TMN June 26, 2025, Upload Copy

T E X A S

MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU NEED

• Vol. 13 • June 26 - July 2, 2025

Keep your hands to yourself Cheryl Smith

MY TRUTH I had a conversation with a mother recently because she felt it necessary to teach her two young boys to defend themselves against their female counterparts when these children chose to physically attack them.

I told her we needed to teach our young male children how to de-escalate situations.

Yes, females get out of hand and they need “The Talk.” They must learn that their actions have consequences.

I understand that since they were little boys they were taught and have been trained to not hit females, but they do.

Sadly, the victims of violence by people they know or are in a relationship with continues to rise and the victims are getting younger.

Young people see things at home or on the television screen,

and next thing you know, they are mirroring this deviant behavior.

Domestic and family violence includes economic, physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse of children, adults, or elders, according to the National Institute of Health.

We’re talking about unhealthy relationships.

I told this mother that while she can’t teach her two sons how to be men, she can teach them how to treat females. I went further to tell her that we can not condone physical violence or any other kind.

We must hold everyone accountable and even if they have to go to classes or counseling sessions; they must learn how to resolve conflicts amicably or without any damage to either party.

We absolutely can not allow ourselves to get drawn into fights that could become deadly.

Instead we must make sure that we are teaching a behavior that is productive and affirming instead of dysfunctional and possibly deadly.

METRO SPOTLIGHT

Ahmad Goree

BOWLING BALLERS!

Trophies go to DeSoto Mayor and WFAA Photojournalist

Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon First Place - Evans Engraving 1. Cheryl Smith with team members Angela Chalmers, Syida Johnson, Dwayne Patrick, JT Taylor, and Ollis Chalmers.

Highest Celebrity Female Bowler - Mayor Rachel Proctor

It was all for a good cause - raising dollars to fund scholarships and veteran journalist Cheryl Smith has been hosting the Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon since 1995, taking a brief hiatus during COVID. On Saturday, June 21, hundreds gathered at Plano Super Bowl, and

Highest Celebrity Male Bowler Justin Fuller

DeSoto Mayor Rachel Proctor and WFAA-TV’s Justin Fuller were the Celebrity High Bowlers, and Dwayne Patrick and Carisa Montgomery won all-around high bowlers.

The First Place Team was multiple-year winner, Evans Engraving 1 for First Place, Evans Engraving 2 for Second Place and Golden

Gate Funeral Home for Third Place.

Celebrity Bowlers included Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown, Radio Hall of Famer Chris Arnold, WFAA-TV’s Scoop Jefferson, National Association of Black Journalists Vice PresidentSee BOWLING, page 24

President Joe Biden Commemorates Juneteenth

By Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

46th President of the United States: 2021—2025

nal stakeholder engagement on behalf of the City Manager and provide oversight to the Mayor and City Council Office. His collaborative approach and proven leadership will be invaluable.

320 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy. #100 Dallas, TX 75203

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Chief of Staff to Dallas City Manager As Chief of Staff, Ahmad will provide direct support to the City Manager in advancing City Council priorities and working closely with the Executive Leadership Team. He will lead internal and exter-

$1

Joseph R. Biden, Jr. 46th President of the United States: 2021—2025.

The people of Galveston, Texas, have been commemorating Juneteenth since the Civil War ended. Yesterday, in honor of the 160th anniversary, I went there to join them.

You can read about the events of Juneteenth, but there’s nothing quite like going to Galveston and seeing where it all happened.

After General Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865, Union troops marched across the South for two months, freeing enslaved people along the way. Their final stop was Galveston, an island off the Gulf coast of Texas. There, on June 19, 1865, Union troops went to Reedy Chapel, a church founded in 1848 by enslaved people, and posted a document titled simply “General Order #3.”

“The people of Texas are informed,” it said, “that, in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”

We can only imagine the joy that spread through Galveston – and across the state and nation – on that day and those that followed.

Yesterday, there was once again joy in Galveston, with a parade, See JUNETEENTH, page 13

MetroNews

T E X A S

2

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

INTERNATIONAL/WORLD

Iran Attacked

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

By April Ryan

BlackPressUSA.com Washington Bureau Chief and White House Correspondent

NNPA 6-21-2025 -- “We devastated the Iranian Nuclear program,” says Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth after yesterday’s U.S. strikes that bombed three key nuclear facilities in Iran.

The bombings are a concern globally. Many fear that they create the potential for a largerscale war. Vice President J.D. Vance elaborated on NBC’s Meet the Press Sunday morning and acknowledged, “We are not at war with Iran, we are at war with Iran’s nuclear program.”

Former Vice President Mike Pence even chimed in, supporting the president’s decision, calling it “decisive.”

Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) / X Before the Saturday bombings, Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, publicly conveyed that there was no direct intelligence that Iran was actively building a nuclear weapon.

Subsequently, President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are dismissing Gabbard’s findings.

Delegates and Member States Representatives listen to the opening remarks of IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, that IAEA was informed of the military operation launched by Israel which includes attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran at the IAEA 1771st Board of Governors meeting held at the Agency headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

13 June 2025.

Photo: Dean Calma / IAEA. Copyright ©IAEA Images.

Meanwhile, Senator Bernie Sanders, speaking on stage at an event yesterday, was clearly upset upon learning about the attack, saying this is “unconstitutional” as President Trump did not consult with Congress before the strikes on facilities that the president feels have nuclear weapons materials and or capabilities for

uranium enrichment.

President Trump has been part of consistent daily intelligence briefings since Thursday.

However, the president has only participated in approximately 12 intelligence briefings since January, leading to additional questions regarding the decision to strike Iran.

Questions circulate over possible violations of the War Powers Act by President Trump.

Under the act, only Congress can authorize a declaration of war and raise armies.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth acknowledged in a press conference that Congress was advised after the strike happened.

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York is calling for Trump’s impeachment for not following the War Powers Act. Concerns are loudly circulating over possible retaliation from Iran against the United States for the attacks. Iran’s Foreign Minister asserts Iran has the right to respond in self-defense per the United Nations charter and its provisions allowing a legitimate response. Iran maintains that it reserves all options to safeguard its security interests and the well-being of its people.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is threatening a largescale response if Iran does retaliate, saying it would be “the worst mistake they ever made.”

Iran has decided to close the Strait of Hormuz. Hormuz holds 20% of the world’s oil.

In addition, if Iran withholds their oil and U.S. consumers experience rising gas prices, the current economic downturn will worsen.

There is an emergency United Nations meeting today stemming from an Iranian complaint that the United States violated a UN charter.

Trump has new set of problems

By April Ryan

BlackPressUSA.com Washington Bureau Chief and White House Correspondent

President Donald Trump dropped a publicly-televised F-bomb over the short-lived cease-fire deal between Israel and Iran. Last night, Iran fired back at Israel, dismissing what Trump proudly announced earlier in the day.

Trump’s frustration was evident with his use of the expletive as he spoke to reporters on his way to the Netherlands for the NATO summit. An animated Trump said, “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f–k they’re doing!” He angrily stated that both countries had violated the peace deal.

Rachel Scott of ABC News

asked the president, “Is Iran still committed to peace?”

Trump replied, “Israel, as soon as we made the deal, they came out and they dropped a load of bombs the likes of which I have never seen before. The biggest load we’ve seen. I am not happy with Israel… I am not happy with Iran either.

The collapse of the ceasefire and advancement of aggression and hostilities between the two warring

nations now go far beyond what President Trump termed a “12-day war.” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “We’ll solve a new set of problems.”

While in the Netherlands, Trump is expected to ask NATO members for spending commitments, pushing the group’s European members to pay more into the organization that he once claimed was “broke.”

The focus of NATO is to ensure the freedom and security of its members through political and military means.

NATO targets include weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, and cyberattacks.

The meeting in The Hague with 32 world leaders will be the president’s first meeting with that number of U.S. allies since his return to the White House in January.

A new chapter Last week, Dallas began a new chapter with Monday’s inauguration ceremony. It is an honor to welcome new council members Maxie Johnson, Laura Cadena, Lorie Blair, and Bill Roth — and a pleasure to have returning council members begin another term of service.

This inauguration comes at an exciting time for Dallas. In recent years, we have accomplished many great things for the citizens of this city, including: Turning the tide on violent crime and achieving a remarkable four consecutive years of violent crime reduction, garnering national acclaim; Cutting property tax rates and implementing the largest singleyear tax rate reduction in Dallas history; Becoming the best major city in Texas for parks development, with over 80% of residents now living within a 10-minute walk of a park or trail; Reforming the city’s ethics code to help end corruption at City Hall and establishing the Office of Inspector General as a permanent office; Attracting nearly $23 billion worth of new development, as well as relocations from major employers such as CBRE, AECOM, and Goldman Sachs; Making it easier to “build, baby, build” and cutting permit wait times from two months down to less than 10 days; Attracting professional sports franchises, such as the Dallas Wings and Dallas Trinity FC; and Positioning the city to take the international stage with events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Moving Forward This next chapter must focus on building on this remarkable momentum. City Hall must

first briefing on the planned budget for fiscal year 2025-2026.

The upcoming budget season will challenge the city to continue its strong progress across public safety, parks, property tax relief, infrastructure investment, economic development, and more.

Dallas must eliminate ineffective, inefficient, and outdated initiatives while providing meaningful tax relief for businesses, homeowners, and renters.

Mayor Eric Johnson

remember that its job is not to be everything to everyone — it is to keep people safe, fix potholes, keep the water clean and running, issue building permits quickly, attract employers, and maintain law and order.

The voters have spoken clearly — not only in May’s council elections, but also last November when they overwhelmingly supported City Charter amendments to impose stricter term limits and increase police hiring requirements. Dallas citizens said that they value public safety and they want their city government to be better and more accountable.

These priorities were echoed in the 2025 Community Survey, where residents said that their two highest priorities are infrastructure maintenance and public safety.

Moving forward, City Hall must listen to the people of this city and take their priorities seriously.

Dallas must improve the quality of life for its families by investing in streets and infrastructure, fixing potholes, and improving access to high-quality parks and trails.

The city must also continue to clean up downtown and reduce homelessness across its neighborhoods. Most importantly, public safety must remain Dallas’s number one priority.

Last Wednesday marked the

Comprehensive Public Safety Policy In addition to financial investment through the city budget, the next step in putting public safety first is crafting and adopting a comprehensive public safety policy.

This policy must help set expectations for service, response times, hiring, resource allocation, and funding in the years ahead. It should also incorporate broader strategies that supplement law enforcement, such as improved street lighting, blight remediation, engagement with schools, and support for summer youth programs.

The process for developing this policy should incorporate people and organizations from across Dallas, including police and fire associations, the business community, and neighborhoods throughout the city, as well as criminologists and other experts.

In a world increasingly shaped by soundbites, memes, and artificial content, Dallas is committed to focusing on real solutions.

That’s all for today. Stay safe and have a great week!

Until next time,.

