Texas Metro News, 12-5-2024

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• Vol. 13 • Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2024

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

How’d I miss Dec. 2?

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Introducing

Mavs Kid Reporter Sarai Stokes-Mitchell

Why I Started EMPOWER Series

Clifton Johnson Mavs Kid Reporter Sarai StokesMitchell waits for players to warm up

Mavs Kid Reporter Sarai StokesMitchell

By Dorothy J. Gentry

grader at Burnett Jr. High in Wylie ISD, met players, interviewed Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall, Mavs legend Derek Harper and asked Mavs Head Coach Jason Kidd a question during his pre-game Mavs Announcer and Ambassador, Hallpress conference. “I’ve always of-Famer Chris Arnold and Mavs Kid Reporter Saria Stokes-Mitchell wanted to do this,” she said.

Sports Editor

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

Somebody has some explaining to do!

As I sat down to write this column on Monday night, I was shaking my head.

How did I miss that Monday, December 2, 2024 was designated as the National Day of Rest for Black Women?

Aren’t I a Black Woman?

Could I use a little rest?

I was reading theGrio Wrap up Special edition newsletter and Senior Vice President and NABJer Natasha Alford wrote about this day which is deemed as one to “reflect on the important, prioritizing, peace, and well-being, particularly for Black Women.”

Heavy sigh!

Ladies, we should’ve been shouting it from the rooftops weeks in advance leading up to this moment. And just think, this day of rest comes See MY TRUTH, page 6

Mavs Kid Reporter 13-year-old Sarai Stokes-Mitchell enjoyed her night at the Dallas Mavs vs.

Memphis Grizzlies NBA Cup match. Stokes-Mitchell, a 7 th

Dallas Morning News

Ryan Mabry was sentenced to two years deferred adjudication probation and must give up his Texas peace officer license.

A Dallas police officer pleaded guilty Monday to a misdemeanor assault charge for firing “less lethal” ammunition and wounding a demonstrator who lost an eye during the 2020 protests, court records show.

Sr. Cpl. Ryan Mabry,

The hands of Andre Ray gesture during a June 3, 2020 press conference at the injuries sustained in the left eye and head by his son, Brandon Saenz, from less lethal ammunition fired

by Dallas police during protests sparked by the murder of George Floyd. Saenz lost his left eye and has had to have metal plates put in his head.

Photo:Lynda M. González / Staff Photographer

38, was sentenced to two years deferred adjudication probation

and must give up his license with the Texas Commission on Law

Special to Texas Metro News

Enforcement, the state entity that certifies police officers, according to court records.

Mabry will not have a conviction if he successfully completes probation. He waived his right to appeal, according to the plea deal.

He is at least the third Dallas SWAT officer to plead guilty to a criminal use-of-force case from demonstrations downtown after a Minneapolis police officer murdered George

My story begins in the heart of South Central Los Angeles, where my parents, Ida and Taro, raised my siblings and me. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifices, along with their love for community, shaped who I am today. When they passed away, I found solace and guidance in my Aunt Zelma and Uncle Jim. Uncle Jim, (drjamesfrank. com), a trailblazer in the world of education and collegiate athletics, as the first African American President (19801983) of the NCAA, once said, “It offered me the opportunity to be a leader; to provide leadership; to shape the programs; to shape the minds of not only students, but to work with faculty members, administrators.

Just broaden your horizon. And it offered me the opportunity to make a difference.”

Inspired by his words and my parents’ legacy, I started

See LAST DALLAS, page 7

See EMPOWER, page 8

Last Dallas officer known to face charges from 2020 protests pleads guilty to assault

By Kelli Smith

“I want to make a difference!”

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Paul Quinn receives $1.5 Million Grant from T.D. Jakes Foundation and Wells Fargo Paul Quinn College, the originator of the Urban Work College model and the only minority-serving, federally recognized Work College in America, has received a $1.5 million grant from T.D. Jakes Foundation (TDJF), in partnership with Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC). This grant will support the creation of an innovative housing model and the planning of a companion mixed-use community on the Paul Quinn campus.

“This is so much more than a traditional real estate project or campus housing development—it’s a statement about what higher education can be for all of us – those who attend our schools and those who do not,” said Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College. “We are building a city within our campus walls. It will be a community that inspires, innovates, and invests in its people. This will only be possible due to the vision of our partners at T.D. Jakes

Marcedes Fuller from T.D. Jakes Foundation, Kristy Fercho from Wells Fargo, President Dr. Michael J. Sorrell and Tanya Sanders from Wells Fargo join to celebrate a new $1.5 million grant from T.D. Jakes Foundation and Wells Fargo.

Photo: Kelly Alexander/Paul Quinn College

Foundation and Wells Fargo. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.”

The grant will launch a dynamic campus housing initiative that will eventually be accompanied by a larger mixed-use development that includes student and family housing, retail and restaurant spaces, parks, outdoor meeting areas, and classroom facilities—all designed to serve both the campus and the sur-

rounding community. This groundbreaking project will expand Paul Quinn’s student housing capacity by 300 percent as Paul Quinn seeks to meet the needs of a growing student body.

“We are proud to support Paul Quinn College in their mission to create a transformative and sustainable campus environment that addresses critical needs like housing, transportation, and food se-

curity for students,” said Kelley Cornish, CEO and President, T.D. Jakes Foundation. “This $1.5 million grant will lay the groundwork for an innovative mixed-use development that not only provides essential services and resources but also strengthens the college’s long-term vision for community impact. We believe this project will have a profound impact on student success and well-being, empowering them to focus on their education and future.”

The development will serve the immediate Paul Quinn College community, including students and their families, the students and families of KIPP Oak Cliff Academy and Dallas Independent School District’s Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III Global Preparatory Academy at Paul Quinn College, and the surrounding Highland Hills and Southern Dallas community.

“Having access to reliable, quality housing is an essential element for stu-

dents so they can earn a degree, certification or improve their income and options long-term,” said Kristy Fercho, head of Diverse Segments, Representation and Inclusion at Wells Fargo. “Our work with the T.D. Jakes Foundation and Paul Quinn College on the vision for a new mixed-use development supports our broader commitment to providing increased access to quality, affordable housing for individuals historically underserved in the market.”

Wells Fargo continues to build on its relationship with Paul Quinn College.

