Awards Night Newspaper 2-24-22

DEVOTED TO THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!

TELLING IT LIKE IT IS!

Special Edition

©

Address: 3155 S Lancaster Suite #210

Romans 8:28-29

Founder Dr. William “Bill “ Blair Jr.

Sr. Publisher Emeritus Jordan Blair, Sr

Publishing Editor

Darryl E. Blair Sr

President Debra Blair Abron

Assistant Publisher Sherry Blair

Contributing Editor Kimberley Blair Pleasant Elite News Houston Office

Production/Contributing Writers Heaven-Leigh Pettis

John Owens/ Marketing-Digital

Sports Editor/Photographer/Videographer Casey “Doc” Blair

Photojournalist Jay Wayne and Titia Owens

J. Wayne Owens Media Corp.

Distribution Byron Sweat

Have something to submit?

Community Calendar: elitearticles@aol.com

Stories: elitearticles@aol.com

Contact Us! (214)372-6500 or (214)7759955

Deadlines and Disclaimers

Submission of all articles, ads, etc., are due every Monday by 5:00 pm. The views and opinions of guest writers and columnist do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher, and staff of the Elite News. Elite News is not liable for submissions or payments made to parties other than those authorized agents listed below: Make all checks payable to Elite News, mailed to P.O. Box 380071, Duncanville, TX 75183. Accepting checks and all major Credit Cards

Our History

newspaper that published scores from African American college games across the United States. The newspaper was circulated to all major black colleges throughout the country.

William “Bill Blair was born on October 17, 1921, in Dallas, Texas. He attended B.F. Darrell Elementary and graduated from Booker T. Washington.

In 1946, Mr. Blair began pitching for the Indianapolis Clowns, one of 12 old Negro League Baseball teams. These teams spawned such greats as Jackie Robinson, Ernie Banks, Satchel Paige, and Josh Gibson. In 1949, Mr. Blair established the Southwest Sports News, a

In 1951, Mr. Blair left baseball because of an injury to his pitching arm. He continued to publish the Southwest Sports News. Even though Mr. Blair loved sports, he recognized the need for black churches to have a voice in the city of Dallas. As Political, Educational, and Economic unrest led to the Civil Rights Movement and race riots grew, Mr. Blair decided that the blacks needed a sound media voice to “Tell It Like It Is.” As a result, in 1960 , the Southwest Sports News changed its name to the Elite News. The motto became “Black News for Black People.”

Our Staff

A&M University majoring in banking and finance. He finished Prairie View in 1987 and immediately began working in sales and advertising for his family owned and ran newspaper The Elite News.

The Elite News newspaper was widely read in the black community. It highlighted the black churches, and the black people making a difference in their community, politics, as well as sports in the community. For 57 years, the Elite News has been “Devoted to nothing, but the TRUTH,” and as Mr. Blair puts it, “I’m not telling you what I hear, I’m telling you what I know.”

“The Elite News has gone through many face-lifts, but it remains “The official voice of the Church and community.”

In 2013, at Dad’s request, Darryl E. Blair Sr. became the publishing Editor, remembering his father’s words: “The spoken word is like the air, but the printed word is always there,” the papers single goal was to continue to take his father’s dream to next level in media. Standing on solid foundation of proven success, they continue to serve the community with integrity and compassion.

Eggtravaganze, The William & Jordan Blair Memorial Golf Tournament, The Religious Hall of Fame banquet, The Annual Backpack Give Away, and The Women of Wisdom Gala.

Darryl E. Blair Sr, Publishing Editor

Darryl is a Dallas native. His father was Negro Baseball player, historian, and Civil Rights Activist William Blair Jr. His mother was a well-known and respected caterer Mozelle Jordan Blair. After attending Bishop Dunn, Darryl graduated from Roosevelt High school in 1983 where he lettered in both track and football. Upon graduation from Roosevelt High he attended Prairie View

From 2006 to 2008 Darryl served as the Executive Director of the Capital City Classic CEO and Executive Director.

In 2007 he took over as the Executive Director of the Elite News Religious Hall of Fame Museum. At the death of his brother, Jordan Blair and the request of his father Darryl took over the running of the newspaper in 2012. Under Darryl’s leadership Elite News produces several annual community events; The Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade & Festival, The Juneteenth Celebration, March & Festival, The Easter

The Parade and Festival was one of the largest parades throughout the country. It was attended by 200,000 spectators. Through the other annual events Elite News provides scholarships, mentorship and outdoor activities to deserving community youth. One of the favorite is the end of summer event that provides children with backpacks and school supplies.

Darryl is a former member of the Southwest Dallas Pachyderm. Darryl loves all sports with his favorite being golf. On a good day you can find Darryl on any golf course making deals

Debra Blair Abron, President

A native of Dallas, Texas, Mrs. Debra Blair Abron attended Phyllis Wheatley Elementary School, Sarah Zumwalt, and South Oak Cliff High School, Class 1972. She was a member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Dallas, Texas for more than 50 years, where she served on the Stewardess Board. She has been a member of the ColorBlind Ministries Church in Como, Texas, since 2012. Mrs. Abron is an active member and Ambassador for Christ and is a Deaconess, Greeter and was a Corresponding Secretary. She currently lives in Campbell, Texas with her husband Vernon. She is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Mrs. Abron is President and co-owner, along with her brother Darryl E. Blair Sr., Publisher of The Elite News, the oldest African American owned and operated newspaper in North

Texas, to date 2022, 75 years.

Our Father the late Dr. William Blair, Jr., in 1947, founded the Southwest Sports News, which published scores from black college games, that was followed by the Highlight News, covering entertainers, such as Sarah Vaughn and Cab Calloway, to name a few. In 1960, the newspaper was renamed The Elite News. She began working officially at the Elite News in 1970. She worked in every area of the paper and was eager to learn as much as she could from her father, Founder and Publisher, the late William Blair, Jr. With much ambition Mrs. Abron worked hard and became Assistant Publisher and Publisher. As Assistant Publisher, and now President, her commitment to communicating information to the African American church and community is unchallenged. She worked tirelessly along-side her father and brother, the late Jordan "Randy" Blair, to make sure the community was always informed and that the issues important to our community were highlighted in the Elite News.

A major accomplishment in her career is her service and under the tutelage of her father was able to in 2003 spearhead the erection of the museum as Executive Director of the Elite News Religious Hall of Fame, which was established in 1999 in Dallas, Texas. It is the only organization of its kind in the

Continued on page 5

Our Staff (CONTINUED)

world, honoring ministers that positively influences the quality of life for others in their church and community.

