Elite Newspaper 3-30-23

DEVOTED TO THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!

TELLING IT LIKE IT IS!

Modifying an Unworkable Situation with Miles

D. Peterson on page 5.

Legacy Mail & Shipping: A New Business Brings Convenience, Community, and Diversity to Oak Cliff. Learn more on page 3.

Jonathan Majors defense attorney denies assault allegations, saying he’s ‘provably the victim’

Own a Piece of Dallas History. Find out more on page 10 with Alice Jacobs Johnson.

At 17 years old, Cory Nieves runs successful cookie business ‘Mr. Cory’s Cookies’ by Wendy Medina. See more on page 6.

For Your Health with Debra Blair Abron- “I’m No Doctor Or A Dietician’ But What I Learn I Will Share.”

What Are the Causes of Lung Cancer?

By Julie Lynn Marks

Read more on page 12

“My Truth” Black Press Love

By Cheryl Smith

Publisher of I Messenger Media

Becca Wood.

By

See more on page 3.

Message from Rep. Jones. Read more on district highlights and more on page 4.

Texas Metro News. Read more on page 7.

Be our guest and watch on “Assignment” Network with Debra Blair Abron at The Roundtable every Tuesday from 12- 1 PM on Youtube and Facebook. We are all on “Assignment.” In honor of building communities, bridging the gap, working together, generational wealth, and wisdom; through scripture. “The best example is to be the example!” Subscribe!

“The Spoken Word Is Like the Air, but the Printed Word Is Always There.” Watch INSPIRE Podcast 210 every Thursday at 11 AM and follow them on social media platforms @MHORSC. Subscribe!

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President Debra Blair Abron

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Legacy Mail & Shipping: A New Business Brings Convenience, Community, and Diversity to Oak Cliff

packaging, printing, notary public, USPS and FedEx. They also offer various products such as office supplies, packing and shipping supplies, greeting cards, and gift ideas. Maddox, a longtime resident of Oak Cliff, had a vision to create a space that could serve the needs of the community. Hamilton was the first person to invest in Maddox's idea and join her as a partner in the business. Together, they have created a space that caters to the needs of the people in the area.

According to Maddox, the inspiration for this venture arose from a desire to create a space where customers could readily access a wide range of services, and where the community could gather, connect, and collaborate.

“We wanted to create a space where people could come in, feel welcome, and get all their mailing, shipping, and office needs taken care of. We also wanted to provide a space where the community could connect and share ideas,” says Maddox. One of the unique features of Legacy Mail and Shipping is its commitment to diversity. As a Black-Owned and WomanOwned establishment, the store also offers ethnic greeting cards that celebrate culture and occasions. They also have gift ideas that reflect the diversity of the community.

provide support and resources. “We want to be more than just a mailbox store. We want to be a space that contributes to the community’s growth and development,” says Maddox. Maddox and Hamilton have deep roots in the Oak Cliff community, with two children who are current students and two graduates of neighborhood schools. This personal connection further underscores their commitment to making Legacy Mail and Shipping an integral part of the community.

To celebrate the opening of Legacy Mail and Shipping, Maddox and Hamilton are offering a special promotion for new mailbox rentals for the month of April: mailboxes are only $10 a month, or $99 for a year if paid in full, which is a great deal compared to $388 a year at competitors.

As a small, locally-owned business, Legacy Mail and Shipping is an important addition to the Oak Cliff community. Maddox and Hamilton’s commitment to diversity and community engagement, combined with their focus on providing convenient and affordable services, make them a valuable resource for residents and businesses alike.

Jonathan Majors defense attorney denies assault allegations, saying he’s 'provably the victim'

By Becca Wood

In the wake of the allegations, the U.S. Army pulled its recruiting ad campaign that featured Majors.

His legal team states that the aforementioned evidence will prove Majors’ innocence and show that he did not assault the women, who has only been identified thus far as a 30-year-old.

Majors was arrested Saturday morning at around 11:14 a.m. when police responded to a 911 call at a location in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Officials say a woman alleged that she had been assaulted by Majors in what police are calling a “domestic dispute.” The New York Police Department said Majors was taken into custody based on allegations of strangulation, assault and harassment.

