TMN January 1, 2024

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• Vol. 13 • Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

Picking up the Baton You may not have heard about the demise of yet another newspaper. This is the message I sent to Focus Daily News readers: While I am excited to introduce Texas Metro News to the Focus Daily News family; I am saddened that after nearly 40 years, a beacon of light in the journalism world will cease to publish.

Since 1987, Focus Daily News has been a source of information, telling the stories of several Texas communities and bringing readers national coverage.

I salute Marlon Hanson and his team, and especially the late Joshua Johnson. Joshua was my student at Paul Quinn College and before that, a high school participant in the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists Urban Journalism Workshop.

Joshua loved journalism, and working for Focus Daily News allowed him to showcase his many talents. I was so proud of his efforts to provide quality journalism and to tell the stories that needed to be told.

When Joshua died, it was a huge loss.

I know the Focus Daily News felt Joshua’s loss, and thousands of readers will also feel the loss of Focus Daily News.

See BATON, page 16

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Remembering President Jimmy Carter 1924-2024

Jimmy Carter (James Earl Carter, Jr.), the 39th president of the United States, was born Oct. 1, 1924, in the small farming town of Plains, Georgia, and grew up in the nearby community of Archery.

$1

Call this super entrepreneur a

SHINING STAR

By Norma Adams-Wade Senior Correspondent Texas Metro News Get used to hearing the name Kevin Kelley. You’ll likely be hearing it more and more.

Kelley is the powerhouse entrepreneur and philanthropist behind the fast-rising restaurant phenom of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley (4Ks) in downtown Dallas, four other urban cities, and even more in the works across the nation.

Kelley’s meteoric rise to fame is the classic success story of hometown youth who grows up, leaves home, makes good, returns and improves the people and places that nurtured him.

The story could end there, but Kelley will not let it. He keeps going and going like the Energizer Bunny. He says while he has lived in other countries, it was out of love and a vision for improving the city culturally and politically that prompted his return to where he grew up.

He is striving to do what he can, he said, to make Dallas’ political climate more conducive for multicultural businesses.

“I believe in and love Dallas,” Kelley said in a Texas Metro News interview. “(But) the political climate here sometimes makes it difficult to stay. As much as I love it here, I wish Dallas politics loved us (entrepreneurs of color) more than they seem to.”

Close acquaintances say one of his familiar quotes – “everything matters” – applies to how

Celebrating a hometown hero doing good he overcomes roadblocks in moving his businesses forward.

One snag Kelley said he is determined to overcome is a license delay by Dallas city officials with one of his enterprises.

“We work hard to treat people right,” Kelley said. “We will continue working to get that (license) passed.”

A look at his ascent from youth to adulthood and to the helm of business circles is a how-to lesson for attaining success, with the added merit of bringing it back home.

GROWING UP SMART Childhood was indeed an education and training ground for this future master entrepreneur. If anyone knows, a mother knows.

Deborah Kelley-Hill recalls that her Kevin was precocious, self-assured, curious and described as “smart” by adults around him. Even when he was a preschooler, she recalls hearing her young son repeat “I know I’m smart, I know I’m smart.”

Kelley’s Mom said he was involved in all kinds of youthful, creative projects – some good, some destructive – while home alone, taking things apart to satisfy his innate curiosity and fight boredom.

Kevin Kelley

Surprisingly, he developed an interest in cooking after regularly watching a television cooking show.

“Mom, your cooking is kind of boring,” Ms. Kelley-Hill recalled her son saying. “Let me cook.”

She let him. And he became the family’s regular meal-preparer, with his younger sister, Deanna Kelley-Hill, as his taster.

Obviously, that interest in the kitchen paid off professionally later in life.

After he grew up, married, and had his own children, the Kelley family lived abroad for a while in Spain and France before return-

Credit Kevin Kelley Law Firm

ing to the U. S. and opening his law firm and Dallas restaurant.

As a child, his grandmother, Gussie Nicholson, told him he needed to be a lawyer because “you always have to have the last word,” his Mom recalled.

Interestingly, as an adult, he earned a law degree and now also heads the Kelley Law Firm, specializing in personal injury in downtown Dallas.

“The law has been good, but I also love hospitality,” Kelley said in a Culturemap Dallas magazine article. “I always said that if See HOMETOWN HERO, pages 8-9

MetroNews A Look at Trump’s Administration

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• Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

As inauguration approaches, here are his cabinet add choices to date

By Rita Cook Correspondent Texas Metro News President-elect Donald Trump has ruffled some people’s ideas lately as he has been naming his key cabinet positions and other important roles in his administration. Like them or not, there is one thing we can be sure of and that is the America we are moving into will be very different from the last four years.

We know already some of his choices have been controversial, like Pete Hegseth (former FOX news host) for Defense Secretary and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services.

And remember former Florida US Rep. Matt Gaetz who stepped down from his seat in

that state to accept the Attorney General role, pending confirmation. It turned out Gaetz withdrew his name when news of a federal sex-trafficking investigation came up (there were no charges) and there was also an investigation by the House Ethics Committee for sexual misconduct.

However, remember this, with the naming of Pam Bondi who was the Florida attorney general from 2011 to 2019 that could leave an open space for Gaetz to take another key role in Trump’s administration without having to be confirmed by the Senate. There is also the possibility of his running for Marco Rubio’s senate seat in Florida; since Trump has named Rubio his secretary of state.

According to USA News, “Trump’s transition team

Herschel Walker

signed an agreement to allow the Justice Department to conduct background checks on his nominees after Trump originally proposed skipping traditional FBI background checks and expressed a preference to bypass the traditional Senate confirmation process in favor of recess appointments.”

Here is a list of Trump’s choices for other high-profile seats and some lesser-known seats that will drive the future of America.

Tulsi Gabbard, a former US Representative from Hawaii is being considered as the Director of National Intelligence.

John Ratcliffe has been chosen as the new CIA Director.

He has served under Trump before as the National Intelligence Director and is a former member of Congress from Texas.

Kristi Noem, the governor of South Dakota is Trump’s choice for the Department of Homeland Security overseeing U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

To assist Noem will be Thomas Homan as the Border “czar” and his experience as the ICE Director under Trump will certainly be an as-

set to his new role.

Kash Patel will take over Christopher Wray’s job as the FBI Director, he is a former Trump administration adviser.

Michael Waltz, a US Rep. from Florida, has been named as the National Security Adviser.

Vivek Ramaswamy has been vocal since his run against Trump for the GOP presidential nomination and Trump has said he will name Ramaswamy as the Co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency.

Ramaswamy’s partner will be Elon Musk, who needs no introduction as he has certainly made a name for himself outside of politics as the richest man in the world, and now inside politics as well.

Susie Wiles, a longtime Trump friend and political strategist will take the role of White House Chief of Staff. She is making history by being the first-ever female Chief of Staff.

Other appointees, some needing senate confirmation and others not, include Brooke Rollins being considered for Agriculture Secretary, she is president of the America First Policy Institute.

Former Wrestling Executive Linda McMahon has been tapped for Education Secretary.

Chris Wright, an oil executive, will take the role of Energy Secretary and Former US Rep. from New York Lee Zeldin is being considered for the EPA Administrator.

Howard Lutnick, a Wall Street Executive will be added as the Commerce Secretary, if confirmed.