MetroNews 3

T E X A S

METRO

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

THIS WEEK IN AUSTIN

Gov. Abbott listens to constituents and vetoes THC bill

By Rita Cook

Correspondent Texas Metro News

AUSTIN – Texas governor Greg Abbott had a pile of bills on his desk to sign or veto by the Sunday, June 22 deadline.

One bill SB3 had many Texans sitting on the edge of their seat waiting to find out if he would be banning THC consumables in Texas.

That bill was meant to ban gummies, vapes, and other hemp-derived items that are currently sold across the state.

A number of special interest groups, including veterans, spoke during committee hearings leading up to the bills passing begging Texas lawmakers to have a heart and care about their mental health.

But lawmakers in Texas were not listening to their constituents and voted 95-44 in favor of the banning.

One of the main voices for the bill was Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who was adamant THC in all forms must be banned.

Fortunately, Gov. Abbott decided health and goodwill toward the voters was a better move this past Sunday when he vetoed SB3.

THC is about an $8 billion industry in Texas and speculation has been loud that SB3 was influenced by local beer lobbyists who did not like their industry losing money to THC. Many Texans took the time to investigate just who these lobbyists were funding and some were pointing their finger at Patrick among other lawmakers.

The arguments Patrick and other Texas lawmakers were attempting to push was the “protecting the chil-

dren” argument.

Texans for the most part saw past the emotional manipulation since it was reported that in, as an example, 2019 alone there was $28,674,207 spent in Texas relating to beer, wine and liquor by lobbyists.

At Patrick’s press conference earlier this week when speaking about the veto he said, “With this veto, he [Abbott] has now put us in a box.”

Abbott did call for a special session beginning July 21 looking into stricter regulations on THC products, much like the regulations regarding alcohol.

“It puzzles me why my friend Greg Abbott, at the last minute, about 22 minutes after 11, decide to veto this bill,” Patrick said during the press conference. stated.

Patrick also stated that with this veto Abbott “wants to legalize recreational marijuana in Texas.

That’s the headline folks.”

However, that is not the case.

Instead Abbott was wisely listening to veteran groups, business owners, and even some Republican lawmakers, who were adamant the ban would negate Texas’s pro-business values.

Gov. Abbott released his own statement after the veto and said while the SB3 might have been “well-intentioned,” it could “never go into effect because of valid constitutional challenges.”

See ABBOTT LISTENS, Page 21 Rita Cook is a world traveler and writer/editor who specializes in writing on travel, auto, crime and politics. A correspondent for Texas Metro News, she has published 11 books and has also produced low-budget films.

MetroNews

T E X A S

4

EDITORIAL

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

MetroNews

T E X A S

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

founded in 2012

Publisher: Cheryl Smith

Someday We’ll all be Free!

editor@texasmetronews.com

320 So. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Ste. 100 Dallas, TX 75203 www.texasmetronews.com 214-941-0110

Texas Metro News is your premier statewide news source, delivering comprehensive, inclusive, coverage of news, sports, features, opinions, and more. Stay informed with our diverse range of content designed to keep you engaged and informed.

The Texas Metro News’ mission is to inform, educate, enlighten, inspire, entertain, educate and empower, by providing thought-provoking news, photos, stories and commentary.

Texas Metro News, a Texas-based publication is published daily on www.texasmetronews.com with new and breaking news from a respected group of journalists and media professionals, and hits newsstands every Thursday, in addition to being distributed to an extensive list of social media sites, media lists and the Texas Metro News database.

In strategically placed bins, you can purchase copies of Texas Metro News for $1 per copy or you can have delivered to your home for $100 annually.

Additionally there are more than 200 sites across the state: including churches, public buildings, libraries, schools, restaurants and businesses where you can secure copies.

We welcome your submissions but do not guarantee publishing, unless submission includes an executed insertion order. We are not responsible for errors in advertising, however we will work to make good on our errors.

We are local and global, for you!

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, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Vincent L. Hall

QUIT PLAYIN’

Juneteenth has come and gone again, but the questions from MAGA and many who should understand never cease.

Why do we celebrate June 19 and July 4?

Why? Because colonization is bad, but there is nothing on the parchment of world history that rivals America’s chattel slave system.

Nothing!

While it is true that both holidays commemorate “freedom,” there is a great distinction between the two.

Independence Day is the timestamp placed on America’s release from a vile and abject tyranny. Juneteenth is the date recognized as our “physical” release from a vicious and abhorrent trauma.

That difference is significant and cannot be co-mingled! We still live with the trauma of racism.

When Donny Hathaway and Edward How-

ard wrote and released ‘Someday We’ll All Be Free” in 1973, they encapsulated the hopeful nature of the “Black experience.”

Since we are in the throes of a presidency and political climate that seems beyond our ability to survive, this song gives us hope. Let me break it down.

“Hang on to the world as it spins around. Just don’t let the spin get you down. Things are moving fast. Hold on tight, and you will last.”

The whole world is in disarray, and due to the speed and convergence of this information and communication age, bad news is the breaking news summons that we never get a break from.

You must hold on to your sanity. Dig deep and delve into your mental health.

“Keep your self-respect, your manly pride. Get yourself in gear and keep your stride. Never mind your fears. Brighter days will soon be here.”

Don’t let anyone impugn or devalue your humanity. Rather than wallowing in self-pity or

succumbing to the hateful demeanor of your fellow citizens, take action in the fight for your dignity with dignity!

A former Bishop College theology teacher, Dr. John Dee Mangrum left

people what the sun is to solar power!

“Keep on walking tall.

Hold your head up high.

Lay your dreams right up to the sky. Sing your greatest song. And you’ll keep going, going on.

us a profound piece of wisdom. “Courage is fear that has said its prayers!”

It’s dark today, but the lights of hope and opportunity will shine again.

Say your prayers!

Donny went on after a musical interlude, which reminds me. Y’all gotta write some new freedom music. Music is to Black

Take it from me; someday, we’ll all be free!”

Don’t let the current situation bring you grief.

DEI and the whitewashing of Black history is just the second verse of a saga that we have survived in the past. If you remove the buzzwords and slick ad campaigns, this period of America’s history is

just a repeat of the past.

Soon after the Reconstruction and barely post-slavery, African Americans acquired land, ascended toward political power, and began to do well. The poor whites aligned themselves, went to the polls, and forced their president and congress to roll back the progress of Blacks. All they didn’t take, they stole or burned down.

In 2008, Barack Hussein Obama was sworn in as president, and the great grandchildren of those same poor, grief-stricken whites amassed a campaign and created the Tea Party. It grew bigger than its sponsor, the Republican Party, and found a messenger who promised to Make America Great Again!

We have been here before, and we won.

“It won’t be long. Take it from me. Someday we’ll all be free!

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

MetroNews 5

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

OPINION

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Are Selfish Leadership and the Use of Force New Trends These Days?

James B. Ewers Jr. Ed. D.

OUR VOICES

Centuries ago, the famous quote, “power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely is attributed to Lord Acton. He wrote this in 1887, emphasizing the danger of concentrated authority.

The quote highlights the potential for power to lead to moral decline, especially when unchecked.”

Well, here we are in 2025 with many saying that power is being uncontrolled and unchecked.

I have always thought power in the hands of the wrong person or people could be dangerous.

America, our beloved country, has had its share of great leaders. We can

name several of them rather quickly.

They have been good communicators with integrity and high standards.

We, the people, trusted them. Their code of behavior and treatment of other people was at a high level.

In other words, they were for the people and not against the people.

Today, as the summer heats up, those in the know say America has lost much of its standing in the world Polls and knowledgeable sources both are opining that intimidation and threats have become commonplace for American leaders. Many local and state officials are simply following the blueprint created in Washington DC. The United States of America was founded on being the land of the free and the home of the brave.

This verified report says, “When Francis Scott Key wrote the words the land of the free and the home of the brave in 1814, he did so in a poem called The Defense of Fort McHenry. The battle was a decisive one in which Americans truly demonstrated bravery and fought for freedom.

While we are in a new day and time, those from other countries still want America to be their home.

All of us should know we have roots from some place else.

Immigration has been a focus of the new group in the White House. Those born in this country, those studying in this country and those working in this country are being subjected to fines, expulsion and jail time.

When immigration officials are wrong, there are

no apologies. The tactics used are borderline inhumane.

Recently ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) was in Los Angeles dealing with the immigration problem.

Military forces were also deployed.

Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom have spoken out about their tactics.

Mayor Bass said, “This was provoked by the White House.

The reason why we don’t know. You’re not trying to keep anyone safe, you’re trying to cause fear and panic.”

Television pictures don’t look good as parts of the city look like they are in turmoil. Governor Newsom said, “Families are being separated. Tear gas and rubber bullets are

being used. The president has done this on purpose.”

It is my opinion the new administration has sown seeds of discontent in this country.

It has been a few weeks now since the once favored son, Elon Musk departed the White House lawn.

Just a month or so ago, Musk was making nice with the new office holder. How quickly things can change. Mr. Musk was bothered by the fact that the proposed budget cuts weren’t sufficient.

People not eating, students not getting educated and families unhoused simply didn’t matter to him. I suspect his richness doesn’t faze him about the poorest and those marginalized.

The Fulbright Schol-

arship Program has also drawn the ire of the new administration. As a result, all 12 members of the board overseeing the Fulbright scholarship have resigned because of political interference. It was established almost 80 years ago awarding scholarships both in America and internationally.

We can see that almost every facet of American life has been altered or removed. Some would say this leadership style of alteration and removal has become corrosive and combustible. Where will the next changes and cuts be?

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. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

IN RETROSPECT - I’ve gone through changes Kenneth L. Hardin

OUR VOICES I leapt over the 60 year old hurdle recently. Well I ran up to it and gingerly climbed over one leg at a time. For the previous 21,914 days, I awakened each morning as the same man I was when I laid my head down on that pillow the night before. But, on that 915 th day, I wasn’t the same man at 60 years old as I was when I wore a younger man’s clothes.

Recently, as I laid in a cold, sterile, clinical hos-

pital attached to machines that were keeping track of my physiological existence, my mind wandered at the same rate and sounds of the vital signs monitor I was hooked up to standing tall at attention beside my headboard.

I noticed tears inexplicably swelled up in my eyes, making the attending nurse pat me softly on the shoulder and ask if I was in pain.

I rotated my head towards her as I squeezed my eyes closed trying to eliminate the buildup of lacrimal fluid clouding my vision and said, “It’s a different kind of pain ma’am, one that

you can’t measure on that 10 point facial scale you showed me.”

The nurse, who resembled that favorite fun, heavy set auntie you saw only at Christmas and Thanksgiving, looked confused by my response, but still offered the obligatory, “It’s gonna be alright, baby.”

As I laid there waiting on the blood pressure cup to repeat its five minute inflation rotation, I started singing my favorite Sam Cooke tune, “A Change is Gonna Come.” I wasn’t sure why at that moment that song started playing on repeat in my head, but I accepted

that was where I was supposed to be and sang the lyrics quietly to myself, “I was born by the river in a little tent. Oh, and just like the river, I’ve been running ever since.” I laid there thinking about how true to life those words were as I feel like I’ve spent most of my life running from myself instead of embracing and accepting who I was when I looked in the mirror.

