As we close out 2024, I can’t help but reflect on the year with mixed emotions and look forward to 2025 with hope.
Sixty years ago, the song, A Change is Gonna Come, was released and in 1924 just like in every year, I try to be that change I want to see.
The year began with celebrating the life of someone very special to me, the Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson. A long-time legislator, community servant, mentor, philanthropist, leader, and supporter, the retired U.S. Congresswoman transitioned on December 31, 2023.
The many celebrations of her life were fit for a queen as a sitting president, heads of state, ambassadors, legislators, family, celebrities, classmates, precinct chairs, community citizens, sorority sisters, organization members, clergy, friends, and yes,
Jasmine is Just Who We Need PERSON OF THE YEAR
By Cheryl Smith Publisher Texas Metro News
Jasmine Crockett is this year’s Person of the Year!
When selecting someone for this coveted title; believe me a lot of thought, research and planning goes into the process.
Additionally, we listen to what others are saying about the person; without divulging that they are under consideration.
Previously, our POTY have moved the needle, sparked debate and action, pricked society's consciousness and conscience, and lifted as they climbed.
Sounds like Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), you think?
Those valiant men and women act out of necessity not a need to garner media coverage or serve as clickbait.
Does that mean that they aren’t in the headlines or top stories? Not at all.
You see, some seek and some are
sought — which is the case with Pastor Yvette Blair, Coach Prime (Deion Sanders), Hall of Fame Journalist Roland Martin, Tammy Kemp - Presiding Judge of the 204th Judicial District Court, the late-great Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson; and now Congresswoman Crockett.
This decision wasn’t a heavy lift. We’re doing what’s best for you, our readers and your communities; as well as the entire country and ultimately the world, as we will witness in coming months.
For times like this, we need Jasmine Felicia Crockett.
When she was running for office, she said District 30 has always had a fighter, in Congresswoman Johnson, and she wanted to ”continue that fight for the people.”
And fighting is just what she has done.
What is impressive about her is that she is always well-prepared, strategic, methodical and fearless.
Earlier this year, we were feeding veterans in Dallas at the Heroes House and Rep. Crockett shared
insight into some of the battles she has to fight, which shined a light on the dysfunction that is rampant with the partisan political antics that are not in the best interest of the people.
Through her efforts and challenges of the status quo, Rep. Crockett has skillfully, boldly and creatively called out the shenanigans that keep the government from being more productive.
“I have to fight for my constituents,” she has said on more than one occasion. I understood what she said, as well as the unspoken because I have talked to constituents time and time again who have said, we need representation that will speak up in our best interest.
Well, they asked and they received!
A business administration major from Rhodes College, she began her career in the Bowie County (TX) Public Defender’s Office after receiving her J.D. from the University of Houston. Licensed to practice law in Texas, Arkansas, and Federal Courts, she also is the past
Bowie County Democratic Party Chair.
When elected to the Texas House of Representatives, she became the sole Black freshman and youngest Black lawmaker during that 87th Legislative Session that began in January 2021.
Now if you thought she was going to be silent— the listen-and-learn type—you had another "think" coming because she jumped in like a woman on a mission.
She filed more bills than any other freshman and was a founding member of the Texas Progressive Caucus and the Texas Caucus on Climate, Energy, and the Environment.
Rep. Crockett was fearless in her efforts as she joined with colleagues as a leading architect of the 2021 Texas House Quorum Break where Democrats protested Texas’ restrictive voting laws.
Through it all, she also forged a relationship with then-U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice John-
VP Harris, My Girl, represented A Change is Gonna Come
U. S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett
Three semifinalists for Dallas city manager announced as support for Kim Tolbert grows
By Devyani Chhetri City Reporter
The ad hoc committee leading the search for Dallas’ permanent city manager announced Monday the three semi-finalists it is considering: interim city manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, Fort Worth assistant city manager William Johnson, and Sacramento assistant city manager Mario Lara.
According to a draft timeline, council members intend to host community meetings on Jan. 11-12. They will interview the candidates on-site on Jan. 13.
Monday’s meeting comes days after a slew of organizations around Dallas threw their weight behind Tolbert. The Dallas NAACP, which also supported Tolbert for the interim role, is the latest to join the effort.
“Why would we bring someone in new when we already have a person on the job that is trained?” NAACP-Dallas President Sharon Middlebrooks said in a news conference Friday.
She said the city’s voters recently passed a $1.25 billion bond program and Dallas Hero amendments that waive government immunity and direct 50% of any new revenue year over year into the police and fire pension system.
“Though we do understand and respect the fact that the city of Dallas does have a process in which they choose
their city managers, but we wanted to be very clear that we have a city manager, an interim city manager that has been performing the duties of a city manager in excess of seven months,” Middlebrooks said.
Tolbert took on the interim role after former City Manager T.C. Broadnax announced he was leaving to become Austin’s city manager. He started his new job in May.
The process has been muddled with council infighting over concerns of transparency and how long it is taking. Few council members have publicly endorsed their favorite. Council member Carolyn King Arnold endorsed Tolbert months ago. Meanwhile, some have said they want to see if Tolbert comes out on top after the search.
“I do think that we owe it to ourselves and to the residents to go through the
interview process,” council member Jaynie Schultz told The Dallas Morning News in August. “We’ve engaged a company. We ought to let them do their job, and we need to do our due diligence.”
Middlebrooks, in the news conference, was quick to distinguish that Tolbert had not approached the NAACP to endorse her. In the past, assistant city managers have stepped into interim positions and then taken on the permanent role. Middlebrooks named predecessors like Mary Suhm and A.C. Gonzalez to that effect.
“We believe that Kim Tolbert deserves the same treatment,” Middlebrooks said.
Before Friday’s endorsement, Tolbert, who made dramatic changes in City Hall, from hiring a new leadership team to reorganizing departments, racked up endorsements from the Dallas Fire Fighters Association and the Dallas Hispanic Firefighters Association.
“Kim has proven her leadership through action,” DFFA President Jeff Patterson said in a letter of endorsement.
Tolbert, he said, built “collaborative relationships with Dallas Fire Rescue” and promoted former fire rescue chief Dominique Artis to an assistant city manager role and assistant fire chief Justin Ball to the interim chief role, demonstrating an “ability to put the right people in the right positions to lead us forward.”