Mrs. Abron is a tireless volunteer and through her volunteer efforts, she continues to give back to the community. She has served on several boards to create positive change in her community. Some of the boards she has served on include: The Dallas Public School System, The Dallas Black Dance Theater Board of Directors, Parkland Advisory, Bluitt-Flowers Satellite Clinic, El Centro College Advisory Board,

Membership in the Girl Scouts, a Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout, Camp Fire USA local member. She was also a radio personality at KDFT 540, JOY 910 and KKDA 730 where she used the communication forum to help her community and set new standards in the city for African Americans and others. She was known by many of her listeners for communicating “Black Facts.” Her motto: “No man is an island” is widely known, as well as “You don't know where you’re going, if you don’t remember where you come from”. Her favorite Bible scripture Jeremiah

member at the church and is very active within the community by partnering the Blair Foundation with Young Life to help send disadvantaged children in the community to Summer Camp and also give scholarships to High School book funds.

29:11. Numerous honors and awards have been bestowed upon Mrs. Abron, one of which is being elected to Altrusa International Inc. Election to Altrusa is evidence of confidence which imposes upon the recipient the obligation to strive to be true to the highest standards of life in her personal and business relations.

In August 2022, Mrs. Abron founded “On Assignment” TV Network. In On "ASSIGNMENT" at The Round Table with Debra Blair Abron of Elite News, that was originally “The Round Table” created by her father the late Dr. William Blair Jr. and Carylon Lucas at Luby’s on Hampton, there are discussions where Politicians, Ministers, and

Sherry is the Director of Elite News Women of Wisdom, the Easter Egg-Stravaganza, the Back To School Drive, and Sherry’s on sponsorship for the South Oak Cliff High School Girls Golf program in Dallas.

Born in Dallas, Texas, raised in the heart of Oak Cliff. Sherry is a 1993 graduate of South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas. Sherry has been with Elite News for 15 years.

Her formal professional education, she is a graduate from Alladin Beauty College in 1994 and First Step to Medicine in 1997.

Sherry’s the mother of two beautiful children, Brittney and Byron. Sherry is the wife of Darryl Blair, Sr, Publishing Editor of Elite News. Sherry is a member of New Baptist Church in Dallas, where Rev. Michael D. Pryor is the pastor. She sings in the choir and is a devoted

Sherry Christian- Blair, Newspaper Director

Heaven-Leigh Pettis, Production Manager/ Contributing Writer

Tiffany Roane, Graphic Designer

Casey “Doc” Blair, Sports Editor, Distribution, and Photographer

Byron Sweat, Distribution

Attorney

Awardees

Nuru Witherspoon was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Historically Black College, Paul Quinn College, (Dallas, TX) before obtaining his law degree from the University of Mississippi (Oxford, MS). Witherspoon is married with six children.

Witherspoon’s accomplishments include some of the largest wrongful death and serious injury recoveries in the country, and his cases have been featured on CNN, Fox News, and The

Wall Street Journal.

The Witherspoon Law Group works with dedication and compassion handling high profile negligent security, sexual assault, and serious injury and wrongful death cases caused by commercial vehicles as the #1 Trusted Law Firm in America.

Kay Harper Williams, Esq. (Partner)

You can reach The Witherspoon Law Group Toll-Free at 1.844. We.Win.44 or visit www. WitherspoonWeWin.com for

more information.

----

Disclaimer: Nuru Witherspoon is licensed in Texas, Illinois, and Missouri. The Witherspoon Law Group may associate or cocounsel with attorneys licensed in other States and may apply for Pro Hac Admission depending on the case. Any information provided by The Witherspoon Law Group or its members is not intended to solicit business or create an attorney-client relationship.

John Beckwith

Kirk D. Myers-Hill, MPH, is the founder and President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Abounding Prosperity, Inc. The agency’s mission is to address health, social and economic disparities among Black men including gay, bisexual, and transgender (male- to-female) individuals and their identified families living in Dallas County, Texas. In fulfilling this mission, Mr. Myers-Hill has drawn upon his extensive network of Black men and organizations through his leadership in the Texas Black Gay Network where he was a founding member for the Dallas Chapter, as well as the State of Texas Community Planning Group (CPG) where he has served in many positions including Chair of the Interventions Committee. He is also a member the City of Dallas lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Task Force.

A tireless advocate for Black men, Mr. Myers-Hill’ activism and community mobilization efforts have focused attention on the issues of equity and service pertaining to eradicating the disproportionate impacts of HIV/AIDS in Black communities. Through advocacy, he has helped to shape policies and the development of programs that would support Black men as they transition from prison and acclimate back into society, especially those who are in need of housing, mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Mr. Myers-Hill has been involved in both the public and private sector to influence research affecting Black men; with an emphasis HIV/ AIDS prevention and treatment biomedical advances. Most noted is Mr. Myers-Hill’ participation at the 2012 Antiviral Drugs Advisory Committee (AVDAC) hearings at the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. During the meeting, Mr. Myers-Hill provided expert testimony on behalf of Gilead Sciences Inc. for the benefits of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which uses the drug TRUVADA (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection. This partnership resulted in Abounding Prosperity Inc. receiving one of the first community education grants from Gilead Sciences to support increased awareness and utilization of PrEP. The project was

overseen by Mr. Myers-Hill and was evaluated by Kimberly Parker, PhD; thus, producing data that allowed Dr. Parker to successfully apply for additional resources to support a subsequent project targeting Black women. The sum of his local, regional, and national efforts to end HIV within the Black community, led to the development of a Texas State-wide plan to increase PrEP awareness, literacy, feasibility, and utilization.

Mr. Myers-Hill has conducted trainings, provided capacity building assistance, and facilitated workshops that helped to disseminate information that informed Black men of their basic human right to good health and well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has consulted Mr. Myers-Hill on health issues pertaining to HIV/ AIDS infection among Black men who have sex with men (MSM) and young, MSM. In addition to his work at Abounding Prosperity Inc., he serves on nonprofit boards across the United States, holding various roles and positions. For the past several years, Myers-Hill has and continues to inform the national research, advocacy, and service delivery system’s agenda as a PrEP Advisory Board member for Gilead Sciences, AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition’s (AVAC) PxROAR Program and Business Advisor for Dallas Southern Pride, Dallas’ Official Black Gay Pride Event. Mr. MyersHill uses his enormous social and political cache to create culturally

specific spaces that improve health outcomes among Black and Latino MSM/YMSM through Abounding Prosperity Inc.’s Ball/House and Pageant (B/HAP) Communities Leadership and Health Disparities Conference, Juneteenth Festive, Black Gay Pride Events, educational campaigns, and provider capacity building and technical assistance trainings.

Kirk D. Myers-Hill, MPH, is widely published with numerous abstracts, papers, and commentaries, many related to HIV infection and prevention.

