Texas Metro News, 11-28-2024

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• Vol. 13 • Nov. 28 - Dec. 4, 2024

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

Giving Thanks Season When you think about it, every season is one to give thanks.

No, I am not celebrating “Thanksgiving Day” and its place in history; however there’s nothing wrong with recognizing and giving thanks for, if nothing else, life, endurance, family, love, and health.

For my native brothers and sisters, I can’t forget your story and I urge you not to forget the story of the Black man in America.

Thanks for those of you who supported Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign and I urge you to remain vigilant, join forces, and like with the abuses our people suffered, say never again, about future elections.

Just think, we could be saying thanks about so much more.

With all that is going on in the world today, I know for some it may appear to be challenging and overwhelming however if you were able to get up, inhale and exhale, eat and release (so important), breathe, enjoy the sun on your face and the sound of music; you have much to be thankful for.

Yes, I’m trying to lighten the mood right now because I know I have been coming hard and heavy.

Many people I know have been hurting since Nov. 5, 2024. Sadly I have a feeling that number is going to grow significantly after January 20, 2025 when the fan gets hit.

If you haven’t found a reason to be thankful, then let me give you one.

Be thankful you have another day to do the right thing.

Let’s mark November 5, 2024 as the last day you do something that makes future generations question what they should have thanks for.

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GIVING THANKS

Dallas Black Dance Theatre is the gift that keeps giving

A timeless treasure for any generation: old/young

Ann Williams Credit YouTube

By Norma Adams-Wade Senior Correspondent

When two generations clash, you get the public discord that

is broiling at Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), a revered local treasure that onlookers suggest does not deserve controversy.

In a nutshell, 10 dancers, the

entire staff, were fired. Part of the friction is a disagreement over why they were fired. Dancers say it was because they want to form a union. Management says it was

because the dancers violated policy and the company’s traditional decorum.

See GIVING THANKS page 8

Kirkwood Temple CME Church celebrates 100th Year Anniversary Reaching its centennial mark is a milestone members and leaders at Kirkwood Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church do not take lightly.

“We are excited...to be able to celebrate 100 years of continued service and worship to God,” said Kirkwood Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Christian Sr. “One hundred years represents a state of fullness, protection and perfection. We are grateful...to have existed the last 100 with continuous,

uninterrupted, and faithful service to the community.”

“We ask that you come share with us,” Dr. Christian said. The public is invited to join the service and celebration that will begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday December 8, 2024 at Kirkwood, 1440 Sunny Glen Dr., Dallas, TX 75232 near Hwy. 67 and Loop 12 in Oak Cliff.

The service will feature guest preacher Bishop James B. Walker, Presiding Prelate of the 7th Episcopal District

Dr. Jerry Christian, Sr.

of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

The anniversary theme, “A Century of Continuous Faith and Ministry Built on a Sol-

id Foundation,” is based on the Biblical scripture of Luke 6:48 where a man built his home on bedrock, and floods and perils could not destroy its foundation.

Kirkwood Temple was established in early December 1924 in the home of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Kirkwood along with five charter members.

Over the century, 23 presiding elders have assisted in leadership under 11 bishops.

Current senior pastor, Dr. Christian, Sr., is the longest

serving – since 1994 with 30 years at the helm -- of the total 30 Kirkwood senior pastors.

Under Dr. Christian, Sr.’s visionary leadership and encouragement, Kirkwood is now known largely for its warm friendliness, superb music ministry, and more than 25 outstanding external and internal ministries – including domestic violence and grief/recovery. To learn more, visit https://www. kirkwoodcme.org.

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Comerica BusinessHQ™ Earns National Recognition for Contribution to Dallas’ Southern Sector The American Bankers Association (ABA) recognized Comerica Bank for its impact in supporting Southern Dallas small businesses and nonprofits through Comerica BusinessHQ™, naming the program as a winner of this year’s ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards.

BusinessHQ earned the Community Commitment Award in the category of Community & Economic Development, which was presented during the ABA’s Annual Convention on Tuesday, Oct. 29, in New York City.

“We are extremely honored to earn this recognition and shine a spotlight on the hard work that Comerica, its colleagues and members of the community have put forth to make this project a success,” said Brandon Jones, Comerica Senior Vice President, National External Affairs Manager and BusinessHQ proj-

ect lead. “BusinessHQ represents our commitment to fostering the success of the Southern Dallas community and its nonprofits and small businesses. By providing support and access to critical resources, we are not only supporting individual entrepreneurs but also ensuring the local community continues to thrive for years to come.”

Since opening its doors in 2023, BusinessHQ has served as a collaborative business resource center that provides integral services and value for high need, high opportunity small businesses in the Southern sector of Dallas. The 8,000-square foot space offers free workspaces, high speed Wi-Fi, printing and scanning services, video conferencing rooms and content creation rooms with green screens, backdrops and lighting for business owners and entrepreneurs.

BusinessHQ was designed to function as part of the Southern Dallas small business ecosystem and serve as an epicenter of vetted, credible community partners to present effective and impactful small business incubation and technical assistance. The program continues to assemble a robust and growing roster of strategic community partners.

The program has delivered in serving the needs of small business owners, entrepreneurs and nonprofits in Dallas’ southern sector. The measurable impact includes: • 3,713 people served through programming • $118,102 in no-cost coworking provided to BusinessHQ members • 528 hours of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) technical assistance programing hosted at BusinessHQ

• 199 total programs hosted • $20,467 of in-kind rent provided to in-house incubation partners • 250 small business owners and non-profit members onboarded ***(Data is from May 2023 to Sept.

2024) The ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards recognize banks’ extraordinary acts of service to support the people in their communities and grow their local economies. The awards program recognizes banks nationally among seven categories: affordable housing, community & economic development, economic inclusion, financial education, protecting older Americans, supporting military families, and volunteerism. Award winners were chosen by a field of nationally-recognized experts in each field.

The selection committee chose the winning banks based on the creativity and thoughtfulness of programs – traditional or innovation in nature and structure – that embody the ideals of corporate social responsibility and demonstrate success in making an impact.

“Comerica Bank’s BusinessHQ program demonstrated the extraordinary impact that banks can make in the communities they serve,” said Lindsay Torrico, executive director, ABA Foundation. “We’re proud to recognize them as one of the 2024 Community Commitment Award winners and hope their efforts will inspire others throughout the industry.”

For more information about BusinessHQ visit comerica.com/businesshq and for more information on the ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards, visit aba.com/awards.

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Here’s why Botham Jean’s family doesn’t expect a payout from Amber Guyger

By Carol Taylor and Julia James This week, a federal jury awarded $98.65 million to the family of a Dallas man killed in his own apartment in 2018 by a Dallas police officer who mistook it for her own.

The Dallas Police Department fired Amber Guyger a little more than two weeks after she fatally shot 26-year-old Botham Jean on Sept. 6, 2018, in his apartment in the Cedars area of Dallas. She was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 10 years in prison. She was denied parole last month.

