it be that two streams of the Aragvi River, one light, one dark, run together but do not mix in the country of Georgia near borders of Europe and Asia?

Those are my top 10. Do you have answers yet? So, let’s try 10 more.

11. How can it be that the rocks of the Great Pyramid at Giza were so meticulously stacked without modern-day machines and technology?

12. How can it be that nature created about 400,000 types of plants that spawn such breath-takingly gorgeous flower blooms repeatedly in their season?

13. How is it that an animal designed to roam free is legally kept in a cage so us humans can stare at it for pleasure?

cont. from page 1

14. How is it that humans who break laws also are kept in cages?

15. What caused scientists to revise their theory that previously said humans use only 10 percent of our brain to now saying we do use 100 percent of it?

16. How can science say that a leech has 32 brains?

17. How can it be that deserts once had water and that some even were completely under water?

18. Why do scientists argue over which is the longest river on planet Earth – the Nile in Africa or Amazon in South America?

19. Have humans reached agreement over Bible writings stating that there were more than a half-dozen named men who lived more than nine hundred years? Beyond the familiar Methuselah (969) some others include (Ama 930 years), Noah (950), and Enos (905). Is it a miscalculation of how time was measured or a fact?

20. And while on that subject, will humans ever finally answer the questions: where is heaven? Where is Hell? Do they even exist? Your answers please.

Two Aragvi Rivers, one light, one dark, run together but do not mix in country of Georgia near borders of Europe and As ia. Photo: Reddit

Pangolin animal, known as an anteater, walking on two of its four legs. Photo: Quora

Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists and was its first southwest regional director. She became The News’ first Black full-time reporter in 1974. norma_adams_wade@yahoo.com.

Pink sand at breach. Photo: Pinterest Rock formation in shape of human. Photo: Pinterest Rock formation in image of animal. Photo: Pinterest

Peacock tailfeathers with eye images. Photo: Britannica

Judge L. Clifford Davis ( seated) was proclaimed a “Texas legal Legend” on Monday. Among those who honored the 99-year-old legal scholar were Federal Judge Christine Stetson (left) and Fort Worth attorney Bobbie Edmonds.

Judge L. Clifford Davis

Federal Magistrate Judge Christine Stetson and Atty. Jackie Robinson with Davis.

Texas A&M Law student , Federal Judge Christene Stetson, Judge Davis and Atty. Edmond’s

Rev. Floyd Moody and wife, the 16-yearold Plaintiff in the 1955 Mansfield ISD segregation lawsuit.

Santana Emory 8, Raquell Emory 6, and Jerrell Emory 8 with Attorney Edmonds

Power and Prestige of HBCUs Displayed at CIAA Tournament in Baltimore

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.

I have long suggested that the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) puts on the greatest sporting event in the United States of America. As many already know, the CIAA was founded in 1912. This year’s CIAA Basketball Tournament was held February 26th-March 2nd in Baltimore Maryland. There aren’t enough superlatives to describe how great this weeklong event was.

The CIAA is the first, and longest running African American athletic conference in the U.S. and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. It conducts more than 14 championships attended by thousands of fans from across the country.

If you have been around HBCUs, you know the CIAA and its storied history. I am fortunate to have come of age in CIAA coun-

try. Being from Winston-Salem NC and growing up around the corner from Clarence (Big House) Gaines, my friends and I knew about this conference very early in our lives.

Early on, schools like Johnson C. Smith University (NC) of which I am a graduate, Winston-Salem Teachers College (now State University) (NC) and Virginia Union University (VA) were members.

At some point, I found out you could receive an athletic scholarship to go to college. Quite honestly, I didn’t know what to make of it and thought it was for other guys and not for me. Fortunately, I was wrong, and I did receive a scholarship to play college tennis.

I began going to CIAA basketball tournaments when I was in elementary school. The crowds, the players and the popcorn were simply the best. Memorial Coliseum in Winston-Salem was the place to be.

Upon reflection, seeing players like Freddie Neal, Cleo Hill and Ted Blunt was inspiring however, I know now that I was seeing great players performing at a

high level. We also saw coaches like Clarence Gaines and John McClendon before they were legends.

Over time and with consistency, the CIAA basketball tournament has become a must-see event. The men’s and women’s teams are exciting to watch throughout the week. The CIAA also features workshops and empowerment seminars as well. High School students also benefit from activities designed to help them with going to college.

Corporate sponsorships have also increased as companies realize investing in the CIAA is beneficial for them. Internships and scholarships help students to become successful. Games are being televised by ESPN which means more people are watching them and seeing the caliber of basketball played by CIAA schools. This year was no different.