Honey B's Honesty, Integrity & Experience 20yrs

Day Care And Meal Plans

Available

Pet Obstacle Course

• Weave Poles

• Dogwalk

• Standard jumps

• Tunnel

• Tire jump

• Teeterboard

To schedule your appointments give us a call @ (972)932-2237

Nuru Witherspoon, Esq. (Founder & Partner)

Jordan Blair Man of the Year Award

Kirk Myers- Hill

Sr. Business Award

Awardees

Fayth Jefferson

Elite News Community Encouragement Award

Meet Fayth Jefferson, a former non-profit and small business executive who has a passion for

philanthropy, social impact, music, and food. With more than 20 years of experience in small business solutions and nonprofits, she is known for creating scalable company results. As a Dallas County native, Jefferson matriculated through the Lancaster Independent School District. Upon graduating high school, she attended Dallas Baptist University and graduated with a bachelor’s in business administration. Later she decided to pursue a master’s degree from Full Sail University, specializing in entrepreneurship.

In 2015, Jefferson took on the role as Chief of Staff for Urban

Specialist, a social impact nonprofit geared toward senseless violence intervention that supplies youth with educational and social service resources in underserved areas across the county.

A day in the life of Fayth Jefferson could include planning strategic solutions with top government elected officials to meeting with Grammy award winning artist to form social impact campaigns. Jefferson comes from a lineage of Bishops, businessmen, and philanthropist. As the youngest sibling of five, she learned entrepreneurship and non-profit business solutions at an early age.

This led her to work for her late brother Bishop Omar Jahwar, a

national businessman and philanthropist who believed intersectionality was the key to reform all communities. In efforts to continue her brother’s legacy, she decided to go after something new, the food industry. Bishop Omar Jahwar always wanted a place where individuals could eat, create, and relax. At The FIVEe Bistro Bar and Grille, Dallas residents can do just that.

Fayth Jefferson is now the CEO of The FIVEe. She has made it her life’s missions to take her executive expertise and bring it to the food industry. She created a business model for the restaurant that includes philanthropy. Every time you eat

at The FIVEe , you are creating an opportunity for underresourced communities to thrive. A percentage of each meal goes toward social impact and the individuals serving and plating your food come from CAFÉ Momentum, a culinary training center for at-risk youth.

You may also find her working in the role as the CEO of HSG Solutions. HSG Solutions supplies tax services and business development strategies for non-profits and social impact companies.

Although she has accomplished much, her greatest accomplishments are her three boys Daelan, Draesen, and Deisel.

Distinguished Award

Jeneca Willis currently serves as a Vice President in the Commercial Banking sector at Truist Financial Corporation, formerly BB&T Bank, with 15 years of industry experience. As a formally credit-trained Commercial Banker, Jeneca specializes in crafting complex financial strategies and solutions to assist clients in achieving their projected growth and revenue targets.

Jeneca continuously

exceeds profitability, quality, and sales goals while participating as an active and supportive leader and team member. Her effective relationship management, business development, and sales acumen provide the ability to develop collaborative relationships that reinforce company values and financial objectives.

Jeneca takes great pride in cultivating and maintaining meaningful rapport with renowned business leaders and industry partners and has been recognized as a dynamic leader and expert in her field. Jeneca’s enthusiasm for her chosen career path is evident in the manner she expresses her purpose at Truist and her ability to deliver reliable, responsive, and empathetic service to her clients.

Minister of The Year Award

Pastor James Hutchins was born in Carthage, Mississippi and raised in Marion, Indiana. In 1984, he answered the call to ministry while serving in the United States Navy. Throughout the country he has served in various capacities that include Teacher, Counselor, Associate and Assistant Minister. From 1997 to 1999, he pastored St. Luke Church of God in Pensacola, Florida.

Pastor Hutchins holds an undergraduate degree in Business and a Master of Divinity. He retired from the Navy in 2000 with over 20 years in service to his country. He is a community leader and advocate of peace and unity. In addition to these

accomplishments, he has authored five books and published two. Pastor Hutchins also serves as a Trustee for Dallas Christian College and is a Board member of the LEISD Education Foundation.

In April 2007, Pastor Hutchins and 25 members established New Life Community Church of Frisco, Texas. New Life consists of over 1000 members and is growing weekly. In

2016, New Life also built a church in Zimbabwe.

Pastor Hutchins has been married to his high school sweetheart, (Tina) for over 40 years. They have three children: Tinesha, Jasmine, and Terrance (Royetta). In addition, they have four grandsons: Jaylen, Aiden, Jaxson, and Aaron, and two granddaughters: Jayda and Abigail.

Pastor James Hutchins

Jenneca Willis

Mable Chandler

Awardees

McGee

Al Wash Visionary Award

Judge Mary Brown

A New Orleans native and Southern University alumni, I moved to Dallas in 2005. For the past 17 years

I have serviced in Public and Corporate Accounting Industry. 5 years ago, myself along with a colleague started AB&T Financial Services. Our main thought was, “We come to work every day to help big corporations grow

County areas of California to her practice. In 1990 Judge Brown joined the Dallas County District Attorney's Office. As,the Chief of the Misdemeanor Section she tried over 20 criminal jury trials. She then moved to the Child Protective Services Section and tried numerous civil jury trials.

Scottie & Cynthia Allen Legal Award

Judge Mary Brown is the presiding judge of the 301't Judicial District Court of Dallas County, Texas. She was elected in Novemb er, 2014 . Judge Brown received her Bachelors of Business Administration in 1982 from the University of Texas and received her law degree from the University of Houston in 1986.

Judge Brown began her law career as a Briefing Attomey for the Court of Criminal Appeals in 1987. In 1988 she moved to private practice and focused on the areas of family law and business law. In 1989 she added real estate and family law in the Greater Los Angeles and Orange

finically, why not grow ourselves and assist others?” Our team is 5 people strong and growing, we service your company needs from IRS compliance with startup companies to managing your company’s books and financial reporting. We also manage all your corporate and individual tax and state required filings. We do it all to keep you in compliance and to help your company grow.

Kevin Jackson

In l996,Judge Brown was appointed as an Associate Judge of the Dallas County Family Courts where she served under Judge Dee Miller of the 254thDistrict Court, Judge Jeff Coen of the 254th District Court, Judge Beth Maultsby of the 303'd District Court, and Judge Dennise Garcia of the 303'd District Court. Judge Brown remained an Associate Judge until her successful run for the bench of the 301't Judicial District Court in 20l4.

Judge Brown has served on the Crime Victims Committee of the State Bar of Texas, the Dallas Family Law Section Board of Directors. She is a member of the College of the State Bar, the Junior League of Dallas and the Oak Cliff Lions Club. Judge Brown is also a proud graduate of Bishop Dunne High School, wife, and mother of three children

Chief Don Stafford Law Enforcement Award

Detective Kevin D. Jackson was born October 24th, 1961, in Dallas Tx.