Jean’s family sued Guyger and the city of Dallas.

The federal lawsuit alleged Guyger used excessive force and violated Jean’s constitutional rights, and that poor police department policies led to his death.

The city was later dismissed from the suit.

The Jeans’ legal team made sure to clarify that this case wasn’t just about that September night six years ago. It was also about the joy Jean brought to the world. It was also about accountability, they said.

“We want to make sure when Amber Guyger gets out of prison that ... she’s not going to have a normal life. She’s not going to be able to capitalize on any fame she may have gotten from this case,” Daryl Washington, an attorney for the family, said.

In closing arguments, attorneys for Botham Jean’s family asked the jury to send a message that Dallas County residents “are going to be safe in our homes.”

This week, a federal jury awarded $98.65 million to the family of a Dallas man killed in his own apartment in 2018 by a Dallas police officer who mistook it for her own.

Credit: Mesquite Police Department and Instagram

Guyger waived her right to participate in the trial.

So how would she even begin to pay the nearly $100 million?

What does the jury verdict say?

The jury verdict awarded: • $38.65 million to the family in compensatory damages, which attempt to make up for injuries to the plaintiffs. For the Jeans, that covered Botham’s projected future earnings, his pain and suffering, his loss of life, loss of companionship for his parents and mental anguish for his parents.

• $60 million in punitive damages, which are designed to punish or deter and awarded when there is malice or reckless indifference to the rights of others.

The verdict did not address how the money would be paid.

What the Jeans say Bertrum and Allison Jean, Botham’s parents, said after the trial they were not focused on the money and collecting the award, but on accountability for Guyger and having Jean’s contri-

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butions to the world recognized.

“We’ve gotten the question over and over ‘How are y’all going to collect from Amber Guyger?’” Washington said. “That was not important. What was important was holding Amber Guyger civilly liable for what she did to Botham. I think this jury sent a message loud and clear that they are not going to tolerate police brutality.”

The Jeans said the verdict symbolizes what Botham Jean brought to the world, adding they are grateful other people saw that value. Allison Jean said any money they do recover will go to the Botham Jean Foundation.

“Today is a day that I’m a bit consoled,” Bertrum Jean said. “I’m still heartbroken over the loss of my son ... but today I think justice was served and we are very thankful, and we pray that it will be a lesson.”

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

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America’s Healing Can Start with Family Around the Holidays OUR VOICES

By Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. With the holiday season approaching, it seems our country could not be more divided. That division has been perhaps the main overarching topic of our national conversation in recent years. And it has taken root within many of our own families.

Blood may be thicker than water, but for many American families, it seems like it is not as thick as politics. Or, if not politics specifically, then the cultural rifts that have been widened and inflamed within our political debate.

Maybe our national heal-

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

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

ing can start with our families, around the holiday table.

There are mixed views within my own family, just like there are in millions of American families. And within my family there are stories of division and stories of healing.

My family traces its roots in America on my dad’s side back 400 years to Massachusetts — the home of the first Thanksgiving. My mom’s family has also been here the better part of 400 years, but in Virginia and Maryland, tracing back to that area’s earliest white settlers and their African slaves.

When my parents fell in love as young civil rights activists in Baltimore and got married, their marriage was illegal in Maryland. Their relationship was taboo at the time. My father’s family disowned him for marrying a Black woman, and he lost his inheritance.

So I grew up on America’s racial fault line. And learning about my own family’s history has provided an important perspective on the nature of division both within the family itself and the country — our big, messy American family.

Using DNA research to trace my own family’s origins, I discovered that like President Barack Obama, I am distant cousins with former Vice President Dick Cheney. That revelation was interesting. But the revelation that I am also distant cousins with Robert E. Lee was a little harder to swallow. I was the youngest-ever national president of the NAACP. He was the Confederate general who essentially fought to preserve the institution of slavery.

The Civil War itself was a conflict that famously divided families. “Brother against brother” is a phrase commonly used to describe those divisions that emerged within

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

many American families, especially in the border states like my home state of Maryland.

And after the Civil War, America’s divisions certainly did not go away. But there are inspiring stories of coming together as well that simply have not been told as much as the stories of division and oppression.

My grandmother’s grandfather was at the center of one of those stories. In the years immediately following Reconstruction, Edward David Bland —

who had been born into slavery — led Virginia’s Black Republicans into coalition with former white Confederate soldiers to form a third party that took over the Virginia state government.

How many of us grew up learning that freedmen and the same Confederates who had fought to keep them enslaved actually came together to form a winning political party based on the common desire to save their state’s public schools?

Known as the Readjust-

ers, the bipartisan, multiracial movement won all statewide elected offices and controlled the Commonwealth of Virginia from 1881 to 1885. In that time, they abolished the poll tax and the whipping post, radically expanded Virginia Tech and created Virginia State University, and readjusted the terms of the Civil War debt to save the free public schools and take the state from a financial deficit into a surplus.

That is just one story that illustrates how as a country we have managed to work through our divisions and move forward. We have common ground. We just need to look for it. And it should not be that difficult to search for and find that common ground within our own families.

Families can be great composites of many different backgrounds and experiences, just like America itself. And just like America, there can also be room for different viewpoints within families.

Most of us want the same things: a better life for our children, safe communities, good schools, freedom. That we might have different perspectives on what some of these things mean does not make for insurmountable differences. Instead, it begs for conversation and ultimately understanding of why we see things differently. Because whether our ancestors arrived as settlers or immigrants, were enslaved or were among this land’s Indigenous peoples, what we have in common is we are all in the same boat now. Whether we sink or float, it will be together. And to truly thrive, we must heal our divisions. Within our own families is as good a place as any to start.

Dr. Benjamin Chavis is president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached at dr.bchavis@nnpa.org.

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MetroNews 5 Will The New President’s Appointments Bring Americans Relief Or Remorse?

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OUR VOICES

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed. D. Being in the fourth quarter of my life has given me a front row seat to many signature events in the United States of America. They have left me happy, sad, amazed and dumbfounded. Lately, by recent events that have occurred, I have been left mostly dumbfounded.

Maybe that’s my current feeling because of the uncertainty of the direction of our country. We are at a pivotal time in our nation. We can’t play around as if we are in the backyard playing marbles. These are serious times that call for serious people making serious decisions.

Like you, I am watching closely as the new president is beginning to

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make cabinet nominations and recommendations. Some of his nominees are people who he has had differences with during the past two campaigns. Did they break-up just to make-up?

One thing we are finding out is that he can berate and belittle an opponent in the public square, and they will come running back to him. Take for example, Ted Cruz, Republican Senator of Texas. The former president talked about Cruz and his family like they were junkyard dogs. Now, Cruz is back in the kennel of kindness.

Where is the integrity and treating people the way you want to be treated. How about Brian Kemp, governor of Georgia and his history with Mr. Trump which has been questionable and problematic. Now they are peachy keen.