$1,400 stimulus checks from IRS dropping into a million stockings
By Maggie Prosser and Chase Rogers Staff Writers
Everyone’s favorite Christmas gift giver, the Internal Revenue Service, has announced that it will be doling out more than $2 billion in checks to Americans this month as part of its effort to make sure everyone received their stimulus payments from 2021.
About 1 million taxpayers will automatically receive the special payments by direct deposit or paper check via the mail.
The federal tax agency has announced that an internal review showed many Americans had never received their economic impact payments, which were supposed to go out following the filing of 2021 tax returns. Because of this, the agency is paying out the money they still owe Americans who never received their checks.
Although most eligible Americans received their stimulus payments, the checks will be sent to those who qualified but filed a 2021 tax return that left the space for recovery rebate credit blank.
Those people are eligible for up to $1,400 from the federal government. The payments should be received by late January 2025, at the latest.
“These payments are an example of our commitment to go the extra mile for taxpayers. Looking at our internal data, we realized that 1 million taxpayers overlooked claiming this complex credit when they were actually eligible,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.
“To minimize headaches and get this money to eligible taxpayers, we’re making these payments automatic, meaning these people will not be required to go through the extensive process of filing an amended return to receive it.”
Stimulus payments of $1,400 were sent out to Americans as part of a $1.9-trillion COVID-19 relief bill. Millions of Americans were eligible for the payments.
To get a check, Americans were required to make less than $75,000 per year or under $150,000 as a household.
Here’s what to know.
What’s the likelihood you’ll get a check?
Probably pretty low. The IRS said most taxpayers eligible for the federal stimulus payments, formally known as Economic Impact Payments, have already received them.
The special payments are being sent to those taxpayers who filed a 2021 tax return but left the data field for the Recovery Rebate Credit blank or they filled it out as $0 when they were actually eligible for the credit.
How will this work?
Eligible taxpayers don’t have to take any action. The payments will go out automatically this month and should arrive by direct deposit or check by late January 2025. They’ll be sent to the bank account listed on the taxpayer’s 2023 return or to the address IRS has on file. Payments will vary but the maximum amount will be $1,400 per individual. The IRS has posted information online about eligibility and how the payment was calculated.
IRS plans to send separate letters to eligible taxpayers notifying them of the special payment.
What if I haven’t filed my 2021 tax return yet?
You still might be able to receive the money. However, taxpayers need to file a tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by the April 15, 2025 deadline, even if any income from a job, business or other source was minimal or nonexistent, according to IRS.
How many rounds of COVID stimulus payments were there?
There were three rounds of payments to households impacted by the pandemic, totaling $814 billion. IRS based the amounts that taxpayers received on their income, tax filing status and number of children or qualifying dependents.
In March 2020, eligible individuals received up to $1,200 per income tax filer and $500 per child under the CARES Act. In December 2020, eligible individuals received up to $600 per income tax filer and $600 per child under the Consolidated Appropriations Act. In March 2021, eligible individuals received up to $1,400 per income tax filer and $1,400 per child under the American Rescue Plan Act.
Kim Tolbert
“Have Someone’s Back or Lose the War”
By Terry Allen
Lucille “Big Mama” Allen was a wellspring of wisdom, offering timeless lessons wrapped in plainspoken truth. One of her most resonant teachings was this: “Have someone’s back or lose the war.” To Big Mama, this meant that unity and loyalty weren’t just virtues; they were survival strategies. In today’s climate, where African Americans and our hard-won freedoms are under fire, this message rings more urgent than ever.
The phrase “have someone’s back” originated from the literal act of protecting someone from attacks, especially from behind. Over time, it has evolved into a broader expression of support and solidarity. Yet, within our community, solidarity is often compromised by the divisive legacy
of self-hatred, what many label as the Willie Lynch Syndrome. This phenomenon pits us against each other, undermining our collective progress.
History offers painful examples. The ideological clash between W.E.B. Du Bois and Booker T. Washington over how best to uplift African Americans fractured a burgeoning movement. Du Bois’s advocacy for higher education and Washington’s emphasis on vocational training weren’t mutually exclusive, yet their discord overshadowed the shared goal of racial advancement.
Fast forward to the modern era, and the tension between Tyler Perry and Spike Lee serves as another example. Both giants in storytelling, their public criticisms of each other’s work highlighted a broader issue: the inability to see different approaches as complementary rather than conflicting. When we fail to back each other, we risk losing the war for cultural and economic empowerment.
I find myself in similar
crosshairs. As I strive to serve advocacy organizations transparently, there are those who claim to have my back but instead approach the very inroads I’ve built, jeopardizing progress and creating roadblocks. These actions fracture authentic relationships and set us back as a community.
Big Mama would have words for these progress killers: “Stabbin’ me in the back doesn’t mean havin’ my back.” Her admonition underscores a crucial truth: undermining each other only benefits those who thrive on our division.
If we truly want to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and safeguard the freedoms we’ve gained, we must embrace the spirit of loyalty and unity Big Mama preached. It’s time to have each other’s backs, or we risk losing everything Terry
BIG MAMA SAID
MLK – The Last Christmas Hope!
QUIT
PLAYIN’
By Vincent L. Hall
There was a very popular and effective catchphrase that circulated throughout the nation and especially among Christians. “WWJD or What Would Jesus Do” was the question. It was posed at every human dilemma, large or small. WWJD? However, most of you learned during this last election cycle that the Jesus in “them” obviously ain’t like the Jesus in “us.” Donald Trump and his MAGA ilk, in the words of Kendrick Lamar; “They not like us.”
Their Jesus is cruel! So, since Jesus is so contro -
His life best resembled the Jesus I
Know
Publisher : Cheryl Smith
Editor: editor@myimessenger.com
Address: 320 S.R.L.
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CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS
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 anyone is held back.
versial, my pages turn from the Bible and toward the writings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He wasn’t Jesus, but his life probably best resembles the Jesus I know.
Listen to excerpts from his last Christmas sermon he delivered on December 22, 1967, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, just four months before his death.
“Peace on Earth… This Christmas season finds us a rather bewildered human race. We have neither peace within nor peace without. Everywhere paralyzing fears harrow people by day and haunt them by night. Our world is sick with war; everywhere we turn we see its ominous possibilities. And yet, my friends, the Christmas hope for peace and goodwill toward all men can no longer be dismissed as a kind of pious dream of some utopian. If we don’t have goodwill toward men in this world, we will destroy ourselves by the misuse of our own instruments and our own power. Wisdom born of experience should tell us that war is obsolete.