The Wells Fargo Foundation donated $100,000 to help create scholarships for the school’s Corporate Work Program, which provides workforce opportunities that allow students to develop the needed skills, habits, and experience to be competitive in the job market postgraduation while contributing toward the cost of their education.

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Ed Bell Construction Company An Equal Opportunity Employer

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Edare Bell Construction is following a Dallaspositions: based heavy highway contractor doing business in the North Texas We currently hiring for the

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• Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2024

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Who He Lookin’At?

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Is there a message behind Malcolm’s iconic photo?

QUIT PLAYIN’

By Terry Allen “We declare our right on this earth...to be a human being, to be respected as a human being, to be given the rights of a human being in this society, on this earth, in this day, which we intend to bring into existence by any means necessary” – El Hajj Malik El Shabazz Is Malcolm X looking for you? Is El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz scoping for his enemies, or is he waiting patiently for his friends? Or was this a prophetic pose meant to imply that the Civil and

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Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@myimessenger.com Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203 Site: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110

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.

Human Rights struggle would never be fully won?

The beauty of this blackand-white photograph is that it is vapid and inconclusive.

There are several theories and conjectures about where the picture came from, but no one knows. A 2014 article on “The Grio” website implied as much.

“But what of the iconic photo itself? When did it creep into our consciousness?

Where did it come from? Most point to articles in Life and Ebony magazines.

Life’s March 20, 1964, article “The Ominous Malcolm X Exits from the Muslims” does not include that particular image.

In the September 1964 issue of Ebony, a similar photo accompanies Hans J. Massaquoi’s “Mystery of Malcolm X: Fired Black Muslim Denounces cult, vows to take part in rights revolution” story, but it is not the photo in the article.

“It was the hardest photo to track down in any official capacity,” says Professor Zaheer Ali, who served as project manager of The Malcolm X Project at Columbia University. More than likely, Ali concludes, the photo comes from the Ebony shoot.”

Who knows what Malcolm was looking for or at? But the beauty of having a creative and critical mind is that you always have options and explanations – Especially if you are Black and American and the subject is as diverse and complex as Malcolm X. Unlike any other of our other martyrs, Malcolm X was the only Black leader killed by his own people. Despite the eventual and fatal infighting among the Black Brotherhood, Malcolm X’s

life was replete with reasons and rationale to be leary and weary of overt racism and its White operatives.

But if he were peering beyond that window today, whom would he be looking for or at?

Malcolm X was a self-made intellectual. Maybe he is perusing the landscape, afraid that he might be captured by America’s Black Intelligentsia, who sit on their “Blessed

Ass-urance” and do little to help the “less-thans” who are sinking for lack of education.

We don’t need them just to be smart; we need a brain dump. With the impending Trump administration, we must teach our own or at least supplement public education.

You could argue that Malcolm X was readying his defense for another era of racial turmoil. Full-fledged MAGA males are so obsessed with the

idea of losing or sharing power that they are promoting a race war! They are ready to up their game on attacking minorities, women, LGBT, Hispanics, and anyone else that does not have their “thoroughbred bloodline and gender.

Malcolm could be looking at the 1% of the wealthiest of Americans who are comfortable saying that their poor and middle-class subjects should quit whining about income inequality.

The 1 %ers agreed with the late billionaire Tom Perkins, who once defended his idea that every dollar you have should equate to one vote. By the end of that same year, the Supreme Court Jesters upheld the Citizens United decision.

Now we know the decision made the rich richer, just like the one in 1619. A wealthy White man takes a gullible Negro (Clearance Thom-ass) on a free boat ride, and the rest is Negro history. That could be what had Malcolm peering beyond the veil of his safe haven.

Remember that Malcolm never took an offensive posture with any of his enemies, Black, White, religious or governmental. But Malcolm was wise enough to know to prepare himself and his family to defend the worst.

My daddy always said, “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready!”

Over the next four years, we need to model Malcolm.

Find our safe spaces, quiet the rhetoric, watch the enemy, stay ready for a fight, and win by any means necessary.

A long-time Texas Metro News columnist, Dallas native Vincent L. Hall is an author, writer, awardwinning writer, and a lifelong Drapetomaniac.

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Despite Challenges We Must Remain Thankful, Hopeful OUR VOICES

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed. D. Each day is a blessing, and we receive unmerited favor. Our ups outweigh our downs. Our good times are more than our bad times.

The year 2024 is almost over.

What happened to it and where did it go? Our country had a little of everything happen to it and in it. Bad weather displaced thousands of residents. Now, they are trying to rebuild. Many scientists involved in climate change say that the earth’s atmosphere was the cause.

The Olympics showcased our country’s finest athletes, and they made us proud. Being an Olympic athlete is quite an honor and distinction. All the hard

work and training paid off. Congratulations to them.

College and professional teams gave us a lot to cheer about over the year. Some games have become instant classics.

There were also some noteworthy upsets. You know the winners and the losers. Sports are an important part of our culture.

The presidential election was held just a few weeks ago. It was unprecedented in our nation’s history as we had the first African American woman, Kamala Harris, running for president.

Vice President Harris made an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of we the people.

If you are a little girl of color, the window of opportunity has opened a little wider for you.

To end the year, we will be celebrating Christmas in the coming weeks. Children will still leave milk and cookies for

Santa hoping for that special gift under the tree.

I have seen many Christmas holidays and like you have a lot of stories about them. Let us remember that Jesus is the reason for the season.

Of course, Thanksgiving gave us the chance to share with family and friends. The turkey was our favorite dish. If you live in Louisiana, you had gumbo, too.

The day after Thanksgiving was Black Friday and shopping was at an all-time high. Folks got the best deals at the lowest prices.

In years gone by, we would wait in line at stores for hours waiting to get those deals. Now in addition to Black Friday, there is also Cyber Monday when we shop online.

Being thankful is more than just an expression, it is a way of living. It is how we see life.

In other words, the glass is always half-full, not half-empty.

Recently our church had its annual fall revival. It was uplifting and affirmed, for Christians like me, who is in charge and who sits on the throne. His address is heaven.

We left those revival messages with a strong feeling of being empowered knowing we can still be difference-makers.