Following an arrest for domestic violence allegations on Saturday, March 25, representatives for Jonathan Majors say the “Creed III” actor is “completely innocent.”

In a statement to TODAY.com from Majors’ legal team released Sunday, March 26, attorney Priya Chaudhry said the 33-year-old is “provably the victim of an altercation with a woman he knows.”

Former Dallas pastor’s daughter among children killed in Nashville school shooting

BY AMY MCDANIEL

Tiffanie Maddox, founder and entrepreneur, along with her partner Patrick Hamilton, recently opened a new mailbox store in Oak Cliff. Legacy Mail and Shipping is a full-service establishment that offers an array of services including mailbox rentals, shipping and

“We want everyone who walks into our store to feel represented and included. We know that Oak Cliff is a diverse neighborhood, and we want to celebrate that diversity,” says Hamilton. Another key focus for Maddox and Hamilton is community engagement. They are working on building relationships with local schools, businesses and non-profit organizations to

If you’re in the Oak Cliff area, be sure to stop by Legacy Mail and Shipping and take advantage of their special promotion. With their dedication to customer service, community, and diversity, Maddox and Hamilton are sure to make a lasting impact in the area.

Legacy Mail and Shipping

4787 Vista Wood Boulevard

Suite 170

Dallas, Texas 75232

“We are quickly gathering and presenting evidence to the District Attorney with the expectation that all charges will be dropped imminently,” the statement continued. “This evidence includes video footage from the vehicle where this episode took place, witness testimony from the driver and others who both saw and heard the episode, and most importantly, two written statements from the woman recanting these allegations.”

Chad Scruggs and daughter Hallie in an undated Facebook photo. Facebook/ Chad Scruggs

One of the three children killed in a shooting Monday at The Covenant School in Nashville was the 9-year-old daughter of a former Dallas pastor.

Continued on page 4

Former Dallas pastor’s daughter among children killed in Nashville school shooting (CONTINUED)

BY AMY MCDANIEL

In a statement on its website, Park Cities Presbyterian Church in Dallas said that Chad Scruggs, current lead pastor at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Nashville, served for several years as associate pastor at the Dallas church.

His daughter Hallie Scruggs was identified as one of the Nashville shooting victims, along with two other 9-year-olds, Evelyn Dieckhaus and William Kinney. Three adults — substitute teacher Cynthia Peak, 61; head of school Katherine Koonce, 60; and custodian Mike Hill, 61 — also were killed by the shooter. The suspect, identified as 28-year-old former student Audrey Hale, was fatally shot by police.

The Park Cities Presbyterian Church “family is incredibly saddened by the unimaginable tragedy today at Covenant Presbyterian School in Nashville,” the Dallas church said in a statement.

Covenant Presbyterian Church is a sister church of Park Cities Presbyterian and “many of our members have deep friendships and family connections there,” the statement said. “We weep deeply for the unimaginable sorrow that our friends at Covenant Presbyterian Church and School are suffering and will continue to suffer,” Park Cities Associate Pastor Paul Goebel said. “As brothers and sisters in Christ, we will suffer alongside our friends and grieve together, but not as those without the hope of Jesus.”

Debra’s Bits and Pieces Taste and Tell!

At noon Tuesday, Park Cities will hold a time of prayer in its sanctuary, at 4124 Oak Lawn Ave., for Covenant Presbyterian Church in Nashville. Child care will be available. “We love the Scruggs family and mourn with them over their precious daughter Hallie,” Park Cities Senior Pastor Mark Davis said. “Together, we trust in the power of Christ to draw near and give us the comfort and hope we desperately need.”

Message from Rep. Jones

I'm excited to share that I have my first public hearing on HB 2055 scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, 2023. This is the first of several hearings I expect for my bills in the House. These hearings are a vital part of moving legislation out of the House and onto the Governor's desk to be signed. I look forward to working with my colleagues on passing meaningful legislation.

Yours In Service, Venton C.

Jones Jr. State Representative House

District 100

Capitol Highlights

Halfway through the Legislative Session

There’s less than 70 days left for the 88th Legislative Session. We’ll be hearing our first House Floor Calendar this week, which means I’ll get to

vote on bills that were voted out of other committees. These House Floor Calendars will get longer and longer as the weeks go on. May 12th is the last day we can vote out bills on 2nd reading and essentially the last day we can pass bills out from the House.