I thought about all the times I tried to fit in in a Black world that told me I wasn’t Black enough and a white world that punished me for being a bit too ethnic.

I reflected on all the racial microaggressions I had let slip, tucking them securely into my right front pocket because I wanted to get the job, keep the job and be accepted in the boardroom.

When I was told I talked and sounded white, I just bit my bottom lip and smiled.

When they said you are always dressed so well, I silently thanked my father and grandfather for never allowing me to look shabby as a child and to appreciate sartorial splendor. When I first heard the phrase at 17 and then again in both my 30’s and 40’s, “You’re not like most Black people,”

thrown at me like a pitcher hurling a fast ball a little close at the head of a hitter, I was dumbfounded as to how to respond or react. So, I did the obligatory smile and nodded uncomfortably.

I didn’t realize that a change was gonna come one day.

On my 291,915 day journey, the road has been long and sometimes weary, but I’ve persevered because, “It’s been too hard living, but I’m afraid to die cause I don’t know what’s up there beyond the sky.”

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

MetroNews

T E X A S

6

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

EDUCATION

Target’s Partnership with National Baptist Convention Backfires

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

A Chance to Learn hosts Special Brunch to honor Dads

By Stacy M. Brown

Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent

The National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. is facing mounting criticism after announcing a threeyear, $300,000 partnership with Target, a company at the center of an ongoing boycott over its retreat from diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. The deal, made public on June 20, is intended to support scholarships, senior programs, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.

But national faith leaders, media figures, and everyday churchgoers are denouncing the move as a betrayal.

Target, a multi-billion-dollar retailer, has faced criticism in recent months after scaling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in response to political pressure. Religious leaders and activists who launched the boycott accuse the company of abandoning commitments to Black communities. Target told Black Press USA that it hadn’t abandoned those commitments.

However, critics maintain the company has turned its back on Black America. They argue that the partnership with one of the nation’s oldest Black faith organizations sends the wrong message.

Roland Martin, one of the country’s most prominent African American journalists and boycott supporter, called the move “a stunning act of betrayal to Black America.” He noted that with more than 31,000 churches affiliated with the convention, the $300,000 commitment amounts to less than $10 per church. “This is a $9.67 sellout,” Martin said. “You don’t get to speak for us when you never talked to us.”

Martin also criticized the lack of transparency and consultation.

Neiman Wicks, center, presented with $1000 scholarship.

Photo courtesy Roland Martin Unfiltered

“The leadership of the National Baptist Convention made no effort to talk with, consult, or reach out to the leaders of the Target boycott,” he said. “They accepted $300,000 while the boycott is still active.

That’s the definition of selling out Black people for crumbs.”

Others within the faith community quickly joined in.

Pastor Jamal Bryant, who led the recent 40-day #TargetFast, said the partnership undermines the collective sacrifice made by churches and congregants who stood together against Target’s DEI backpedaling. “This boycott is the most successful economic protest by Black people in over 70 years,” Bryant said. “Target knows exactly what it’s doing. This isn’t partnership. It’s an attempt to fracture unity.”

Rev. Marcus D. Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston urged his congregation to continue to pressure Target. “We cannot be bought off,” Cosby said. “Support Black-owned businesses. Keep your dollars aligned with your values.”

The Inspirational Gospel Music Channel and Black Westchester media outlets described the deal as “a pittance from a multi-billiondollar corporation” and warned

that it “undermines the DEI movement.” They questioned how a corporation that cut ties with Black vendors and walked away from inclusion could regain trust by offering a symbolic donation.

On social media, backlash grew.

The hashtag #NotMyNBC gained traction, with users calling the deal “a weak compromise” and “PR spin disguised as solidarity.”

One Facebook post read, “If your church is one of the 31,000, demand your pastor explain taking dirty money.” Another user wrote, “Respectability over resistance.

Silence over solidarity.”

NBCUSA President Dr. Boise Kimber has defended the deal, saying Target responded positively to their outreach and that the funds will help churches improve lives through education and economic empowerment. But that explanation has done little to ease tensions.

Critics argue that such partnerships should not be made without community input, especially during a boycott. They say the timing and the dollar amount only add insult to injury.

“This is not how you stand with your people,” Martin said. “This is how you chase a check while the rest of us are doing the work.”

Dallas, -– A Chance to Learn, a national nonprofit organization committed to enhancing and transforming the lives of children and their families through comprehensive early education, empowering parent engagement programs, and essential perinatal health support, in partnership with Dads Forward, proudly hosted the Fathers and Faith Brunch in Dallas—a signature event within the Family Programs of the COGIC Urban Initiative. This uplifting series celebrates, equips, and encourages fathers to lead with faith, strengthen family bonds, and build thriving communities.

Held at North Garland Baptist Church Fellowship, the first-of-its kind event highlighted six fathers, some married fathers, some single fathers, some adoptive fathers, including Byron Williams, Dr. Anthony Coleman, Laterras R. Whitfield, Chris Davis, Donte Dean, and Dr. Jay Barnett.

Before a packed room of mainly men, the event included a panel with a candid conversation around topics pertinent to men, with a theme of “The Life of Fathers: Faith, Family & Fellowship.”

A Chance to Learn also presented its first, “Fathers and Faith” scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to Neiman Wicks, a

student at St. Philip’s School and Community Center.

“So much of my own journey — the struggles with self-esteem, unhealthy patterns, and learning to find my worth — traces back to my daddy issues,” said LaToyia Dennis, CEO of A Chance to Learn and VP, Family Program for COGIC Urban Initiative. “This is why I believe deeply that fatherhood conversation, advocacy, and inclusion are not optional — they are essential. As I motivate moms and educate children, I stand firmly for fatherhood engagement, because healing families starts with empowering fathers to show up, speak up, and love well.”

Following the success in Dallas, the Fathers and Faith Brunch will continue to impact families across the country, with upcoming gatherings planned in Richmond, VA; Jonesboro, AR; Detroit, MI; Austin, TX; and Memphis, TN. Through these events, A Chance to Learn and Dads Forward remain committed to empowering fathers with resources, fellowship, and inspiration to be present, purposeful, and powerful leaders in their families and communities.

For more information or to support future events and initiatives, visit achancetolearn. org.

EDUCATION

MetroNews 7

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

From Pain to Passion: Karla Mingo’s Journey Inspires During Cancer Survivors Month

By Sylvia Powers Correspondent Texas Metro News

While many families spend June preparing for vacations, graduations, and family reunions, another group marks a deeply personal milestone: Cancer Survivors Month. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose for millions of survivors across the country.

For 8-year breast cancer survivor Karla Mingo, it’s also an opportunity to boldly share her testimony and advocate for others.

“I believe it’s important to acknowledge cancer survivors in June because it brings attention to the unique challenges that women—especially African American women—face with breast cancer,” says Mingo. “We die from this disease at a higher rate than any other demographic. Moments like this bring awareness to an issue that needs to stay in the forefront of everyone’s mind.”

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), there are currently more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. That number includes both those who have completed treatment and those still in the fight. Behind each statistic is a personal story — and Karla Mingo’s is one of courage, faith, and transformation.

Breast cancer survivor Karla Mingo shares her journey to inspire women and emphasize the life-saving importance of early detection.

Her journey began in 2017, during what should have been one of the happiest times of her life as she planned her dream wedding. In the midst of those joyful preparations, she discovered a small lump in her left breast.

Trusting her instincts, she sought medical attention.

On March 3, 2017, she received the life-altering diagnosis: breast cancer.

Faced with difficult choices, Mingo made the brave decision to undergo a double mastectomy with reconstruction, postponing her wedding in the process. “It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made,” she recalls. “But I knew I had to fight—for my future, my

family, and my faith.”

Throughout her journey, her husband stood by her side. “My husband has been my biggest cheerleader. He supported my decision to get a bilateral mastectomy without hesitation and later married me. His support reassured me that I was loved regardless of my breasts and that I wasn’t in this fight alone.”

Refusing to let fear consume her during her cancer journey, Karla leaned into her faith and transformed her pain into purpose. Her healing—both emotional and spiritual—led her to author Peace, Passion and Purpose: Making Your Life Lessons Your

Blessings in 2018. Through prayer, journaling, and reflection, she not only rebuilt her body but also strengthened her spirit.

Mingo’s voice is especially critical as breast cancer disparities continue to affect Black women disproportionately.

According to ACS, while Black women have a 4% lower incidence rate of breast cancer than White women, they experience a 40% higher death rate.

Karla’s story underscores the importance of education, early detection, and community support.

“My biggest challenge— and my mission—is to help other African American women understand the importance of selfexamination, mammograms, and follow-up care,” Mingo explains.

“This is a disease that can be preventable and curable if caught early. We have to get that message out.”

Today, Karla Mingo shares her story, reminding others to look beyond the diagnosis and embrace the power of faith, resilience, and community. She often refers to her experiences as her “faith files”— powerful reminders of God’s grace throughout her journey.

“The message I want to share with other survivors is this: when you face a cancer diagnosis, see it as an opportunity. Yes, it’s

Karla Mingo believes that her greatest gift as a cancer survivor is the ability to live with gratitude and thankfulness.

hard. Yes, it’s scary. But there is opportunity in every trial and challenge we face,” she says. “That opportunity might simply be inspiring someone else or helping others realize that the most important things in

life are to be thankful and grateful.”

Sylvia Powers is an award-winning author, accomplished writer, gifted photographer, and nationally recognized breast cancer advocate with a deep passion for empowering others.

MetroNews

T E X A S

8

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Did a master craftsman/woman guide you along your apprentice journey to adulthood?

Or was it an angel unaware?

Norma Adams-Wade

I WAS JUST THINKING...

“No man is an island.

No man stands alone.

Each man’s joy is joy to me.

Each man’s grief is my own.

We need one another.

So, I will defend Each man as my brother.

Each man as my friend.”

17th Century Poet John Donne and 1968 songwriters Joan Baez & Peter Schickele

“I can do it myself!”

What parent has not heard that objection from a precocious toddler determined to be independent?

The universal question is, though, how many of us adults still declare stubbornly: “I can do it myself,” after a spouse, partner, or friend deserts us?

Aloneness, independence, or loneliness can be construed in many different ways. But 17th Century prose writer John Donne and modern-day songwriters Joan Baez and Peter Schickele had it right when they stated : “No man is an island.”

There are news stories of individuals who live alone for decades on isolated islands.

But those situations are rare, and the songwriters are indeed correct that “we need one another.”

I have written before about the important role educators play in teaching us what we know. And I have lamented the pittance pay educators receive compared to the vastly-larger

salaries many of their students earn out in the world after the student leaves the teacher behind in the classroom. The educators were the master craftsmen/women. We were the apprentices.