Baltimore, Maryland called the Charm City displayed its warmth and hospitality a few weeks ago. The city pulled out the red carpet to make everyone feel welcome

during our visit. Many local and state officials including Brandon Scott, mayor of Baltimore and Wes Moore, governor of Maryland were in attendance.

These Maryland ambassadors want the CIAA tournament to return to the city. Kudos to them for being present and for being fans. For the week, shuttle services were provided to and from the CFG arena for fans staying in nearby hotels.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric. Fans were wearing their school colors and talking about their college days. Pep bands and cheerleaders added to the revelry.

Lincoln University (PA) won the men’s tournament and Fayetteville State University (NC) won the women’s tournament. Johnson C. Smith University (NC) received the sportsmanship award.

The CIAA held its Hall of Fame ceremony on Friday, March 1st at the Baltimore Convention Center. It is named in honor of John McClendon. There were seven inductees, and I was one of them. The inductees were Anthony

Blaylock (Winston-Salem State University \Football), Nastassia Boucicault (Shaw University\ Women’s Basketball), Bill Dusenbery (Johnson C. Smith University\Football), James “Jimmy” Ewers (Johnson C. Smith University\Tennis), Antonio Pettigrew (St. Augustine University\ Men’s Track and Field), Norman Tate (N.C. Central University\Men’s Track and Field), and Joseph “Jo Jo” White (Livingstone College\ Football).

Put the CIAA Basketball Tournament on your schedule for next year in Baltimore. It’s a great event and will be even better next year. See you there.

Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is a longtime educator who hails from Winston Salem, N.C. One of the top tennis players in the state, he was inducted into the Black Tennis Hall of Fame in January 2021. A graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, he received his M. A. degree in Education from Catholic University in Washington, DC, and Ed. D. degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA. He has also done post-doctoral studies at Harvard University and Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Civil Rights Complaint filed against George Floyd Memorial Scholarship

White students at North Central University in Minneapolis, where George Floyd’s memorial services were held, have filed a Civil Rights complaint over the scholarship in his name that is earmarked for Black students.

By Reasla Teague Defender Network

A federal complaint has been filed against North Central University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, alleging its George Floyd Memorial Scholarship violates the Civil Rights Act by discriminating against non-Black students.

The Legal Insurrection Foundation, a conservative nonprofit focused on free expression and academic freedom, submitted the complaint on Monday to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

At the center of the dispute are the scholarship’s racial eligibility requirements. To qualify, applicants must “be a student who is Black or African Amer-

ican, that is, a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa,” according to the university’s guidelines.

The complaint argues that by automatically disqualifying students who do not meet this racial prerequisite, the scholarship runs afoul of Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which “prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.”

“Discrimination against white applicants is just as unlawful as discrimination against Black or other non-white applicants,” stated the complaint’s authors, civil rights attorney Ameer Benno and Cornell University law professor William Jacobson. “Regardless of NCU’s reasons for sponsoring and promoting the GFMS

[scholarship], it is violating Title VI by doing so.”

North Central University has not yet

publicly responded to the allegations. The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship was established in 2020 “to contribute toward the educational promise of aspiring young black American leaders,” according to the university.

Applications remain open for the 202425 academic year, with a recipient set to be chosen by June. However, the Legal Insurrection Foundation’s complaint casts legal doubt on the scholarship’s racial eligibility criteria.

While the intentions behind creating an honor for George Floyd may have been well-meaning, the competing interests of racial equity and adhering to federal non-discrimination laws have seemingly collided over this particular scholarship program.

Wandbild Portrait George Floyd von Eme Street Art im Mauerpark (Berlin). Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Metro Community Calendar

APRIL 11

Friendship West Baptist Church Black Marriage Week

27

60th V. Alyce Foster Trailblazer Awards

Luncheon, sponsored by the South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc., at 12 noon, HILTON ANATOLE HOTEL

Keynote Speaker at this scholarship benefit will be U. S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Among this year’s honorees is Ella Goode Johnson, who will receive the coveted WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

IOTA PHI LAMBDA

SORORITY- PSI CHAPTER BUSINESS MONTH

EDUCATION & SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

LUNCHEON at the Renaissance Dallas North Hotel 1590 LBJ Freeway, at 11am

MAY

The African American Museum has two exhibitions through May 30, 2024 – “Central Track: Crossroads of Deep Ellum” and “Seeing A World Blind Lemon Never Saw.” The newly refreshed exhibit – “The Souls of Black Folks – Imagination and Materiality: The Power of Memory and Storytelling in Black Art” – will also be on view. 4

Kentucky Derby HBCU Jam brought to you by the DFW Alumni Chapters of Kentucky State, PVAMU Dallas, PVAMU Fort Worth and Alcorn State at Lone Star Parkway in Grand Prairie. 5

Miss Jabberwock Pageant at 6:00 pm at Las Colinas Country Club, 4400 N. O’Connor Rd, Irving, TX 75062 presented by the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in partnership with Dodd Education and Support, Inc.