• I spoke at Equality Day to a crowd of diverse Texans visiting the Capitol. As we continuously see attacks on LGBTQ+ Texans, we know that speaking up against this hateful rhetoric is increasingly important.

• Speaker Phelan allowed me to close out the House Floor on March 20th.

• The Texas Realtors had a wonderful showing during their day at the Capitol.

• Members of the House LGBTQ+ Caucus outside of the House Gallery.

• My Alma Mater had their UT-Arlington day at the Capitol. I was honored to briefly stop by with my colleagues Rep. Chris Turner and Rep. Salman Bhojani.

• I had some special visitors in the office from Solar Preparatory School for Girls, including my beautiful niece.

• Members participated in the House Member Football Game in College Station. Unfortunately, the Freshman were beat by the Senior Members, but we all had a great time.

District Highlights

• I was honored to present a resolution honoring the grand re-opening of the Kathlyn Joy Gilliam Museum.

• Proud to attend AIDS

Walk South Dallas and bring more awareness about HIV/AIDS in our community.

• T.R. Hoover CDC & the Dallas Police did an outstanding job hosting the “Me First” Health and Wellness Fair.

• Thank you to the Beckley Club Estates HOA for allowing me to give an update on the 88th Legislative Session.

Legislative Agenda

My authored bills had some movement this week and I signed onto new bills. Take a look here!

AUTHORED BILL MOVEMENT

• HB 2055 - Relating to the repeal of the criminal offense of homosexual conduct.

• Scheduled for a Public Hearing on March 28, 2023

• HB 2235 - Relating to HIV and AIDS tests.

• Scheduled for a Public Hearing on April 3, 2023

• HB 3377 - Relating to HIV and AIDS tests.

• Scheduled for a Public Hearing on April 3, 2023

• HB 4019 - Relating to inquiries into the criminal and disciplinary history of an applicant for undergraduate admission to a public institution of

Continued on page 5

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Message from Rep. Jones (CONTINUED)

higher education.

• Referred to Higher Education on March 20, 2023

• HB 4286 - Relating to the qualifications and term of the presiding officer of the Texas Funeral Service Commission.

• Referred to Public Health on March 21, 2023

REINVESTING IN ECONOMIC GROWTH & COMMUNITY STABILITY

• HB 2681(Frazier) -

Relating to the authority of a fire department to remove certain personal property from a roadway or rightof-way.

• HJR 75 (Raney)Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding certain organizational and procedural matters related to the legislature.

IMPROVING HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND INEQUALITIES

• HB 568 (Bowers)Relating to education and training for peace officers on interacting with persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

• HB 617 (Darby) - Relating to a pilot project to provide emergency telemedicine medical services and telehealth services in rural areas.

• HB 1106 (Goodwin)Relating to the training of and the provision of acupuncture services by an acudetox specialist.

• HB 3976 (Orr) - Relating to the establishment of the

Texas Women’s Health Care Consortium.

INCREASING SUPPORT FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION

• HB 8 (VanDeaver)

- Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.

EQUALITY FOR ALL TEXANS

• HB 2580 (Dutton)Relating to establishing a state historical marker program to honor African Americans who served in the Texas Legislature during Reconstruction.

• HB 3160 (Moody)Relating to the repeal of the offense of homosexual conduct.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

• HB 965 (Allen) - Relating to post release housing for inmates released on parole or to mandatory supervision

• HB 1502 (Plesa) - Relating to required training regarding trauma-informed care for certain judges and attorneys.

• HB 2229 (Goodwin)Relating to the notice given to certain victims of family violence.

• HB 2950 (Byant)Relating to the temperature at which certain facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice are maintained.

• HB 3256 (Manuel)Relating to conditions of release on bond for a

felony offense involving family violence.

Holidays & Observances

• Congratulations on the opening of the Kathlyn Joy Gilliam Museum.

Recipe of the Week: Protein Taco Casserole

oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4

Add the water and the taco seasoning to the beef and bring it to a boil.

Step 5

Simmer the beef mixture until it thickens, about 2-5 minutes.

Step 6

Transfer the beef mixture to a 9x13inch baking dish.