Kelly Loeffler, will be named as Small Business Administrator. She is a former Republican senator from Georgia and cochair of Trump’s 2025 inauguration committee.

Jamieson Greer, a trade lawyer ,is being considered for the new role of U.S. Trade Representative.

Scott Turner, a former NFL player has been named as Trump’s choice for Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary while Lori Chavez-DeRemer is being considered for Labor Secretary.

Many are noting this is an interesting choice since ChavezDeRemer is a strong supporter of unions in her district.

For the Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a hedge fund billionaire is being considered. He is the founder of Key Square Capital Management.

In the role of Transportation Secretary, Trump hopes to have Sean Duffy, a former member of Congress and Fox Business host, lead.

Trump also announced the governor of North Dakota Doug Burgum as his choice for the Interior Secretary role.

Other key seats that will not require confirmation are New York Rep. Elise Stefanik as Ambassador to the United Nations; David Perdue a former US Senator from Georgia will serve as the Ambassador to China; Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas governor will serve as Ambassador to Israel; former NFL star Herschel Walker was tapped for ambassador to the Bahamas; and Steven Witkoff, a real estate executive, will serve as the special envoy to the Middle East.

Entrepreneur David Sacks has been named by Trump as the AI and Crypto Czar, former Trump adviser Stephen Miller will take the role of Deputy chief of policy; and, Mehmet Oz (aka Doctor Oz) will serve as the Medicare and Medicaid administrator, coming from his job as a physician and former television host.

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MetroNews 3 Dallas Renames Park and Recreation Center in Honor of Paul D. Dyer

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Paul D. Dyer, surrounded by his family, stands proudly in front of the newly John D. Jenkins, Director of Dallas Park and Recreation Department, speaks about dedicated Paul D. Dyer Park and Recreation Administration and Service Center, the life and legacy of Paul D. Dyer during the renaming ceremony of the Dallas Park honoring his legacy and contributions. and Recreation Administration and Service Center, reflecting on Dyer’s profound impact on the city’s parks and community.

By Anthony Council Correspondent In a tribute to his transformative 21-year leadership, the Dallas Park and Recreation Administration and Service Center was renamed in honor of Paul D. Dyer,

celebrating his dedication to creating parks and programs that benefit the entire community.

The ceremony brought together family, friends, and colleagues, including former board presidents Joan Walne (2011–2012) and Dianne Curry (1997–2004). Dyer’s

family unveiled the new sign, expressing gratitude for recognizing his lasting contributions.

John D. Jenkins, current director of Dallas Park and Recreation, shared his appreciation for Dyer’s mentorship: “I learned how City Hall operates, how to keep the

Texas Woman’s University fashion students present “help couture” to Scottish Rite patients Photos: Andy Palos Texas Woman’s University

headed projects like the Renaissance Project, revitalizing parks and recreation facilities citywide.

Attendees praised his wit, determination, and innovative problem-solving, leaving a legacy that will continue to benefit the community for generations.T:5"

Paul D. Dyer reflects on his trailblazing legacy as he is honored for his impactful work, surrounded by family and friends, at the dedication of the Paul D. Dyer Park and Recreation Administration and Service Center.

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On Dec. 2, fashion design and merchandising students from Texas Woman’s University presented a specially designed clothing line to patients at Scottish Rite for Children, the latest update to the collection of stylish-yet-adaptive ensembles the TWU students debuted at Scottish Rite last year.

The designs promote independence and self-confidence for pediatric patients with scoliosis, spina bifida, prostheses, those using wheelchairs, and patients using halo-gravity traction, incorporating features like wide necks, hidden zippers, magnetic snaps, and multiway pants.

community informed, and how to navigate the political landscape of this business,” he added. “It’s meaningful to see someone like Paul recognized while he’s alive, highlighting the incredible impact he has made.”

During his tenure, Dyer spear-

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MetroNews

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• Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

Saint Jimmy Carter?

QUIT PLAYIN’

By Vincent L. Hall “Now all the “nigger-lovers” and Black people were gathering around Jesus to listen. And the White church people and Sunday school teachers were raising Cain, saying, “This fellow associates with Black people and eats with them.” So, Jesus gave them this comparison.

– Luke 15: 1-3 Cotton Patch Bible Translation

As a lifelong political junkie, I have a long list of politicians that captured my admiration, but none to the degree that President Jimmy Carter did.

“Saint Jimmy Carter,” by my standards, brought the purest

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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.

form of Christianity to the White House.

Over the next few weeks, we will regurgitate the same facts, figures, and fables about his life and legacy.

This 700-word attempt to familiarize you with the” Peanut Farmer” will center on one religious figure who significantly impacted his psyche.

Great presidents and saintly people are often the result of ministers who pour theological ethics and the purity of Jesus’ ministry into them. The same is true of every religion.

Martin Luther King sat at Benjamin Elijah Mays’ feet. Malcolm X gleaned Elijah Muhammad’s knowledge and wisdom. Barack Obama learned much of his ethos sitting on the opposite side of the lectern from Dr. Jeremiah Wright and his scholarly sermons.

But few, if any, know the story of Dr. Clarence Jordan, whose revolutionary social justice ministry marked the life of Jimmy Carter.

I learned of this radical theologian from Dr. Harry Wright, who preached regularly using Jordan’s “Cotton Patch” translation of several New Testament books.

Clarence Jordan had an undergraduate degree in agriculture and two Ph.D.s, one in the Greek New Testament.

He was so gifted that he could have chosen to do anything he wanted, but he chose to serve the poor.

In the 1940s, he founded a farm in Americus, Georgia, called the Koinonia Farm. It was a community for poor whites and poor Blacks.

As you might guess, such an idea did not go over well in the Deep South of the ‘40s. Much of the resistance came from good church people who followed segregation laws.

The town’s people tried everything to stop Clarence Jordan.

They boycotted him, slashed his workers’ tires when they came to

town and tried to derail his ministry for almost 15 years.

Finally, in 1954, the Ku Klux Klan had had enough of Clarence Jordan, so they decided to get rid of him once and for all.

The “hooded saints” came one night with guns and torches. They set fire to every building on Koinonia farm, except Clarence’s house. They riddled his house with bullets.

The Klan, who are America’s original Terrorists, chased off all the families except one Black family, which refused to leave.

They were committed to the cause of justice and freedom and remained.

Dr. Jordan had recognized the voices of many of the Klansmen; and of course, they were a gang of church folks. The same ilk and brand of church folk who used to

hang Negroes for Sunday evening entertainment.

But some of God’s best work comes out of chaos. Dr. Jordan began translating and transcribing the Bible and it made him famous. His message extended far past the boundary lines of his farm.

They are rare and hard to find, but Clarence Jordan’s Cotton Patch version of the Gospels is bold and provocative.

The great Southern theologian did not live long enough to translate the entire Bible, but the chapters he did get to finish are outstanding.

Jordan, a White Southerner, took the New Testament from its historical axis in Nazareth and set it in rural Georgia to help the people of his day see themselves more clearly.

In fact, Dr. Martin Luther King and Dr. Jordan traded several letters, but they were constantly communicating.

They were always trying to mend each other and build each other up. Dr. King even sent money to help sustain the Koinonia farm.