Just last week, Mr. Trump nominated Republican Senator Marco Rubio to be secretary of state. At one point eight years ago, Mr. Rubio

called Trump a con man. That was then however this is a new day. In a recent statement, Mr. Trump called Rubio a highly respected leader and a very powerful voice for freedom who will be a strong advocate for our nation.

Some Democrats agree. Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona said, “I’ve got a good relationship with Marco, and I think Marco is very capable. Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania called Rubio a strong choice and that he looks forward to voting for his confirmation.

Senator Rubio will be the first Hispanic American to serve as secretary of state.

We will see how he orchestrates and coordinates our foreign policy.

Critics believe he will not be an extreme decision-maker. I hope they are right.

While Senator Marco Rubio has received some positive reviews, the same can’t be about Matt Gaetz and

Pete Hegseth. Representative Gaetz of Florida has a dark side that he doesn’t want to come to light. It is alleged he was involved in some highly inappropriate activities. Mr. Gaetz has denied it, and Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana doesn’t want anyone to know about it and doesn’t want to release the Ethics Committee’s files.

He has received pushback from members of his own party regarding his selection as attorney general. Some believe that coverups and falsehoods will be his calling card if he is selected.

Another of the new president’s possible appointments, Pete Hegseth is also under fire for his misconduct. He has been nominated for secretary of defense.

He is an armed services veteran and is currently a commentator for Fox News. Mr. Trump in a press release said that Mr. Hegseth will make America safe and great again.

On the other side, Democratic Rep-

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resentative Jason Crow of Colorado said, “The Secretary of Defense makes life and death decisions daily that impact over 2 million troops around the globe. This is not an entry-level job for a TV commentator.”

Two of his vocal supporters, Kash Patel who has been linked to the top FBI position and Tulsi Gabbard who has been linked to the top intelligence job have not been formally offered yet. Where are Nikki Haley and Tim Scott in the political mix of Mr. Trump’s world?

In the meantime, we the people will pay close attention to these positions of power. 19th century writer, Lord Acton said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

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.

SENATOR NATHAN JOHNSON’S FIRST-DAY LEGISLATION: HOUSING, HEALTH AND EDUCATION AUSTIN, Texas – On the first day of early filing, State Senator Nathan Johnson filed bills to address major needs in a growing state. Johnson refers to all of them as “infrastructure”: physical (housing), social (health and public education), and governmental (political responsiveness).

“Texas is growing and changing rapidly, in ways both predictable and unpredictable. New growth requires new investment, and change requires new strategies and evolving priorities. The bills I filed today propose new investment in fundamental systems and shift priorities towards those that will allow us to meet the demands and avail of the opportunities of that growth and change.”

Johnson filed the following bills, among others: SB 234: Workforce Housing. It is estimated that Texas is short approximately

300,000 housing units to meet the demand of a growing workforce. Scarcity of housing for essential workers is driving prices up at all levels of affordability. This bill would incentivize private sector construction of hundreds of thousands of workforce housing units through low-interest mezzanine financing, similar to that employed in the Texas Energy Fund.

SB 232: Live Well Texas. Offered again this year, Johnson’s Live Well Texas plan drew a temporary majority of the House in the 87th Session. The plan would expand Medicaid under the ACA, bringing firsttime health insurance to around a million Texans, financed by a $90-$10 federal-state match. As an 1115 waiver form of ACA expansion, it proposes a Texas-specific plan, addressing the on-the-ground reality of qualifying enrollees and Texas healthcare providers.

SB 236: Non-Medical Drivers of Health.

This bill recognizes the parallel health benefits and cost reductions realized when Medicaid managed-care programs can invest in the non-medical circumstances that drive good and bad health outcomes. The bill permits the reimbursement of MCOs for providing certain qualified transportation, nutrition, and housing services.

SB 233: School Finance – Increase and Stabilize. State financial support for public schools has fallen since 2019 in direct relation to inflation. Johnson’s SB 233 would narrow the funding gap and stabilize future financing of public schools, by increasing the basic student allotment from $6,160 to $7,750 per student, setting a funding floor for subsequent years indexed to a 5-year average inflation rate, and basing funding on enrollment rather than attendance.

SB 235: Community Schools. Schools

must meet the changing demands of communities and students. This bill supports that by allowing public schools with campus turnaround plans to operate as (statutorily defined) “community schools”—a model that connects educators, families, and communities to address each school’s unique needs.

SJR 14: Statewide Initiative and Referendum. When political inertia renders it impossible for legislatures to act in step with overwhelming public opinion on a matter of public importance, a well-crafted initiative and referendum mechanism may be invoked to overcome it. This bill creates a process for Texans to propose state-wide ballot measures through a petition. Johnson says he intentionally made the mechanism to be relatively difficult to deploy, because initiatives and referenda should be used only in truly special cases. In those cases, the people should have a voice.

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Opportunity is just Preparation

Bronny and Lebron James

BIG MAMA SAID

By Terry Allen Lucille “Big Mama” Allen, the guiding light of wisdom and faith in our family, often reminded us that every blessing begins with preparation.

“Opportunity is just preparation’s thanksgiving, happening in your face.”

Big Mama believed in the power of preparation, reminding us that success is not about luck—it’s about being ready when opportunity knocks. She knew that being prepared for an opportunity, even when one doesn’t seem to be in sight, is the true key to unlocking the future.

Many believe that luck is all about being prepared to accept opportunities.

The famous saying, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” reveals that success doesn’t come by chance. Instead, it’s about the work we put in when no one is watching.

Take, for example, LeBron James, who has not only prepared himself as one of basketball’s greatest players but has also influenced opportunities for others—especially his own family. Recently, his influence helped pave the

Photo: Christian Petersen

way for his son, Bronny James, to secure a spot with the Lakers.

This moment underscores the importance of preparation, not just for yourself, but for creating opportunities for those you care about. LeBron’s vision and determination show how preparation can transform potential into reality.

Furthermore, the incredible journey of Tyler Perry—from homelessness to becoming a billionaire—serves as another shining example of preparation meeting opportunity. Perry’s relentless work ethic and unshakable belief in his craft positioned him to seize opportunities that have now made him a powerhouse in entertainment and philanthropy.

His story is a testament to the resilience and readiness needed to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve greatness.

Lucille “Big Mama” Allen taught us that life is full of opportunities, but they mean little if we’re not prepared to seize them. I challenge you: be ready for the opportunity that is right in front of you.

Write to me at terryallenpr@gmail.com and share your stories of how you were prepared when the moment arrived.

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

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Why tough it out when you can just check it out?

Taking charge of your health starts here. At Methodist Charlton Medical Center we provide screenings and care for men’s health issues ranging from prostate cancer, mental health, and more. Being there for our friends and neighbors with complete men’s health care. That’s community and why so many people Trust Methodist.