Some of this year’s problems will be front and center next year. For example, food insecurity remains a problem in America. I am troubled by the richest country in the world not being able to feed all its people.

The Divine Nine which was active in the election could develop a national food insecurity movement. It could be called, “Hungry No More.” I hope a Divine Nine member reads this and thinks it is a good idea.

Treating each other with dignity and respect must also be a priority for us. Tempers and tantrums must decrease. Care and

kindness must increase.

We must stop being the top story on the evening news for the wrong reasons. As we keep ourselves safe, we must keep our children and grandchildren safe as well. We must provide them with a blueprint of hope and encouragement.

While we will face some unknowns, our hope must remain undisturbed. Our thanks for life, family and friends must stay intact. Let us keep our heads high and our shoulders strong. We will not let people or policies rule or ruin our lives.

Don’t worry, let’s be happy for this day. Tomorrow will come with its own set of new blessings.

Always know and remember we are blessed and highly favored.

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.

Skinfolk, what’s going on?

OUR VOICES

By Kenneth L. Hardin “Mother, mother, there’s too many of you crying. Brother, brother, brother, there’s far too many of you dying. You know we’ve got to find a way to bring some lovin’ here today.”

Marvin Gaye May 1971 Every time my phone rings and the voice on the other end shares in an emotionally exhausted tone devoid of hope that another young brother’s life has been extinguished,

that song plays in my mind. As the voices seem to run together because of the frequency of the calls, I’m amazed the song, performed over 50 years ago, still has significance today.

The voices of desperation and sadness are almost too much to bear as I listen to those who feel our community no longer resembles peace, tranquility or cohesiveness. I, too, am one of those people.

I left the community I loved back in 2004 after my then young children were almost hit by drive-by gunfire while playing in the backyard of our home.

If only these young folks could listen to Marvin Gaye’s lyrics before pulling the trigger, so much pain and heartache could be avoided, “…We don’t need to escalate. You

see, war is not the answer, for only love can conquer hate.”

Most folks will clutch their pearls in horror at this belief, but the blame for the nefarious and deadly actions of the shooters are not theirs alone.

I refuse to excuse anyone who chooses to walk up to the line of committing a deadly crime and take a giant leap over into the abyss, but when you have a community more concerned with aesthetics, not ensuring resources are spread evenly, doing little to nothing to bridge economic and racial gaps and criticizing and cancelling anyone who dares to speak up or out on the realities in our community, well, your hands have dirt on them too.

“Mother, mother, everybody thinks we’re wrong. Oh, but who are they to judge us…”

My hand is slapped every time I talk about skinfolk’s faults and deficiencies. I stopped getting invited to the cookout as a result, but I decided I had enough friends, so I was good when the trash emptied itself.

I agree with a message I received from a professional friend, “The bank is the center of the white community and the church is the center of ours. We know scripture better than we do interest rates and hedge funds, and then wonder why we can’t progress.”

We can’t pray our situation away or sit back and wait on divine intervention to lift us up out of the misery we’re in.

We need to stop singing and shouting hallelujah, stop voting against our interests, demand equal access to resourc-

es, acquire land, protect our community assets, build generational wealth and close the racial wealth gap.

Marching is great for exercise, but slogans and chants have proven to do little.

Laws and policy change work better. How many more times do we scream and exhort “No justice no peace” and “Hands up, don’t shoot” while saying each murder is a wakeup call?

It’s all so exhausting and I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.

So skinfolk, what’s going on?

“Oh, you know we’ve got to find a way to bring some understanding here today.”

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

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How’d I miss Dec. 2? cont. from page 1 after so many Black women spent hours at work to come home and head straight to the kitchen; making everyone’s favorite mac & cheese, pound cake, sweet potato pies, frying up the chicken and fish; while stuffing the turkey, and so much more.

Truth be told we should have a National Day of Rest every week and we should also lighten the load on our Black women the other six days because we’re doing entirely too much.

Health and wellness, protecting our peace, self-love – all have to become priorities in our lives. If we don’t do better about taking care of ourselves, we won’t be around to hear people talking about, “Oh, she sure could make a mean pecan pie,” “She really knew how to make you feel special,” or “no one’s biscuits melted in your mouth like hers!”

We have to do better for our Black women. Some of us eat and eat and eat and won’t even wash the dishes, take out the trash, or do anything special.

Another day won’t go by.

For all of you who have been shown love, supported, and uplifted by a Black woman, it’s time for the big payback.

I know some will say many women respond negatively to your acts of kindness, love or respect.

Still, do the right thing!

If you can teach us how to hate you, you definitely can show us how to love you!

Don’t act like you don’t know what makes her smile, or what makes her feel good. You know and because you don’t do anything that means you’re saying even more about your character, in addition to showing that you are not a decent person because if this is someone you claim you love and you know what it takes to make them happy and you don’t do it, well shame on you.

I was so focused on Decem-

ber 3, because it is the birth date of the Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson, who was born December 3,1934. The thought of this first birthday without that dynamic sister who poured so much into me, never asking for anything in return, but looking for ways to help me to grow and be a better person; well it’s kind of overwhelming.

She deserved a lot of National Days of Rest because she was one Black woman who worked tirelessly and when she transitioned on December 31, 2023, people around the world sang her praises.

Hopefully many shared their expressions while she was alive to hear them.

Just as December 2 is National Day of Rest for Black Women, my sisters, how about us also taking at least an hour a day?

I know it’s challenging. It’s like so much to do in so little time, so few resources and time, but we have to try.

I pray for you, Black women, all of you, and I pray for this world that only values us when we’re doing something for them.

Shame on those Black men who are fixing their mouths to defile us. And shame on us for taking the ways of those who demean and destroy our minds, bodies, spirits and self-esteem and turning that deviant behavior on other Black women.

That is not okay!

We have to change because ain’t nobody else going to change especially if they don’t have to. We have to use what we have to get what we want.

The best way we, Black women, can change how people treat us is for us to change what we accept and allow.

Black women we not only deserve the rest, we deserve the best this world has to offer.

Let’s not settle for less.

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Last Dallas officer known to face charges from 2020 protests pleads guilty to assault cont. from page 1 Floyd. A Garland officer pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge earlier this month and received a year of deferred adjudication probation.