The Klan burned Koinonia down, but Jordan went on to rebuild and is known to many as the Father of Habitat for Humanity, among many other distinctions.

If you want to know where former President Jimmy Carter got his love and appreciation for all of humanity, look no further.

Jimmy learned to live and eat with people experiencing poverty. Jordan taught a level of empathy and compassion that shaped his presidency.

James Earl Carter Jr., in my opinion, was the only American president who could be considered for sainthood.

He was a saint to me!

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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Let’s bring In 2025 with Hope and Expectation OUR VOICES

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed. D. The year 2024 is gone. We can’t look back. We can only look ahead to new beginnings. Lamenting about the past prevents us from thinking about the possibilities of the future. So, let’s not babble about “could have, should have, and would have.”

To start the year 2025, we had black-eyed peas and collard greens. That is the traditional dish of African Americans.

A direct quote from a report states, “The tradition of eating black-eyed peas and collard greens on New Year’s Day is a deeply rooted African American custom where the peas symbolize coins

(representing good luck) and the greens symbolize paper money (representing prosperity) for the coming year; essentially signifying a wish for wealth and abundance in the new year.”

We had our share of black-eyed peas, collard greens and cornbread so the traditional foundation was set.

While we honor this tradition, we know there is a God who sits high and looks low who will order our steps.

I suspect many people made New Year’s resolutions that were personal to them. Since I am a 4th quarter guy trying to get to overtime, I live in thanksgiving. I am grateful that He has allowed me to still be here in my right mind with a portion of health and strength.

As I was coming of age in Winston-Salem NC, I would hear older men and women say, “I’m still in my right mind.”

Being young and immature, I wondered was there another mind other than your right mind?

Over the course of my life, I have come to understand completely what that expression means.

I am blessed to still be clear in my thinking and discernment. I can still be in the public square and have a voice with opinions.

If you are in that same crowd, be thankful and know that favor has been given to your life.

We age yet we can’t be held hostage by aging. We forget sometimes yet we remember most of the time.

Our aches are a little more, yet we keep moving albeit at a slower pace.

Mental acuity, diet and exercise are all important as we continue in this new year. Put those topics on your to-do list.

Being in the first month of the year makes me ponder about what will be.

My eternal optimism makes me want to believe that we can be better than we were last year.

Plainly stated, goodness, joy and happiness can be achieved if we want it.

Let’s begin 2025 with more joy and happiness in our homes.

Meanness and mayhem should not rule and ruin our lives.

The way we treat each other at home is an indicator of how we treat each other outside. Our attitudes and dispositions follow us.

Stop the violence. Sadly, in many instances it was us against us last year. It was us losing our composure and having no patience.

The blame and shame were on us. Let us close that chapter so that we can strive and thrive in 2025.

Getting involved in our communities will be important this year.

Clubs, organizations and agencies need our support. Volunteering is the hallmark of civic and cultural

engagement.

National Volunteer Week will be celebrated April 20-26. It is important that we give back to our communities.

I can recall many years ago taking my sons, Aaron and Chris with me to volunteer at an American Red Cross event. It is never too early or too late to start volunteering.

During Christmas, I watched the 1984 movie, A Christmas Carol starring George C. Scott.

He played Ebenezer Scrooge, an unscrupulous businessman. It took some ghosts for him to turn his life around so that it could have meaning and purpose.

Maybe there will be some people that we know who will have the same ghostly transformation.

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.

I regret not having an HBCU experience OUR VOICES

By Kenneth L. Hardin The one semester I attended an HBCU before transferring to a predominantly white institution wasn’t long enough to count for me to join in the brotherhood. Oh, how I wish it did. The Black college I briefly attended here in North Carolina back in the mid 1990’s was poorly funded, administratively mismanaged, staff morale was low, and they were in danger of losing their accreditation. I was an older, nontraditional student who had big professional dreams that could not be derailed, a wife, and three small children, and motivated by the fear I couldn’t risk disappointing them. After reviewing my exceptional grades, my academic advisor at this historically Black college sat me down in his office and encouraged me to transfer

to a PWI after sharing a laundry list of reasons. So, I packed up my intellectual property and took it down the road to the PWI who threw scholarship money at me.

Had I been older, wiser and more consciously aware of how I was being used as a pawn in an academic chess game, I would’ve recognized I was being played and moved around his politics driven chess board. Back then, if I was looking through the grown man’s fully aware eyes I have today, I would’ve forgone the appeal of the discolored financial aid money in favor of finding intellectual solace and financial ministration at another HBCU. I’m appreciative and not looking that melanin missing financial gift horse anywhere near its buccal cavity, as I graduated with high honors, and left with zero debt. While that’s something to celebrate, I have an emptiness and a disconnect inside me that has remained over the 25 years since I graduated. It’s hard to explain, but it’s the same emptiness and disconnection I feel living in

this Country without knowing or having a direct connection to my history and heritage in Africa. Had I attended an HBCU, I wouldn’t have this feeling.

I talked about this with a female cousin who graduated from Winston Salem State University here in North Cack-a-lack. Since her graduation over twenty five years ago, she’s been doing it big Willie style in IT with a major financial institution here in NC. Her family has a long history and legacy of HBCU attendance. Her late mom, my wonderful aunt that cancer robbed us of way too soon, graduated from Livingstone College in the early 1970’s and her own daughter is currently a legacy student at WSSU. I could hear the pride beaming in my cuzzo’s voice as she explained what attending and graduating from WSSU meant to her, and what it’s like watching her daughter travel that same path, “I wanted to attend N.C. State University after high school, but I listened to my parents and chose WSSU. Looking back, I have

absolutely no regrets. I don’t think I could’ve completed such a challenging curriculum had I not been in the WSSU environment. They took a more hands on approach to learning and cared about me personally, not like a number.”

My oldest son received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from N.C. Central University in Durham, NC. Between my money for his tuition and the amount I’ve spent on hats, t-shirts and hoodies from the NCCU Book Store, I should be in line for an honorary degree. Joking aside, I’m extremely proud of the man they delivered back to me after his four years as an undergrad and the two spent in their Master’s program. He left home a somewhat insecure, quiet, and unaware young kid. NCCU shaped him into a strong, proud and successful young African in America, who now co-owns a business with his younger brother.

Former NFL greats like Deion Sanders, Desean Jackson, and Michael Vick are showing young men

of color they don’t have to flock to larger PWI’s to achieve athletic success. There are 50 HBCU schools who field a football program that proves bigger doesn’t always equate to better. We need to encourage our talented young gridiron greats that conferences like the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), and the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) can get them to the Sunday show too.

At large PWI’s, you may just be a number, but at an HBCU, you’ll be somebody special. Whether on a football field or in a classroom, you’ll feel connected within your spirit and form special relationships with so many brothers and sisters who are walking the same path as you. I missed out on having that.

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

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Why voter education is so important First-time voter, high school senior, and I Messenger Media intern, Emily Ramirez, pens her thoughts on participating in the election process.

By Emily Ramirez

Intern Yvonne Ewell Townview Center

The 2024 presidential election was my first time voting, so I took some time to process the frankly overwhelming experience.

Thankfully, my immigrant mother encouraged me to participate, emphasizing the importance of exercising my right to vote.

However, because I have an immigrant family, even though they are here legally, many of them are not citizens and cannot vote.