Step 7

Add the diced peppers, the onions, and the diced tomatoes with green chilies to the beef mixture and stir to combine.

Step 8

Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the beef mixture.

Step 9

Bake the casserole until it is hot and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes.

Modifying an Unworkable Situation

Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

If you're really, really hungry then Protein Taco Casserole is what you need. And once you taste the juicy beef, topped with tender veggies and melty cheese, with all your favorite Tex-Mex toppings right on top, it'll be the bake you really want, too. So get ready to be really, really full thanks to Protein Taco Casserole!

Ingredients

***For the casserole:***

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 3/4 cup water

• 1/4 cup taco seasoning

• 2 large bell peppers, diced

• 1/4 large onion, diced

• 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• ***Toppings:***

• iceberg lettuce, to taste, shredded

• fresh tomatoes, to taste, chopped

• avocados, to taste, cubed

• fresh cilantro, to taste, chopped

• sour cream, to taste

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the avocado

Step 10

Serve the casserole with the lettuce, the fresh tomatoes, the avocados, the cilantro, and the sour cream.

Let’s say, hypothetically, you’ve gone through a divorce. The judge grants your ex-spouse primary possession of the kids, grants you standard possession, and orders you to pay $1,000 a month in child support. But what do you do when this situation is no longer workable? What do you do when your ex-spouse begins neglecting the children or your employment changes and you can no longer afford the $1,000 monthly payment? The answer,

Continued on page 6

Modifying an Unworkable Situation (CONTINUED)

file a modification.

A modification does what it suggests. It allows you to go back before the court and request that the judge change a part or all of the controlling order. There are several reasons to bring a modification in a suit affecting the parent child relationship. However, no matter the reason, in order to be successful, you must show that there has been a material and substantial change in the circumstances of either the children or the parents involved. You must then show that the modification you are requesting is in the best interest of the children.

The next question is, what counts as a material and substantial change in circumstances?

Fortunately, Texas courts have construed the definition broadly. For example, if you were to lose your primary source of income, that would substantially effect your ability to pay child support. If your ex-spouse gets remarried and the new step-parent starts to physically abuse your children, that would substantially effect their wellbeing enough to warrant a modification. Even something as simple as your former employment didn’t allow you to have overnight possession of your children, but your new employment does would be substantial enough to request a modification.

In general you will need to wait at least a year before attempting to file a modification. However, should there be a compelling reason to file a modification, you should do so. If the judge decides it is substantial enough, you will be granted a hearing on the matter. However, do not file a modification that is meritless and intended just to make life hard for your ex-spouse. If the

judge determines that you filed a frivolous motion you will likely be punished and ordered to pay the other parties attorney’s fees.

AT 17 YEARS OLD, CORY NIEVES RUNS SUCCESSFUL COOKIE BUSINESS ‘MR. CORY’S COOKIES’

By Wendy Medina

by dedication, expanded his business and began to sell lemonade and cookies in addition to the hot chocolate. The pair even learned the ins and outs of baking, and soon began testing original cookie recipes.

“While this all started out as a way for a son to help his mom, it’s become so much bigger. I know it’s hard for the fatherless kids out there, but he has a drive and a tenacity that prevents him from giving up. He keeps pushing through the ups and the downs. When I see my son, I see myself,” Howard said in an interview with AfroTech.

Seventeen-year-old entrepreneur Cory Nieves sits at the head of Mr. Cory’s Cookies, an all-natural and high-quality cookie store that has been nothing but lucrative. Mr. Cory’s Cookies offers original recipe cookies like the Double Dark, Oatmeal Raisin, Sugar, and more soon to come.

The Harlem native founded the cookie consortium when he was just 6 years old, after complaining to his mom, Lisa Howard, that he was tired of taking the bus to school and wanted to buy a car instead, according to their website.

That prompted Nieves to sell hot cocoa in the town of Englewood in order to raise the funds for securing a new car for his mom.

Soon releasing his entrepreneurial passion while creating the business, Howard inspired him to continue the hot cocoa sales for a college fund. Nieves, fueled

“WE STARTED MAKING COOKIES OUT OF OUR HOME, BUT WE OF COURSE HAD TO MAKE SURE WE WERE COMPLYING WITH HEALTH REGULATIONS. WE THEN LEVELED UP AND SECURED A COMMERCIAL KITCHEN AND NOW WE MASSPRODUCE OUR PRODUCT NATIONWIDE,” NIEVES SHARED.