He is the youngest son of Clint and Lois Jackson. Mr. Jackson is a graduate of Skyline High Schools class of 1980 here in Dallas Texas. He attended the University of Houston and Texas Southern University where he received a Bachelor's degree in business majoring in Banking and Finance.

Det. Jackson has been a member of the Dallas Police Department for 35 yrs.

He started his career on February 11, 1988, and is still on the job to date.

The first 3 yrs. of his career were spent in patrol at Southwest Patrol Division serving the neighborhood that he grew up in. He quickly learned that everyone that had a run in with a police officer didn’t have to be arrested.

After learning the basics of the job, he was recruited and transferred to SWAT, where he spent the next 23 years of his career.

In SWAT serving as a Negotiator/Operator, he learned to apply his personality to his job. SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) is an elite unit of the Dallas Police

Department. While in this assignment he was involved in numerous crisis situations i.e., drug warrants, barricaded persons, hostage situations and dignitary motorcades.

A&E television series Dallas SWAT featured a lot of his work in SWAT. Detective Jackson has spent the last 9 years of his career in the Criminal Intelligence Division of the department. He is assigned to the Dignitary Protection Unit where his duties consist of providing security for local and visiting dignitaries, Protest, and other special events held in the city of Dallas. He makes it his duty to treat every citizen that encounters with dignity and respect.

With Independent Financial, your dream of owning a home can become a reality. We are ready to work with you to find the best loan or down payment options to fit your needs.

Isaac

Awardees

-Huff

Monique J Bracey Huff is JudgeElect for Dallas County Criminal Court No. 10, a family violence

court. Mrs. Huff graduated with honors from Florida A & M University with dual degrees in political science and social work. While matriculating at FAMU, she worked at a crisis counseling hotline and the local domestic violence shelter. .She has worked in domestic violence shelters directly with victims & their families during law school at Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law. During law school, Mrs. Huff interned with Advocacy Inc. assisting individuals and youth maintain their rights under the American with Disabilities Act. Mrs. Huff interned in the Family Violence Unit of Dallas County DA's office, interviewing victims and

I accomplished many achievements such as receiving my food handlers license and was accepted into the Culinary Arts Program at Dallas College El Centro Campus where I am currently in my second year. My favorite hobbies are spending time with family, shopping, and cooking.

Pastor Michael Pryor Youth Award

My name is Kayla Alexander, I was born and raised in Dallas, Tx to Tenekki Webber. I am the youngest sibling of older brother Keilan Peterson. I started my educational journey out in Greater Head Start of Dallas and continued my journey to duncanville independent school district. I later went to Faith Family Christian Academy and finished my journey at DeSoto Independent School District where I graduated in 2021.

assisting in trial preparation. For the past 14 years, she has owned her own law firm, Monique J Bracey, Attorney at Law PC, defending individuals accused with family violence offenses & other crimes. She believes she has a holistic view on how the legal justice system & domestic violence collide; & she has practiced in this concentrated field for her entire legal career, including with indigent clients. She plans to bring programs for education and training to those accused as well as maintain translation services for Spanish speakers attending court. Mrs. Huff intends to continue to serve her community and ensure that justice delayed is not justice denied.

Request a Fast Cash Advance with your Refund Transfer

Benef its

>GETUP TO A $7,000 ADVANCE

> Great when you can't wait weeks for your tax refund2

>Get your money by direct deposit and other convenient options

Available

>NEW! Available as early as January 2 through March 17

> Most loans approv ed within hours

and continues to be an activist for educational, racial and economic equity in her community and throughout the city of Dallas. As the current President of the South Oak Cliff Alumni Bear Cave (SABC), she also serves in various leadership roles within the city of Dallas such as being an active member the district 3 Public Safety Advisory Committee, and the Chair of Parent Advocacy for The Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

I joined the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church at the age of four under the leadership of the late great Pastor Dr. George W. Pryor and founding First Lady Sis. Alma J. Pryor. I am still an active member under the leadership of Pastor Michael D. Pryor and First Lady Stephanie D. Pryor. The auxiliaries I participate in at New Birth Baptist Church are the culinary team, youth usher president, family and friends day ambassadors team, and former debutants for Christ ministry member, and sunday school.

Aaron & Ernestine Smith Community Partners Award

Born and raised in Dallas, TX, Natashia Gerald is a 40-year-old Customer Experience Strategist for the Internal Revenue Service. Throughout her 22 years of dedicated service with the federal government, she has consistently educated internal and external stakeholders regarding policy and procedures while helping customers resolve complex account and tax law issues. Advocacy does not just happen on her day job—advocacy is the thread that permeates all areas of her life.

Natashia is a true servant-leader

Ms. Gerald is a budding civic leader who is solution oriented and passionate about empowering others. She is always eager and willing to share her knowledge,

time and talents as she believes that we each have the ability and shared responsibility to serve and help those with the God given purpose and gifts we have been given.

Natashia enjoys all things family and embraces the daily adventures of raising an active teenager. She realizes that the impact of dedicated advocacy is tremendous; therefore, lends her voice daily to address the gaps and needs of our youth and community and harness solutions and hope to drive impactful change and make lasting improvements within her community to ensure a better future for the youth of Dallas and the surrounding Metroplex.

Judge Monique Bracey

Pearl C. Anderson Award

Kayla Alexander

Natashia Gerald

Awardees

Coach Claude Mathis

coaching career and is the current Head Football Coach/Athletic Director at DeSoto High School with the DeSoto Independent School District.

PLAYING CAREER: High School

All-State DB and RB with 2 State Championships at Bartlett High School –Bartlett, Texas College

Southwest Texas State University – San Marcos, Texas

• Freshman of the Year – 1994

• All-Southland Conference Punt Returner – 1994 and 1995

• 1st Team All-American Punt Returner

Raymond Hollie Sports Award

Claude Mathis graduated from Bartlett High School in Bartlett, Texas where he participated in both football and track as a sprinter. As a high school junior, he rushed for 2,199 yards and 31 touchdowns for Bartlett despite a broken bone in his foot. He is a 1998 graduate of Texas State University (formerly Southwest Texas State University). Mathis holds Texas State’s career, season, and game rushing records. He has had a very extensive and successful

– 1994 and 1995

• 1st Team All-Conference

• Conference Player of the Year, Running Back - 1996 and 1997

• 1st Team All-American, Running Back

– 1996 and 1997

• Participated in Hula Bowl

• 3rd in Payton Award voting – 1997

• Signed as Free Agent with Minnesota Vikings

Mathis began his head coaching career at Somerville (Texas) High School in 2004 before taking over at Austin’s Lyndon Baines Johnson High School in 2005 and quickly reviving that struggling program. Prior to

his arrival, LBJ had not made the Texas State Playoffs since 1995, but the Jaguars advanced to postseason play each of his three years at the school and his 2007 club went 10-3 and claimed the district 26-4A crown.