As a first-time voter with no relatives to walk me through the pro-

cess, registering felt daunting just as much as it felt necessary. Most of the time, I felt like I was floundering through the dark, piecing together information with online resources like Vote.org.

I pushed past the mild confusion and inconvenience (which usually comes with doing something for the first time) because I knew how important using my voice was—how impactful it is when women of color show up at the polls to stand up for their rights.

So, I registered, showed up to the polls, and voted early. When I

Emily Ramirez

finally cast my ballot, I felt hopeful about the future of my country and my role in shaping it.

Then, I woke up the morning after Election Day and I was gut-

punched. I cast my vote for what I had hoped would be the first woman president and for a country that protects our democracy.

Instead, I was met face to face with Donald Trump, a felon and now president-elect. My worries about the future became these overwhelming hurdles I didn’t know how to tackle on my own.

How would my sisters, mother, and I stay safe? How would we protect our bodily autonomy?

Should we prepare for the possibility of deportation?

At school, the day after the election, this sentiment was shared by

my peers (often in the form of tears or frustration). I realized in times of uncertainty, we can’t fall prey to pessimism or complacency.

And we can’t just dissociate past these four years unless we want more of our rights to be taken away while we turn a blind eye.

Now more than ever, communities have to band together-whether it’s a community project like period pantries, educating your family and friends, or joining a local advocacy group’s chapter.

I realize now especially, that voting is just one step in a lifelong process of enacting change.

Healing our Communities and Curbing community division through Nonviolence Education and Training

By Dr. Tangier Scott President & CEO Florida Martin Luther King Jr. Institute for Nonviolence The great, late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that “Nonviolence is a powerful and just weapon. Indeed, it is a weapon unique in history, which cuts without wounding and ennobles the man who wields it.”

Although Election Day has come and gone, the concerns and issues of the potential post-election anger and violence are still with us. However, we must not allow violence to define our society. It is crucial for our community to embrace King’s philosophy of nonviolence, fostering dialogue and understanding as we work towards meaningful social change.

Recognizing the trend that violence was on the increase in America, as a result of domestic violence, workplace, and schools, the State of Florida created the Florida Martin Luther King, Jr. Institute for Nonviolence as its response to the significant

public need to develop methods, to curb the use of violence, and to encourage the nonviolence management of social conflict by law enforcement.

On May 13, 1993, House Bill 1283, sponsored by Florida State Representative James Bush III, District 109, and co-sponsored

by Senator Daryl Jones, District 40, was signed into law by Governor Lawton Chiles. This act of the Florida Legislature established the nation’s second governmental response to the demand for nonviolence social change.

The idea of the Institute was orchestrated by the Metro-Miami Action Plan (MMAP) under the direction of then the Executive Director, Sherwood DuBose. He currently serves as the Board’s Chairperson of the Criminal Justice Sensitivity Action Committee, with the assistance of the Miami Dade Commission, Miami-Dade Police Department, City of Miami Commission, City of Miami Police Department, Miami-Dade Corrections Department, The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolence

Social Change, Inc., and others.

The Florida Martin Luther King, Jr. Institute for Nonviolence focuses on Kingian Nonviolence training, a philosophy and methodology espoused by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It provides the knowledge, skills, and motivation necessary for participants to pursue peaceful strategies for solving personal and community problems. This approach addresses all forms of violence.

Since its inception, the Institute has had phenomenal success, as a result of certifying over 200 co-trainers, trained approximately 10,000 individuals locally, in various states and internationally. In 2023, 22 Shelby County School Resources Officers were certified in nonviolence education and training. As a result, there has been a reduction in how conflict is managed within the Shelby County School system.

The Institute’s successes and the experience it has garnered are directly related to the expertise and experience of its staff and associates. The Institute’s

President/CEO is Dr. Tangier Scott. She has a wealth of knowledge as a Manager and Adjunct Professor. The Board consists of professional individuals with a wide variety of experience and expertise.

Recently, our country has seen conflict escalate by law enforcement in alarming numbers, from the death of George Floyd, Brianna Taylor and more. More recently, outrage erupted in Minneapolis after a white man shot his Black neighbor just steps away from his door. Initially charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault and felony harassment and stalking, enhanced for racial bias, the suspect was not arrested until days later. Before this incident, the victim had filed at least 19 reports with the police, but no action had been taken.

Another case involved a Miami Dolphins player, who was stopped by a Miami Dade Police Officer, and the situation escalated, whereas he was handcuffed by the officer. In addition, another player was also handcuffed. Questions remain

why this officer with a history of reprimands is still on the force.

Situations like these allow the community to come together for open dialogue to acquire skills for constructive confrontation that is a necessary ingredient for social change.

In a time where violent incidents continue to capture headlines, the work of the Florida Martin Luther King, Jr., Institute for Nonviolence remains more crucial than ever in providing education and training to continue curbing community division through Nonviolence education and training.

It’s time to heal, to unite, to move on and to welcome the new day in store for us! Let’s do this – together!

Dr. Tangier Scott – Dr. Scott is a lifelong educator, teacher, a d m i n i s t r a t o r, mentor and friend.

Equipped with a Doctor of Education degree from Nova Southeastern University, and Master and Bachelor of Science degrees from Florida International University, Tangier is ready for the challenge.

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A hometown hero getting overdue notice

cont. from page 1 atmosphere to this part of the downtown environment.

Kelley’s mother termed it this way: “He created his own rainbow of what Dallas should be.”

there ever came a chance to invest in hospitality, I would.”

PROFESSIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND Kelley, 48, was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and was seven when he and his family moved to Dallas. He was enrolled in the Dallas public school system, then later attended schools in Richardson and Garland.

He played basketball and graduated high school in Garland and received his undergraduate degree from Paul Quinn College, where he was president of his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, and a leader on campus.

He earned his law degree from the University of Houston in 2002.

He now heads various enterprises: the Kelley Law Firm, and Kevin Kelley Concepts consisting of entrepreneurial enterprises and commercial properties, and the restaurant and entertainment industry.

Kelley is the husband of Dallas handbag designer Deseri Kelley.

People who know him say a personal trademark

Charlotte

Debroah Kelley-Hill

also is his exceptional role as the father of two sons, Kevin II and Kristian; two standout collegiate soccer players, both now attending Princeton University in New Jersey.

“My two sons have been two of my proudest achievements,” Kelley said.

“Another has been being able to create businesses that have contributed to the city’s economic base.

If you examine it, you will find that there are other businesses that get more of a response from the city but have not given back as much as we have.”

Kevin Kelley and restaurant Gen. Mgr. Rico Spears

seem to flow nonstop from Kelley’s imagination.

When he envisioned his Kitchen + Kocktails restaurant in additional urban cities, he set out to make that vision real. So far, his popular Southern cuisine with his signature touch has expanded beyond Dallas to include Atlanta, Washington D. C., Chicago, and Charlotte.

He seems in no mood to stop there, with even more key urban locations in the planning stages. His brand is offering “elevated com-

the only African American who outright owns a building in downtown Dallas.

Local history notes that reality has not happened since the 1920s, when the iconic Black physician Dr. Charles Anderson owned an office and property in downtown Dallas.

Six months ago, Kelley opened Kanvas Sports + Social, an upscale sports and cocktail lounge at 2823 Main St. in the Deep Ellum part of downtown Dallas.