Yet, today, in so many ways, society has fallen apart. And much of a new generation no longer learns life lessons and values – how to dress, respect, budget, fix things that break, how to keep the family together, how to find middle ground in a dispute, how to teach angry teenagers to exchange a few punches and live another day, rather than turn to deadly weapons and permanently end their promising future.

The pairing of a craftsman and apprentice has its value in passing alone a learned craft. Reading instructions in a book is one thing. But I argue

Man standing alone on an island.

Credit: Tish Farrell.

that leaning over someone’s shoulder to observe their handiwork can be far better.

It’s hard to beat passing on tradition. A family member who can say they learned the family’s secret recipe by watching

grandma skillfully prepare the concoction wins the contest each time.

I was just thinking...what if we as a society cared enough to each adopt an apprentice youth to figuratively harness to our chest and pour into that malleable brain all the right decisions, opinions, reactions and safeguards needed to maneuver through the rest of their life?

With every conflict, challenge, battle and victory, that young brain would have a built-in guide to show them the way and help them manage their emotions.

We speak eloquently of dreams of a better life for humankind – marked by less violence, less hate, less crime, less bitterness, jealousy, envy, complaints, injustice, cheating, abuse, temptation, shame, ridicule, embarrassment ... the list goes on.

But just what if each of us as an adult-in-training was under our own master craftsman/ woman? That skilled authority would already have made all the mistakes and learned from them, and thus had become the plateau we hoped to reach.

Back in the day, school students took courses that included woodshop, sewing, cooking, auto mechanics, junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and National Defense Cadet Corps (NDCC) training.

These educational offerings were a productive haven for students not interested in book learning and who leaned toward hands-on training.

Key components of these trainings were the master

Auto mechanics in training.

craftsmen/women who bend their shoulders so a student could look over them.

We could long for the days of apprentice training. We could argue that society would be a more productive place as a result. Finishing high school could lead right into a field that would allow the graduate to support themselves and start a family early should they so desire.

No worry about paying for a college education over a lengthy four-year stretch.

The master craftsmen, journeymen/women could be considered the angels unaware.

Stories of angels often end with the teller admitting that they never got to thank the person that saved them from tragedy.

That angel disappeared around the corner or into the night, never to be seen again.

That’s what angels do. They help, then quietly disappear.

It’s sort of like the old mask-

Credit: Pinterest

wearing Lone Ranger television movie character. After aiding the townspeople, he rode his horse Silver off into the distance as the residents asked, “Who was that masked man?” The Lone Ranger’s Native American sidekick Tonto was left to explain who the hero was.

Who was your Lone Ranger or master craftsman/woman who led you on your apprentice journey to adulthood? Did you read in a book how to tie your shoes or brush your teeth? Or did an angel or master craftsman/women demonstrate the art to you?

Yes, “we need one another. So, I will defend. Each man as my brother. Each man as my friend.”

Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists. norma_adams_wade@ yahoo.com.

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

MetroNews 9

T E X A S

UPLIFT

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

First United Bank names Jesse DMV Faith Leaders Tell the Story of Sister Clara Jackson as DFW Regional President Muhammad: A Changemaker of the American Dream

By Jada Ingleton When Washingtonian playwright Carole Mumin celebrated the launch of The Clara on MLK in March 2024 — named after First Lady of the Nation of Islam Clara Muhammad — she recognized a duty to ensure the building’s namesake would be revered beyond the walls of the Ward 8 apartment complex, which sits on the very grounds once home to America’s Islamic Heritage Museum and the Clara Muhammad School.

“We sat outside and looked up at the edifice that’s now The Clara, that was to house some 80 families… and they would be moving into a building and not even know who Clara is or was,” Mumin told The Informer. “That had a lot to do with [the decision] to see what we could do to share her history with the neighborhood and with the residents of this new building.”

Roughly a year later, that mission deems itself in a one-woman show coming to Arena Stage in Southwest D.C., June 30-July 1, where the legacy of the American Muslim pioneer, and wife of Honorable Elijah Muhammad, takes center stage with the help of co-playwrights and executive producers Cheryl Hawkins, Carole and Imam Mumin, and lead actress T. Rafiah Jones.

While sharing perform-ance insights and pivotal parallels, the leading women behind “Sister Clara at the Heaven’s Gate” touted the production to the tune of humanity, descending influence and interfaith communion — what Hawkins considers a foundation of Clara Muhammad’s storied impact.

“I am so not naive enough to believe that we won’t get some criticism for what we’re doing here with this story, and what we’re choosing to tell and what we’re choosing not to tell,” Hawkins said, “but I think we’re ready to embrace whatever it is because we’re standing on a principle of what we believe was

“Sister Clara at the Heaven’s Gate,” by Carole Mumin and named in honor of First Lady of the Nation of Islam Clara Muhammad, runs at Arena Stage from June 30-July 1.

Credit: Courtesy photo

at the the core of who Sister Clara Muhammad was.”

A Leading Lady Beyond the Nation of Islam Dazzled with musical performances and historic references, “Sister Clara at Heaven’s Gate” aims to revitalize the unsung heroine whose impact in American history exceeds the bounds of Muslim teachings.

Originally born in the Jim Crow South, and raised with Christian values, Clara Muhammad emerged as the paradigmatic leading woman in the early-to-mid 1900s, dedicating decades of service to youth development and challenging societal limitations with a humanistic yearn for equity.

Co-playwright Mumin lauded the opportunity to share “the love that I was able to grow as a member of the Nation of Islam,” having converted to a first resurrection Muslim amid Clara Muhammad’s leadership, which she added began with Elijah Muhammad’s four-year incarceration for draft evasion in the 1940s.

“She was actually running the organization,” said Mumin, highlighting the wife’s courage in delivering messages to and from

ministers of NOI while her husband was imprisoned. “And she was the one who devised the method [for] women to write surahs (Arabic word for chapters) and mail them to their husbands in the prison, who then began to share those surahs from the Quran.”

By the 1950s and ’60s, the membership of the Muslim community witnessed an unprecedented rise, with notable Muslim figures like civil rights leader Malcolm X and championship boxer Muhammad Ali joining the ranks of the first resurrection period, which lasted through 1975.

Among Sister Clara Muhammad’s revered efforts in this era includes directing the educational arm of the Nation, established as the University of Islam in the 1930s. With the guiding principles of the first resurrection, African American scholars — ranging from 3 years old to the end of secondary school — attended the University of Islam Schools (later renamed the Clara Muhammad Schools) to re-socialize the “slave mindset” and obtain a more positive outlook on Blackness and sufficiency, both individually and collectively.

Mumin credited the leader’s “quiet,” yet courageous efforts that made room for Black Muslim recognition on a national scale, including in the District. She noted how the new age of African American prosperity was particularly pertinent among women, and evidently, played a role in her conversion from Catholicism. “[Clara] wouldn’t let us get separated through class and education. She recognized that the more we would be educated, the more that we would rise as a people,” Mumin explained, “and she saw women as key to us being successful as African Americans.”

The native Washingtonian spoke of her own upbringing in a moment where “everything that Read more at www.texasmetronews.com

Veteran banker, Jesse Jackson, brings decades of experience, deep community roots, and bold leadership to serve North Texas businesses and communities

DALLAS — First United Bank, where he served as the head a family-owned bank guided by of Dallas commercial banking. a higher purpose to inspire and His career also includes senior empower others to Spend Life leadership roles at the Federal Wisely, proudly announces that Home Loan Bank of Dallas, Origin Jesse Jackson has joined the Bank, JPMorgan Chase, and the organization as the DFW Regional Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

President.

“Jesse’s depth of expertise, With more than 35 years passion for community, and of experience in banking and commitment to stakeholder financial leadership, Jackson success make him an ideal fit for brings a long-standing track First United,” said Greg Massey, record of strategic growth, CEO of First United Bank. “He is community impact, and executive a visionary leader who embodies excellence. Most recently, he our purpose. We are honored to served as President, Executive welcome him to the team.”

Vice President, and Managing As President of the DFW Director at b1BANK, Region, Jackson will where he served lead strategic initiatives on the bank’s core to grow First United’s executive leadership commercial and team and the executive community banking operating committee, a presence across North select group of leaders Jesse Jackson Texas. His focus includes that drive strategic serving owner-managed initiatives across the company. companies and supporting the Under Jackson’s leadership, bank’s mission to provide holistic the bank successfully raised over financial solutions that drive $150 million in private placement meaningful outcomes. capital.

He spearheaded “Jesse’s leadership will have initiatives that resulted in a powerful impact on our clients Dallas commercial loan growth and culture,” said Ryan Suchala, surpassing Chief Banking Officer of First $2 billion in assets and drove United Bank. “He brings a wealth key bank-wide profitability of experience, and a heart for initiatives. Jackson played a people and a deep understanding pivotal role in advancing strategic of the communities we serve. I initiatives that have propelled look forward to partnering with the company’s growth, now him as we continue to grow in exceeding purpose and performance.” $8 billion in assets. Previously, Jackson held executive leadership Read more at www.texasmetronews.com positions at Texas Capital Bank,

DAVID EARL ROBISON February 21, 1949 — June 14, 2025

Services were held at Golden Gate Funeral Home on June 24, 2025

MetroNews

T E X A S

10

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

UPLIFT

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

College Park Baptist Church, now 60 years stronger Sr. Pastor Carver Adams Sr. and congregation look back in wonder

By Norma Adams-Wade Rosie Brown was sitting on her porch in the College Park neighborhood near then-Bishop College in the mid-1960s. She was pregnant in her late 20s and unsure how she and her husband would handle raising this new life in this new neighborhood where they had recently moved.

She looked up as a preacher walked up and greeted her.

College Park Baptist Church founding pastor, Booker T. Watson Sr. was out and about in the neighborhood, inviting residents to a new church that he was about to open in a house at 6360 J. J. Lemmon Road.

The church would be named after the community where it’s located. Ms. Brown and the pastor talked, and he shared encouragement. She thought about his words and came to the opening service.

Now, six decades later, “Sis.” Brown, now 87, is the oldest current, remaining founding member. She said she felt special to help celebrate College Park Baptist Church’s 60th anniversary on March 16 this year. The twoday weekend celebration gave the 100-plus member congregation an opportunity to look back in wonder.

Members assessed how they said God has used them to reach beyond the walls of their sanctuary and serve others; knock down barriers; revel in shared praise; raise up new generations; and expand their campus to offer better community services.

Members say a hallmark of College Park Baptist is its community outreach and how it ministers to everyone who enters inside.

Rev. Carver Adams Sr and First Lady Teresa Adams.

Credit College Park Baptist Church.(A) - Norma Adams-Wade

First licensed female minister Min. Thomas, the church historian, was College Park Baptist’s first licensed female associate minister more than 20 years ago.

Several other women of the cloth have since followed. Min. Thomas said she is more comfortable with the title Minister over Reverend.

She eagerly shared some of the church’s distinctions, defining the main one as love that she said trickles down from the Pastor.

“College Park is a spiritual hospital for those in need,” she said.

“We embrace people. ....I’m as close to many church members as I am to my own family.”