For more information, visit us at MethodistHealthSystem.org/Charlton Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or Methodist Charlton Medical Center. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Builders of Hope launches Initiative to Combat Displacement

By Anthony Council Correspondent

Dallas neighborhoods facing the threat of displacement received a powerful boost last night as the Builders of Hope Foundation unveiled “A Right to Stay”—an initiative to help Dallas neighborhoods with anti-displacement. Aimed at preserving the homes and communities of long-time residents, the event introduced an anti-displacement toolkit featuring a bold 12-point plan to empower areas like South Dallas, West Dallas, and Vickery Meadows. Led by James A. Armstrong, President and CEO of Builders of Hope, the initiative seeks to make “staying” a right, not a privilege, for all Dallas residents.

The event featured a panel discussion with prominent community leaders, includ-

James A. Armstrong, President and CEO of Builders of Hope, addresses the crowd at the ‘A Right to Stay’ event.

ing Armstrong, who addressed the impact of gentrification on various Dallas neighborhoods.

Many long-time residents risk being priced out of their homes as property values and rents rise. Armstrong and his team envision a future where these residents can remain in their communities regardless of eco-

nomic pressures.

“These neighborhoods were established through redlining and segregation,” Armstrong said, “by people who decided to stay and invest when there were no amenities. They should have the right to remain in their communities.”

Central to the initiative is a 12-point plan outlining strategies to support these neighborhoods. Key components of the plan include: • Allocating public land for affordable housing.

• Enhancing legal protections for tenants.

• Establishing affordable housing preservation networks.

• Providing property tax relief funds.

• Implementing targeted home repair programs.

The plan’s goal is to preserve and enhance existing neigh-

borhoods, allowing communities to grow without displacing those who have called these neighborhoods home for generations.

During the event, attendees participated in a Q&A session where they inquired about the financial aspects of the plan and its anticipated impact on the city. Armstrong shared his vision for the next five years: “Right now, we want neighborhoods to be at the forefront of our minds when discussing new development,” Armstrong said. “Following today’s event, we will focus on neighborhood-level advocacy and engage the City Council in January to push for a formal stance on anti-displacement, aiming for full adoption of our resolution.”

A critical partner in the “A Right to Stay” initiative is JPMorgan Chase. Heather Hig-

ginbottom, Head of Research, Policy & Insights for Corporate Responsibility at JPMorgan Chase, has been instrumental in supporting efforts to preserve Dallas neighborhoods and prevent displacement.

As a long-time Dallas resident, Armstrong knows the journey is just beginning. For him, this work reflects a deep commitment to preserving the character and integrity of Dallas’s diverse neighborhoods.

Serving as an Agent of Transformation, he is determined to empower communities to reclaim and strengthen their roots, ensuring that every resident has not only the right to stay but also the opportunity to thrive. Through “A Right to Stay” and its 12-point plan, Armstrong and his team are helping to build a city where progress includes everyone.

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Dallas Black Dance Theatre – a timeless treasure for any generation: old/young

Ann Williams at a luncheon event.

But the firing is not the story.

The story is how did we get to this point and why? And also, what’s in the mind of Ann Williams – the legendary DBDT founder who is witnessing the rumble as she looks back in order to move forward.

A recent interview with Williams gives insight into her mindset as she reviewed the company’s 48 years of existence.

It seems obvious that a weaker founder likely would have folded under the obstacles that the iconic Ann Williams overcame.

Thus, we would not have her commendable legacy of trial and triumph.

Credit The Dallas Morning News

“Since we’ve been in operation, we’ve never had to close or miss a payroll,” Williams recalled in the interview with I Messenger Media that includes Texas Metro News and Garland Journal.

Life values learned while growing up Williams is one of 12 closeknit children – six boys, six girls -- of her parents, Lloyd Ferrell, a farmer in Coolidge, Texas, and Izora Ferrell, a homemaker and county home demonstration agent for gardening and homemaking.

Williams says she grew up in

a safe, loving environment and learned many life lessons.

“I always knew I was Black,” Williams recalls. “I came up like that, from a big family and I knew who I was. Some people want to become what they see. Later on, they learn they are still Black.”

Williams called off a slew of names of powerful Dallas leaders from whom she learned business techniques by being around them and watching them operate.

These included former Dallas Mayor Annette Strauss, and the families of prominent commercial real estate developers Henry S. Miller and Raymond Nasher, the latter being a renowned sculpture art collector.

Williams also rubbed shoulders with national headliners including Maya Angelou, Alex Haley, Lou Rawls, and iconic choreographers and dance company founders Alvin Ailey and Arthur Mitchell.

She said she often was the lone Black person or one of the few present among powerful White leaders. Concerning that dynamic she said: “I never wanted to be them, but I learned from them,” she said. “They admired me for staying in the community…for providing opportunities for minority kids ...things they were interested in doing but were not going to do themselves.”

A school field trip to a local opera performance at Fair Park mesmerized her mainly because of the eye popping staging – music, dance, costumes, scenery, lighting. She remembers wanting to be a part of that.

Williams graduated from St. Anthony’s Catholic School and Lincoln High School in Dallas, Prairie View A&M University, Texas Woman’s University, did post-graduate studies, received two honorary doctorate degrees, and has numerous outstanding awards.

She was also a high school cheerleader and became infatuated with a dance class. At PVAMU, she pursued dance.

After graduation she choreographed dance at different schools in the Houston area before moving to Dallas where she taught dance in elementary school and formed a youth dance group that performed around Dallas.

While studying to receive her master’s degree in dance from TWU, Williams interacted with noted professional choreographers and dancers from around the nation. She was hired at Bishop College, started its dance department, and brought various prominent performing arts personalities to campus.

She and two arts cohorts wrote and received a $1million, threeyear Ford Foundation grant for

Career path through the years Modern education has gone through phases of devaluing exposure to the arts in public education. But that exact exposure during her childhood lit the flame that created the Napoleonic Ann Williams we know today – small in body, powerful in impact.

To hear her describe her childhood reaction to seeing her first opera performance is gripping.

DBDT dancers.

their campus and community programs. In 1973, she formed the Dallas Black Dance Academy for college students and community youth.

“It was fantastic!” Williams said of the grant. “We were elated.”

DBDT moves around before permanent home When the grant ended, Bishop College also had begun to struggle with financial and legal problems. Meanwhile, Williams had 300 dance academy students from the community still under her belt.

So, she started a private dance training program on the old Hatcher Street in South Dallas/ Fair Park. The company later moved back to Bishop College and operated again as a private dance program using space under a special arrangement with the college.

That is where Dallas Black Dance Theatre was born in 1976, the same year that the DISD Arts Magnet started in the old Booker T. Washington High School near downtown.

Williams maintained an ongoing professional relationship with a number of young dancers who enrolled at the Magnet School, and the dancers continued to dance in performances with students at Williams dance academy.

Credit The Dallas Morning News

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The original Moorland Branch YMCA building.

DBDT remained in a facility at Bishop College for 10 years, became a nonprofit, formed a board of directors, and became increasingly recognized around Dallas and the nation.