The entertainment site received positive publicity

ed, “our menu and cocktails are worth the visit alone. ...There isn’t an item we offer that I haven’t personally taste-tested and approved.”

Two years ago in May 2020, the entrepreneur opened Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley (4Ks)

COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND QUALITY CONTROL Mrs. Kelley-Hill is chief of staff at her son’s law firm. She also heads his various community outreach projects that include providing student scholarships, supporting a battered women’s shelter, sponsoring grandmothers raising grandchildren projects, and this year’s Christmas coat giveaway to 250 students and homeless shelter residents.

“There are a lot of things

-- during the COVID-19 pandemic -- at 1933 Elm St. in downtown Dallas.

The building originally was the old Hart Furniture store, up the sidewalk from the landmark Majestic Theatre.

In the same vicinity is his Kelley Law Firm at 201 N. Harwood St, and Club Vivo, at 1930 Pacific Ave., which attracts a Latin clientele.

The adjacent ambiance of African American cuisine and Latin entertainment hints at a goal of bringing a multicultural

he does behind the scenes, and he tells no one about it,” Mrs. Kelley-Hill said, adding that what drives her son is passion and a desire to reach perfection.

The mother shared the experience of her and some staff members helping her son test his menu items in preparation for the new restaurant’s initial opening.

“For three months, we sampled foods every single day,” she recalled. “He wanted everything perfect.”

Kelley’s pride in the

Credit The Dallas Morning News.

EXPANDING ACROSS THE COUNTRY Ideas and concepts

fort food.”

His menus offer selections widely ranging from numerous southern staples, such as yams and black-eyed peas to catfish and grits, even shrimp and lobster tail; enriched with his own special seasonings and methods.

It has been widely stated that Kelley currently is

and public reaction during its opening festivities.

Ever the promoter and connoisseur, Kelley told the Dallas Observer publication that he would not dare sully his top-ranking record by offering the public anything below his high standards.

“Even if you’re not a sports fan,” he comment-

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Kevin Kelley in his Dallas restaurant.

Credit Kitchen + Kocktails

quality products he has created showed through clearly two years ago in an incident that went viral on social media and in news reports.

Kelley sharply reprimanded a customer who stood on a table and “twerked” to music playing in his restaurant. Kelley stopped the gyrations immediately while scolding the customer, telling her to leave if she did not want to respect his guidelines.

Media covered the story and Kelley received both public praise and criticism for his reaction. Yet, he stood by his response.

The master entrepreneur is driven by his spiritually-based view of right and wrong and how to move his business, employees, community, family and personal life forward under that premise.

“I have a praying mother (on his staff) who makes us stay spiritu-

Chicago

ally-grounded,” Kelley said. “And there are so many other fantastic people who have supported us and allowed us to employ hundreds of people in different cities.”

He reiterated that his desire is to lift multicultural Dallas to a more level playing field for what is known as minority-owned businesses, minority contractors, and minority entrepreneurs.

“I am disappointed that my recent five new business openings in 12 months happened in other cities outside of Dallas,” Kelley said in his Texas Metro News interview.

“Those openings should have been in Dallas where those tax dollars would help this local economy.”

The Dallas Plan and Zoning Commission, Dallas City Council, and other city leaders are becoming increasingly aware of Kelley’s zeal and fortitude to attain his goals.

The public should pay attention and be prepared to hear his name more and more.

Asked about a middle initial to distinguish him from others who share the same name, Kelley gave this simple response: “I am the only Kevin Kelley.”

Norma Adams-Wade is a Dallas native and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Journalism. A highly-decorated, award-winning journalist, Norma is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists.

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Observers give Kevin Kelley high marks

Robert Pitre

Dr. Ester Davis

John Beckwith and Kevin Kelley

People who know Kelley speak highly of him.

Three individuals who have observed him in operation speak of his drive, compassion, and talent.

John Beckwith Jr. is the noted CEO/owner of Golden Gate Funeral Home, who literally “knows where all the bodies are buried” in Dallas. Beckwith Jr. said concern for others is a key factor that he feels has helped propel Kelley to rapid success.

“I’ve known him (Kelley) about 20 years, and anyone who knows him knows that one of the most important things about him is that he wants people around him to do well,” Beckwith Jr. said. “He celebrates through your victories.

Then that karma immediately comes back to him.”

Beckwith Jr. shared the experience of seeing Kelley in action when they ended up at a few of the same national business conventions.

Beckwith Jr. said it impressed him that Kelley so freely shared his legal and business expertise in a lecture to large groups of the delegates

Dr. Walter Young

without charging a fee – sharing information for which he clearly could have gotten well paid.

“That was one of the most impressive things I’ve seen,” Beckwith shared.

Dr. Ester Davis is a consultant, digital media show host, and community affairs producer.

She has worked with Kelley on business projects and has keenly observed how he operates.

Having raised her own children to adulthood, she said she noticed right away his skill and attentiveness as a father to two sons whom he has guided through academic and athletic achievements in the U. S. and overseas.

“He has a drive that I noticed right away,” Dr. Davis said.

She has kept a close eye on the various Kitchen + Kocktails he has opened in various cities.

When he opened his Atlanta operation, she named luminaries who came out including Atlanta dentist Dr. Walter Young; who represented his brother Ambassador Andrew Young’s family.

“He’s like a magnet,” Dr. Davis said. “And he loves to talk to people, all people. He has his pulse on his audience and puts his own styles and ambience on what he owns.”

Robert Pitre, another noted Dallas-area entrepreneur, said he also has known and interacted with Kelley for nearly 30 years. Their two sons attended Paul Quinn College together.

“He’s not scared to take a risk,” Pitre said of Kelley. “He’s very sharp and knows what he is doing.”

Pitre said he was not disappointed when he had the opportunity to visit Kitchen + Kocktails’ sites in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., soon after they opened.

He, Beckwith, and Dr. Davis all praised Kelley as an ideal father, family man, and role model.

They each said they expect the entrepreneur to own 20 or more restaurant and entertainment facilities over the next half-decade or so.

“He is truly about business, and I can see him continue to grow and own real estate enterprises all over America,” Pitre predicted.

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Did somebody say contest?

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

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

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

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

Vendor and Contest Opportunities Available…

Register today.

https://bit.ly/MLKHeathyLivingExpo2025

Realizing the Dream: Healthy Living Expo VENDOR FORM (please print) Name _____________________________________________ Email __________________________ Address _________________________________________________C/S/Z ______________________ Company/Org_________________________________________ Phone # _______________________ Type of Business/Organization: _________________________________________________________ Products, Services, Goods: _____________________________________________________________ I ___________________________________ look forward to participating in the 2025 Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo, January 20, 2025, 10a.m.-4p.m. at the African American Museum in Dallas.

Please check all that apply:*

_____ Sponsorship Opportunities - Call 214-941-0110 _____ CORPORATE BOOTH-- Receives 6” table with two chairs, and booth sign $500 INSIDE $250 OUTSIDE. $100 OUTSIDE Dec 30-Jan 10 _____ SMALL BUSINESS/NON-PROFIT VENDOR — Receives 6” table with two chairs, and booth sign (one business/org/politician per booth) $100 OUTSIDE $200 INSIDE

$25 OUTSIDE Dec 30-Jan 10

_____ FOOD TRUCKS Call 214-941-0110 (note - all food vendors must have certiÞcation)

* All vendors will have a representative present for Þve minutes on your business/goods/ services/platform, etc.