Current pastor The current pastor, Rev. Carver Adams Sr., was installed as the church’s third pastor in 2014. He recalled that during his initial days, following the illness and hurtful death of the previous

pastor, members battled against “broken spirits” and low valley’s.

Yet, in less than two years, he led the membership forward and the church completed a longunfinished sanctuary renovation, paid off all debt, and entered a new sanctuary during an Easter/ Resurrection Day Sunday.

“When I think about it, I’m still scratching my head today, asking ‘God, how did we do that?!’ ” Rev. Adams Sr. commented.

Now in his 11th years at the helm, members laud him as a visionary who has kept the church striving forward. He led them through the COVID-19 pandemic; greatly increased the church’s male membership; keeps the youth department trained, active and entertained; and is in the process of further expanding the church building so that it can accommodate even more community services.

Rev. Adams recalls a specific incident that solidified the jumbled thoughts he was having more than a decade ago about his

next steps before coming to College Park Baptist.

After members reveled in a prayer service he led one day as a guest preacher, an elder member blurted out what became a fulfilled prophecy.

“You’re the one!” he said the member declared boldly. “You’re the one God wants to lead this church!”

Not long after that, the members chose Rev. Adams Sr. as senior pastor. He was born on a farm in Lindale, Texas, 13 miles from Tyler, Texas, as one of his parents’ 11 children. He is a former Marine and retired 24-year veteran City of Dallas employee who accepted a spiritual calling.

He graduated from Southern Bible Institute and College in Dallas, now renamed Foster College in tribute to the late Rev. L. G. Foster Sr. of Dallas who inspired the original institute in 1927.

Rev. Adams Sr. and “First Lady” Teresa Adams have two adult sons, Carver Jr. and Anthony, and three granddaughters.

Rev. Adams Sr. easily shares details about his journey from the bottom to the top of church hierarchy and how a leader must never forget their humble beginnings to avoid feeling they are above others.

“I came ... from the back row, made a deacon, then God called me,” Rev. Adams recalled. “I know the spirit in the pews. I know how people can feel belittled. I’m passionate that we be...people-oriented, make them feel appreciated, let them know we feel God sent them to us.”

Serving the elders Besides recalling College Park’s origin, founding member “Sis.” Brown also exemplifies how members care for College Park

elders. She describes the handson personal care she and other elders receive, including church members personally bringing daily meals, driving them to and from doctors’ appointments, delivering prescriptions and medicines, communion items, ding inhome prayer and Bible study, and supplying any other personal needs they request.

“I just can’t believe it,” “Sis. Brown said. “People at the church do things for me all the time, and I am so thankful and thank God all the time.”

Memories of marriage and choir Dyann Hornbuckle Watson views the history of College Park Baptist from a unique position.

She is a former “First Lady” and widow of Rev. Booker T. Watson Jr., the church’s second pastor. His father founded the church and lead the first service on March 30, 1965.

Mrs. Watson late husband died in 2013 after an extended illness. They have two adult sons who were also church members as youths.

Mrs. Watson and Rev. Watson Jr. carry the distinction of being the first couple married at College Park Baptist. She said her parents joined College Park when she was around age 10. And as a youth and later as “First Lady,” she said she was active is just about all the church’s ministries.

But the choir has a special place in her heart that overflows with memories of the choir’s signature booming, spirited singing and harmonizing.

“This was grilled into us: ‘Open your mouths and sing!’ We would visit other churches and before we sang, we would stand outside See COLLEGE PARK, page 11

T E X A S

MetroNews 11

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

History and ministries

College Park Baptist Church ministerial staff.

and pray then go back inside with power,” she recalled. “We would get standing ovations.”

After her husband passed, she opened a new chapter of her life and joined a different congregation.

But she returned for College Park’s 60th anniversary celebration and says she will not forget the joyous experience of singing with an ensemble of former choir members.

“That was a pivotal moment...

I was able to sing with one of my sons who with his wife still attends College Park,” Ms. Watson said. “And with the former choir members who came back to sing together again ... It was absolutely heartwarming.”

[NOTE: The church is currently leading a revival that began with a three-day in-person gathering, May 21-23, and continues virtually with various speakers on Facebook and YouTube at 7 p.m. Mon.--Fri. May 26-June 6 @ collegeparkchurchdallas.]

Youth members speak Two members of the youth department spoke equally of the comfort and love they and their friends feel for College Park Baptist

Church where on certain Sunday’s youths are trained to conduct the full worship service.

Idris Wara, 16, and his sister, Ianna Wara, 14, grew up in the church from infancy and are active in all the youth ministries. Idris participates in culinary services, broadcast services, prayer ministry, choir, Sunday School, and the Brotherhood. Ianna is Sunday School secretary, sings in the choir, and serves in the prayer and women’s ministry.

They said their fond memories include their annual out-ofstate youth Kids Across America camping trips where they interact with youth from across the nation.

Those trips foster friendships that continue through correspondence and social media long after the summer ends, the youths said.

“It’s like a reawakening that helps you get back into or get deeper into a relationship with God,” Idris said.

“And it exposes us to new activities, like on one trip, I had not been on a zipline or near a big lake.”

Ianna said the church summer Vacation Bible School sessions were a fun attraction for a large number of youths in the neighborhood, although COVID-19 curtailed that

Credit College Park Baptist Church (A) - Norma Adams-Wade

drawing card for a good while. She and her brother said their pastor’s warm personality also draws youth to their church.

“When you meet him, you want to be his friend,” Ianna said.

“He’s very approachable,” said Idris. “He loves to laugh, and I’ve never seen him upset. Even in uncomfortable situations, he remains calm.”

For his part, Rev. Adams sees young people as a gateway to the future of any congregation.

“If you don’t have youth in the church, the church is dying,” Rev. Adams said.

But his community outreach passion keep the doors swinging open.

“What makes me proud is that God placed me where I would be surrounded by good people. And when people come in the door, the members help me let visitors know we feel God sent them.”

Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists. norma_adams_wade@ yahoo.com.

College Park Baptist has had three pastors plus a lead minister who presided during the search for the current pastor. They are Booker T. Watson Sr., founder; Booker T. Watson Jr. second pastor; Rev. Joseph Thomas, presiding minister appointed by Rev. Watson Jr. before he passed; and current pastor Rev. Carver Adams Sr. The church is named after the community where it is located and the college it referred to is Bishop College that prominently existed in the area from 1961 until it closed permanently in 1988. The church originally worshipped in a house at its current location, completed a building, then moved in in 1972.

College Park Baptist’s strong reputation for community and social outreach programs spotlights programs that include drug prevention classes and a drug overcomer program, premarital counseling, grief support, health fair and screenings, marching through the community to highlight ministries, supplying uniforms and school supplies, senior citizen and singles ministries, and making worship services available virtually and in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic and afterward.

Rev. Adams also exercises his passion for community service as president of the Neighborhood Churches Alliance and vice-moderator of the Christian Fellowship Association.

To further increase its impact in the community, College

Park Baptist is expanding its two-property campus by upgrading its fellowship hall to a 5,000-square-foot Multipurpose Center that will accommodate more community events and activities.

Perhaps one of the most evident victories has been the positive result of the church’s outreach to men. College Park’s male membership swelled overtime with the church offering a variety of programs for males, ranging from discussion groups to a Prison Outreach/ Overcomers ministry wherein the pastors and some members routinely visit prisons and warmly welcome the formerly-incarcerated to regular church services.

That warm welcome includes assisting some formerly-incarcerated to re-enter society by helping them fill out paperwork on computers as needed to get documents such as social security cards and drivers licenses.

“We build relationships,” Rev. Adams said. “I tell people, be yourself, because God knows who he’s dealing with. I don’t try to force anything on them.

We tell them, you’re not obligated to us just because we help you.”

His prison ministry has not gone unnoticed. Among various other awards and honors he has earned, he also received the State of Texas 2021 Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer of the Year Service Award.

MetroNews

T E X A S

12

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Big Mama Said: “A Delay Ain’t a Denial—So Jumpstart Your Delay Now” Terry Allen

BIG MAMA SAID Lucille “Big Mama” Allen—my grandmother—was a truth-teller who didn’t play about purpose.

She’d call you out with love and lace it with wisdom. One her best: “A delay ain’t a denial, Baby Boy , but don’t stay stuck waiting on a ‘better time’ that may never come.” She believed in acting on the now, even when the world said wait.

Now that the official day has passed, we need to work. Not the pageantry—the purpose. For decades, I’ve walked with Ms. Opal

Lee—the Grandmother of Juneteenth herself—long before the media showed up, long before Juneteenth was federalized. I’ve stood with families, businesses, churches, and community leaders when no cameras were rolling. That’s not a trend for me—it’s a calling.

This year, a Bible call shifted my spirit. The presenter asked, “What has God told you to do that you haven’t even started yet?” Whew.

My answer came fast: letting go of people and partnerships that are no longer aligned with my purpose. I’ve held on too long out of loyalty and habit. But just like I had to learn that family must be functional, not just biological, I now know that community must be aligned, not just familiar.

JUNETEENTH TIME IN THE BEST SOUTHWEST!

Photo credits City Men Cook

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom was delayed, but it still came. And that same energy belongs in our own lives. Delay does not mean disqualified. You still have time, but don’t waste it.

Here are three things we can do right now to jumpstart what’s

been denied: Buy or Build Something: Property, business, or IP—ownership changes legacy. Rent less. Own more. Prosperity Bank has partnered with City Men Cook to support ownership efforts so step up!

Fund Black Creativity: Don’t wait for sponsors. Be the sponsor.

Pay the poet. Book the band. Elevate our culture with dollars, not just likes. Reframe our spending let’s TARGET ourselves. I have 50+ suits & Business attire for young Black men and women to help me get it to those who need it.

Control Our Storytelling: Join school boards, support Black press, and teach our children who they are before the world misinforms them. Prevent ban-

ning our books by getting a seat at the table. Let them know “We came before Columbus”- Ivan Van Sertima Big Mama would say, “You already got the go-ahead from God—so what are you waitin’ on?” This isn’t just my column.

It’s your confirmation.

Start. Now. Delay ain’t denial, but delay without movement is just regret waiting to happen.

Email me at Terryallenpr@gmail. com and let’s do something.

Terry Allen is an NABJ award-winning 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

T E X A S

MetroNews 13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

This is Pheezz Now Open!

Cajun-Caribbean restaurant and lounge available in Addison

By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor Texas Metro News Co-owners Phillicia Bryant and Charles Estes rolled up in style, in a black Rolls Royce, at the ribbon cutting and grand opening of their new restaurant and lounge, This is Pheezz, in Addison, Texas on June 14, 2025.

They exited the vehicle sharply dressed with gold goblets in hand, greeted by several dozen guests and close friends for the VIP celebration.

Bryant, known affectionately as Phee, is no stranger to restaurants, having managed several spots, including clubs throughout Dallas-Fort Worth. In collaboration with noted businessman and friend Charles Estes, This is Pheezz is an establishment of her own.