Mabry’s plea deal means all of the known criminal cases against officers accused of use of force during the 2020 protests in Dallas are now closed. Still, he and other officers face a civil lawsuit by demonstrators, which had been stalled pending the criminal cases.

Mabry’s attorney, Toby Shook, and a spokesperson for the Dallas County district attorney’s office declined to comment on his case. The Dallas Police Department declined to comment on the case, but confirmed Mabry is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

Attorney Daryl Washington, who represents multiple demonstrators injured during the 2020 protests, said he believes the consequences should’ve been greater for the force used against his clients, but “we are pleased with the Dallas County district attorney’s office aggressively pursuing these cases.”

“The one great thing that comes out of this,” Washington said, “is the fact that they’re all gonna be held accountable for their actions.”

Mabry’s cases Mabry was indicted in May 2022 on eight felony charges — six counts of aggravated assault by a public servant and two counts of deadly conduct. He also faced three misdemeanor counts of official oppression.

As part of the plea deal, an aggravated assault charge was reduced to misdemeanor assault, which is punishable by up to a year in jail. Prosecutors dismissed the 10 other cases against Mabry, court records

show. Aggravated assault by a public servant is a first-degree felony, punishable by five years to life in prison.

Mabry pleaded guilty only in a case involving Brandon Saenz, who has said he was peacefully protesting when he was hit in the face with less-lethal ammunition. Mabry fired at a crowd, striking Saenz, after another man threw a water bottle at police, according to an arrest-warrant affidavit.

Saenz lost an eye and seven teeth, and the left side of his face was fractured.

Mabry was also one of three officers charged in a case involving David McKee, who held a cardboard sign and was backing away from officers — complying with police orders — when officers opened fire, according to an arrest-warrant affidavit. McKee told investigators he was hit in his bicep, groin and thigh, an affidavit said.

On Monday, prosecutors dismissed the charges against Mabry in McKee’s case, as well as a separate one involving an unknown protester who was struck in the groin with less-lethal ammunition. Body-camera footage showed Mabry laughed as he and another officer bumped fists afterward, an affidavit said.

He has been on paid administrative leave for more than two years, according to internal Dallas police records. Now that the criminal case is over, police officials can determine whether he’ll face any internal discipline.

Washington, who represents Saenz and McKee, said they’ll both need lifetime treatment from their injuries. McKee will likely never be able to have kids, he said, and Saenz continues to deal with the pain and nothing will “ever really put a smile back” on his face.

“Just the mental aspect of that has been very, very tough for me because here are guys who are

Protesters form a line blocking North Lamar Street before police fired pepper spray bullets and tear gas canisters to break them up at Elm St in downtown Dallas on May 30 2020. They gathered to protest the in-custody death of George Floyd.

Credit: Tom Fox / Staff Photographer

not trying to harm police officers and they all end up injured,” Washington said.

Other 2020 protest cases In August, former Dallas SWAT officer Melvin Williams pleaded guilty in the McKee case and was sentenced to three years deferred adjudication probation and required to give up his TCOLE license.

Garland police Officer Joe Privitt was also indicted on an aggravated assault by a public servant charge in the case involving McKee. Privitt pleaded guilty Nov. 11 to a lesser charge of misdemeanor assault, which resulted in a one-year deferred adjudication probation sentence, court records show. Cody Skipper, his attorney, said Privitt also had to surrender his state peace officer license, but now works in a civilian capacity with Garland police.

He said the community hurts from Privitt giving up his police license after more than 30 years, adding Privitt “had more character letters presented before the grand jury than I’ve ever seen in my career.”

He disputed that McKee complied with police orders, asserting McKee had a traffic cone

to limit the effectiveness of gas canisters thrown by police into the crowd and wore gloves to pick up “hot incendiary devices.”

He called the case a “textbook political” move by the district attorney’s office and a waste of taxpayer money.

“Joe was just ready to put this behind him,” Skipper said.

“John Creuzot, even though he thinks he may have done Joe a favor by giving a misdemeanor, he wins, OK? You win. You get everything that you want. You have his full surrender. You can strip him of his license,” he said.

Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot said in a written statement that Skipper presented his client’s version of what happened, “including that former officer Privitt and others were legally justified to shoot and injure citizens who were exercising their First Amendment rights.”

“Obviously, the grand jury, which is a panel of citizens chosen by elected district judges, disagreed,” Creuzot said. “Each officer walked into a courtroom and told a judge that he was guilty. A plea of guilty speaks volumes.”

Garland police did not immediately provide comment about

Privitt’s case.

Washington said the officers “had the absolute right to go to trial if they thought that what they did was justifiable.” He said Privitt staying with Garland as a civilian employee shows municipalities aren’t willing to take necessary steps to hold police accountable.

“We never are ever gonna have any type of change in this system as long as people remain in denial,” Washington said. “You cannot expect to enforce the law if you don’t believe that enforcing the law includes police officers.”

Earlier this year, Dallas SWAT Officer Broderick Valentine pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault and was sentenced to deferred adjudication probation for shooting Zachary Montez Harvey in the groin with a foam baton round.

Just like Mabry, Williams and Privitt, he also had to surrender his Texas peace officer license.

Staff writer Maggie Prosser contributed to this report.

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

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“I want to make a difference” cont. from page 1

the EMPOWER Series because I wanted to make a difference in our communities and in the lives of others. I want to inspire and empower individuals to pursue their purpose with unwavering dedication, knowing that their contributions, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the lives of others. I am driven by the belief that every individual has the potential to make a significant difference in the world. When we wholeheartedly commit ourselves to our passions and strive for excellence, we not only enrich our own lives but also positively impact the lives of those around us. We are all on this Journey called Life together.

In March of 2011, I collaborated with Comerica Bank, non-profit community organizations, and professional associations to kick off a series of community financial literacy workshops. Our programs were held at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas, and the University of Texas at Dallas in Richardson, Texas.

Our mission is to positively impact the world by inspiring people to thrive in every area of their lives. We envision a world where everyone is thriving progressively realizing a worthy ideal. We believe that individuals have all the resources within reach to achieve their goals. In every program, we provide...

• HOPE that what we conceive and envision for our lives can be achieved; • INSPIRATION to take consistent and disciplined action on our ideas; • EDUCATION to continuously learn something new every day; and • CONNECTIONS to resources (people and organizations) to help us take that next step to achieve our goals, because

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nothing of significance can be done alone.