Make checks payable to: Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, #100, Dallas, TX 75203 $40 Return Check fee 5% fee applied to credit/PayPal/Cash App purchases Zelle: 4698676004 CashApp: $penonÞre

https://bit.ly/MLKHeathyLivingExpo2025 Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo

214-941-0110

320 S.R. L. Thornton Frwy

#100

Dallas, TX 75203

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

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (ΚΑΨ) is a historically African American fraternity.

Founded on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University - Bloomington

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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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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

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

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

18 The 2025 Black Sports Professionals North Texas Sneaker Soirée, the third edition of the chapter’s annual sneaker ball, is slated from 6-10 p.m.

Stay tuned on BSPNTX.com and the chapter’s social media handles for location and event details and ticket pricing information.

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

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

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

Football Conference (WNFC), Monica Paul, Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission, and Pauline MacDonald, Head Coach of Dallas Trinity FC as they share their unique experiences and insights on navigating a male-dominated field.

This empowering discussion will highlight the challenges and triumphs of women in sports, inspiring thoughtful dialogue about what it means to be a woman in the industry. 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM Cotton Bowl (200 Level), 3809 Grand Ave., Dallas, Texas 75210 Guests: $50

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 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.

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

23 Join Kellie Fischer, CFO of the Texas Rangers, Odessa Jenkins, Founder of the Women’s National

HBCU College Panel and Fair - Join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omega Alpha Omega Chapter for annual HBCU College Panel & Fair. 9:00 am until 12:00 pm Little Elm ISD Admin Building, 400 Lobo Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068 *** The 2025 Dallas Open, set for February 1-9, 2025, will move to the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, the headquarters and training facility of the Dallas Cowboys.

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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!

AMBER HARTFIELD Amber Hartfield is the Director of Operations at For Oak Cliff. A managing member of Brown Sugar Shea, she has worked as the Director of Operations for Trey Athletics, and held numerous other positions that prepared her for such an impactful position serving a community in need of bold, innovative and engaging leadership. A former professional basketball player with the Cyprus Basketball Federation, Amber is a team player and a strong leader who is skilled in communication, discipline and contract negotiation. A graduate of Skyline High School. She received a bachelor of Arts Degree in sociology and a Master of pUblic Affairs in Public Administration from The University of Texas at Dallas.

DR. GRADYNE BROWN Dr. Gradyne Brown is the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Garland ISD, where she has worked for almost 25 years. She has also worked as a principal for the Texas Youth Commission. Dr Brown attended Texas A&M University where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and a Master of Education in in Educational Administration. She received her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from Northcentral University. Dr. Brown is an experienced educator with a demonstrated history of working in public education. She is skilled in Human Resources, Coaching, Secondary Education, Classroom Management, and Educational Consulting.

MICHELLE D. CRAIG Entrepreneur, Civic Leader, mentor, Michelle D. Craig is founder and owner of Transcendent Law Group. Michelle has over 17 years of Am200 law firm experience. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Humanities from Northwestern State University and Juris Doctorate and Bachelor of Civil Law from Louisiana State University.

Michelle has worked for many years with various educational institutions, including charter schools with students ranging from Pre-K to High School, boards, school oversight committees, as well as both public and private universities. She is an avid reader in her spare time, loves art and artistic people, and enjoys traveling internationally.

LETITIA MCGOWAN Letitia McGowan is a W.T. White High School graduate who went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Southern Methodist University. She received her JD Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. In addition to teaching at the University of North Texas, she gained experience as interim general counsel, school attorney and assistant general counsel for Dallas ISD. Currently, she is the general counsel for the Richardson Independent School District.

Known for being a consummate professional with an exceptional legal background, Atty. McGowan is a servant leader, respected by her peers and students.

SHARESA Y. ALEXANDER, JD Sharesa Y. Alexander, JD is General Counsel for Lancaster Independent School District. Previously a partner at OHanlon, Demerath & Castillo,PC, she worked in Regulatory Litigation for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, and as general counsel at SYA Legal PLLC, Legal Director for Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts, and Litigation Attorney for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Sharesa attended Texas Wesleyan University where she received a Bachelor of Science - BS, in Mass Communication/Media Studies; Thomas Jefferson

School of Law where she received her LL.M., International Finance and US Taxation, and Texas A&M University School of Law where she received her Doctor of Law - JD Degree.

JANESE FOSTER Janese Foster is the Vice President - Global Corporate Banking for Bank of America. She built her impressive portfolio as Vice PresidentProgram Manager for Citi, Accounting/AP for Dallas County, Tax Specialist at H&R Block, and Retail Banking Officer at U.S. Bank. A licensed real estate broker, Janese was also the owner and caterer of Diane Desserts L.L.C. A graduate of Western Governors University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, this consummate professional with an impeccable work ethic also received Certificates of Entrepreneurship and Human Resources from Dallas College.

DR. SHIRLEY CLARK Dr. Shirley Clark is a Women’s Empowerment Coach, Small Business Development Consultant, Certified Business Coach, Life & Business Success Strategist, Branding Guru, R acial-R e c onci liat ion Advocate and SCORE Workshop Presenter. The CEO of Clark’s Consulting Firm, her impressive portfolio includes stints as the Vice President of Operations at Jabez Books and Founder and Chancellor of Pray & Grow Rich University. Also an author, Dr. Clark is a graduate of Les Brown’s Speaker’s Training Program.

She received Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards from President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden.

She is also the owner and publisher of seven digital magazines.

MICHELE WRIGHT Michele Wright, Ph.D., M.S. Eng., B.S. Eng. is the Director of Business Development and Outreach at SMPTE. She served as Senior Executive Director of the National Organization of African Americans with Cystic Fibrosis, Vice President of Sales for Paragon Biotech, Inc. Chief Public Relations Officer for Curazene Biotechnology Company, Senior Director of

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December 2024 the National Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Association (NBPA)and CEO of American Red Cross - The Greater Ozark Arkansas Blood Services Region. She received her B.S. Degree in Electrical Engineering from Tuskegee University, M.S. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee Space Institute and Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Arkansas.

JAMIE COLEMAN Jamie Coleman hails from Pine Bluff Arkansas where she graduated from Dollarway Senior High School as the Salutatorian and studied English Language and Literature at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, also graduating with honors. This wife and mother is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The Diversity and Inclusion Manager for JCPenney, her impressive portfolio includes stints as a Master Data Manager at Bridger Logistics, Human Resources Generalist Benefits/Analyst at Langston University and Member Relations Specialist for the Razorback Foundation. Jamie’s extensive background in diversity, equity and inclusion include numerous certifications and and post graduate career development.

RACHEL MAXIE Rachel Maxie is an Associate at Goldman Sachs where she also gained experience as an analyst, associate and assistant front desk coordinator. She also enjoyed stints at Texas State University, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Turn Around Summer Program and Maxnee’ Photography. Rachel received her Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas State University and a Master of Business Administration Degree from Prairie View A&M University. Talented, engaging and smart, Rachel is focused and driven. She gets the job done and is respected and praised for her work.