Overall, Mathis finished his tenure at LBJ with a 21-15 mark. At DeSoto High School as Head Football Coach/Assistant Athletic Director, Mathis turned DeSoto into one of the state’s premier programs, going 74-18 in his seven seasons with back-to-back 5A semifinals appearances in 2012 and 2013. In each of his last five seasons, Mathis guided DeSoto to 10 or more victories.

Claude Mathis came to SMU as running backs coach in January 2015. Mathis joined the Mustang staff after a stellar high school coaching career. In his first season on the Hilltop, Mathis helped develop one of the nation’s top freshman running backs, Xavier Jones. Jones set an SMU freshman record with 10 rushing TDs in 2015, surpassing SMU greats Eric Dickerson and Zach Line. In 2016, Coach Mathis had two running backs that rushed for over 100 yards in a game and another rusher who accumulated over 1000 yards, something which had not happened at SMU in years. In all, SMU’s offense increased its scoring output by 16.7 points per game – the second-largest increase in the nation in 2015.

Mathis was among the finalists for the 2013 and 2014 Xenith National Coach of the Year Awards. As a player, Mathis was a two-time All-American (1996-97) and record-setting running back at Southwest

Texas State (now Texas State), leaving the school as the Southland Conference’s all-time leading rusher. Mathis broke the Southland Conference single-season rushing record in 1997 with 1,593 yards and still owns a host of school career, single-season and single-game records, including career rushing marks with 4,694 yards on 882 attempts, as well as career touchdowns (49) and points scored (294). He also owns the top two single-game rushing performances in school lore, going for 310 yards vs. Stephen F. Austin on Nov. 15, 1996, before rushing for 308 yards vs. Jacksonville State on Nov. 15, 1997. After college, he participated in the Minnesota Vikings’ training camp in 1998 but his time was cut short due to injury.

Mathis was at Marshall HS from 20172018 season. There his team won the district championship two years in a row without ever losing a district game. Made the playoffs both years and reached the Quarterfinals in his last year at Marshall.

Mathis went back home to take over the reins again at DeSoto in 2019 – Present. The Eagles have made the playoffs every year since Coach Mathis returned to the program, including two back-to-back regional appearances. The Eagles have compiled a 43-10 record since Mathis returned to the program.

Coaching Career Accolades:

• Inducted into the Texas State University-San Marcus

T-Association 2011 Hall of Honor

(November 2011)

• Co-District Champions in 2007 at Austin LBJ & State Quarterfinalist

• District 11-5A Coach of the Year –2008

• Co-District Champions DeSoto High School – 2008-2010

• State Quarterfinalist DeSoto High School – 2010

• District Champions DeSoto High School – 2012

• District Champions DeSoto High School – 2013

• State Semi-Finalists DeSoto High School – 2012

• State Semi-Finalists DeSoto High School – 2013

• District 7-5A Coaching Staff of the Year – 2012

• District 7-5A Coaching Staff of the Year – 2013

• Coached in the Under Armour AllAmerican Game held in Florida – 2008 -2013

• Coached in the Semper Fi All American Bowl held in California –2014

• Assistant Coach leading 4x100 and 4x200 to State Championship – 2010

• Assistant Coach leading 4x100 to State Championship – 2011

• Assistant Coach leading 4x200 to State Championship – 2014

• Assistant Coach leading 4x200 to National Championship – 2014

• Playoff Representative as Head Coach – 2005-Present

Earning trust. Creating value. Building relationships.

Courtney is a special need 24year old adult with Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delay with a Wonderful Spirit (most of the time) LOL

Born: June 4, 1998@ 15oz. (along with multiple other health

Awardees

issues,) But God! Still Happy in the Lord!

Parent: Daphne McNeil

Favorite Color: Pink

Favorite Restaurant: Pappasitos's Cantina

Favorite Place to go: Church! New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, Michael D. Pryor, Pastor

Favorite Season: Summer

Favorite places to visit/vacation: Los Angeles, California, and Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California

Favorite form of self-care: Prayer, Arts and Craft

Participated in Special Olympics for approximately 10yrs also was a Sparkler Cheerleader throughout her high school years at Duncanville High School. More importantly, if you ask her who Jesus Christ is, she will tell you!

I thank God for Special Courtney Grace. Has overcome some health issues that we thank God for.

Anthony M. Farmer is the owner and principal of The Farmer Law Group, PLLC in Dallas, Texas. His firm handles personal injury, business litigation, and criminal defense cases throughout the great state of Texas. Anthony is a proud graduate of Thurgood

Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Political Economy from Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado. During his fifteen (15) years as an attorney, Attorney Farmer has tried over fifty (50) jury trials, including state and federal matters. He has been a featured guest speaker on many local television stations interpreting the law and offering his expert opinion on various trials and legal matters. Attorney Farmer has had the pleasure of representing clients in several high profile matters himself. To date, The Farmer Law Group has recovered millions for injured Texans and for families who have lost loved ones. Attorney Farmer serves the community through his Church (New Beginnings

Church in Lewisville, TX), through political engagement, and by volunteerism in his local community in Dallas County. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Metrocare Services, Inc., which is the largest mental health organization in North Texas. Attorney Farmer is also a board member for Pipeline to Possibilities, Inc., which is an organization founded by Dallas County judges, which seeks to expose high school students to higher education and assist them in gaining the necessary tools and access to higher education. All those that know Attorney Farmer, know that he has served as a strategist and/or treasurer on many local political campaigns. Attorney Farmer is a firm believer in service and servant leadership.

Courtney Renee Grace

Pastor Michael Pryor Youth Award

Attorney Anthony Farmer Esq.

Dr. Robert E. Price Meritorious Award

Chaplain

Awardees

receiving her Commission, Ordination & License 2010. Also, Partnered with World System Builders & World Financial Group as Insurance Brokers License to support all of the United States, in 2010. Attended School of Chaplaincy in Garland, Texas graduating in 2019.

BACKGROUND

EDUCATION

Chaplain Mae Crosby graduated with an MBA from Amberton University located in Garland Texas in 2001. Attended Abundant Spiritual Life School of Ministry in Desoto, Texas

Chaplain Mae Crosby was a Production Specialist and Integrated Technician for a total of 60 years. God’s last employment assignment was with Army Airforce Exchange Services “AAFES” for 20 years in Dallas, Texas in supporting our military families before she retired. Moving forward Chaplain joined NCNW MHGPS Life Member in supporting our community.

Chaplain partnered with Spread the Word Ministry and AME

The native Houstonian began his career in 1989 while he was still in college. During his senior year at Loyola University, he worked the overnight shift as a news writer on WWL-TV’s highly successful morning show.