And so, if we assume that life is worth living, if we assume that mankind has a right to survive, then we must find an alternative to war — and so let us this morning think anew on the meaning of that Christmas hope: “Peace on Earth, Good Will toward Men.” And as we explore these conditions, I would like to suggest that modern man really go all out to study the meaning of nonviolence, its philosophy and its strategy. We have experimented with the meaning of nonviolence in our struggle for racial justice in the United States, but now the time has come for
man to experiment with nonviolence in all areas of human conflict, and that means nonviolence on an international scale.
If there is to be peace on earth and goodwill toward men, we must finally believe in the ultimate morality of the universe and believe that all reality hinges on moral foundations. Something must remind us of this as we once again stand in the Christmas season and think
of the Easter season simultaneously, for the two somehow go together.
Christ came to show us the way. Men love darkness rather than the light, and they crucified Him, and there on Good Friday on the Cross it was still dark, but then Easter came, and Easter is an eternal reminder of the fact that the truth-crushed earth will rise again. Easter justifies Carlyle in saying, “No lie can live forever.”
And so, this is our faith, as we continue to hope for peace on earth and goodwill toward men: let us know that in the process we have cosmic companionship.
I still have a dream this morning that one day every Negro in this country, every colored person in the world, will be judged on the basis of the content of his character rather than the color of his skin, and every man will respect the dignity and worth of human personality.
I still have a dream today that in all of our state houses and city halls men will be elected to go there who will do justly and love mercy and walk humbly with our God! I still have a dream that with this faith we will be able to adjourn the councils of despair and bring new light into the dark chambers of pessimism.
I still have a dream, because, you know, you can’t give up in life. If you lose hope, somehow you lose that vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of all. And so today I still have a dream.” It looks rough right now, but Dr. King’s words leave us enough hope to dream of peace on earth and goodwill to all!
Renetta Murray Was A Child Prodigy With A Song To Sing
By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed. D.
Every person has a gift. It makes them unique and special to the world. Brightness and boldness shine upon their lives. Their countenance, courage and conviction provide them with the will to pursue their dreams.
Talent and timing are inextricably linked together in a tapestry of excellence. It shows forth during a particular season in their life. Usually everyone sees it before they do. They gently push you and provide you with a platform to excel and to succeed.
The joy and jubilation of having a gift is sharing it with others. Their gift makes us feel better and makes us become better people. They can touch our very hearts and souls.
Renetta Murray was a child
By Kenneth L. Hardin
Africans in America (AIA) have been mired in a long-term, one-sided relationship with their partner, the U.S., for centuries. Although we’ve been treated callously and insensitively, we continue to show our commitment and loyalty to this relationship. We’ve endured domestic violence, political infidelity, social ostracization, and deep-seated indifference to our needs, yet we still love her unconditionally. Even though we’re continually physically and emotionally abused, we make excuses saying it will be different the next time, but it never is.
prodigy at the tender age of nine years old. The Franklin Louisiana native started to sing at the Triumph Baptist Church. Those around her said that singing came naturally to her.
Renetta was born into a family of singers so you can imagine the joy and happiness that filled her home each day. She gives much credit to Stacy Howard, Ernestine Bell and Hartzell Mitchell, all of whom had musical roles at the Triumph Baptist Church. She said, “They put me on a folding chair and the first song that I sang was “Wonderful, oh yes He is”.
Her singing talents have allowed her to open for famed gospel singer, Shirley Caesar and to be a featured singer at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Her selection at the SCLC was Precious Lord. This song was later sung by Mahalia Jackson at the homegoing service of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The humility and sincerity of Renetta Murray were ever pres-
ent during my conversation with her. She was quick to give praise to her family and mentors. She said, “God has always kept a hedge of protection around me.”
All of us hear the expression “he or she has it”. That expression applies to people who have an extraordinary ability to create an atmosphere that will move us. Renetta Murray has it. She has been told by people that her singing led them to become a part of a church family.
I asked Renetta when she realized she had a gift to sing. She said,
“I realized in high school I had a gift and that I could inspire others.” It can be said about her that many are called but few are chosen. Renetta was chosen for such a time as this because of the stress and strife we face daily.
Now living in the New Orleans area, she is a lead vocalist for the Franklin Avenue Baptist Church choir. I asked her how she became involved at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church. She said, “My daughter, India was really responsible for me joining FABC.”
In addition to her singing prowess, Renetta is also a community advocate in New Orleans. She is the founder of an annual homeless drive that is now in its 11th year. She has created alliances and partnerships that have helped those in need.
Renetta has had a calling of hope upon her life. Her gift of singing has been transformational for untold numbers of people. The richness of her humanity has given folks, once hopeless, newfound
Should we divorce this country?
We rationalize and explain away how we’re mistreated in this relationship, often shouldering the blame for the abuse. Instead of standing up for ourselves and demanding we be treated with decency and respect, we accept the token symbolic apology gestures and remain silent until the next time America raises its hand to us.
Like a jilted spouse, we stand beside America at the press conference to show a united front and our unwavering support. We even have a few confused Knee Grow spouses of America who’ll publicly defend their captors, owners and abusers in a sad display of justifying why they love and believe in them.
These modern day Stepford spouses have developed such a misguided psychological alliance with their abuser, they refuse to see how they’re only
props to further an agenda of white supremacy.
I love my Country and the opportunities it’s provided me and would never do anything to subvert it, but it’s time for a legal separation. I don’t mean packing up a few things and sneaking out in the cover of night to hold up in a secret spot where America can’t find us. No, we need to stiffen our spines, stand up to the abuser and tell him the days of being silent, docile, passive and complicit in our own torment are over.
Desperate times call for desperate measures and at this point, with all the brutality AIA continue to suffer daily, we ought to be about a half a mile down the road past desperate.
We’ve tried to be the good supportive spouse for years. Look at all the pointless things we’ve done to save our relationship
hope and purpose.
I am sure she muses at times about her humble beginnings. Her musical journey continues to grow and to accelerate. She is a bridge over troubled waters and a bright light in the human forest. Renetta says each time she sings that she asks God to hide her behind the cross and to use her as a vessel to do His will.
Let’s applaud and thank Renetta Murray for the gift that she has so willingly and unselfishly given to us. She has recently shared that she will have some new music in the coming months. If you are interested in talking with her, she can be reached at Renettalovesmusic@gmail.com
Her social media account with Facebook and Instagram is RenettaMazeMusic.
Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is a longtime educator who hails from Winston Salem, N.C. Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
with America. Every time an AIA life is taken, these new-fangled Knee Grow revolutionaries, who have no previous history of being involved in anything to change our condition, drop their Starbucks coffee cups and become modern day Malcolms.
They engage in symbolic acts of wearing apparel with cultural quotes, darken their Facebook profile pictures, and kneel with their fists in the air while declaring this atrocity will never happen again.
Excuse me as I stretch, yawn, shake my head from side to side and roll my eyes in obvious derision. How many more wake up calls do I need to read about after another police murder of unarmed skinfolk or the heinous brutal actions of racist whites before we put some definitive policy action and police reform into place?
AIA are some of the most loyal,
courageous and patriotic people in this Country, but for decades, there has been little reciprocity. Offense is taken when we refuse to stand for an anthem that is an ode to subjugation. Self-righteous indignation abounds when we kneel at sporting events to bring awareness to our pain. They criticize violence for being a part of our protests but say nothing of their violence being the impetus for protesting. So, a divorce is inevitable, and it will get messy.
AIA can’t allow America to convince us they’ve changed by offering cheap apology gifts like removing monuments, renaming streets or other empty symbolic gestures just to buy our silence.
Kenneth L. (Kenny) Hardin is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
Renetta Murray
Midlothian Police issue warrants for five felony suspects
By Rita Cook Correspondent
Biden commutes death sentences of seven charged with crimes in Texas
By Maggie Prosser and Chase Rogers Staff Writers
MIDLOTHIAN – Midlothian Police
have issued 26 warrants with a bond amount of $2.6 million for five individuals involved in charges of Burglary of a Building Where a Controlled Substance is Stored, a 3rd Degree Felony; and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a 2nd Degree Felony.
Police identified the five men as suspect in incidents that date back to July and September 2024 and names include:
Jerry Collins, B/M, 35, Christopher McCoy, B/M 30 years of age; Kaylon Roland, B/M 31; Remond Williams, B/M 27; and, Bradford Wines, B/M 23.
The first incident took place on July 8,
2024 and again on September 21, 2024 when Midlothian Police Department responded to a report of a burglary at All Care Pharmacy located at 1441 South Midlothian Parkway in Midlothian.
When police arrived, they found the suspects had entered the pharmacy through a broken window and took controlled substances from the location.
Two additional incidents occurred on September 25 and 26, 2024, at Ropheka Pharmacy, 340 Hawkins Run, and Midlothian Pharmacy, 2021 South 14th Street.
Police said both pharmacies were burglarized in a comparable manner.
“Investigators determined that comparable pharmacy burglaries had occurred around the same dates in other cities” Midlothian Police said in a Facebook post
regarding the burglaries.
Working with additional area police agencies, Midlothian Police confirmed they have arrested Demetrius Wines and a second agency has arrested Alfred Echols for their involvement in the burglaries.
Midlothian officers were able to identify and obtain warrants for the five additional suspects’ involvement in the pharmacy burglaries by using social media, cell phone and cell tower records, FLOCK cameras, and facial recognition software.
If you see any of the listed individuals, please call 911 immediately.
If you have any information about the subjects, contact Detective Allen at (972) 775-3333 or Bryan.Allen@Midlothian. tx.us.
Ellis County mourns Detention Center Officer murdered by inmate
By Rita Cook Correspondent
ELLIS COUNTY – Ellis County Law Enforcement agencies and residents are mourning the death of Ellis County Detention Officer 28-year-old Isaiah Bias who was murdered Monday afternoon by an Ellis County jail inmate at the Wayne McCollum Detention Center.
Bias died, according to Ellis County Sheriff Brad Norman after he was assaulted by 45-year-old Arron Semeion Thompson from Ennis.
Thompson had been in the Ellis County Jail since November 11, 2024 and has seven offenses; three offenses of Assaulting a Peace Officer/ Judge, 2nd degree felonies; Resisting arrest, search or transport, a Class A misdemeanor; Public Intoxication, a Class C misdemeanor; Evading arrest with a previous conviction, a State Jail Felony; and now an additional charge of murder, a Capital Felony.
Thompson attacked Bias at 3:45 p.m. Monday. He had been in a segregated area where he spent 23 hours per day alone in his cell. The attack happened as Thompson was being transferred back to his cell after his one hour out.
According to the affidavit, Bias was escorting Thompson back to his cell on the second floor when Thompson hit him in the head with his hand. He then choked him from behind and repeatedly struck him. Thompson then returned to the first floor and sat down at a table.
Officer Bias began working for the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office out of high school.
According to Sheriff Norman he left the department for several years to study at Navarro College but then returned.
As a teenager Bias also participated in the Ellis County Sheriff’s Explorers program, which provides training and leadership skills to teens who are interested in a career in law enforcement.
Thompson’s bond is set at $2,082,500. He was arraigned and issued a bond of $2,000.000 for the Capital Murder charge.
“Everybody in the jail loved him, he was one of those guys if you needed help, he would help you an outstanding per-
son,” Sheriff Norman said.
Sheriff Norman also said the ultimate decision will be made by the Ellis County District Attorney’s Office whether they will seek the death penalty in this case.
“If I have anything to say about it that is exactly what will happen,” Norman said in the press conference Tuesday morning. “I believe they will ask my opinion as well as the [Texas] Ranger that worked this case, but the ultimate decision lies on the District Attorney’s Office.”
When asked by a journalist at the press conference why the death penalty, Norman said, “Because it was a heinous, purposeful murder that was senseless.”
Sheriff Norman also told reporters that an Ellis County Mental Health Coordinator has been on hand since the murder; as well as members from the North Texas Behavioral Authority, offering counseling to staff.
At the request of Sheriff Norman, the Texas Ranger Division, Texas Department of Public Safety, is investigating the murder.
This is an ongoing investigation and there are no further details to at this time, according to William Lockridge, Sergeant, Safety Education, Media and Communications, Texas Department of Public Safety.
Seven people charged with federal crimes in Texas are among those whose death sentences were commuted Monday by President Joe Biden.
Biden commuted the sentences of 37 inmates — nearly all 40 people on federal death row — converting their punishments to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The move comes weeks before President-elect Donald Trump, who is an outspoken proponent of expanding capital punishment, takes office.