TAMMY JOHNSON Tammy Johnson is the Founder and Executive Director at Empowering the Masses. The United Way Social Innovation Accelerator (The Pitch) Winner 2023, she is a community health promoter, educator and public speaker. A wife and mother,

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SUPERB WOMEN she is an adjunct professor for Dallas College in the Continuing Education Department where she teaches a wide variety of courses and certifications, ranging from Phlebotomy to EKG Tech. She is also the Chief Executive Officer and Owner of Power Up CPR. Tammy received a Bachelor of Arts and Applied Science in organizational leadership from East Texas A&M University. Tammy cares. She is a mentor who is engaged in her community and committed to service.

REDIESHA ALLEN Rediesha Allen is a principal in Fort Worth ISD. Previously she was the principal at Young Women’s Leadership Academy also in Fort Worth. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education and Teaching at the University of Texas at Austin and her Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration at the University of Texas at Arlington. A wife and mother of two daughters, Rediesha is spiritually grounded and politically astute. She loves her students and previously worked as an English Language Arts Teacher. She believes in providing her students with more than book lessons because she knows that life lessons will help get them farther and she encourages her students to strive for excellence.

REGINA L. BROWN Regina L. Brown is an accounting professor at Dallas College, author and purpose coach for RLB Consulting Service, where she is committed to helping others reach their goals, through inspiration, education, and motivation. She was awarded the prestigious title of Outstanding Accounting Educator of the Year in 2015, by the Texas Society of CPAs. Her colleagues praise her for her exceptional strategic thinking abilities, mentorship, and leadership, especially in professional development. Her students respect and value her in and out of the classroom. Hailing from Chicago, IL., Regina is a consummate professional with an impeccable work ethic. She’s a joy to be around and she takes care of business.

Check out her book or contact her for a free 15-minute consultation at 972-813-9525.

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HAZEL DAVIS Hazel Davis is the Chief Executive Officer at Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders. She honed her skills as the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant at HND DEI Consulting, as Director of WorkPaths Strategy for CitySquare, as an Education and Career Services Specialist for the Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas and Direct of Public Relations for Urban Action Inc. She also worked as a managing director at Mint Medical, marketing and recruiting manager for Supplemental Healthcare, and Industrial Engineering Supervisor for UPS. Hazel studied Sociology at the University of Texas at Arlington.

TIFFANY SMITH Tiffany Smith is the owner/consultant at Core Business Image Consulting. She honed her skills as Sales Manager, educator, Trainer and Writer for Dudley Products; Cofounder and Vice President of United Distributors of America; Founder and Salon Consultant for TS Beauty Services; Event Planner for Stellar Creations; District Manager for My Warranty Rewards; Manager of F.L.O.W. INDUSTRY; President and Founder of The Hair Industry Network; and, Founder of True Artistry, to name a few. She graduated from Robert E. Lee High School Midland, TX and attended Brigham Young University.

RASHIDA HUBBARD Rashida Hubbard is a Human Capital Consultant at USMD. She studied Business Administration and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Texas. She has worked for Multi Packaging Solutions, US Anesthesia Partners, and USMD gaining immeasurable experience. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Rashida has been praised for being meticulous and strategic. A joy to work with, she is focused on community service and leadership.

SHAVONN STEARNS Shavonn Stearns is the Science Dept. Chair Dallas Independent School District. She joined

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc - through the Lambda Nu Chapter at Paul Quinn College where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. She also attended the University of North Texas and graduated with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Shavonn has provided exemplary service in and out of the classroom; she is the type of educator that you want shaping the lives of future leaders! She was voted as Teacher of the Year 3X within her tenure and designated by the Teachers Education Agency as an Exemplary Teacher.

CANDACE JOHNSON Candace Johnson is a master electrician and owner of Ultimate Power Connection. She worked her way from apprentice to a licensed Master Electrician in Texas and she has been in the electrical industry for over 20 years, working in residential, commercial, and industrial fields with a strong focus on safety.

She has worked on large projects, such as Cavile Place, DFW Airport, Raytheon, American Airlines, Harris Hospital, UTD, George Bush Airport, and Devon Tower. She is a member of Women Business Enterprise (WBE). A graduate of L.V Berkner High School, she completed advanced training and mentored over 100 electricians.

KALA GARNER Kala Garner is a beauty and lifestyle blogger, dynamic speaker and CEO of Well Rise (formerly SimplyBetterCo), the parent company of Betterness Box. She has served in several positions of leadership at Verizon, as a Chief Strategy Officer for The DEI Gurus LLC, Network Engineer for Verizon Wireless, English Teacher in the Sudan, and Human Resources Coordinator at Wave House.

Kala received her Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies at American River College and her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and Africana Studies at San Diego State University.

A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she is a servant leader with a beautiful spirit and a supportive nature.

She also offers specialized guidance in professional and leadership development. Check out her custom gift box services via BetternessBox. com.

• Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

DENISE GILMORE-MCPHERSON Denise GilmoreMcPherson has more than 14 years of experience in the marketing industry developing strategies and facilitating execution for multiple partnerships, campaigns, and projects simultaneously. She is a co-founder of BetternessBox.com. Denise is the co-founder and COO of Simply Better Solutions , LLC. She has held numerous positions, as Director, Partnerships/Business Development Director at Sittercity, Sr. Manager of Partner Marketing at Redbox, and Editor-in-Chief of SumertimCHI; to name a few. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication with an emphasis in Advertising at San Diego State University where she joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Denise received her Master of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Roosevelt University.

VALANDA DIXON-QUAITE Valanda Dixon-Quaite is HR/EEO Compliance Manager - Dallas Fire Department at the City of Dallas. A graduate of Paris High School in Paris, Texas, she received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management/ Personnel Administration from East Texas A&M University and her Masters Degree in Human Relations and Business at Amberton University. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Valanda is a community servant who is a team player and born leader. Stylish and statuesque, she attended Alta Mesa Park Baptist Church and she is committed to social action, and sisterhood.

JENNIFER R. SMITH Jennifer R. Smith is a legend. She hails from Little Rock, Arkansas where she attended Little Rock Parkview before studying Accounting/Business Administration at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Recently inducted into the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s National Alumni Association’s Hall of Fame, Jennifer is a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and also a member of Links Inc., and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. A breast cancer survivor, Jen works in the Civil Rights Office at Texas Department of State Health Services. She is a born leader and a true team player which led to her being accepted into the 2025 Cohort of The Leadership Southwest Program in Texas.

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• Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

Public Notice

24 Hour Wrecker Serv 24 Hour Wrecker Service Public Notice VSF 0514204 The following vehicles will be sold at public auction on Monday 1/13/2025 if not released to register owners. Any announcements made the day of sale supercede any advertised announcments. The auction will be held at On line at www.jdnewell.com. If you have any questions, please call 972-227-5188.