Through grants, the company attracted choreographers and dancers from prominent dance companies from around the nation to come give workshops and performances through the early 1980s.

“Nobody else in Dallas was doing that, getting New York and Los Angeles professionals to come,” Williams said. “I say the 1980s were Dallas Black’s second level of growth.”

Meanwhile, Williams was successfully networking with prominent Dallas leaders in the arts and business. The company eventually acquired the old Moorland YMCA in the Dallas Arts District as its permanent home.

The Street outside the facility was named Ann Williams Way in honor of the legendary founder and the company’s prominence soared to heights Williams once dreamed of as a youth.

The company performed in more than a dozen countries, at various national sites including Broadway and the Kennedy Center, and twice at the international Olympics in 1996 and 2012.

Overcoming serious car accident Toughness has always been a

trait of Ann Williams. That trait came in handy when she broke both legs in a serious car accident in 1986. She said that was the closest she ever came to despair. The accident came right at the juncture of an important performance funded by a new grant. Friends and associates stepped in to fill her role.

“At that point, yes, I was ready to give up,” Williams recalls. “But I didn’t.”

Zenetta Drew, a former corporate manager and SMU adjunct professor in arts planning, stepped in and became Dallas Black’s executive director and a loyal right arm for founder Williams who was artistic director.

In various media reports about the recent controversy, Drew has defended Dallas Black’s efforts to uphold the company’s integrity, legacy, and theme of “relentless excellence.”

Settles permanently at historic Moorland Branch Y Dallas Black stayed at Bishop College until a few years before the college closed permanently in 1988.

Providentially, the building the company occupied near downtown Dallas was across the street from the historic Moorland Branch YMCA that was steeped in local Black history and where Williams had fond memories of attending activities there as a youth and young adult.

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Credit: City of Dallas Department of Historic preservation.

Moorland closed its original 1930 building and moved to Oak Cliff in 1970. Then other businesses purchased the Moorland building.

Williams began toying with the idea of purchasing Moorland but encountered multiple barriers. The indomitable Williams kept plugging away, finally got financing to purchase, and moved the company into Moorland Y in 2007. That move became a landmark feat with much media coverage and community celebration.

Generation gap, lawsuit, where to from here?

Shock pretty well describes the public reaction when news broke that Dallas Black had fired its entire staff of 10 dancers -- first one, then nine -- on August 9 this year.

Ongoing media reports continue.

Underlying the dispute is strong indications of a generation gap between the two sides.

The controversy comes across as the company, holding on to tradition vs the dancers seeking to modernize and loosen up the company. If a settlement is not reached soon, the dispute will be forced to go to court in Fort Worth on December 9.

The Dance company’s season opened with a Nov 8-9 performance. A free event is set for Nov. 25-26 at the DBDT site. A holiday performance is set for December 14 at the Majestic Theatre in downtown Dallas. To learn more, visit https://dbdt.com.

• Nov. 28 - Dec. 4, 2024

To say that the firing of DBDT’s full staff of dancers took the public by surprise is a clear understatement. Here are examples of reactions from various community people who keep an eye on what’s going on in Dallas and its African American community. All say that although they were astonished, they still hold DBDT in high regard.

C. W. Whitaker is a civic leader, former corporate manager, and founder/ CEO of DFWBAM (Dallas-Fort Worth Business, Advertising and Marketing) consulting firm. He has worked with arts groups in Dallas and served on various civic and municipal boards.

He said: “Of course, when I first heard, it shocked me. I know the value of culture in our community. If they were having problems, I would have hoped they could have solved them before it reached this point. I would tell Ann Williams I’m proud of her, to keep fighting and feel free to call me any time for assistance.”

Marilyn Clark is a community advocate, archivist, and elder-in-residence with the community research and innovation lab Dallas Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation.

She said: “Ann Williams has been in the vineyard many, many years and even trained football players to dance to attract other students and let them know that the classics were for them too. Other arts groups view her as a model. She taught boys and girls not just dance but discipline and confidence and to love their natural bodies of various forms. That you can dance and still go and become an engineer or whatever. I would say to the organization that we have to listen to the young and those who have concerns.

We can’t bury our heads. I would want the community to rally and support the Theatre, and to give honest feedback, continue to buy tickets and send our kids there.”

Charles O’Neal is a communications consultant, board chair of U. S. Black Chambers, president of Texas Association of African American Chambers of Commerce, and former president of Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

He said: “So many of us have no idea of the value of artistic expression.

Ann created something that we could all be proud of and say, ‘I wish I had done it.’ I give her kudos. As a way to avoid the situation we have here, I would have to recommend good communication. To recommend talking to each other without resorting to legal outsiders. I feel this was clearly a failure of communication. We do not know the behind-the-scenes details. Yet this is emblematic of a figure of American society today. And young Black people have become too much a part of that.”

Sylvia Powers (aka Sylvia Dunnavant Hines) is founder of the cancer-survivors’ nonprofit Celebrating Life Foundation, a writer, photographer, and motivational speaker.

She said: “DBDT has had such a huge impact not just on our community but the world. They have been a beacon of lighting showing what is possible for the Black and Brown communities. I would assure Ms. Williams that you have been a woman of elegance and grace, and your legacy will not be tarnished by this. It seems the dancers wanted to be heard, and the organization wanted their regulations to be honored. The answer would be to communicate. We want to see them flourish and move forward.”

Ken Smith is a former member of media, a corporate communications director, and current founder and president of the nonprofit Revitalize South Dallas Coalition that champions economic development in the Dallas South Dallas/Fair Park community.

He said: “DBDT almost single handedly has placed Black Dallas in the international scene and made it possible for local artists to be internationally seen. I don’t think anything could have prevented what has happened. The dancers and administrators have different perspectives. Sometimes tension is good. But the focus must be on continuation of the work. To Ann Williams I say ‘keep your head up, continue your clarion vision. Do not be deterred by anything or any incident that does not match your decades of blood, sweat, tears, and visionary leadership. The real issue is can anyone dance if there is no professional organization to dance for?’ And I would add I can’t wait to attend the opening events, no matter who is dancing.”

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‘Race,’ ‘equity’ removed from UNT course titles to comply with Texas DEI ban, faculty say

By Marcela Rodrigues

The Dallas Morning News

At least 78 changes were made to UNT courses in attempts to comply with the state’s DEI ban, according to internal communications reviewed by The Dallas Morning News.

Faculty members fear the law — which bans diversity, equity and inclusion offices and programs from public colleges and universities — is leading to censorship of classes despite the exemptions for course instruction and research.

The course changes at the University of North Texas’ college of education included removing words such as “race,” “gender,” “class” and “equity” from titles and descriptions. Bill Camp, faculty member in the college of education, emailed colleagues on Oct. 28 alerting them of the changes made to graduate courses.