18

Brittney Johnson, the Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of NBC 5 News at 10 p.m., is the honorary chair of NAMIWalks North Texas 2024 at 9:00 a.m., NAMIWalks North

Texas will take place at Riders Field, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034.

Register at Eventbrite and attend services at 10am

19

Crowned Scholars Gala, noon - 3pm, On the Levee, 1108 Quaker St. Dallas, Purchase tickets at www.crowned scholars.org

powered by

25-26

TwoGether Land, the latest addition to the ONE Musicfest (OMF) family in partnership with Live Nation Urban, is set to make its mark in Dallas at the historic Fair Park. The renowned ONE Musicfest has chosen the vibrant city of Dallas as the perfect canvas for its expansion, introducing TwoGether Land as a sister festival. Presented by ONE Musicfest, TwoGether Land takes place during Memorial Day weekend

JUNE 8

w/Cheryl Smith

Weekday mornings on FaceBook at 8:45 am

Bringing you hype you can believe!

The World According to Drew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join Andrew Whigham on the call 646-200-0459

SEND CALENDAR ITEMS TO editor@texasmetronews.com or call

214-941-0110 HYPE

Paul Quinn College 2024 Honda Campus All-Star Challenge Team advances to National Championship Tournament for Third Time in School’s History

Fans can view the exciting HCASC National Championship finals online April 11 –12 at HCASC.com.

Paul Quinn College, the nation’s first Urban Work College, congratulates its 2024 Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) Team for advancing to the 2024 HCASC National Championship Tournament for the third time in the school’s history.

Paul Quinn’s 2024 HCASC Team is comprised of students Leah Butler, a Senior majoring in Business Administration; Makale Johnson, a Senior majoring in Business Entrepreneurship; Kai Sawyer-Harris, a Senior majoring in Business Administration; and Mandy Samone Brooks, a Senior majoring in Psychology.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and coaches for qualifying for the national

championship,” said Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College. “This dynamic team embodies the essence of the Quinnite Nation. They are smart, strong, and resilient. While we do not believe in celebrating at halftime, we do believe in acknowledging the work that it took to get this far in the competition. We look forward to them winning the title.”

The team will compete against 31 other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) April 6 - 12 in Torrance, CA for the National Championship title and a portion of more than $500,000 in institutional grants and scholarships provided by Honda. The winning team will receive $100,000 in prize money for

scholarships and academic programming.

The team placed second in the HCASC National Qualifying Tournament in February and, in previous years, earned a spot in the “Sweet Sixteen” round. A team from Paul Quinn College has participated in the HCASC since the 1989-1990 season.

The scholars are supported by a dedicated faculty and staff team, including HCASC Head Coach, Dr. Ervin James III, Associate Professor of History and African American Studies; HCASC Campus Coordinator, Ms. Annette Neal, Administrator, TRiO Student Support Services; HCASC Assistant Coach, Mrs. Tartisha Hill, Paul Quinn Alumnus, and Balch Springs City Council

Place 2 candidate; and Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs for Paul Quinn, Dr. Kizuwanda Grant.

Honda Campus All-Star Challenge is a yearround program that celebrates HBCU academic excellence and showcases the best and brightest minds from HBCUs nationwide. The 32 teams of four students from participating schools will go head-to-head in a battle of academic skill, quickly answering questions on various topics, including history, science, math, pop culture, and more.

“The Honda Campus All-Star Challenge has provided a national stage for generations of talented HBCU students to display their impressive academic capabilities and the rich culture

of HBCUs,” said Yvette Hunsicker, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility and Inclusion & Diversity at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Honda is proud of our longstanding commitment to supporting and inspiring the next generation of leaders by providing HBCU students with the tools and experiences they need to live their dreams.”

Fans can view the exciting HCASC National Championship finals online April 11th –12th at HCASC.com.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_hcasc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ user/HCASCNCT/videos

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered

APRIL

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC

ALPHA PI SIGMA CHAPTER

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

11

2024 DeSoto

Candidate Forum for candidates vying for DeSoto City Council and DeSoto School Board

Trustee at DeSoto Civic Center (Bluebonnet Room), 211 E Pleasant Run Road, DeSoto, TX 7 - 9 p.m. ***

InnoTech Dallas, the Technology and Security Conference will be held at 500 Las Colinas Blvd W Irving, TX 75039. Janet Robertson will be a guest speaker at the InnoTech Dallas Technology and Security Conference at 1 p.m. She will lead a conversation titled Fostering Trust and Embracing Change: Building Stronger Business Teams. For info -https://www.innotechdallas.com/