Located at 5100 Beltline Road, Suite 868 in Addison, Texas right next to Gloria’s, This is Pheezz features a menu of CajunCaribbean flair and a lux downstairs speakeasy.

Be sure to check out and support this Black-owned venue.

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

President Joe Biden Commemorates Juneteenth cont. from page 1 picnic, and fireworks. There was also great solemnity, because Juneteenth is a sacred day – a day of weight and power.

The Book of Psalms tells us: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”

Juneteenth marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation, and the promise of that joyful morning to come.

As President, I had the great honor of signing the law declaring Juneteenth a federal holiday. It was our nation’s first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was created in 1983.

Our federal holidays say a lot about who we are as a nation.

We have holidays celebrating our independence… the laborers who build this nation… the servicemembers who served and died in its defense.

And now, we also have a national holiday dedicated to the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans.

Signing that law was one of my

proudest acts as President.

Yet for 156 years, Juneteenth was not written about in textbooks or taught in classrooms. Still today, there are those who say it does not deserve a holiday. They don’t want to remember the moral stain of slavery and the terrible harm it did to our country.

I’ve always believed that we need to be honest about our history, especially in the face of ongoing efforts to erase it. Darkness can hide much, but it erases nothing.

Only with truth can come healing, justice, and repair.

I also believe that it’s not enough to commemorate the past. We must also embrace the obligation we have to the future. As Scripture says, “Faith without works is dead.” And right now, we Americans need to keep the faith and do the work.

In honor of Juneteenth, let’s help people register to vote.

For decades, we fought to expand voting rights in America. Now we’re living in an era when relentless obstacles are being thrown in the way of people trying to vote. We can’t let those tactics defeat us. In

America, the power belongs with the people. And the way we show that power is by voting.

So let’s reach out to family, friends and neighbors – especially those who have never voted before.

Remind them that with voting, anything is possible. And without it, nothing is possible.

Yesterday in Galveston, we gathered in Reedy Chapel to commemorate Juneteenth, just like people have done for 160 years and counting. We prayed, sang, and read General Order #3 again.

The pews were full of families. How many people must have prayed for freedom inside those walls. How many must have sent fervent thanks to God when slavery finally ended.

I remembered the words of my late friend John Lewis. He said, “Freedom is not a state. It is an act.”

Juneteenth did not mark the end of America’s work to deliver on the promise of equality. It only marked the beginning. To honor the true meaning of Juneteenth, we must continue to work toward that promise. For our freedom. For our democracy. And for America itself.

Thrivin’ in Color Podcast Celebrates Men’s Health Month (Black PR Wire) MIAMI, FL – In celebration of Men’s HealthMonth, the Thrivin’ in Color podcast welcomed Christopher Williams, founder and CEO of Heart, Body & Soul, Inc., for a powerful conversation about the urgent need for Black men to prioritize their physical and mental health. During this special interview, Williams shared his personal journey and the work his organization is doing to create safe spaces for Black men to access care, community, and wellness resources.

In this empowering episode, Williams provides his insights into the unique health challenges Black men face, the importance of prioritizing self-care, and the critical role of community support. He also highlights several of Heart, Body & Soul, Inc. initiatives, including The Black Man’s Health Festival, a transformative event centered on wellness, joy, and healing for Black men and the

communities that uplift them. “I am thrilled to share this important conversation with our listeners,” said podcast host Camry Brown.

“Williams’ journey brings a deeply personal and powerful perspective to this topic. He has made it his business to

advocate for Black men’s health. His passion and dedications are truly inspiring.”

Heart, Body & Soul, Inc. is a Brooklynbased nonprofit organization committed to improving physical and mental health outcomes for Black men through education, wellness programming, and community connection. Through year-round initiatives and its signature event, The Black Man’s Health Festival®, HBS continues to break down barriers and build bridges between Black men and the healthcare resources they deserve.

Black PR Wire’s Thrivin’ in Color podcast celebrates the voices, stories, and experiences of people of color while fostering a sense of community and connection among listeners.

Tune in to Thrivin’ in Color on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

MetroNews

T E X A S

14

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

COMMUNITY/LIFE/CULTURE

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Faith and Fatherhood Take the Stage in Garland What does being a father mean to you, and how has doing the Dear Future Wifey podcast shaped that?

By Anthony Council Correspondent Texas Metro News It was a day of encouragement, laughter, and honest conversation at Garland North Baptist Church during the Fathers and Faith Brunch.

Dozens of men came together not just to enjoy a good meal, but to reflect on what it truly means to be a father in today’s world.

The event, led by Head Pastor Dr. Tony Mathews, provided a safe space for men to explore the challenges and blessings of fatherhood through the lens of faith. Attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions about how past experiences continue to shape their roles as fathers today.

Before the panel discussion, comedian Shedrick Garrett set a lighthearted tone, sharing humorous stories about his spiritual journey, joking about giving his life to Christ back in 1999, and announcing his plans to recommit this year.

Garrett also excited the crowd by revealing his upcoming role in the Madea movie, Madea’s Destination.

The panel featured an impressive lineup of voices, each bringing a unique perspective on fatherhood and personal growth. Donte Dean, Vice President of Development at A Chance to Learn; Dr. Anthony D. Coleman, President of COGIC Urban Initiatives; Chris Davis, Founder and CEO of Dads Forward; Laterras R. Whitfield, Founder of Dear Future Wifey; and Byron Williams, former NFL player and President of the DFW Chapter, shared insights on healing, mental health, faith, and leadership.

(Left to Right) Donte Dean, VP of Development of A Chance to Learn, Dr. Anthony D. Coleman, President, COGIC Urban Initiatives; Chris Davis, Founder/CEO of Dads Forward; Dr. Jay Barnett, Family Therapist and DHA Mental Health Expert; Laterras R. Whitfield, Founder, Dear Future Wifey; Byron Williams, NFL alumnus, President, DFW Chapter.

Photo credit: Anthony Council, Texas Metro News

Dr. Barnett led the panel with a breathing exercise for everyone to do and asked them not to reflect on their life but just on the past week.

Asking the critical question of what moments you could have stood still and become more involved in the moment at that moment. With each breath the men took before the discussion, the tenseness left the room like a weight taken off their shoulders.

Dr. Barnett led the panel with a breathing exercise for everyone to do and asked them not to reflect on their life, but just on the past week, asking the critical question: What moments could you have stood still and become more fully engaged in the moment? With each breath the men took before the discussion, the tenseness left the room like a weight taken off their shoulders.

The panel discussion wasn’t the only highlight of the event. It also gave men

an opportunity to engage in community moments, such as prize giveaways, including recognizing the father with the most children.

One of the recipients was Fabian Speed, a father of seven, who shared a deeply personal story.

Sitting next to his 25-yearold son Tariq Speed, Mr. Speed revealed the pain of losing one of his children.

His vulnerability created a sacred pause in the room. Dr. Jay Barnett gently challenged him to truly mourn. The discussion was genuine and honest, beginning with the powerful question: “What’s one thing you wish your father knew?”

For Chris Davis and his father, it was a matter of emotional intelligence, without hesitation.

“Emotional regulation,” he started. “You know, we were former ball players, man, so football was my therapy, and so I didn’t know how to process through my emotions.

So emotional intelligence and how to navigate as a young man would have been paramount.”

For Laterras Whitfield, he wished his father knew how deeply he didn’t want to be like him. Reflecting on that relationship, he shared a powerful sentiment: “I forgive you for not living up to my expectations. And I forgive myself for being a part of you that I never wanted to become.”

In a recent interview, we discussed fatherhood, masculinity, and the conversations men should be having with themselves and with each other.

What did Father’s Day mean for you this year?

Laterras: “Father’s Day this year means legacy for me. I kept hearing the word legacy internally; it’s all about legacy.

I’ve learned a lot about being a father, especially through doing the Dear Future Wifey podcast.”

“What I’ve learned is how much I didn’t know. I’m 47 years old, I’ve seen it all, you’ve heard it all. But the more I talked to other people, talked to my kids, my kids showed me the deficiencies I had in myself: a lack of patience, a lack of understanding of this new generation.

I found myself, like I said on that panel, saying things like, ‘When I was young... I would never… when I was your age…’

That type of stuff. We didn’t have cell phones—I didn’t have a cell phone. We had beepers.

So I had to realize that while some of the things I did as a teenager—like work ethic— can still be applicable, the things they face right now are something I can’t relate to. If I turn my ear toward their mouth in order to listen to what they’re saying, then I can learn how to best meet the needs of my children.

What I’ve learned with this podcast is similar. I created this podcast to become a better listener. I was always the type that, when my lover was talking, I would always jump in. I would want to finish the sentence to get my point across.

On my podcast, I would force myself to listen, no matter how long the person talks. So my podcast has taught me to become a better listener.”

What does being a man mean to you?

“Manhood is responsibility.

We always hear about being a provider. Manhood is about being a provider. We always

T E X A S

MetroNews 15

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM relegate that to financial provision.

When I look at manhood done properly, we want the comprehensive man where he’s not just the provider financially, but he’s the provider emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically.

That’s some of the things that men don’t teach each other.

Men don’t teach each other.

Men don’t teach each other about emotional intelligence.

It’s always, “Get a job, make sure you take care of your family, that’s it.”So, what we grew up with is emotionally unavailable fathers. The only time they would tell you “great job” is most of the time when you’re running a football, playing a sport, and you’ve won the game.

Most of the time, when I talk to people that were athletes, their parents would tell them about the loss.

You know, especially men saying, “Why did you miss that tackle? Why did you do this?

Why did you do that?”

Instead of saying, “You know what, man, you gave it your all.

I’m proud of you, son.”

They be like, “Ain’t nobody carrying my last name going to be sorry.” he stated “They just start telling the kid that all his efforts suck, that he’s terrible,

that he’s always going to be terrible unless he changes his life instead of congratulating him and going out there on the field.

That’s where we get toxic masculinity in a lot of young men, where we get that performance mentality that we have to perform in order to be valued.”

So I wish that men understood that manhood is failure. That you’re going to fail, you’re going to make mistakes, and you’re still a man, you’re going to make bad decisions.

That manhood to me is the constant mindset of overcoming to keep trying, no matter how bad it is in your marriage, keep trying, no matter how hard marriage is. Special manhood is the responsibility and the heart posture to not give up.

As he stated, it’s also about celebrating wins as well.

“Men end up dying early with stress and heart attack because we keep trying and trying and trying to get more, more, more.

When it’s like, man, stop, you did great. You graduated from high school, give yourself a pat on the back. You graduated from college, give yourself a pat on the back. You got your license and employment, whatever it is, stop and pat yourself on the back instead of saying, “I’ve got

Men at the Fathers & Faith Brunch stretching out their hands, praying over Mr. Fabian Speed and his son, Tariq Speed.

Photo credit: Anthony Council, Texas Metro News

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

Caption.

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Photo credit: Anthony Council, Texas Metro News

to do more to find value.”