A slew of the people spared by Biden were convicted of killing fellow inmates in Texas federal prisons. Death row inmates are housed at an Indiana prison.
The federal government can seek death sentences for a limited number of crimes, but federal executions are rare, according to the Death Penalty Information Center. Sixteen people have been executed since the reinstatement of the federal death penalty in 1988, while Texas has put to death more than 550 people in the same period, according to the center’s data.
white supremacy group Soldiers of the Aryan Culture, according to a U.S. Department of Justice news release from 2018. Cramer and Fackrell were serving time for unrelated robberies in which firearms were used, The Associated Press reported.
Joseph Ebron — Joseph Ebron, 45, was condemned in 2009 for stabbing a fellow inmate, Keith Barnes, to death while the two were incarcerated in a Beaumont prison. The 2005 killing was captured by surveillance cameras inside the cell block, according to an FBI news release at the time.
Upon hearing the verdict, Ebron leapt to his feet and began screaming obscenities before tossing a water pitcher toward one of the prosecutors. He was tackled by U.S. Marshal Service officials, according to the Beaumont Enterprise.
Biden
Julius Omar Robinson — Julius Omar Robinson, 48, was sentenced to death in 2002 for killing two men. He was accused of killing the men as part of running a drug trafficking scheme in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, according to court records.
Texas’ eastern district court, which handles cases from Sherman to Beaumont, has sentenced eight people to death — more than any other federal district court nationwide — the Death Penalty Information Center’s data shows.
Here’s what’s known about the Texas cases.
Shannon Wayne Agofsky — Missouri man Shannon Wayne Agofsky was sentenced to death for fatally beating Luther Plant, an inmate at the federal penitentiary in Beaumont, according to court records. Agofsky, 53, was already serving life in prison for robbing a Missouri bank with his brother. According to articles from The Dallas Morning News’ archives, the brothers kidnapped the bank president, Dan Short, in October 1989 and forced him to open the bank. They stole more than $70,000 then drove to Oklahoma, where they tied Short to a cement-weighted chair and threw him into a lake, the Indianapolis Star reported.
Christopher Cramer and Ricky Allen Fackrell — Utah men Christopher Cramer, 42, and Ricky Allen Fackrell, 40, were convicted of stabbing a fellow white supremacist to death in 2014 while imprisoned in Beaumont. Cramer and Fackrell plotted for months to kill Leo Johns; all three men were members of the
In 1998, Robinson shot and killed Johnny Lee Shelton after mistaking him for someone he believed was responsible for an armed hijacking that “cost him” $30,000, according to court records.
Five months later, Robinson killed Juan Reyes in retaliation for a “fraudulent drug transaction” in which Robinson paid $17,000 for a block of wood covered in sheetrock, according to court records.
Shelton and Reyes lived in Dallas. Robinson was also involved “in a broad conspiracy” that led to the murder of another man, according to court records.
Mark Isaac Snarr and Edgar Balthazar Garcia — Mark Isaac Snarr, 49, of Utah and Edgar Balthazar Garcia, 45, of Abilene were convicted and sentenced to death after stabbing fellow inmate Gabriel Rhone to death and injuring two correctional officers while in a Beaumont prison in November 2007. Snarr and Garcia repeatedly stabbed Rhone, 31, with makeshift knives outside of his cell, which was in a maximum-security unit in the prison, according to the Beaumont Enterprise. The men claimed, among other things, that they killed Rhone out of fear for their lives, according to court records.
Isaiah Patrick Bias
President Joe
Camp Social Chica 1-5: Participants receive free tablets
Comerica Bank shared the news about the tablet donations at The Social Chica’s Camp Social event, celebrating the organization’s sixth anniversary on Dec.14.
In 2023, to celebrate their birthday, they decided to give back by awarding a $500 small business grant to one attendee, gifting someone else the opportunity to grow their business! This year Comerica Bank stepped up to support the small business grant program and provided two deserving business owners with a $600 grant and tablets.
The Social Chica empowers local Latina entrepreneurs through its business community, marketing services and events
For 175 years, Comerica has proudly raised expectations of what a bank can be for its customers, businesses, entrepreneurs and communities it serves. Comerica is committed to building strong and sustainable communities by providing resources that promote financial education as well as donating to nonprofit organizations to create positive change.
Comerica’s giving priorities include closing the digital divide, along with economic and community development. The bank aims to help advance local organizations’ representation in the technology industry and provide support for programs that promote and enhance opportunities for underserved communities.
New Year New You
even the daughter of a former president, attended.
She had such an impact on the lives of so many and her benevolence spread far and wide. What was especially endearing about her was that underneath her coat of armor was a pure, loving heart and a graciousness that kept her humble.
Sure she demanded and commanded excellence but she also gave and exuded excellence.
You should check out her book that came out this past summer, Desire to Serve: The Autobiography of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, co-written with Atty. Cheryl Wattley.
Spiritually grounded, the book was a labor of love for her, just as she also desired to say thanks to all the people who were generous and gracious to her over her lifetime. She didn’t forget a kind word or deed.
Her life was one worth emulating and she really worked and lived to make this world a better place.
And that was also the way it was for the beautifully talented Yolande Cornelia (Nikki) Giovanni Jr. who transitioned on December 9, 2024.
Now December is always a challenging month for me. I still know what I was doing on December 25, 1969, when my paternal grandfather, Remer Smith became an ancestor. Decades later, his son, Joseph, my father, would also transition in December, on the 8th of 2004.
It was also the month my God-
mother Lizzie Braswell said her last goodbye, but not before voting for Barack Obama for President!
Two people who opened up to me, James and Teena (that’s right THE James Brown and THE Teena Marie shared their experiences with me and their messages left an indelible mark on my life. They also became ancestors during the month of December; the 25th and 26, respectively.
While there are so many whose lives we celebrated as they transitioned this year; I have to spend some time reflecting on the celebrations of life and accomplishments as so many positive things happened throughout the year.
Sixty years ago the hit song, My Girl, was released and yes, I thought my vote, for MY GIRL Kamala Harris for president, was just enough to save this world for generations to come.
As I have said before, Vice President Kamala Harris represented hope for the future so she was definitely, My Girl!
But all is not lost. We can’t wallow in self-pity or sink into a fit of despair. Instead, we must do what so many before us have done. We must march on til victory is won.
And we must do what the Hon. Marcus Garvey suggested: “If we as a people realized the greatness from which we came we would be less likely to disrespect ourselves.”