Zion Church in Arlington, Texas. PRMBC Chaplain partnered with Bill Glass Prison ministries by sharing spiritual knowledge of salvation to those incarcerated. Chaplain is excited to begin God’s new assignment in the horizon, as Secretary for our Dallas NAACP 6169’B Branch as a Life Member in January 2023. Chaplain’s Main Focus is to investigate avenues to support our nations to heal our land. What does the word say? -2 Chronicles 7:14(ESV).

SPECIAL INTERESTS

Chaplain Mae Crosby loves playing the piano, singing, chess, entertaining and has a passion for sharing Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior ‘s plan of salvation. She strives to help educate family and friends with financial literacy education, exhortation, and excellence utilizing their unique God-given gifts.

Joe covers the gamut of sports but readily admits following the NFL is his favorite. “There’s seemingly never a dull moment when you cover the Cowboys,” he says. Joe says they’re controversial and compelling and that’s “good for business.”

Joe

Joe joined Channel 8 in June 2003 and has been a fixture on the local sports scene for more than half of his nearly 30-year career in local television news.

Joe’s on-air sports career began at WCBD-TV in Charleston, SC and included a return to New Orleans for a 9-year stint at WVUE-TV where he was named Sports Director.

Since joining WFAA, Joe’s covered several runs for the Cowboys, Rangers, Stars and Mavericks including the Mavs magical run that ended with a championship in 2011.

He also likes sharing stories that highlight the best in people. Finding examples in sports that illustrate the triumph of the human spirit are his favorite.

Joe and his wife Amy and their two daughters Sophia and Sydney live in Frisco. When not spending family time, you can find Joe on the links, working on his golf game.

Mae Margaret Crosby

Debra Blair Abron Humanitarian Award

Joe Trahan

Cheryl Smith Communications Award

Trahan is the Lead Sports Anchor at WFAA in Dallas, TX.

C. W. Whitaker

Awardees

Business Program to assist Black Owned Businesses to them to get qualified and do business with SWBT.

I was given permission from topranked management to visit the Black community and volunteer on company time for nonprofits and government boards. The first board in the city of Dallas was the South Dallas Fair Trust Fund.

Brian Eberstein Unsung Hero Award

My name is CW Whitaker and before I get started on my bio I like to say thanks to the Blair family and Brian Eberstein (for this prestigious award), my two-lifetime pastors Rev. EA Greer of Forest Ave Baptist Church (32+ years) and Pastor Freddie Haynes of Friendshipwest Baptist Church (28 years) (for providing the words and prayers for making my spirit of giving, serving and supporting), Irene Whitaker Marshall my mother CW Whitaker my father and Roy Marshall my stepfather for raising me to be the man I am today.

I am the proud owner of DFWBAM, a social media company that gives more than I receive. At my company, we have a program called The "BLS", which stands for Blessing, Loving, and Supporting. Listed below are programs and boards that allowed me to "BLS" my community. In the 1960s I was appointed as the Youth Sunday School Superintendant and President of the Youth Usher board by Rev. E A Greer. This was a deal presented to me if I would just get out of the Youth Choir. I also volunteered at the age of 16 to drive the church's station wagon to pick up and drop off church members that needed a ride.

I worked at SWBT for 31 years during my time there, I volunteered for Junior Achievement, a school program at Lincoln High school that taught youth about starting and running a business for several years. I received donations from SWBT to take kids to visit Black Owned Businesses in DFW to provide them a road to owning their own businesses in the future. I also volunteered with an SWBT Minority

After retiring from SWBT, I focused more on the community with KKDA Radio. I served as Cousin Linnie's Posse President. Cuz would say "Round Up The Posse" when people in the community needed help that mattered to so many. We helped people every week with food, yard work, and other needs.

Also, I started a website for Willis Johnson and assisted The Wolfman to encounter the needs of the public. At that time I started DFWScoop, now Called DFWBAM. Thanks to my KKDA friends my database went from 1500 to 94,600 today.

During this time in my life, I served on three different City of Dallas boards.

1. South Dallas Fairpark Trust Fund, first appointed by Al Lipscomb and made president by Ron Kirk. This board made loans and grants to small business owners in South Dallas only.

2. The board of adjustments, I didn't particularly like this boy because I guess it wasn't helping people the way I wanted to help and serve.

3. The Dallas Parks and Recreation board for 13-plus years. First appointed by four different council members, and appointed president by Mayor Laura Miller. Currently, I hold the record for the longest-serving member. My two of my greatest accomplishments while serving on the board when the renaming of Rochester to William Bill Blair Jr. Instrumental in the planning for Downtown Parks and acquiring the Klyde Warren Deck Park, instrumental in the largest bond package for parks and recreation in the city of Dallas history. Development of youth programs in all parts of Dallas, work on the committee to get Bahama Beach Water Park in Southern Dallas. On the committee to hire John Jenkins, and Willis Winters as Park Directors, and Greg Hudson as the current Dallas Zoo president.

Other things that I volunteered on were: to bring 13 new playgrounds to southern Dallas, the Kiest Park Softball Complex, work to bring the new cedar

crest Clubhouse and renovated the golf course, upgrades to the Cotton Bowl, advocating for $80 million to Downtown Parks and the renovations of 4 Recreation Centers in southern Dallas Other Boards that I served on include: BATC: I also served on the board as a board member and president of the Bishop Arts Theatre Center for 20 years. We served 5 to 15,000 kids per year, a diverse organization that bought the community of Oak Cliff together. I am proud to have received the Bishop Arts theater centers Legacy award in 2022.

Served on the Dallas County School board, after Ms. Edna Pemberton and Jordan Blair. This board was about the safety of kids. Member of the Dallas Youth Council, this board took youth on college tours, Fair Park, and other places of interest.

Nova Academy, board member for the education of kids in Dallas Zoo Board to entertain and educate kids about animals Dallas Park Foundation Texas Horse Park Board

HONORS AND AWARDS:

• Legacy Award by Bishop Arts Theatre Center

• President Obama Community Service Award

• Community Network Award-SBC, For serving the community

• SBC Advocate of the Year-1996 For assisting black and Hispanic business owners to do business with SBC

• Helping Hands Award - DFW Minority Business Development Council

• Community Hero Award, awarded by KKDA radio for outstanding work in the community

• City of Dallas Service Award

• Unity in the Community Award

• Outstanding Community Leader Award – ALW Inc.

• Greater Southwest Black Chamber – Service Award

• Coaches Corner - Community Servant Award

• Summer Youth Programs - Dallas Parks and Recreation And many more.

Again, thanks to the Blair Family and Brian Eberstein for making me a part of the 48th Annual Elite News Awards Night Ceremony.

Pierre Lavie

in Switzerland, 1980. Months Father/Husband/Brother/Son.

Elliot Erwitt is quoted as having said, “photography is the art of observation. It has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them.”