“If a change is being made to your course, there were problems related to SB 17 and the new charge in the new legislative session,” Camp wrote, referring to the legislation that created the DEI ban and to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s charge for lawmakers to review course syllabi for DEI content.

However, UNT spokeswoman Devynn Case said the changes are not related to the DEI ban.

“The College of Education is currently conducting its state-mandated curriculum alignment review to ensure its curriculum is in line with teacher education standards as required by the state,” Case wrote in a statement to The News. “In response to the review, we are updating course names, content, readings, etc. to align with the state’s standards for the training of teachers.”

She added that, “This review is not related to SB17.”

Camp did not respond to a request for comment. He serves on the college curriculum committee, which reviews and approves such changes, Case said.

“In the college of education, two faculty members from each department serve on the committee and part of their charge is to report out and keep their department faculty colleagues informed,” Case explained.

On Monday, state senators debated how DEI is woven into course content across various disciplines during a higher education subcommittee hearing in Austin.

“While DEI-related curriculum and course content does not explicitly violate the letter of the law, it indeed contradicts its spirit,” Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, who authored the DEI ban, said at the hearing.

In a statement, the Texas conference of the American Association of University Professors urged UNT’s administration to “end the censorship and restore its institutional commitment to academic freedom and shared governance.”

Academic freedom is “the freedom from censorship by the institution in a faculty member’s teaching, research, and expression,” the statement read. “Censoring content on course syllabi violates UNT’s policies and professional standards on academic freedom.”

Camp emailed colleagues on Oct. 28 about the changes.

Some were not surprised because since the spring, they heard school administrators say the law could potentially impact classes, said Katherine Cumings Mansfield, a professor of educational leadership.

Faculty were told to make sure their syllabi complied with the new law, which left some confused because the law doesn’t apply to course instruction,

Course changes at the University of North Texas’ college of education included removing words such as “race,” “gender,” “class” and “equity” from titles and descriptions.

Photo: Elías Valverde II/The Dallas Morning News/TNS

Cumings Mansfield said.

Her course “race, gender and class in education” was changed to “critical inquiry in education,” which she says doesn’t make sense to the course she teaches.

That class is mostly made up of seasoned teachers training to be principals and school administrators who learn about the research on race, gender and class, such as why are Black boys overrepresented in special education classes, Cumings Mansfield said.

Changing the course’s focus would be “heartbreaking and very sad,” because the course helps the next generation of school leaders to be ready to “open up possibilities for students, regardless of their race, regardless of their class, regardless of whatever gender they are,” she said.

Understanding how such demographics impact education is personal to Cumings Mansfield.

She is a first-generation college graduate who grew up in poverty and was told by a high school counselor that she wasn’t “college material,” she said.

She eventually found supportive teachers and became an ed-

ucator herself.

Other faculty worry that such changes will go beyond the college of education and impact courses across UNT and the state.

During Monday’s hearing, Creighton said he received multiple reports about college courses that have DEI content and questioned whether professors’ political leanings impact what’s taught.

The Senate higher education subcommittee’s goal is to examine programs and certificates that “perpetuate any discriminatory efforts within diversity, equity and inclusion,” he said.

Tracy Everbach, a journalism professor at UNT, said she hasn’t heard a word from university leadership, and faculty are wondering whether changes are coming to their courses soon.

“Everyone seems to be in a state of confusion,” she said.

“We haven’t been given any guidelines.”

She teaches “race, gender and the media,” which explores how such topics are covered in news media, television, advertisement and entertainment.

“It has been taught at UNT for

more than 20 years,” Everbach said. She has been teaching it since 2009.

“It’s a really important class.

When I talk to journalists, they wish they had a class like that,” she said.

The DMN Education Lab deepens the coverage and conversation about urgent education issues critical to the future of North Texas.

The DMN Education Lab is a community-funded journalism initiative, with support from Bobby and Lottye Lyle, Communities Foundation of Texas, The Dallas Foundation, Dallas Regional Chamber, Deedie Rose, Garrett and Cecilia Boone, The Meadows Foundation, The Murrell Foundation, Solutions Journalism Network, Southern Methodist University, Sydney Smith Hicks and the University of Texas at Dallas. The Dallas Morning News retains full editorial control of the Education Lab’s journalism.

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

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HIV-AIDS revisited in Black community I WAS JUST THINKING...

By Norma Adams-Wade November was as good a month as any to revisit a health problem that continues to grip African-Americans more than others, but fewer people are paying attention.

HIV-AIDS specialists and people affected by the virus gathered recently at a symposium in Dallas. The purpose was to urge the public to wake up and pay attention to how the virus has placed a grip on Black people across the nation, but the impact is going unnoticed.

“It’s still here,” said filmmaker Eddick Jerome about HIV-AID that has faded from public attention. Jerome showed a film he created as a clarion call to jolt the public awake.

“It will take more events like this,” Jerome said of the symposium that prompted deep discussions about the once highly-feared and once-deadly condition.

Participants gathered at 9Nine Kitchen & Lounge, 2211 N. Houston St. near downtown Dallas.

Various co-sponsors included media organizations and medical associations. Some people

in the audience came from other states to get better informed. The revived exposure is important as the high rates of HIV-AIDS cases persist – largely in Hispanic and African-American communities, planners and medical resource people said.

So far, two symposiums have been held – first in Jackson, Mississippi, home of one of the planners, and now Dallas. Planners say more are in the works.

I was just thinking…symposium organizers are very serious

speakers said.

So, this group of caring people sprang into action and compiled the “HIV Then and Now: Sex, Lies and HIV” symposium held November 16 to educate and better protect African-American communities.

Live Free from HIV AIDS.

Sandra Varner. Producer of symposium and movie.

Credit Varner PR firm (A)

Blue Eye Shadow movie poster.

Credit Facebook

about jolting the public back awake since it has been lulled to sleep following the initial hysteria of HIV-AIDs in the 1980s.

Also, since CO-VID arrived in the U. S. around 2020, that epidemic has subsided, too, and the younger generation is less cautious, less alert, and thus more vulnerable, symposium

speak publicly about their experiences. They thanked planners for the opportunity to help others avoid contracted the illness and educate others about ways to protect themselves; also, to draw attention to statistics that show that HIV is increasing in the African-American and Latino communities. They and oth-

da Stanton, another advocate survivor, spoke of the early days when doctors directed her to take 13 pills per day. She said that directive soon overwhelmed her and she stopped following doctor’s orders. She said she pursued other medical and health routes over the years and today effectively takes only

Call to action Panelists suggested various actions the public and other advocates can take to spread awareness, increase support and educate a new generation. A key factor is that everyone must get HIV-AIDS tested. Ignorance of the condition can be deadly still and lingers in pockets of the national population -- largely Black and Brown.

Those living with the infection can: • Eat healthy food supporting prescription medicines. Stay physically active. Rest. Maintain a positive, conquering attitude.

Hearing from people living with the virus Two women who have lived with HIV for years told their personal stories on the panels.