Some dynamic people left us in 2024.
In 2025, here we come!
(L to R): LaToya Rowell, Comerica Bank; Sam Flores, Mercy Street Dallas; Tim Maiden, Comerica Bank; Carmen Branch, Comerica Bank; Brandon Q. Jones, Comerica Bank; Loletha Horton, Park South YMCA; and Brianna Gonzales, The Social Chica
(L to R): Sam Flores, Mercy Street Dallas; Brianna Gonzales, The Social Chica; and Loletha Horton, Park South YMCA
Waco citizens showed love for Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson as motorcade traveled from Dallas to burial ground in Austin.
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son (who was the first Black woman to serve as a Texas State Representative and Senator).
While others were meeting to ascertain whether the elder stateswoman would seek another term, the senior and freshman legislators discussed policies, affecting change, and serving the people.
As members of the Divine 9 (eight Black Greek Letter sororities and fraternities). Ms. Johnson of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, and Ms. Crockett of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., had long resumes touting their community service, social action and philanthropic efforts, so it wasn’t a stretch understanding the needs of the constituents.
Clearly, Crockett was about service
From the Congresswoman:
- Kamala Harris has a resume. Donald Trump has a rap sheet
- Safer prisons should be bipartisan, full stop.
- Today we reflect on the incredible life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- His legacy, words, and wisdom live on to this day, as he guides our actions and work to build a more perfect union. Let’s be reminded today that, as MLK imparted, only light can drive out darkness.
- On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, we hold space in our hearts for the six million Jews, one million Romani, and millions of Poles, Ukrainians, political dissidents, POWs, and more murdered by the Nazis.
and substance over holding a title and buying into the celebrity adulation culture that dies when you leave office.
If you saw these ladies out and about, they were, for the most part, working, making a difference in the lives of others.
When Congresswoman Johnson decided to retire, after 30 years in the nation’s Capital, she endorsed Rep. Crockett, who was victorious and assumed the office in January 2023; representing a district that included portions of Dallas and Tarrant Counties encompassing the cities of Arlington, Cedar Hill, Dallas, DeSoto, Duncanville, Glenn Heights, Grand Prairie, Hutchins, Lancaster, Ovilla, Seagoville, and Wilmer.
In addition to being elected by her peers as Freshman Leadership Rep-
resentative, Congresswoman Johnson is a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, the House Committee on Agriculture, and the House Judiciary Select Committee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.
Ask her what she is interested in and not only will she tell you, but you can follow up on her website or YouTube channel to learn more about: extreme weather, economy/jobs/housing, voting rights, criminal justice, education, energy and climate change, equality, health, reproductive justice, immigration, veterans and gun violence.
In November 2024 she was re-elected to serve her second term, receiving 85% of the vote.
A lot of factors were considered when selecting the POTY. For example, in two years and 1,241 roll call
- Today’s all about commemorating the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the U.S. on this day in 1903. Let’s continue to recognize the countless ways Korean Americans have enriched our communities and culture.
- I’m joining the Congressional Equality Caucus in standing up to transphobic hate and committing to ensuring full equality for trans people
- On average, child care currently costs more than public college tuition. These costs are emptying families’ pockets and pushing more and more women out of the workforce. That’s why I join the Democratic Women’s Caucus fight to advance President Joe Biden’s request for more child care funding.
- We can never rewrite history, but we can always work together to ensure it doesn’t repeat itself.
- We lose 67 people to gun suicide every day. These tragedies can be prevented. When you practice safe firearm storage, you could save a life.
- Vindictive Vile Villain Violates Voter’s Vision
- I’m raising awareness of the impacts HIV has on the Latinx community & encouraging testing, prevention, and treatment.
- TX30 is at the heart of Black entrepreneurship, and we’re dedicated to breaking barriers to ownership.
- Happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day! Today we celebrate the many contributions that the indigenous community has made for our great nation.
- Bi+ people deserve to have their sexuality seen as valid, appreciated, and respected as a part of the LGBTQI+ community.
- I will fight to pass legislation that fully funds critical government programs and supports our allies against the likes of Vladimir Putin.
- I reaffirm my commitment to defend the natural wonders in Texas.
- Our public lands are key to recreation, education, and conservation—by protecting them, we are preserving our invaluable natural and cultural legacy.
- As we reflect on the sacrifices of our fallen heroes this Memorial Day, let us also strive to uphold the values of freedom and democracy they fought to protect.
- Juneteenth is Texas History, American History, and Black History—Galveston was the last to get the news that slavery had ended.
- Freedom started here, and we will never stop fighting for it. And the classic -
- “Bleach blonde bad built butch body” - in honor of Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene
votes, Rep. Crockett missed only 47, or 3.8% votes, according to govtrack.us.
What was significant was the votes she was present and accounted for; as well as key legislation that she worked across the aisle to either sponsor or co-sponsor with the likes of Republican Reps. Marcus Molinaro (R-NY), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Max L. Miller (R-OH) and Trent Kelly (R-MS).
Her international travel has centered around business and education, traveling to Qatar and Israel.
This year has been a whirlwind.
In addition to challenging the status quo by coming into hearings like she was in a courtroom cross-examining J. Edgar Hoover or Roy Bryant (and his wife Carolyn), and John William Milam —Emmett Till’s murderers; Rep. Crockett educating not only her colleagues but the world.
She was also tapped by the Harris-Walz Campaign to be a Harris Surrogate, traveling the country encouraging citizens to vote for
Vice President Kamala Harris.
A highlight of this year for her has to be an emotional, enlightening speech during the Democratic National Convention; where she looked absolutely stunning to match her delivery!
Still she has found time for town hall meetings, constituent gatherings and whether it was the Black Star Network, BET, one of the Networks, Meet the Press, late night talk shows, MSNBC or the DeDe McGuire Show; she has been accessible. Her ability to break down the issues and make a case for her position has endeared her to many.
Now does she have critics? Of course.
You’re always going to be criticized when you speak up or challenge any system. And each day we live, we all have some learning to do so if grace is ever needed, this would be a good time to use it.
Hopefully, campaign 2024 has shown Americans that they need to get involved and become unified instead of constantly tearing one another down.
It is refreshing to know that no one sets the standard for this young lady who hails from St. Louis, MO. Her bar has always been high and as a Preacher’s Kid, she is spiritually-grounded, which also helps her to weather the many storms she has faced and will face in the future.