I like that and have been actively observing life since ~2009 with an iPhone and ~2018 with a camera.

William Blair Jr. Don’t Forget Award

Pierre Lavie (he/him). Born

I shoot with digital cameras and print photographs using inkjet printers. Photographs are made using Hahnemühle archival fine-art photography paper and matted+framed in Dallas by Debra Stevens Custom Framing (972.620.1365).

Dr. H.I. Holland Education Award

Cedar Hill Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Gerald Hudson grew up in Dallas, attended Skyline High (one of the first Dallas area schools to have an Engineering Academy) and originally planned to become an Engineer. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s

Awardees

Degree in Mathematics and a minor in Electrical Engineering.

Public education appealed to him because he saw the positive impact that he could have on scholars, and that “lightbulb, a-ha” moment when a scholar grasps a concept or lesson.

When he began his educational career as a math teacher and basketball coach in Garland ISD, becoming a Superintendent wasn’t on Hudson’s radar.

Two factors influenced his current career choice – he realized the opportunity to positively affect more and more scholars and educators. Secondly, he received encouragement from principals and district-level administrators along the way.

He served as a principal at

provide counsel to clients on diverse issues:

• Proficient as an effective attorney and business owner for 24 years;

• Prepare, organize, and execute marketing plans on behalf of the firm;

• Correspond and meet with prospective clients to secure new business;

• Review legal documents for accuracy before making final agreement;

• Research, draft and edit pretrial motions, review legal issues and rules of law to best protect clients’ interests;

• Conduct jury and bench trials, preliminary and sentencing hearings;

Lakeview Centennial High School College and Career Magnet and as an assistant principal at both Naaman Forest High School and Hudson Middle School. He became an Area Director at Garland ISD, supervising 20 campuses and more than 11,000 scholars.

For 2.5 years, he was the superintendent of Jasper ISD, a Class 4A district in southeast Texas before becoming CHISD’s Superintendent in July 2019.

Along the way, he received Master’s and Doctorate Degrees from Texas A&M UniversityCommerce.

Hudson takes the same encouragement he received from mentors and applies it to teachers, principals and administrators within the district.

arbitration;

• Negotiate subrogation matters and settle disputes with insurance companies.

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION

Member: State Bar of Texas; Dallas Bar Association; National Criminal Defense Lawyers Association; Texas Bail Bond Board

Member

Licensure: State Bar of Texas; licensed in all county and state courts; Texas State Bar No. 24008569

MEMBERSHIPS

State Bar of Texas National Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

His leadership philosophy emphasizes “coaching people to excellence, supporting them and ensuring that there’s no gap between his expectations and their performance.”

Hudson firmly believes that the “Superintendency” – the Superintendent’s Executive Cabinet’s accomplishments are more important than the individual “Superintendent.” He is a strong proponent of teamwork.

That is why he is so enthusiastic about the five-year partnership with the Holdsworth Center. It is about leadership development and ensuring that every employee in the district has a path to leadership.

Hudson has worked closely with the CHISD Board of Trustees on Lone Star Governance (LSG) and ensuring that the district is achieving scholar outcome goals, in turning scholars’ dreams into reality.

Several developments have helped

Keidrain Brewster

toward those goals – Cedar Hill ISD recently received a nearly $2 Million Grant from the Texas Instruments (TI) Foundation and Educate Texas that will transform the District and community through STEMSpired.

During Hudson’s time, Cedar Hill ISD has signed historic partnerships with local universities – Tarleton State University and Texas A&M-Commerce.

Earlier this year, Hudson was presented with the Humanitarian Award by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

Hudson was recently elected to the AASA, The School Superintendents Association and the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Advocacy Committee.

Hudson enjoys playing golf, running and spending time with his wife, SchRhonda, and seven children.

LENGTH OF PRACTICE- 24

Years

PRIMARY AREA OF PRACTICE – CRIMINAL DEFENSE AND PERSONAL INJURY

Resourceful and actively engaged attorney operating a broad-based practice with an emphasis on criminal litigation and personal injury law matters. Represent and

• Negotiate plea agreements and case settlements;

• Review warrants and affidavits to determine probable cause for pre-trial release/bond;

• Communicate with insurance carriers and investigate circumstances of claims;

• Defend insureds in motor vehicle accident cases, beginning with the filing of original answer through discovery, mediation and

Heroes House Board of Trustees, Kansas Wesleyan University

EDUCATION

Texas A&M University School of Law

Juris Doctor, 1996 Kansas Wesleyan University Bachelor of Business Administration and Finance, 1989

Keidrain Brewster is a returned citizen that did 13 years in prison. Since his release, he has built his own trucking company & is the author of two books; “From the Rec Yard to the Streets” which outlines

lessons from his time in prison & how he applied them upon release, & “From the Streets to the Suites” which tells his story of his journey to starting his own business & reaching the level of success he desired. Keidrain now focuses on using his trucking company to reduce the recidivism rate by inspiring returning citizens that have been touched by the system to take a new career path & also advocating for educational tools in the penal system.

Attorney Edward Spears Esq.

Sherman Roberts Community Serice Award

Dr. Gerald Hudson

Maurice “Mr Blue” Perry Trailblazer Award

Leadership and Legacy

Media Ministry

Radio Broadcast on KGGR

Monday-Friday (Church Service 1:30 pm)

International Sunday School Lesson Saturday 9:30 am

Online Broadcast at www.kggram.com

SUNDAY SERVICES

Morning Worship Service 10:30 am

Baptizing & Communion 5:00 pm (Every 1st Sunday)

Pastoral Bible Teaching 5:00 pm

WEEKLY SERVICES

-TuesdayOpen Prayer 6:30 pm

Open Bible Study 7:00 pm

-WednesdayNoon Day Worship 12:00 noon

Pastoral Bible Teaching 7:00 pm

Sis.

BLACK HISTORY PROFILE from An Elegant Touch Limousine Service

May 1, 1991, An Elegant Touch Limousine Service, the First Black Female OWNER/CEO, Bobbie R. Morrison, had it’s first Prom given to us from a friend that had a limo service. My son Quintin, is my President and Lead Chauffeur, his regular clients call him “Q.”

We will be in business 32 years May 1, 2023. It was my son’s dream to start a limo service and I made it happen for him. My recently deceased brother, Rev. Joe Allen Foster, who was also my partner in a Funeral Home in Fort Worth was the impetus that got my son interested in limousines.

Through the Grace of God, we made it through 9/11, whereas a lot of companies lost their business when the airports closed down. We do not provide Airport Transportation because they are too unpredictable. The Pandemic slowed us down, but we made it through due to the help of the SBA who helped us keep the bills paid.

Funerals, Birthdays, Weddings, Anniversaries, Quinceanera, Proms, Night on the Town, Sporting Events, Casino Trips and other important events are what we SPECIALIZE in and has kept us afloat all these years.