What can you tell the fathers about your experience of being a father?

“Give yourself grace. Give yourself grace and forgive yourself. Apologize to your kids for whatever went wrong, whether it’s with their mom, not being present in their life, or whatever your story is.

Give yourself grace, forgive yourself, and verbalize that to your kids. Let them know that you were at least aware of what you did or didn’t do. Do that first. Then give yourself a pat on the back for still being committed to fatherhood.

There are people that are not present at all. They feel like their child is better off without them.

I’ve heard men say that, and I’m like, what?! How did you make that decision? Let that kid make that decision. That kid is physically abandoned, and you didn’t even give them the time to say, “I cared about you.” Let that kid make that decision. But show up, be present, and be thankful — a lot of people are struggling to produce kids. That kid is a miracle, and what you participated in is a miracle, a miracle child.”

Some exciting news was

revealed as his daughter is about to have a baby girl, and Mr. Latreaus is about to be a grandfather. We got to have a sneak peek into his new world of being a grandfather soon.

What does it mean to be a grandfather soon?

“To be a grandfather, I have no idea. I’m just looking forward to it and to have fun.

I just know I don’t have a lot of responsibility. I’m looking forward to it, knowing that I don’t have to carry the weight, just show up and have fun.

I want to give my daughter and son-in-law grace to make mistakes. Not to come in and try to manage their parenthood.

Let them make mistakes, let them bump their heads. I just want to be a place of wisdom and advice when asked and requested.

Make sure my nephew is the best equipped to be prepared for life. You know, my parents never prepared me for life at all. I mean, when I say never had a talk about what to expect, how to budget, how to spend money, how to get a job, how to drive a car, I had to learn on my own. I mean, literally learn on my own, and I had to bump my head a lot, but that gave me the fortitude to be able to do what I do. But I want to best equip my

nephew, my son, with the tools in order to succeed.”

In a world that often measures men by what they do instead of who they are, the Fathers & Faith Brunch reminded many men that fatherhood is not about perfection, but about presence.

It’s about showing up, speaking truth, offering grace, and being willing to grow.

As these men lifted their hands in prayer, shared tears, and told their truths, a more profound message echoed: Healing begins when men are safe enough to be human.

The legacy of fatherhood isn’t written in titles or trophies, but in moments of honesty, compassion, and commitment to doing better.

These men weren’t just sharing experiences; they were rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a father, a man, and a leader. And if this brunch proved anything, it’s that faith and fatherhood are not just pillars of strength, they are the foundation of generational change.

Anthony Council is a recent graduate of the University of North Texas And a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

MetroNews

T E X A S

16

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

KEMET

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

JUNE

T E X A S

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

MetroNews 17 MetroNews 1

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• Vol-12

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

• August 29 - September 4, 2024

***

SEND CALENDAR ITEMS TO

26

editor@texasmetronews.com

MetroNews

T E X A S

18

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Support the

Black Press We are here for you

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

T E X A S

MetroNews 19

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

ELSIE COOKE-HOLMES DAY in Plano

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s International President and CEO, Elsie Cooke-Holmes was honored by Plano City Council, as June 24 is officially proclaimed Elsie Cooke-Holmes Day! Members of the sorority, Links Inc., National Council of Negro Women, NAACP, and community members packed the City Council Chambers for the presentation by Mayor John B. Muns, on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Before she attended the University of Memphis, CookeHolmes was a scholar, involved in community service so it was a natural progression that she would join an organization that focused on community service, sisterhood, and social activism.

So in 1976 as she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in engineering technology/computer systems, she was initiated into the Epsilon Kappa chapter.

She went on to receive her MBA from Columbia University, and New York and enjoyed a very impressive career in corporate America, spanning more than 30 years.

Hailing from Jackson, TN, while in college, she was elected National Second Vice President; holding the highest office that an undergraduate student could have in the organization. She also went on to serve in numerous positions in the Eastern region, then Internationally, ascending to Secretary, then Vice President, and ultimately, she assumed the role of International president.

It was shortly after she was elected Vice President at the 55th National Convention in 2021 that she assumed the role of President following the sudden death of newly-elected president. Cheryl Hickmon.

Always graceful, focused, and strategic, she stepped into

the position, although grieving for her long time, friend and sorority sister, and used the skills she developed as an executive, as well as decades of experience within the sorority she took the helm and has led with grace vision and fortitude.

Despite her many responsibilities as an international president and CEO, Cooke Holmes, who is a member of St Luke “Community” United Methodist Church in Dallas, is participating in other community activities as a member of Links Inc., NAACP, and the National Council of Negro Women.

The former Director of Human Resources at PepsiCo, Cooke Holmes is the principal owner of Cooke-Holmes, LLC, a coaching and HR consulting firm specializing in executive leadership and career coaching leadership development, facilitation, training, and change

management.

Delta Sigma Theta was founded at Howard University on January 13, 1913. The Founders first act of public service was participating in the Suffrage March of 1913.

The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex lays claims to some dynamic women whose influences stretch around the world and are worthy of being celebrated because they have very challenging and sometimes thankless jobs.

During her presidency, Cooke-Holmes was honored with women leaders who head international organizations and live in the D/FW Metroplex.\ These women, in positions of power and influence, are ambassadors because as they travel the world, they let people know where they call home.

At the time they were feted by Texas Metro News, these were the presidents:

Charlotte Berry International President of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford National president of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs. Inc. Margarette Galloway National President of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. Elsie Cooke-Holmes International President and CEO of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Dr. Yolanda Lawson President of the National Medical Association Danette Anthony Reed International President and CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

MetroNews

T E X A S

20

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

ARRESTED

E IF

L

CADNET CLASSIFIEDS

“GOLDEN CUT Lawn & Landscaping”

Autos Wanted Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up.

100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Health & Fitness VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed.

24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community.

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045

maybe YOU?

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

Summer

Home Services Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091 Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809.

Have zip code!

469-460-3686

DAILY REMEMBRANCE

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

The Strong One

By La Juana Barton

Check on the strong one.

The one that is always standing.

Always smiling. Always checking on others.

They're strength expended holding everyone else up.

Crying with others and wiping away massive amounts of tears that there are none left for them.

Answering every call. No matter the time.

Because they really care.

Giving encouragement and all that they have.

Left empty by those not realizing they're empty.

Call today and receive a

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

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936 SP

ECI

AL

FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF

OF F

ER

Make the smart and ONLY CHOICE when tackling your roof!

Before

OFFER!

After

1-855-417-1306 With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445

% 50 SAVE! LIMITED TIME

UP TO

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ ads Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub.

Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855417-1306 Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971 DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405 Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available.

Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.)

1-833-370-1234 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day.

For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 8/25/24. Call 1-844-501-3208 Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility!

Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833399-3595 Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds.

Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day!

1-844-591-7951 MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888489-3936

CamScanner

OFF

INSTALLATION

FREE ESTIMATE

Expires 4/30/2025

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day!

Affordable prices - No payments for 18

months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available.

1-877-543-9189

1.833.370.1234 MADE IN THE U.S.A.

New orders only. Does not include material costs. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Minimum purchase required. Other restrictions may apply. This is an advertisement placed on behalf of Erie Construction Mid-West, Inc (“Erie”). Offer terms and conditions may apply and the offer may not available in your area. If you call the number provided, you consent to being contacted by telephone, SMS text message, email, pre-recorded messages by Erie or its affiliates and service providers using automated technologies notwithstanding if you are on a DO NOT CALL list or register. Please review our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use on homeservicescompliance.com. All rights reserved. License numbers available at eriehome.com/erie-licenses/

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.

Support the

Black Press

We are here for you This week in Austin: Abbott Listens cont. from page 3 Jim Higdon, co-founder of Cornbread Hemp with over 20,000 customers in Texas said “Governor Greg Abbott’s veto of SB3 marks a historic turning point in America’s relationship with cannabis. For the first time, a sitting Republican governor has rejected prohibitionist fearmongering and instead affirmed the rights of Americans to access legal THC products. This moment will be remembered as the beginning of the end of marijuana prohibition in the United States.”

Veterans and those who use THC products for their health as opposed to dangerous drugs offered by doc-

tors rejoiced at the veto.

Higdon said “We are especially grateful to the veterans who made their voices heard in Texas, reminding lawmakers that access to non-intoxicating full spectrum hemp products and low-dose THC products are a lifeline — not a loophole.

We thank Governor Abbott for listening to those voices and standing up for freedom, economic opportunity, and common sense. This moment will go down in history as a major milestone in the long road away from cannabis prohibition and towards a future where all cannabis is legal and well-regulated in America.”

House for Rent Two bedroom, 1 Bath single family home for rent.

Rent amount: $1200.00 Location: South Dallas area For more information please call 972-294-9721

CLASSIFIED

MetroNews 21

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 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 6/30/2025 if not released to register owners. Any announcements made the day of sale supercede any advertised announcements.

The auction will be held at On line at www.jdnewell.com.

If you have any questions,please call 972-227-5188.

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

Vehicle

VIN

1990 trailer 2000 Dodge Durango 2000 NISSAN Maxima 2003 Acura 3.2 2004 Infiniti G35 2005 Kia Spectra 2005 Lexus SC 430 2006 Lexus Is350 2006 NISSAN Altima 2007 Chevrolet Suburban 2007 Ford Fusion 2007 Ford Ranger 2008 Chevrolet Impala 2009 Chevrolet Impala 2010 Ford Expedition 2011 Infiniti M37 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander 2011 NISSAN Versa 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 2013 NISSAN Altima 2014 Hyundai Sonata 2014 NISSAN Pathfinder 2014 Toyota Camry 2014 Toyota Corolla 2015 NISSAN Altima 2015 NISSAN Versa 2016 Ford Focus 2016 Ford Mustang 2017 NISSAN Altima 2017 Toyota Camry 2019 Toyota Camry 2020 Ford Fusion 2020 Jeep Cherokee motorcycle

1EA1H222XL4922735 1B4HR28YXYF301489 JN1CA31D3YT761843 19UUA56663A077723 JNKCV54E34M823925 KNAFE121155122414 JTHFN48Y750067309 JTHBE262562004149 1N4AL11D96N349453 1GNFC16017R224289 3FAHP07Z87R267471 1FTYR10U67PA57323 2G1WB58K881375117 2G1WT57K291125923 1FMJU1F56AEA38723 JN1BY1APXBM326759 JA4AR4AU3BZ025003 3N1BC1CPXBL369570 2G1FC3D34D9237828 1N4AL3AP9DN430164 5NPEC4AB6EH835616 5N1AR2MN6EC657284 4T1BF1FK6EU863029 5YFBURHE0EP079538 1N4AL3AP0FC246391 3N1CN7APXFL827280 1FADP3E23GL309937 1FA6P8TH4G5311553 1N4AL3AP6HC141969 4T1BF1FK2HU652026 4T1B11HK8KU768964 3FA6P0CD1LR177462 1C4PJMCB2LD611998 LUJPCLP12NA006250

CLASSIFIED MetroNews Schools can now pay college athletes.