We are excited about that future because there will be some challenging days ahead and while there is a need to show support for Crockett; an effort has to be made to ensure that she is not alone.
We urge those in Congress with her to stand with her and you all continue to uplift one another because divided, you just become fodder for vultures.
For her standing on the right side of history when it comes to issues of the day, for her steadfast commitment to making this world a better place, and for her love of all people as a voice for the voiceless, disenfranchised, and seemingly powerless; this servant leader Jasmine Crockett is Texas Metro News’ PERSON OF THE YEAR!
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett serves:
On House Agriculture, Subcommittees Crockett serves on include: Nutrition, Foreign Agriculture, and Horticulture
• General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit
• Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development
On House Oversight and Accountability, Subcommittees Crockett serves on:
• Healthcare and Financial Services Government Operations and the Federal Workforce
There is a wide variety of caucuses that address issues and represent diverse communities. The Congresswoman is a member of:
• Democratic Women’s Caucus - Member Services Task Force Co-Chair
• Former Local Elected Officials Caucus Future Forum
• Gun Violence Prevention Task Force
• Mamas Caucus
Renters Caucus
• Bagel Caucus
Sneaker Caucus
• Valley Fever Task Force
DECEMBER
Holiday at the Arboretum
November 13 – January 5
Holiday at the Arboretum returns with a garden transformed for the magic of the season including the return of the beloved Christmas Village and the 12 Days of Christmas Gazebos! This year’s celebration marks a significant milestone as the Arboretum celebrates the 10th anniversary of The 12 Days of Christmas, the exhibit that started it all.
KWANZAA is a African American cultural celebration that is observed each year from December 26-January 1. Events are free, family friendly and include candle lighting ceremony. Plus most events will be streamed live on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/thedockbookshop
Day 1 - - UMOJA (UNITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop 1-9p TBA Live presents Unity “Umoja” Art and Music Experience, 6:30-9p at The Dock Book Shop
27
Day 2 - KUJICHAGULIA (SELF-DETERMINATION)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-5p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-9p at New Mount Rose MBC, Pastor Kyev Tatum. 2864 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl – at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth
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Day 3 - UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-6p Kwanzaa Community Celebration, 12-3p hosted by The Dock Bookshop at The Dock. Family Story
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Time, Authors and more Kwanzaa Celebration, 6-9p at NOI MM #52
Texas Coalition of Black Democrats Kwanzaa Celebration
7 PM
Pan African Bookstore 4466 Marsalis Ave Dallas, TX
Kwanzaa Celebration
Share the Kwanzaa spirit of unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility while visiting with community members, local vendors, and service providers at this event, 1300 Wilson St. Denton, TX 76205, from 10am-1pm. ***
6th Annual Jerry Pinkney Day & Kwanzaa Celebration
Bring the entire family and immerse yourself in African dance, music, storytelling, Kwanzaa crafts and the works of other African American children’s authors. At 9619 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75243, from 12-3pm. For more info: Dallas Public Library
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Day 4 - UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-5p
Kwanzaa Celebration, 6p Greater St. Stephen First Church, Pastor Bell. 3728 E Berry St, Fort Worth
30
Day 5 - NIA (PURPOSE)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-9p
Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-8p hosted by MBK/MSK ***
DeSoto Kwanzaa Fest by Concerned DeSoto Kwanzaa Fest
Come join us at the DeSoto Civic Center (Bluebonnet Room) for a day filled with celebration, culture, and community. Event will feature music, dance performances, and delicious food. At 211 East Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115, 7-9 pm.
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Day 6 - KUUMBA (CREATIVITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-10p Kwanzaa Program, 5-7p at The Dock New Year’s Eve Open Mic, 7:30p hosted by Mike Guinn Entertainment at The Dock
JANUARY
1
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Day 7 - WEDNESDAY JAN. 1 - IMANI (FAITH) Rest, Reflect & Prepare for the New Year
Host your own Karamu Feast with family & friends
3
SERVPRO First Responder Bowl – at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas
10
18
The 2025 Black Sports Professionals North Texas Sneaker Soirée, the third edition of the chapter’s annual sneaker ball, is slated from 6-10 p.m. Stay tuned on BSPNTX.com and the chapter’s social media handles for location and event details and ticket pricing information.
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Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo, 10a -4p African American Museum. Vendors, entertainment, cooking contests, lectures, health screenings, games, yoga lessons, financial literacy and voter education sessions, and more. Call 214941-0110 to register.
25
The Greater Fort Worth MLK Jr. Holiday Committee warmly invites you to an extraordinary evening of celebration at the MLK Dreamer Awards Gala at The Worthington Renaissance in Fort Worth, TX honoring Ms. Gladys Lee for her outstanding contributions, at 6:00pm Dress Code: Formal Attire $100 per individual ticket $1,000 per table (seats 10 guests and includes priority seating) To reserve your tickets or table: Email: gfwmlk@ gmail.com Phone: 817-233-5613
College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic – at AT&T Stadium in Arlington
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RELAX, REFRESH, RECONNECT ALL AGES
Make time to reconnect with yourself for the new year. Inspiring Speakers, Food, Meditation, Fun. 10am - 2pm CST. The Nature & Retreat Center, 5901 Los Rios Boulevard Plano, TX 75074
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 by purchasing a special commemorative ad for the discounted rate of $300 per ad!
FEB 1
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 Fair - Join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omega Alpha Omega Chapter for our annual HBCU College Panel & Fair taking place on Saturday, February 1, 2025. We will have participating HBCUs along with several organizations that will share scholarship opportunities & college planning tips.
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.
KWANZAA CELEBRATIONS
North Crowley Dominates Westlake 50-21 to Claim 6A Division I State Championship
By Anthony Council Correspondent
Panthers finish a perfect 16-0 season, earning their first state championship in over 20 years.
It was truly 817 versus everybody this season for the North Crowley Panthers. After steamrolling through the playoffs, the Panthers capped off their historic run with a commanding 50-21 victory over the Westlake Chaparrals in the UIL 6A Division I State Championship at AT&T Stadium on Saturday night. The win not only secured North Crowley’s first state title in more than two decades but also solidified their perfect 16-0 season.
From the opening whistle, North Crowley showcased their offensive dominance. On the first play of the game, quarterback Chris Jimerson Jr. connected on a perfectly
executed flea-flicker, firing a 75-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Quentin Gibson. The score, just 15 seconds into the game, set the tone for a night of relentless firepower from the Panthers.