For over 14 years, the EMPOWER Series has been a beacon of hope, providing invaluable financial literacy education and personal development resources to our community. Through our monthly workshops held on the third Saturday of each month in Dallas, Texas, we’ve empowered thousands of individuals to take control of their financial future and achieve their dreams. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to expand our reach through a weekly podcast and additional online programs.

Now, I ask for your help to take the EMPOWER Series to the next level.

By hiring a full-time Executive Director and Administrator, we can: • Expand our programs and

reach more individuals • Provide additional resourcesAdult SoAckdsu lt So cks and support to our participants • Strengthen our partnerships with community organizations • Increase our impact on the lives of young people and adults Your generous donation will help us achieve these goals and continue to inspire and empower future generations. Together, we can create a brighter future for our communities.

To make a general donation, please visit our website www. empowerseries.com and click DONATE or text GIVE or DONATE to 214-225-6337.

See interview at https:// www.pbs.org/video/clifton-johnson-empower-seriesfinancial-expert-WDBVfk/

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Discover all the ways you can contribute at DART.org/StuffABus

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Allyn Media Holiday Casino Night, 3838 Oak Lawn Ave, Suite 400 Dallas at 6pm

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Poetry, Prose, and Rhymes for These Times is a two-part interactive writing workshop with authors, educators, and literary activists Patrick M. Oliver and April Gibson. Participants will write exercises highlighting their attributes, challenges, accomplishments, and aspirations at Paul Laurence Dunbar Library, 11 am CST Voluntary Gifts Leadership Training Academy presents Community Action Awards Dinner & Fundraiser, 6637 Meadowbrook Dr. Fort Worth at 5p.m. with special tribute to Bro. Takuma Umoja and recipients - Sonia Williams-Babers, Dr. Elizabeth Branch, Judge Clifford Davis, Dr. Michael Bell, Stephonia Roberts, Patrice Jones, Felton Jenkins and Jamil Muhammad. Call 817-264-1819 Check out Miles Jaye and Shuckey Duckey at The Red Ribbon Benefit Concert, in honor of World AIDS Day, The Shack at Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey St. in Fort Worth at 6 pm Attire is Western Chic. www.aoc.org

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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• Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2024

• August 29 - September 4, 2024

Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-9p at New Mount Rose MBC, Pastor Kyev Tatum. 2864 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

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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

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Denton Black Film Festival Institute Register at DBFFMIXER24.EVENTBRITE.COM *** Texas Bridal & Wedding Expo, 12 pm - 5 pm in Fair Park - Centennial Hall 3929 Grand Avenue, Dallas

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Human Rights Day

17 Holiday Potluck 6 - 8 PM 1408 N Washington Ave, Dallas, TX 75204

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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 Time, Authors and more Kwanzaa Celebration, 6-9p at NOI MM #52,

Pre-Kwanzaa Business Mixer, 6:30-9p at National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum

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Day 4 - UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS)

Merry Christmas!

26 KWANZAA CELEBRATIONS

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

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HIV/AIDS Awareness Month, Intl Sharp Injury Prevention Awareness Month, Learn a Foreign Language Month, National Car Donation Month, National Drunk & Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month, National Human Rights Month, Safe Toys and Gifts Month, Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month, Universal Human Rights Month, World Twin To Twin Transfusion Syndrome Awareness Month, Worldwide Food Service Safety Month

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Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-5p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6p Greater St. Stephen First Church, Pastor Bell. 3728 E Berry St, Fort Worth, TX 76105

30 Day 5 - NIA (PURPOSE) Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-9p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-8p hosted by MBK/MSK at The Dock

31 Day 6 - KUUMBA (CREATIVITY)

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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

Day 2 - KUJICHAGULIA (SELF-DETERMINATION) Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-5p

JANUARY

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 to our community, at 6:00 PM 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 Let’s come together to honor Ms. Gladys Lee and celebrate the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

25 Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Frederica Chase Dodd Founders Day Public Luncheon, at 11:30 AM, Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 Olive St, Dallas, TX 75201+ Celebrate 100 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action with the Dallas Alumnae Chapter by purchasing a special commemorative ad today for the discounted rate of $300 per ad!

MARCH 9 The nine Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Alumnae Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority will host the 2024 DFW Area Joint Founders Day event at the Irving Convention Center. This year’s theme is “From the Vision to Victory: Moving Forward with Fortitude.”

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Superb Women

Our Superb Women!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

2021 was the "Year of the Woman," especially the Black Woman! For 10 months, we dedicated this space to uplifting Black women and spreading a message that we need to show love and empower people with love instead of destroying them with hate and disrespect. We celebrate Black Women and call them SUPERB! AND WE ARE KEEPING THE CELEBRATION GOING FOREVER! We love you Black Queens!

JONDA MITCHELL BROWN Jonda Mitchell Brown describes herself as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and a “worshipper” who understands who God is.

A senior Global Talent Advisor at Hewlett-Packard, Jonda attended Skyline High School, studying Media Technology, before going on to Prairie View A&M University and obtaining a BA degree in Management Information Systems. She is a wife, and mother, and is also a digital content creator. Jonda is a community servant with a long history of voluntarism. She has served as a board/commission member for the Martin Luther King Community Center Advisory Board and has volunteered with several nonprofits, including her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta.

VIKISHA T. Vikisha T. is the Director of Talent Management at RGP and she has extensive experience as a talent acquisition and management manager.

She has also worked as a senior corporate recruiter for Sabre Corporation, Talent Acquisition partner for Galderma, Human Resources Specialist for Northrop Grumman and recruiter for Dr. Pepper Snapple Group. A consummate professional, Vikisha is a highly respected HR professional who is self-motivated, an effective communicator and emphasizes the importance of training and recruiting. VIkisha works well with others and she is committed to the highest standards.

CLARA BROWN-TRIMBLE Clara Brown-Trimble literally lights up a room when she enters, and heads are definitely going to turn. She wears a beautiful smile and people care about her because they know she cares and is sincere about the work she does as a community servant and activist. Clara works for Dallas County as a Chief Executive Officer at a JP Court. A member of the NAACP, Clara also serves on the Martin Luther King Community Center Advisory Board for the City of Dallas. Her volunteer spirit is praised because she gives so much of herself. Clara is the type of person you want on your team because she is a go-getter.