16

DALLAS BLACK DANCE THEATRE

DANCING BEYOND BORDERS at W.E. Scott Theatre in Fort Worth

20

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s second annual Young Professionals Experience (YPX), DSO X Troupe Vertigo! This year’s experience will be held at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

21

Stock Market Investing & Entrepreneurship, 3-4:30 p.m. for middle-high school students at The DEC @Red Bird, 3560 W. Camp Wisdom. For more Info, call Project Still I Rise at 972-546-0977

23

DALLAS BLACK DANCE THEATRE

DANCING BEYOND BORDERS 7:30pm at Eisemann Center in Richardson

25-26

TwoGether Land, the latest addition to the ONE Musicfest (OMF) family in partnership with Live Nation Urban, is set to make its mark in Dallas at the historic Fair Park.

27

PHILANTHROPARTY 2024 TOGETHER FOR GOOD

The Statler Dallas, 1914 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201 6 - 11pm CDT Social Venture Partners Dallas is looking forward to celebrating our 8th Annual Philanthroparty!

Join the National Coalition of 100 Black Women - Dallas Metropolitan Chapter‘a annual signature event benefiting their scholarship fund, A Crown & Roses Affair. This event will be held at Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, TX. It’s an occasion where style, generosity, and the spirit of giving come together to

make a meaningful and lasting impact. Chapter presentation from 11am - 1pm - Enjoy a derby style day at the races 1pm - 6pm

Get your ticket here- https://bit.ly/ SigEventCrownAndRosesAffair

Reach Media Inc. - Tom Joyner’s Ultimate Party with a Purpose is gearing up to embark on the Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage 2024, a transformative experience aimed at supporting HBCU students HBCUs. Departing from Miami, FL, on April 27, the cruise navigates through the Caribbean ports of the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, hosting a lively Beach Party at Labadee.

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority’s 50th Anniversary Business Month Education & Scholarship Awards Luncheon, honoring Ernie Williams - Alvernon K. Tripp Hall of Fame Inductee and 2024 Honorees, Renaissance Dallas North Hotel at 1590 LBJ Freeway, Dallas.

MAY 3

Cynthia Mickens Ministries Annual Fundraiser will be held at DHV Artworks, 2835 Irving Blvd in Dallas. info@cynthiamickensministries. org

18

Register on Eventbrite and attend services at 10am

19

Stock Market Investing & Entrepreneurship, 3-4:30 p.m. for middle-high school students at The DEC @Red Bird, 3560 W. Camp Wisdom. For more Info, call Project Still I Rise at 972-546-0977

JUNE 1

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter

The Taste of Black Mansfield FoodTruck Edition

SECURE YOUR FREE SPOT TODAY @ https://docs.google.com/.../ 1FAIpQLScvGeDRnY2Qr.../viewform

8

Texas Rangers v San Francisco Giants: HBCU Diamond Day @ 3:05pm. Show up and show off your HBCU pride! The Texas Rangers 2nd annual HBCU Diamond Day recognizing current students and alumni from Historically Black Colleges & Universities.

by

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU? Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

Ed Bell Construction Company

An Equal Opportunity Employer

April 1, 2024

Ed Bell Construction is a Dallas based heavy highway contractor doing business in the North Texas market since 1963. With clients such as TxDOT, Dallas County Public Works, and the Cities of Dallas, Fort Worth, Richardson, and Mansfield (plus many others), we have a strong backlog of work in the highway market locally.

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

• Form setter (Paving)

• Pipelayer (Underground)

• Boom Mobile Crane (CDL)

• Concrete Finishers (Paving)

• Dozer Operator (Earthwork)

• Laborer (Paving, Earthwork)

• Loader Operator (Earthwork)

• Batch Plant Operator (Concrete)

• Fuel Service Truck Driver (CDL)

• Concrete Paving Operator (Paving)

• Motor Grader Operator (Earthwork)

• CDL Drivers (Water Truck, End Dump)

• Barricade Servicer (Must have valid DL)

Available: multiple openings

Rate: Negotiable

Must have own transportation.

aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

Miscellaneous

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, we’re cutting installation costs in half and offering a FREE safety upgrade! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 3/31/24 Call 1-844-501-3208

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire

Years of Experience required will vary, from 6 months to 2 years (depending on position)

Physical and Drug Screen Required

Must have a Clear Background

Must be at least 18 years old (CDL Driver, 21 yrs.)

Must APPLY IN PERSON at 10605 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75220 from 7am-11am Mon-Fri.

Please visit our website: www.edbellconstruction.com/careers

Or email your resume to: careers@edbellconstruction.com