Westlake answered quickly with a 2-yard touchdown run by Grady Bartlett to tie the game at 7-7, but it was the closest the Chaparrals would get. North Crowley’s offense erupted, piling up 367 yards by halftime—171 on the ground and 196 through the air. Jimerson Jr. was sensational, completing 7-of-11 passes for 196 yards and three touchdowns while adding 63 rushing yards and another score before the break.
The Panthers opened the second half with a methodical 9-play, 84-yard drive that ended in a touchdown, sparking a run of 28 unanswered points. Senior running back Cornelius Warren III punctu-
ated the night with a dazzling 75-yard touchdown sprint, extending the lead to 43-14. Though Westlake managed to end the scoring streak in the third quarter, the deficit proved insurmountable.
Both teams added a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but North Crowley’s dominance was never in question. By the final whistle, the Panthers had secured their place in history, completing a perfect 16-0 season.
Jimerson Jr. finished with 299 passing yards, four touchdowns, and 63 rushing yards, while Quentin Gibson earned Offensive MVP honors with seven catches for 181 yards and three touchdowns. The Panthers’ title victory was not just a celebration of a single game but a culmination of an unforgettable season that has redefined the program’s legacy not only for them before the city.
Randle Lions Shock SOC with 38-35 Victory, Claim First State Championship
Coach
By Anthony Council Correspondent
Randle Lions Defy the Odds, Claim First State Championship with 38-35 Win Over South Oak Cliff
In a state championship game filled with intensity, drama, and two powerhouse teams battling for glory, the Richmond Randle Lions stunned the top-ranked South Oak Cliff Golden Bears with a thrilling 38-35 victory in the Class 5A Division II final at AT&T Stadium, securing their first-ever UIL state title.
Many, including Senator Royce West, had predicted an SOC win by 7 points before the game, stating after the coin toss, “SOC will win by 7 points,” given their championship pedigree. South Oak Cliff entered the
game with a fourth consecutive state championship appearance and the goal of securing a third straight title, while Randle brought an undefeated season with impressive dominance over opponents.
Randle got off to a fast start, with Sincere Timson’s electrifying 7-0 kickoff return touchdown and Landen Williams-Callis adding another score, making it 14-0 early. SOC responded with a touchdown, narrowing the score to 14-7 by the end of the first quarter. At halftime, Randle led 24-17, with some fans questioning whether SOC could recover from the unexpected deficit.
SOC came out strong in the second half. Mikail Trotter exploded for a 75-yard touchdown run, bringing SOC within a sin-
gle point at 24-21, and Damond Williams followed with an 85yard run, giving the Golden Bears a 28-24 lead. After both teams exchanged touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the score stood at 31-35.
In a nail-biting finish, Randle’s Sean Smith returned a 72-yard kickoff for a touchdown, putting the Lions up 38-31 with just over 8 minutes left. SOC had one final chance to tie the game, marching down the field for a 45-yard field goal attempt, but the kick went wide left, sealing Randle’s 38-35 victory and proving the doubters wrong.
With their first-ever state championship, the Lions showed they were ready to shine on the biggest stage, ending South Oak Cliff’s bid for a three-peat and defying all expectations.
Head
of the Richmond Randle Lions Coach Randel celebrates with his team as they win their first State Championship in school History 38-35 over South Oak Cliff.
North Crowley wide receiver Quentin Gibson (6) runs past the Westlake defense to score a long touchdown on the first offensive play of the game in the first quarter of the UIL 6A Division I championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024.
Chris Torres ctorres@startelegram.com
North Crowley head coach Ray Gates lifts the championship trophy toward the crowd after a victory over Austin Westlake in the Class 6A Division I state football championship game on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in Arlington. (Smiley N. Pool / Staff Photographer)
North Crowley helmet with poster saying State Champs for the North Crowley Panthers
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AROUND TOWN WITH EVA
A Texas-Sized Holiday Former Ms. Texas brings friends together to celebrate the season
By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor
Belinda Ramsey Cavett
put out the call for a few friends to gather for a Sunday afternoon of holiday fellowship, food, drinks and karaoke on Dec. 15, 2024. Upon arrival, all were whisked into the beauty of Casablanca in the Bishop Arts District in Dallas, TX. The decor was stunning, the memories will shine forever.
Cavett is a former Ms. Texas and has a knack for fabulousness. Always pageant ready, each event she curates provides an experience for attendees who look forward to where she’ll be taking them or what she’ll be introducing them to. All were pleased with the stunning location, specialty holiday cocktails and food at Casablanca within the Tipsy Elf holiday popup.
Holidays at Home in Black
Lifestyle guru welcomes guests and celebrates businesses
By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor
“This has never happened before,” the young valet attendant said after he and his coworker were summoned inside the newly designed and furnished home after hurriedly containing and bringing everyone’s keys with them.
Lifestyle influencer Dr. Keith Harley introduced their company, Black Tie, and had all holiday party attendees applaud them for their work. The southern Dallas suburb of Cedar Hill’s new residents, Harley and Darryl Bullock, welcomed many to their housewarming event on Dec. 14, 2024 that was filled with art, food, drinks, business and laughter.
It was a very intentional display of the power of supporting Black-owned businesses. From their home designer and builder Jocelyn Ramos of Art Deco Designer Homes, realtor Nia Alston, furniture from Blucci, food and drinks by L. Fitzgerald Dodd of Chef Fitzgerald, Inc. and luxurious artwork, including African pieces from South Dallas staple Pan-African Connection, Harley
had each business owner speak and encouraged all attendees to support them. The call and response was evident as transactions were made on the spot, embodying the spirit of many principles of Kwanzaa steeped in unity and cooperative economics.
Akwete Tyehimba expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend and showcase pieces from the Pan-African Connection collection.
“It is a difficult time for Black businesses right now because the economy is slow,” Tyehimba said. “I was grateful to be able to come out and meet new people, and people who were econom-
ically able to purchase some of the art that we have. I thank Keith for making sure that Black businesses are supported.”
Harley and Bullock’s new home is picture perfect. Their hearts for embracing and supporting others are even more spacious and grand.
“Our communities are shifting and we don’t have the opportunities that we used to have which is going to require us to elevate ourselves to focus on excellence, inspire and influence people to take it to another level,” Harley said. “It was about us coming together to celebrate the holidays, but more about us coming together to create excellence.”