LINDA MONCRIEF Linda Moncrief is a digital creator and a paralegal at Williams Law Firm. She hails from Grand Prairie, TX, and graduated from Grand Prairie High School. Linda went on to study business law at Mountain View College. She’s loving, confident, self-assured and uplifting, preferring to build others up instead of tearing them down. Spiritually grounded, and family-centered, Linda is nononsense and believes strongly in accountability.

She’s a sports fan who tries to remain loyal but likes to WIN! ROSELITA LUCAS Roselita Lucas is a Real Estate Agent at B21 Realty Group; where she also worked as a salesperson. She has also gained experience as a real estate agent for the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Roselita is a community servant and activist; serving as the membership chair for the Dallas Branch - NAACP. She is organized, and supportive, and folks like working with her. Applauded for her leadership skills, she is also praised for being a team player. Roselita believes in lifting as she climbs and that makes her superb.

CHENAE WASHINGTON Chenae Washington, M.Ed. is a principal at Golden Rule Schools, where she also worked as

a teacher, prior to being an educational aide for DeSoto ISD. She holds a treasured position that is so beneficial to ensuring children get a quality education. A member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, China received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and Teaching. She went on to Lamar University where she earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration.

LONITA SHARP LoNita Sharp is a Senior Workforce Solution Consultant. She gained experience at Workday, UKG, and Kronos, in addition to ADP where she worked as a Human Capital Management Consultant. LoNita received her Bachelor’s Degree in organizational communication from the University of Texas at Arlington where she participated with several organizations, including: Arlington Life Shelter; National Association of Black Journalists; Salvation Army; March of Dimes; Genesis Women’s Shelter; Dallas Childrens Theatre; and Race for the Cure. She later attended Texas Tech University - Rawls School of Business, graduating with honor with an MBA. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, She is also a member of National Black MBA Association and Toastmasters.

LAQUITA LONG, ESQ. LaQuita Long is a triple threat on the surface - Brains, Beauty, and Boldness. But there’s a whole lot more to this Deputy Administrator in the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections from the University of Houston and her law degree from the Texas Southern University - Thurgood Marshall School of Law. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, celebrating 25 years in 2024, LaQuita is a wife and a mother. You may have seen her in action giving closing arguments during the Amber Guyger murder trial. A skilled prosecutor, she was the epitome of professionalism and skill throughout that trial and others. Highly respected, she is known as an all-around wonderful person with a heart filled with love.

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November 2024 APRIL CAGGINS BENJAMIN April Caggins Benjamin, M.Ed. is the Assistant Director of Admission for Community, Inclusion, and Belonging and DEIB Coordinator at The Oakridge School.

Previously, she was an elementary school teacher for almost two decades. April received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Corrections and Juvenile Services from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has served as President of the Junior League of Arlington and member of the Leadership Arlington Board of Directors; which falls in line with her love of community service.

LORETTA SIMON Loretta Simon is special. She has a loving spirit and engaging personality and she is always willing to do for others. High proficient, organized, and pleasing to be around, Loretta is a consummate professional and dedicated servant. A longtime employee of DISD, serving as Dallas Independent School District, serving as the Executive Director. Loretta always has a kind word and offers of assistance.

She is meticulous, very observant, and sees assignments through to completion. Loretta is the type of person you want on your team. She’s creative, and engaging and brings out the best in herself and others.

YOLONDA DAWSON Yolonda Dawson is an educator to the core. The principal at Arlington Classics Academy, she received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Texas in Arlington and her Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration from Argosy University. Yolonda attended DISD’s W.W. Samuell High School and hailed from Gilmer, TX. A wife and mother, Yolonda spent years in the classroom and she works well with students, faculty, administration, and parents.

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SUPERB WOMEN KARMETRIA DUNHAM BURTON Karmetria Dunham Burton is the Senior Director of Global Business Diversity at McDonald’s. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, she received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Southern University and a Master of Business Administration and Management from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She also studied Management at Argosy University. Karmetria is a member of the Board of Advisors - College of Business at Southern University and the Board of Advisors of Clayton State University. The Founder/CEO of Paint Your Lips Red Leadership Foundation, she is also the host of Mind Your Business Podcast.

SHEREE S’ENCE BURR Sheree S’ence Burr is a personal/Private Chef at My Gourmet Today Catering Co. Hailing from Dallas, she attended Dillard University. She’s not only stylish in the kitchen, she has this infectious smile and is always impeccably dressed. Sheree is a personal Chef who has built a business that has an impressive clientele and caters for parties and events and she creates healthy and unique menus. She says cooking brings her joy and she has customers who will tell you eating her food brings them joy! Someone should be catering for her today because it’s her birthday!

BIANCA DAVIS Bianca Davis is the Chief Executive Officer of New Friends New Life, a nonprofit organization that restores and empowers women and girls who have been trafficked or exploited.

She has a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Temple University (Magna Cum Laude) and a Master’s Degree in organizational communication from Dallas Baptist University; and, in 2021, she graduated from the Dallas FBI Citizens Academy. A member of The Links, Inc., Bianca was named Woman of the Year by the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club- (Garland Chapter).

Hailing from Freeport, Bahamas, she was a 2023 Presidential Leadership Scholar and previously worked at Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support and Medical City Dallas Hospital.

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JUDGE ASHLEY CLARK STEWART Ashley Clark Stewart is a District Associate Judge in Iowa. Featured on the cover of Iowa Lawyer Magazine as one of Iowa’s Women Lawyer History Makers, Ashley is a Dallas Native. Previously Judge Ashley spent six years in the office oath Iowa Appellate Defender as an Assistant Appellate Defender, three years as a Claim Specialist II for Nationwide Insurance, five years at the Law Office of Ashley Clark, and a year at the Center for Solo Practitioners as a Solo Practitioner. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism from the University of Houston where she was a member of NABJ, joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and was a staff writer for the Daily Cougar. She received her law degree from the Thomas Jefferson School of Law and this wife and mother is also a graduate of the DFW/ABJ Urban Journalism Workshop.