What does that mean for HBCUs?

T E X A S

22

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

By HBCU Sports

compliance with Title IX.

Schools can now directly compensate their athletes, ushering in a transformative era for college sports following Friday’s formal approval of a multibillion-dollar legal settlement.

U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken gave the green light to the agreement reached between the NCAA, its leading conferences, and attorneys representing all Division I athletes. This House v. NCAA settlement resolves three federal antitrust lawsuits, alleging that the NCAA unlawfully restricted student-athletes’ ability to earn money.

Judge Wilken’s longanticipated ruling comes just weeks before schools begin issuing payments to athletes, starting July 1.

The annual cap is expected to start at roughly $20.5 million per school in 2025-26 and increase yearly during the decade-long deal. These new payments are in addition to scholarships and other benefits the athletes already receive.

The settlement gives schools the power to create new rules designed to limit the influence of boosters and collectives.

Starting this summer, any endorsement deal between a booster and an athlete will be vetted to ensure it is for a “valid business purpose” rather than a recruiting incentive.

The agreement will resonate in nearly every one of the NCAA’s 1,100 member schools, boasting nearly 500,000 athletes.

NCAA President Charlie Baker said the deal “opens a pathway to begin stabilizing

What does the decision mean for NIL?

Morgan State Athletics

college sports.”

Multiple HBCUs, such as Morgan State, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, North Carolina A&T, and Hampton (through an association with the CAA) have agreed to opt in to the House settlement agreement.

What does opting in mean?

Institutions that opt in will also be subject to new roster limits and scholarship guidelines.

This antitrust settlement, valued at over $2.8 billion, addresses past restrictions on student-athlete compensation and establishes a revenue-sharing framework.

While schools in the power conferences (SEC, Big Ten Big 12, ACC and Pac-12) will be automatically bound by the terms of the settlement, schools outside those conferences had the choice to opt in or out to the settlement. Schools that opt out will not be able to directly pay players through revenue sharing.

“The decision to opt in to the

settlement allows for financial support and revenue sharing to give student-athletes a real opportunity to earn income while acknowledging the time, talent, and energy studentathletes bring to UMES,” Vice President of Athletics & Recreation Tara A. Owens said in a statement. “We continue to explore all avenues to establish and maintain competitive teams while providing an optimal collegiate experience for our student-athletes.

Owens said the decision “will not increase the financial investment the university makes” athletics.

“UMES will utilize our department resources strategically and cultivate new pathways for student-athlete financial support,” Owens said. “We are excited about the new landscape of college athletics and the future of Hawk athletics.”

Morgan State is expected to contribute over $230,000 to the settlement fund and reduce football roster size to add Olympic sports to remain in

In specific reference to NIL, the settlement aims to create a more equitable model for college athletics, ensuring that student-athletes receive fair compensation and support.

Participating schools can now offer direct NIL payments and other financial benefits to student-athletes, potentially including scholarships above the NCAA’s previous limits.

Schools can also engage in direct NIL contracts with student-athletes, such as licensing agreements, endorsement deals and brand promotion agreements.

Photo: Southern Athletics

“Furthermore, opting into the settlement aims to enhance the student-athlete experience, increase visibility and access, and ensure competitive recruitment and positioning within the MEAC and Northeast Conference,” the school said in the release.

For scholarship and roster management purposes, opting

into the settlement allows schools, including HBCUs that opt in, to use a portion of their athletic revenue to directly benefit student-athletes, and scholarship limits may be eliminated.

Settlement could create ‘challenging times’ SWAC Commissioner Charles McClelland addressed the House vs. NCAA settlement last winter.

“It is now allowable for institutions to directly give NIL money to their student-athletes.

That means there’s going to be an influx of athletes that are looking for NIL payments,” he said in December. “You’re going to have to have some name image and likeness money set aside to compete.”

McClelland explained that the House settlement will impact the finances of every SWAC institution.

“The SWAC conference’s contribution to that [settlement] is $30 million. There’s going to be some challenging times from a financial standpoint.”

To counteract that, McClelland said that resources are being developed to help each school compete in this new era of college athletics.

“We’re going to develop a best practice document that we’ll give to all presidents and chancellors as a guide,” he said.

“We are in a good spot from a revenue standpoint; we’re going to be just fine, but it will take some additional effort. We will need NIL dollars on the inside, and we will work with you to help develop that. We’re going to continue to stay on top.”

SPORTS

MetroNews 23

T E X A S

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Iconic HBCU band names first woman as head drum major The glass ceiling in the world of FAMU’s Marching “100” drum majors has officially been shattered. Dr. Shelby Chipman, Director of Bands, announced Oluwamodupe Oloyede as the head drum major for the 2025–2026 HBCU band season.

Known affectionately as “Dupe” (pronounced du-pay), she was previously the second-ever female drum major in the band’s history.

“For the first time in Marching ‘100’ history, the top three student leadership positions—Head Drum Major, Band President, and Assistant to the Band Director—are all held by women,” Bostic noted.

“Dr. Chipman’s leadership has pushed the band into new territory.”

For Bostic, watching others soar is a reward in itself.

“Traditions evolve.

There’s no better feeling than seeing those who come after you reach higher.”

Following in the Footsteps of a Trailblazer

Drum Major Brotherhood Stands Behind Her

Cori Bostic, the first female drum major in the Marching “100,” paved the way and has become one of Dupe’s most vocal supporters. Their shared bond highlights the growing legacy of women leading at the highest levels in HBCU marching bands.

Support has poured in from the FAMU Marching “100’s” close-knit fraternity of former drum majors. One of them, Victor “Batman” Gaines, praised Dupe’s selection.

“In a time when qualifications are questioned, Dupe has earned her spot. She’s focused, inspiring to young girls, and backed by those who came before her,” he said.

By vaughnwilson

www.hbcugameday.com

A Natural Leader from the Start Dupe began her drum major journey at Southwest DeKalb High School, one of the largest feeder programs into the Marching “100.” Her prior leadership experience made her a standout candidate when she joined the Marching “100” as a drum major last season.

Although her primary instrument is the saxophone, it was her presence and poise on the field that caught attention.

Staff and fellow members weren’t surprised when she was named head drum major for the upcoming season.

Dupe Embraces the Moment “I’m really excited for the season. I’m blessed and honored

because I know what this role means—and how much work it requires,” Oloyede said. “But with all the encouragement and support I’m getting, I feel ready.”

She added, “This year, coming off the Marching ‘100’ being named ESPN’s Band of the Year in 2024, we’re coming in strong.

I’m confident in my ability and in my squad’s ability to take the season by force.”

Strong Leadership for a Demanding Season Dr. Chipman shared his excitement about the HBCU band’s leadership team during a private Zoom call with band alumni. This year’s band is expected to hit the ground running with a high-profile start to the season.

“We’ll perform at the Pepsi Battle of the Bands in Texas, send a pep band to the U.S. Open in New York to honor Althea Gibson, and end that week in Miami at the Orange Blossom Classic,” he said.

As head drum major, Dupe

represents not only excellence on the field but also off it. “We look for someone who exemplifies discipline, communication, and a deep understanding of our traditions,” Chipman explained.

From Blending In to Taking the Spotlight Last season, Dupe was proud that many couldn’t distinguish her from the other drum majors—she wanted to be part of the team, not defined by gender.

This year, however, she steps into a new spotlight.

With media interest certain to grow, Dupe understands the gravity of her role. “There’s no blending in when the band can’t move until your whistle blows,” she said.

Preparing for a Historic Start This August, the Marching “100” will perform in three different states. Oloyede knows the importance of being in midseason form even before the football season officially starts.

“Our strategy is to prepare early and work efficiently,” she said.

“The leadership corps, including the executive board and the new COO student leader, are focused on detailed planning before the season begins.”

Pressure and Purpose Dupe doesn’t take the weight of being “the first” lightly.

“I know the pressures are real, but I use myself as my competition. If I focus on the odds, I’ll fail. But if I focus on improving and understand the greater purpose, I’ll do better,” she said.

She added, “Even if I didn’t have the support, I’d still be amped. Last year I proved it’s possible. This year, I’m here to dominate—and shut the haters up.”

A New Era for the Marching “100” Cori Bostic sees this moment as part of a larger HBCU band movement.

What’s Ahead for FAMU’s Iconic Band This year, FAMU’s Marching “100” will feature seven drum majors—two returning and five new. Dr. Chipman emphasized the importance of selecting leaders who embody the values of the HBCU program.

“When I choose drum majors, I’m looking for someone who could speak on my behalf and represent the university well,” he said.

With 230 returning students and an energized leadership team, expectations for the Marching “100” are high. The band is poised for one of its most dynamic seasons yet.

MetroNews

T E X A S

24

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-13

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

• June 26 - July 2, 2025

Cheryl Smith’s Don’t Believe The Hype Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon 2025

Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon Second Place - Evans Engraving 2. Cheryl Smith with team members Anthony Holmes, James Reddish, Carisa Montgomery, Sue Goodrich, and Glenn Goodrich.

Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon Third Place - Golden Gate. Cheryl Smith with team members John Beckwith Jr, D.J. Barnes, Ray Edwards, Jordan Price, Kate Power, and S.J. Coleman.

Highest Celebrity Female Bowler - Mayor Rachel Proctor

Justin Fuller, Cheryl Smith, Mayor Rachel Proctor

Justin Fuller and Mayor Rachel Proctor

cont. from page 1 Print Eva Coleman, Judges Valencia Nash and Ingrid Warren, Dallas City Councilwoman Lorie Blair, DFW-ABJ President/Sports Host Clarence “Chill” Hill, Radio Personalities Terance J and Dareia Jacobs, NABJ Founder Norma Adams Wade, K104’s

Highest Female Bowler Cheryl Smith

- Carisa Montgomery,

This is where the party is going down at Plano Super Bowl 2025 DBTH CELEBRITY BOWL-A-THON

Ron Murray, Fox 4 News’ Shaun Rabb, Pastor David McGruder, Legal Defense Funds Demetria McCain, Constable Eddie Brown, and dianne “Miss Community” gibson.

Initial numbers have this year’s event, raising more than $20,000 for grants, scholarships, and internships; in addition to a

$1,500 scholarship awarded by Judge Aiesha Redmond and a $500 scholarship awarded by the Psi Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority.

As always, the event was boosted by the support of the Black Press, with local NNPA publishers, Magic 94.5 FM, and numerous other bloggers and

Ms. Tammy’s jewelry

West Baptist Church team

media organizations providing promotional support.

A highlight of the evening was the continued support of Texas State Sen. Royce West’s Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program students, alumni, and long-time director Lajuana Barton, who have represented/ volunteered at every bowl-a-thon

Photos credit: Marva and Ursula

Highest Male Bowler Dwayne Patrick

-

since 1995.

Over the years, the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation has awarded thousands to journalism students, HBCUs and Dr. Betty Shabazz Educational Excellence recipients annually, in addition to funding fellowships, journalism workshops and trips to NABJ Conferences and Conventions.