They said they wanted to

The public can:

• Have regular events to educate and motivate the public.

• Watch Blue Eye Shadow film on YouTube and at www.seeblueeyeshadow.com.

• Pressure Texas legislators to soften restrictions and provide better treatment to HIV-AIDS women.

• Increase teaching safe sex to youth and young adults.

• Talk opening with family and friends encouraging testing and safe sex.

• Emulate Dr. Lawson who finally succeeded after a hard-fought effort that inspired an African-American church to sponsor a sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening program

er panelists said more public discussion is critical for improving public understanding.

“I commend you all for the conversation,” said HIV survivor advocate Jessica Glaspie, an author and mother of three children, who is successfully living with an HIV-positive diagnosis and whose three children are HIV-negative. She said she informed her children early and they now advocate along with her.

Vocalist and artist VirLin-

one pill per day. She said she is working on putting together a college tour so that that age group can learn from her experiences.

“God told me, ‘There is still a plan and purpose for your life.’

I’m here today to encourage you,…to open up your mind… (so that you) will encourage others,” she told the symposium.

“And I want to go on out and share my journey.”

Other panelists Other panelists were Dr. Yolanda Lawson, immediate past president of the National Medical Association; Dr. Ahmad Garrett-Price, founder/president of GP Health; Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services; Eddrick Jerome, podcaster, writer, public relations executive, and filmmaker. Jazze Radio-Chica of 87.9 The Beat FM and Majic 94.5 FM along with Keith Solis of Smooth R&B 105.7 FM moderated the two panels.

Credit Blue Eye Shadow producers (A)

for youth and adults.

• Talk with your own children about safe sex and threats to health beginning at the suggested age of around 13. To inform youth about improper touching of private parts of their body, some panelists suggested the approximate ages of 4 to 6.

• Encourage people living with HIV-AIDS to “not be shy” about getting mental health therapy when they feel the need.

• If not pleased with your current physician, keep searching for one who provides you better medical care.

• Get tested regularly: “A positive diagnosis is no longer a death sentence.”

Overwhelming stigma and ostracism Panelists discussed the suffocating stigma and public ostracism that were overpowering in the early HIV-AIDS days.

Current advances have brought a new openness that the initial years of secrecy and ostracism did not afford.

“I had it (a statement saying she is HIV-positive) on my dating profile,” HIV advocate survivor Glaspie said. “That opened a window to talk.”

The filmmaker Filmmaker Jerome showed his autobiographical four-star, award-winning short film, Blue Eye Shadow, about a beloved, deceased brother who died from HIV-AIDS. Jerome said he wants his film to help increase community awareness about the once-deadly virus and its impact See HIV-AIDS, page 14

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

a two-part interactive writing workshop with authors, educators, and literary activists Patrick M. Oliver and April Gibson. Participants will write exercises highlighting their attributes, challenges, accomplishments, and aspirations at Paul Laurence Dunbar Library, 11 am CST

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

26 KWANZAA CELEBRATIONS Day 1 - - UMOJA (UNITY) Shop The Dock Book Shop 1-9p TBA Live presents Unity “Umoja” Art and Music Experience, 6:30-9p at The Dock Book Shop

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“LIL REL” HOWERY COMEDIAN is here for four nights,

by Arlington Improv, 309 Curtis Mathes Way, Arlington, at 7 pm. Tickets: https://improvtx.com/ arlington/comic/lil+rel/

30 Black & Red Holiday Affair by DFW Social 40, Live Music: Natural Change Invited Host: Gentlemen’s Round Table at Hillside Social, 305 W FM 1382 #314, Cedar Hill, 9 pm. Tickets: www.dfwsocial40.com

DECEMBER Dressember

December 1

World AIDS Day

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DESTINATION SUNDAY - THE DOCK BOOKSHOP SHOPPING DAY FOR GROUPS, FRIENDS AND FAMILIES, 6637 Meadowbrook Dr. in Fort Worth.

Day 2 - KUJICHAGULIA (SELF-DETERMINATION) Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-5p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-9p at New Mount Rose MBC, Pastor Kyev Tatum. 2864 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

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1-3 The internationally acclaimed African Children’s Choir will be performing at: 10:30 AM at United Disciples Christian Church, 271 Walton St, Richardson, TX 6:00 PM at Upendo Baptist Church, 916 N Jupiter Rd, Garland, TX 75042 Tuesday, December 3, 2024 || 7:00 PM at Highland Park Presbyterian, 3821 University Blvd, Dallas, TX

Denton Black Film Festival Institute Register at DBFFMIXER24.EVENTBRITE.COM

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*** Texas Bridal & Wedding Expo, 12 pm - 5 pm in Fair Park - Centennial Hall 3929 Grand Avenue, Dallas

International Day of Persons with Disabilities COOL YULE PARTY - JOE T. GARCIA’S LA PUERTITA, 2141 N Commerce St. in Fort Worth hosted by Society of Professional Journalists - Fort Worth Pro Chapter, Enchilada buffet, cash bar, $35 per person. RSVP by November 30. It’s time to be merry!

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Poetry, Prose, and Rhymes for These Times is

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Human Rights Day KWANZAA is a African American cultural celebration that is observed each year from December 26-January 1. Events are free, family friendly and include candle lighting ceremony. Plus most events will be streamed live on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/thedockbookshop

Day 3 - UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY) Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-6p Kwanzaa Community Celebration, 12-3p hosted

by The Dock Bookshop at The Dock. Family Story Time, Authors and more Kwanzaa Celebration, 6-9p at NOI MM #52,

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Day 4 - UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS)

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

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

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Dallas Mavericks serving up hope for families in need

By Anthony Council

Multi-media Correspondent

The Dallas Mavericks served their community with generosity and care at the Season of Giving Turkey Giveaway. They partnered with Buckner International and Kroger to help out families for the holidays. Some Mavericks players, such as Dereck Lively II, Klay Thompson, and Dwight Powell, gave out turkeys and a bag of goodies for families doing a driveby pickup for the holidays. Over 300 cars were wrapped around Buckner Humanitarian Aid Center to have a chance to see some of the mavericks and have joy in their vehicles.

Mavericks center Dereck Lively II , who sported a turkey hat on his head covering up his hair, shared how great it feels to give back during this time of year. “I can think about when I was a little kid. I wasn’t in a very fortunate situation to have a lot

Dallas Mavericks players and staff in front of Kroger delivery van at the Season of Giving Turkey Giveaway. November 20, 2024.

Credit: Texas Metro News/Anthony Council

of turkey or sides. He reflected. “To now be able to give back, you know, it means a lot to me to make a difference in somebody’s day.” This event was another milestone for Kroger and Buckner International’s longstanding partnership with the Mavericks.

John Votava, director of corporate affairs in the Dallas region, mentioned how great the event is with the Mavericks, being it 6

years with them now and the main goal in mind.

“Kroger is feeding the human spirit in our communities.” He emphasized. “We do that through our zero hunger, zero waste social and environmental impact plan. We want to end hunger in our communities.”