JENNIFER SANDERS Jennifer Sanders is an anchor-reporter at KXAN-TV in Austin, TX. An Emmy and Edward R. Murrow awardwinning journalist, she is a college professor, podcast host, public speaker, emcee, producer, and documentary filmmaker. Jennifer received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies/Spanish at Texas Lutheran University and a Master of Arts in Journalism from the University of North Texas.

Jennifer has worked as an adjunct Professor at the Newhouse School at Syracuse University, anchor/reporter at Nester Media Group, reporter/ host at 12 Media KXII, and associate producer/ web producer at Tribune Broadcasting. Jennifer is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and The Links Inc..

LA LONNIE D. MOORE From direct care to the service industry to cosmetology and cosmetic artistry, La Lonnie D. Moore has done it all but the nonprofit world never leaves her. She is skilled in customer service, event planning, fundraising, marketing, and communication. She is currently a Program Specialist with Life Path Inc. After graduating from South Garland High School, La

Lonnie received her Associate of Arts Degree in Communications and Liberal Arts from Lehigh Carbon Community College, Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Cedar Crest College and recently, her Master of Arts degree from Claremont Lincoln University. Super talented and creative, she is also the operations manager at Michaels Stores.

NARITA ANDERSON, PHD Dr. NaRita Anderson specializes in Research, Data Analysis, Editing, Classroom Instruction, and Public Speaking. She has been a University of Central Oklahoma faculty member for more than 18 years and she has also taught at Park University and enjoyed stints at Univ. of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Independent Medical Providers Action Coalition and The Schuster Group. Dr. Anderson received her PhD from Kansas State University. The Oklahoma native received her MBA Degree from Oklahoma City University.

Published in the Journal of Financial Therapy in 2022 on the intersectionality of race and gender in financial planner use, she was honored by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education and the Department of Economics and International Business.

DR. JACQUELINE PIERRE Dr. Jacqueline Pierre is a Doctor of Optometry.

She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the Univ. of Texas at Austin and studied at Nova Southeastern University and Troy University before graduating from the University of Houston with a Doctor of Optometry in 1996. Also a retired US Navy Veteran, she’s enjoying her dream job as an optometrist and business owner. Dr. Pierre honed her skills in the Navy where she also served as the Assistant Director of Medical Services; and also at Sears Optical. She is a community servant, volunteering for numerous programs and organizations. A proud mother. You’ll find her at King Vision in Nacogdoches, Texas.

EITHA BLOUNT-DOUGLAS Keitha Blount-Douglas is an East Texas girl who completed her Masters LMSW Degree at Stephen F. Austin State University, after receiving her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration, Human Resources, and Healthcare Adminis-tration from Texas Southern

• Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2024

University. This mother and wife is the owner of Keimistry Apparel & Design Kustom Printing and Apparel. She is also the Recruitment and Marketing Coordinator for Azleway, Inc.. This faith-based agency provides opportunities to children at risk and in crisis through quality services to children and families.

BARBARA TURKNETT EDWARDS Barbara Turknett Edwards is the Founder/ Executive Director of Rose M. Turknett Cancer Network Inc. Barbara is a 10-year triple-negative breast cancer survivor.

During her cancer treatment at Texas Oncology, Barbara was led toward art as a way to process the emotions of her illness. Now, she uses her art to spread positivity with others undergoing cancer with “The Be Kind Art Collection.” Barbara is also a life coach, public speaker, and event marketing professional. She turned her pain into living her life, sharing with other survivors through her foundation, RMT Cancer Network Inc., her nonprofit organization. With a smile on her face, spreading joy wherever she goes, Barbara is a passionate community servant and volunteer.

JASMINE CARTER Jasmine Carter has been a designer her entire life. As a child, her favorite games were anything that allowed her to design clothing.

Creating businesses is her passion, and she has been writing business plans since she was seven. Her first licensed business was Howard County Babysitters, LLC when she was 18. She has started over 15 companies, ranging from cosmetics lines to event spaces. Her record of success makes her Boss in Business. Her latest business is Balacia, a custom jewelry business. Take a look at all she has to offer at https://balacia.com/ CARLA RANGER Carla Ranger was a fierce, firebrand advocate for underserved communities when she was a Dallas Independent School District board trustee for eight years. She also was a longtime administrator for about 20 years with the Dallas County Community College District where she was dean of the DCCCD Communications Division at Eastfield College. Inducted into the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame, Ranger blogged on education issues.

Ranger indeed is a Superb Woman for her

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dedication, tenacity, intelligence, fortitude, and savvy in knowing what was good for the people she served so diligently during her years of public service and for her love of education and her students.

CHLOE MCGLOVER Chloe McGlover has a Physical and Occupational therapy background, so it was only natural for her to use that knowledge and experience creatively in her massage therapy practice. She started Massage Artz @TheOasis in 2019. Chloe attended the Southern California Health Institute in 2014 and now she’s licensed as a Medical Therapist, by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Chloe studied child development at Los Angeles Valley College. She has enjoyed stints at Bright Star Physical Therapy, Pate Rehabilitation, Stonebridge Bodyworks and Physical Therapy, Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation, and Elements Massage.

LORA L. WASHINGTON Lora L. Washington is the President/Owner of LorCo Incorporated dba Washington Realty Group & Associates and Washington Mobile Notary Services. She is also a Managing Partner with JW ED Holdings, LLC. Lora has been in the real estate business for more than 18 years. She is an accomplished Real Estate Broker, Instructor, Consultant, and Developer. Lora serves on the board of several non-profit organizations and is currently the President of the North Texas Association of Realtists, a local chapter of The National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

UNESHA WELLS Unesha Wells is an early childhood expert, program director, and family advocate. She serves as one of those dynamic community servants on the For Oak Cliff Team, where she is the Director of Out of School Time Programs.

Unesha studied Human Biology at Jarvis Christian University where she was a member of the Sparkles, and Pre-Alumni Council. She also served as president of the Theta Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. A born leader and team player, Unesha is committed to making a difference in the community and in the lives of anyone she comes into contact with. Possessing a beautiful smile and spirit, meticulous n thought and execution, Unesha is about taking care of business.