We have transported some years back, RAY CHARLES, THE COASTERS and one young up

and coming artist call “YOYO.”

Our regular clients in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area are our lifeblood. We have various PACKAGE DEALS that will give you ONE or TWO HOURS FREE with a 4 hours or more rental. Please call 972-218-6404 office or 972-6709444 cell to book a reservation.

First class service that ROLLS OUT THE LONG RED CARPET as you enter the limo. www.aneleganttouchlimo.com

Municipal Elections Matter

“Community Talk” -

By Randall Bryant

For my first column of “Community Talk”, I want to start at the exact place where I began my political journey in 1995, a municipal race. At the time, I was a 7-year-old kid flagging 750 doors in Hamilton Park to elect our city’s first Black mayor, Ron Kirk. Although I was not eligible to vote, almost 24% of registered voters did cast a ballot for one of the seven candidates in the race.

Fast forward 28 years later and the cold hard reality soon sets in now with Mayor Eric Johnson running unopposed, that the likelihood for voters within the City of Dallas to witness a turnout greater than the 2019 mayoral election of 12.5% or even the more probable 7.2% garnered in the 2015 mayoral midterm election is still doubtful.

This begs the question, what has caused a steady decline and so much voter apathy towards local elections over the past three

decades? And why don’t voters participate in municipal races at the same level as the Presidential race?

When your trash isn’t picked up on schedule, when your streets and alleys need repaving, when your school district is considering the ban of Critical Race Theory, or when your catalytic converter is stolen, do you call on President Joe Biden to fix these problems? Then why in Dallas, do 63% of voters cast a ballot for the President, but only 7% vote in the municipal elections, when 100% of these and many other problems affect each of us daily? Do not Municipal Elections Matter?

Each October of each year, you are guaranteed to receive at least one letter in the mailbox. A letter that you will know exactly what it is simply by the return address label. A letter that may sit on the counter for a few days because you don’t want to open it, but you know you must… And that is your property tax bill. On average, half of your property tax payment funds the school district and a quarter pays for your city government. Side note, renters pay taxes too! Thousands of your hard-earned dollars each year are paid to fund billion-dollar city and school district budgets while you are sitting on the sidelines hollering, “stay woke”.

So how do we fix this problem?

For starters, there has been a recent arrival of voter education groups to North Texas such as Black Voters Matter and Texas Black Action Fund, which provide continuous voter engagement to the community throughout the entire year. These groups will be vital to maintaining the stability of the electorate between election cycles. Next, we are seeing a respondent shift from the Texas Democratic Party (TDP) to focus on municipal elections through “Project LIFT”. Project LIFT is the way in which the TDP provides recognition and additional support for municipal, school board, and community college trustee candidates who identify as Democrats. While municipal offices are non-partisan, the TDP is invested in getting folks elected to these positions who will govern in a

way that promotes Democratic Party values. Finally, we must continue to support and amplify the work led by institutional organizations such as the NAACP, our churches and Divine Nine organizations that work to get-out-the-vote through their memberships.

Another idea that was first touted here locally by Former Mayor Mike Rawlings, would be to move the municipal elections to November in the odd years. This would make it easier for voters to always remember to vote on the 2nd Tuesday in November of each year, regardless if it's a local municipal election in the odd years, or a partisan election in the even years as we already do. For this change to work and work well in conjunction with Dallas ISD, the school board would have to also vote to amend their election terms from the current

three years to a two-year or fouryear term and move their election date to November as well.

A final idea that may be proposed in next year’s City of Dallas Charter Review Commission is to add two at-large positions to the Council, shift all council and mayor terms to three-years, and have the members run on a staggering ballot. This is the model in which Dallas ISD currently conducts their elections with three of the nine trustees running each year in rotation. For the council, this would ensure either the mayor or one “city-wide” at-large position is running every year that the entire electorate would have an opportunity to vote for plus the possibility of the voter casting a ballot for their district representative as well.

Continued on page 31

Municipal Elections Matter (CONTINUED)

“Community Talk” -

By Randall Bryant

At the end of the day, we know strong municipal elections attract strong candidates. Strong candidates spark strong debate. Strong debates ensure communities are heard. And when communities are heard, change happens! SO PLEASE GET OUT AND GO VOTE! This year, Early Voting runs from April 24th – May 2nd and Election Day is Saturday, May 6th.

Here Are The Races To Watch

Dallas City Council District

3 – Zarin Gracey who is endorsed by term-limited and current Councilman Casey Thomas will face August Doyle, Denise Benavides, Joe Tave, and John Sims.

Dallas City Council District

4 – Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn King Arnold is seeking her third term since returning to the horseshoe in 2018 and is challenged by Jamie Smith.

Dallas City Council District

7 – Councilman Adam Bazaldua looks to defend his seat for a third term against a slightly smaller than usually crowded field including:

Okema Thomas, Tracy DottieHill, Marvin Crenshaw and Lamar Jefferson.

Dallas City Council District 8 –Councilman Tennell Atkins will run for his final term of a public service career in District 8 that has span 14 of the past 16 years. He will be challenged by candidates Subrina Brenham and Davante Peters who both unsuccessfully ran against him in 2021.

Dallas ISD Place 6 – Trustee Joyce Foreman is seeking her 4th term to serve the school district and is challenged by Stephen Poole.

JARVIS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY OFFERS

SCHOLARSHIPS TO DALLAS CITY, COUNTY, AND OTHER GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

can receive a $1,500 Opportunity Scholarship per semester to pursue their bachelor’s degree. To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:

• have a 2.0 or higher gradepoint-average to transfer in to JCU

• have 45-50 transferrable credit hours (or a completed associate degree)

• register for full-time status

• maintain a 2.0 or higher grade-pointaverage while attending JCU

• be 21 years of age or older

(Hawkins, Texas)—Jarvis

Christian University (JCU) is offering Dallas city, county and other government employees Opportunity Scholarships to complete their undergraduate degrees in business administration and criminal justice. The classes will be held at the university’s Dallas Teaching Site, 7222 South Westmoreland, Suite 250. Students who qualify can receive a $1,000 Opportunity Scholarship per semester toward their associate degree and students with an associate degree

JCU also offers students a $250 Jarvis Promise Tuition Reduction Grant for each semester that students take and pass 15 semester credit hours with at least a C letter grade.

“Our theme at Jarvis this year is ‘Transformation: Pivoting from Excellence to Preeminence,’ and we want Dallas’s city, county, and other government employees to be part of this transformation,” said Dr. Lester C. Newman, JCU President.

For more information, call JCU—Dallas Site at (972) 6689624 or email the Dallas Site Director, Ms. Mavonee Jeffries at mjeffries@jarvis.edu.