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

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1996 GMC Sierra 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 2003 GMC Yukon 2003 NISSAN Maxima 2004 NISSAN Sentra 2005 Honda Accord 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 2007 Chevrolet Malibu 2007 freightliner Columbia 2008 Honda Accord 2008 Infiniti G35 2008 NISSAN Versa 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300 2010 Dodge Challenger 2010 GMC Acadia 2010 Lexus IS 250 2011 Dodge Caliber 2013 Hyundai Elantra 2013 Hyundai Sonata S 2013 Lexus RX 350 2013 Mazda MAZDA5 2014 Cadillac Ats 2015 Hyundai Genesis) 2016 Chevrolet Trax 2016 NISSAN Frontier 2018 Chrysler 300 2018 freightliner M2 106 2020 NISSAN Rogue homemade trailer

2GTEC19W0T1544288 1B7HC13Y2XJ534848 WDBJF65J92B432048 1GKFK16Z53J120220 JN1DA31D73T509946 3N1CB51D54L855021 3HGCM564X5G702243 3VWRF71K06M803943 1G1ZT68N47F127903 1FVHF0DE17PY37532 1HGCP26848A056595 JNKBV61E28M202378 3N1BC13E98L399117 WDDGF54X49R061853 2B3CJ4DV5AH135173 1GKLRKEDXAJ164317 JTHBF5C20A5111801 1B3CB9HA8BD295158 KMHDH4AE2DU805908 5NPEC4AB5DH712744 2T2ZK1BAXDC125642 JM1CW2BL2D0146906 1G6AB5RX1E0122727 KMHGN4JE3FU068968 KL7CJKSB6GB759347 1N6AD0CU4GN903897 2C3CCAAGXJH264480 3ALACWFC8JDJS1971 JN8AT2MT0LW032125 NO VIN

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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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• Jan. 2, 2025 - Jan. 8, 2025

SUPERB WOMEN

TINA WILLIAMS Tina Williams is a Vice President at Citi. A graduate of H. Grady Spruce High School, she has also enjoyed stints as a supervisor at GMAC Mortgage. Praised for her enthusiasm, communication skills and professional demeanor, people love working with and for Tina.

She is a multitasker who is organized, efficient and effective; yielding positive results in anything she undertakes. She’s an experienced fraud investigator with strong mortgage and managerial skills. Tina is considered an excellent mentor and an ideal person to model behavior, actions and work ethic.

JANINE THOMPSON Janine Thompson is a pre charge-off collections manager at Cherry; where she has also worked in several other capacities. She has also worked at Nissan Motor Acceptance Corporation, The Potters House of Dallas, and TD Auto Finance. Janine is bilingual; speaking English and Spanish. She received her Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master’s Degrees in Accounting from Colorado Technical University. A consummate professional Janine is respected for her work ethic and commitment to excellence.

DONNA ALEXANDER Donna Alexander is celebrating this year, and we are, too. A dedicated educator and mentor, she loved teaching and helping to shape the lives of her students.

This year a chapter closes in her life but the future looks bright as Donna is retiring from Dallas Independent School District after 40 years! A graduate of Prairie View A&M University, with a Master of Education Degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Respected and praised for her commitment to education, Donna is also celebrated because of her commitment to community service. She is definitely a servant leader who has left an indelible mark on many of her former students and colleagues.

LATIFAH ALEXANDER Latifah Alexander is a certified Speech Language Pathologist with over a decade of experience and she has a passion for advocating, educating, and improving the quality of life of her patients. She has vast clinical experience working in outpatient, home health, acute care, SNF, and inpatient rehab. Latifah specializes in neuro rehab from adults to geriatrics providing quality services in areas of dementia, stroke, swallowing, TBI, and other neurological

disorders. Outside of her professional career, she is the CEO of Queen Culture Puzzles which focuses on creating an interactive experience providing culturally diverse jigsaw puzzles to unite, engage, and inspire individuals and the whole family.

CORTNEY LEWIS SMITH Cortney Lewis Smith is the Development Director at United Negro College Fund and she has shown her love and support of HBCUs. She has been working for UNCF for the past 25 years. She attended Grambling State University studying management before attending Paul Quinn College and graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management. A graduate of Health Professions Magnet, Cortney is a wonderful person with excellent communication and organization skills. People like working with Cortney because she has a servant heart. She is a team player and a born leader who can take charge but also follows directions and works well with others.

JENNIFER SMITH Jennifer Smith is a Creative Event Planner and Lifestyle Photographer and owner of Stella Pearl Grand Events. She has worked as a Convention Services Coordinator for the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, as Convention Services Coordinator for Visit Plano, and the 2010 All-Star Jam Session Attraction Manager. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Radio/TV & Communication Studies from Stephen F. Austin State University where she was involved with the Student Foundation Association, the Debate Team, NAACP and The Association for Men and Women in Communication, as well as the Campus TV Station: SFA-TV-2, and Campus Radio Station: KSAU 90.1. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Jennifer has a volunteer spirit and she is praised for her organizational and creative skills.

MAISHA BANKHEAD Maisha Bankhead, co-owner of the Arlington Fatburger franchise, was honored to play a part in bringing Fatburger to Texas, and following in the footsteps of another amazing woman-of-color, Fatburger’s creator, Lovie Yancey. In 2022 she was named the Fatburger Franchisee of the Year. Customer service, quality products and wonderful environment — she is a consummate professional who is highly respected and praised. Maisha sets the standard for a community servant. Originally from Los Angeles, she graduated from Hamilton High School Humanities Magnet and the University of California-Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies. Maisha is also an independent business owner with Mary Kay Cosmetics.

Picking Up The Baton cont. from page 1 We know that Focus Daily News is irreplaceable, just like Joshua.

However, Texas Metro News and our team of award-winning journalists and media professionals will work tirelessly to gain your trust and support; and we will do what we do — provide coverage of your community So let me tell you what it means to have Texas Metro News in your community.

With Texas Metro News you have a committed news organization that includes the Garland Journal and I Messenger.

We practice ethical, authentic journalism through our audited and legitimately verified publications.

Our unofficial motto is: “We go where the people are!”

While some of you have seen team members at local events such as community meetings, parades, events, rallies, etc.; we are of, and for the community, therefore you will see increased engagement and coverage of your town’s businesses, schools, religious institutions, organizations and citizens.

Through our many resources, and with your support, we are a voice -- as we give a voice to the voiceless. You can help us here by sharing your advice, issues and concerns. We also hope the businesses you support will support us because we definitely support the business community — especially the small businesses.

For the past almost 13 years, we have invested in and been committed to the communities we serve and we ensure that everyone has a voice on our pages; even if we don’t agree.

As we move forward, I want to hear from you.

Send your news, calendar of events, and letters. Tell us what you want to read, see, and hear on our social media platforms and pages.

We are indispensable because we provide so many services on so many levels.

Stay tuned for our community listening events coming in 2025.

Hopefully, you will join us and tell us how we can better serve you.

We are here for you and you can reach out at 214-941-0110 or editor@texasmetronews. com.

Thanks to Marlon, many of the newspaper bins where you have been able to pick up Focus Daily News will now carry Texas Metro News. You can subscribe and have Texas Metro News appear in your mailbox at home, in the office, or electronically.

We will work to earn your support.

Thanks again to Focus Daily News.

I also want to thank those who have been hanging with Texas Metro News. Like readers, the National Newspaper Publishers Association, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Society of Black Journalists, Dallas Media Collaborative, Google, and The Dallas Morning News, as well as supporters and advertisers; the Focus Daily News has shown its support of our journalism and we won’t let you down.

We are expanding, so look for us across the Best Southwest and coming to your neighborhood, showing you why the Black Press is so important and worthy of your support.

Journalistic excellence is our priority and mission!