CHERYL LUSTER Cheryl Luster is a special education resource teacher at Waskom Middle School, in Waskom, Texas. A graduate of Atoka High School, she received her B.S. Degree in Education and Behavioral Science - Intervention/Child Development/

Behavioral/Special Education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She also studied Health Administration at the University of Phoenix and Education K-12 with a Minor in Special Education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Cheryl was named “Friend of the Day” by KHVN Heaven 97AM Radio, and with good reason because she is a true friend who is loved and cherished by her students, co-workers, family and friends.

Spiritually grounded, Cheryl is an inspiration to many.

CHARLENE D. AYERS Charlene D. Ayers is beauty, brains, charm, and more, with a loving spirit. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she is spiritually grounded, communityoriented, and a servant leader who is about social action! Filled with words of inspiration, Charlene lifts as she climbs. Charlene has a voice! A true songbird, she directs the Voices of Christ from the University of Texas at Arlington and they recorded at New Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Worth.

SHANTA BATES-CHATMAN Shanta Bates-Chatman is a wife, mother and grandmother. A graduate of Waskom High School in Waskom, TX., Shanta is the general manager of Centenary College of Louisiana’s dining service team. She won the 2023 David Woman Leadership Award, where she was praised for her leadership, ability to work across divisional and departmental lines, ability to build bridges and inclusive focus on her customers. Shanta is serving her first term on the Waskom ISD Board of Trustees, currently serving as the secretary.

ROLANDA PRICE Rolanda Price received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Avila University and her Master of Education from Grand Canyon University in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. She is President of the Professional Support Staff Executive at Dallas College Cedar Valley Campus where she is also the Chief of Staff in the Office of the President.

Rolanda also worked in the Office of the President at Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City- Penn Valley.

She honed her administrative skills at HCA MidAmerica Division, Kansas City Public Schools, and Blue Valley and Grandview School Districts. Rolanda is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

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Inaugural Black Moms Fair educates and inspires

• Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2024

When You Hit Rock Bottom, God Made the Rock BIG MAMA SAID

By Terry Allen

Panelist speaks during The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo at Hall Park Hotel in Frisco Nov. 23, 2024

By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor A young mother with her baby in tow was all smiles as she pushed her stroller out of the hotel doors and crossed the street, heading to the parking lot. Jazmine Warden had just experienced a first time event in Frisco, Texas, geared exclusively towards her and her child’s well-being.

“I loved the fellowship of mothers coming together; not only just mothers of color but also fathers too,” Warden said.

A chiropractic doctor at Palmercare Chiropractic in Las Colinas, Warden is used to providing helping hands to make others feel good. This time, she seemed joyful after having experienced The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo presented by The Mtoto Agency, a local nanny and household agency in Dallas-Fort Worth, founded

by Stephanie Bauchum.

“I just loved all of us getting together and being able to see different holistic items that we can incorporate into our lifestyles that will help benefit our kids, you know, raising our kids to be the next best thing for our community,” Warden said.

The event on Nov. 23, 2024

Adjwoa _Adgy_ Tyehimba of PanAfrican Connection at vendor table during The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo at Hall Park Hotel in Frisco Nov. 23, 2024

transformed the seventh floor of Hall Park Hotel in Frisco into a winding oasis of motherhood and Black joy. From fertility, doulas, breastfeeding clothing for working moms, bookstore, ethnic gift wrapping vendors and more, there were options with welcoming faces at every turn. Targeted panel discussions throughout the day were a highlight as well, featuring Black nannies, career

moms in medicine, education and business owners, and a panel of fathers.

“It was great to hear the Black dads panel,” Walden said. “It really gives you an insight of what Black dads go through and what they think about and how we can better serve our Black men.”

As the event curator, Bauchum has over 13 years of experience as a professional nanny and private household manager. She created The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo as an opportunity to empower and enrich the lives of Black mothers, nannies, doulas, birth workers, educators and others who support the family unit.

“It’s a God dream come true, just to get Black moms, doulas, nannies, doctors, educators and dad’s in the room,” Bauchum said.

“We can’t wait to do it again and again!”

The Mtoto Agency is a nanny and household agency that provides families with nannies, sitters, household managers and family assistants. “Mtoto” is Swahili for “child.” Bauchum’s agency is keen on its approach to serving children and families.

For more information on The Mtoto Agency, visit themtotoagency.com

Lucille “Big Mama” Allen’s words resonate deeply: “When you hit rock bottom, God made the rock.” In moments of despair, this statement reminds us that even at our lowest, God’s presence provides a foundation for hope and renewal. With faith, hitting rock bottom can reveal the strength to rise again.

My Brother Bishop Frederick Douglas Fuller would say, “I have no heaven or hell for you that is between you and God and God, the WayMaker, will pick you up when you fall far enough” Big Mama, born in 1906, lived through the Jim Crow era, lynching, and segregation. She faced unimaginable adversity but taught us that those trials shaped her resilience and unshakeable faith.

Her life lessons remain timeless, urging us to trust that God’s power works even in our darkest hours. Just look at the life of the iconic Shirley Chisholm.

Take, for instance, the violent climate we endure today.

Daily, communities are shattered by mass shootings and hate-fueled attacks. It feels like the world is crumbling.

Big Mama would remind us that God is present in the rubble, calling us to be peacemakers, to rebuild trust, and to seek justice with unwavering faith.

Another “rock bottom” moment for many is the emotional devastation following elections. Some feel hope-

Hon. Shirley Chisholm

less, convinced the system no longer works for them. Big Mama’s wisdom teaches that despair is not the end. She’d encourage us to lean on God’s strength, rally for change, and work tirelessly for the greater good.

Finally, the anxiety surrounding appointment of unqualified leaders with unprecedented power can leave us paralyzed. Big Mama faced similar fears during turbulent times in history. She knew that God equips ordinary people with extraordinary courage to speak truth to power. Her charge to us?

Stay vigilant, keep faith, and remember that no leader is greater than the God who governs all.

Big Mama lived her truth: service to God and others. Her gift to us was her unwavering belief in the Waymaker. In her eyes, life’s challenges were opportunities to strengthen our faith. When life drags us to rock bottom, let us remember her words: God is the rock, and He is still in control.

Terry Allen is an NABJ awardwinning Journalist, DEI expert, PR professional, and founder of the charity – Vice President at FocusPR, Founder of City Men Cook, and Dallas Chapter President of NBPRS.org

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunder-standings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guaran-tee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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