This initiative underscores Kroger’s

2024 Thanksgiving food giveaway with the Mark Cuban Foundation

commitment to nourishing families and reducing waste across the country, reflecting its mission to create lasting change in the communities it serves.

Reverend Johnny Flowers, the assistant director of Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid of Buckner International, who has been involved since 2009, exercised the moment with the Mavs and families as

signs of hope in challenging times. “It is such an amazing event for the families, for the community, and it provides that hope that so many people are falling short of during this difficult season,” he shared. He also highlighted some of the unique moments and energy the Mavericks brought.

“The Mavericks players and the ManiAACs, the personalities—they were into it. The guests were into it. And just being that personal, it makes a huge difference.

And after all, we know the Word of God tells us, ‘With loving-kindness have I drawn thee, and today they displayed that loving-kindness and just made Thanksgiving that much more special.”

With unforgettable moments made.

Families with memories that can last a lifetime. The Mavericks Kroger and Buckner International showed the power of community, making this Thanksgiving one to cheer about.

Local law firm gave away more than $100,000 in groceries

2024 Thanksgiving food giveaway with the Mark Cuban Foundation, the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation, HEB.com, Center Table, with the Constable, State Troopers, Sheriff’s Office along with Dallas MAV Great Dirk Nowitzki, Senator Royce West giving out food boxes, turkeys & meals prepared to the lines of cars over a mile long...11/21/2024.

Witherite Law Group, 1-800-TruckWreck, Dallas-Fort Worth’s prominent hip hop and R&B radio stations and Fiesta Mart came together once again to provide meals to thousands of Dallas-Fort Worth-area families for Thanksgiving.

The organizations hosted the annual Great Grocery Giveaway and the annual Turkey Giveaway where more than $100,000 in groceries and turkeys were distributed to families.

On Monday, November 18, Witherite Law Group hosted the Great Grocery Giveaway in partnership with Urban One Radio Dallas property, 97.9 The Beat with Jazzi Black. From 3 pm to 5 pm, the first 97 people/families to arrive at Fiesta Mart #212, 3230 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Dallas each received one $100 Fiesta Mart gift card - a total of $9,700 in gift cards sponsored by Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck.

On Friday, November 22, Witherite Law Group,

along with DeDe in the Morning and Cat Daddy of K104 FM, hosted the Turkey Giveaway from 10 a.m. to noon at Fiesta Mart #76, 4245 E. Berry St., Fort Worth 76105. Tickets for the turkeys were provided on a first-come, first-served basis. People began to line up at 10:30 p.m. the night before for the turkey and grocery giveaway where each person received a turkey and one $50 Fiesta Mart gift card, sponsored by Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck, to assist with purchasing additional items to complete their meals.

“The urgency to support those in our city who cannot meet their daily food requirements is undeniable as the numbers don’t lie. We’ve increased the number of families and the amount of food and groceries we’re offering this year to address this need and provide well-rounded, well-balanced meals for Thanksgiving,” said Amy Witherite, owner of Witherite Law Group and 1-800- TruckWreck.

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HIV-AIDS cont. from page 11

on families and communities.

“Family is very important when you go through something like this,” the filmmaker said, often speaking emotionally.

He told of his brother’s turmoil and enduring ostracism that Jerome said has not completely gone away.

“It’s still here,” the filmmaker said, adding that in order to continue reducing the stigma,. “It will take more events like this.”

Sandra Varner, one of the symposium presenter and a producer of Jerome’s film, said her goal is that groups will unify to help reverse the grip the virus has on African-American communities. “We all can advocate on behalf of this,” Varner said.

Physicians have been eyewitnesses Dr. Huang gave various reasons why African-Americans have higher statistics of HIV-AIDS infections. Some reasons included less access to health care, less knowledge about prevention, and that African-American women are less prepared to protect themselves against infection.

Dr. Lawson said the medical industry has learned much about effective HIVAIDS treatments over the years. But she cautions that society and the Black population must battle the high infection rates in those African-American and Latino segments.

Some participants on the panel and in the audience said a new challenge is that the state of Texas in recent years has made treating patients with certain conditions more restrictive --and added difficulty for physicians.

Dr. Garrett-Price reviewed some innovative lifestyle routines he recommends in his practice. He said being ever-vigilant has created progress.

“It’s no longer a death sentence,” the physician said of HIV. The public can watch the film on YouTube Blue Eye Shadow is available to watch at www.seeblueeyeshadow.com. It stars Lamont Young who portrays Eddrick Jerome’s late brother. Terrence Ivory is the director. Joseph Guidry Jr composed the original music. To learn more about the impact of HIV-AIDS on Black people in the U. S., contact Sandra Varner: varnerpr@sbcglobal.net. Phone 510-910-5652.

Center for Disease Control (CDC) statistics tell the story. CDC research by symposium planners reveals startling statistics about the impact of HIV-AIDS on U. S. African-American communities.

• Because of HIV-AIDS’ continued and disproportionate impact on U. S. African-Americans, it is imperative to stay focused on this population, particularly considering that the impact has deepened over time.

• Black people account for 12 % of the U. S. population but 39% of HIV diagnoses and 40% of U. S. people living with HIV.

• Of the top 10 states reporting HIV diagnoses among Black people in 1922, Texas was #3 with 1,463, behind Georgia #2 with 1,697, and Florida #1 with 1,760.

• There are more than 1.2 million U. S. individuals living with HIV, 40 % of whom (489,200) are Black.

• The rate of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 for Black men (66.3) was the highest of any race/ ethnicity and gender, followed by Latino men (40.8), the second highest group.

• The rate of new diagnoses among Black women (19.2) is 10 times the rate among White women (1.9) and 3 times the rate among Latinas (5.5).

• Most HIV-positive Black women acquired HIV through heterosexual transmission.

• The Southern region accounts for both the majority of Black people newly diagnosed with HIV (52% in 2022) and the majority living with HIV at the end of 2022 (46%).

• In 2022, half (50%) of HIV diagnoses among all youth ages 13-34 were among Black youth.

• In 2022, more than half (53%) of gay and bisexual teens and young adults with HIV were Black.

• In 2022, over half (57%) of Black adults reported they never had been tested for HIV, a greater share than among Latino (44%) or White adults (32%).

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Best in Beauty Awards Gala supports Hairstylists

Founders of Nu Standard Beauty, Autumn and Derek Yarbrough; one of our sponsors.

Models for Designer, Venny Etienne Collection 004 fashion release

Members of the UT Southwerstern Alheimers/Dementia research team. They introduced partnership for the Brains and Beauty Collaborative

Lady Jade, media personality

Models for Designer, Venny Etienne Collection 004 fashion release

Kaye and Celebrity Stylist Dionne Alexander, the Lifetime Achievement Award winner.

Meghan Leak, UT Southwesten, Director of the Brains and Beauty Collaborative