Mr. Cory’s Cookies has seen success on the shelves of Aetna, Barney’s, Bloomingdales, Citibank, J. Crew, Macy’s, Mercedes-Benz, Pottery Barn, Ralph Lauren, TOMS, Viacom, Whole Foods, Williams-Sonoma and most recently have partnered with Marcus Lemonis.

“When people see us on TV or read about us in magazines or on social media, they only see one side and assume we’re just a happy parent-and-sonteam and everything is easy,”

Continued on page 7

One sharp cookie is basking in the sweetness of success.

AT 17 YEARS OLD, CORY NIEVES RUNS SUCCESSFUL COOKIE BUSINESS ‘MR. CORY’S COOKIES’ (CONTINUED)

Howard said. “But I am here to tell you that’s just not true, especially when your son is a celebrity who’s also a teen! At the end of the day, I wouldn’t change things for the world. We keep pushing, keep dreaming, keep building, and keep doing — no matter what. That’s the only way I know how to keep our enterprise going strong.”

The young cookie mogul hopes to go to college and become an investor.

By Cheryl Smith Publisher of I Messenger Media

Texas Metro News

Note: As we celebrate the 196th anniversary of the Black Press, I am taking this opportunity to share most of my remarks from the 2022 National Association of Black Journalists Convention when I was inducted into the Hall of Fame. I love the Black Press and I am proud that it is part of my legacy.

Thanks NABJ family. To god and to God be the glory. To my Soror Valerie Fields Hill, my sis Eva Coleman and esteemed NABJ founder Norma Adams Wade, thanks for nominating me.

To this Hall of Fame Class, you’re

the best. Sarah Glover, The mark of a true leader is the ability to recognize, cultivate, uplift and encourage others. Thanks for seeing that I had so much more to give. Our founders wanted us to embrace every member no matter the age.

I joined NABJ as a junior at Florida A&M University. DFWABC’s Dallas Mafia later embraced me. Now after more than 30 years of service with 10 on the national board, I stand before you feeling kinda special. I thank Joseph and Earline. Just look what Black Love produced! My God parents Charles and Liz Braswell were always Team Cheryl.

I’m from East Orange NJ, by way of Newark. I grew up loving James Brown. The library was my place of refuge and respite as I read Nikki Giovanni, Dr. Maya Angelou and Iceberg Slim.

Jim Washington at the Dallas Weekly gave me a chance and others followed. Teaching at Paul Quinn College and managing DFWABJ’s Urban Journalism Workshop helped make me better. With resources from my foundation, more than $250,000 in scholarships, internships and fellowships also helped send students to NABJ conventions.

I wish Arthur Teele who gave me my first job at The Capital Outlook; Chuck Smith who introduced me to radio at Soul 73 KKDA or my friends Dick Gregory, George Curry, Pius Njawe or Lawrence Young could be here today. Mentors, mentees and their families, the FAMUly, The Warriors, my Godbrother Richard Moore in Ghana, HBCUs, Melanie Burney - who had me carrying her pink and green bag around the NABJ convention, praying loved ones, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Divine 9 all greatly enriched my life.

Yes — Coleman Love is Strong!

Just ask Stewart Curet — who is my fire and desire! Congrats to mi Hermana, SPJ president and NAHJ Hall of Famer Rebecca

Aguilar. I’m proud to have my line sister here. Elusive Ladies Spring 78. We’re the BADST. Thanks to others who traveled to be here and those who are watching on line. The oldest of my three live crew plus one: my heart, Air Force Sgt. Andre, is here with his wife, Emma.

Many here helped me raise my sister’s four children - that includes Alayna, Annya and Ayanna. You all are my family, why I do what I do. Garry Howard you always have my back. I can’t stop won’t stop. You see, I chose the Black Press. I chose to go to FAMU, I chose to walk this journey and have never wanted to walk it back. I am Black. I am Black-ish and I can get Blackity Black as I tell the stories of my people, and elevate the worlds’ muted voices, like Brittney Griner’s.

Thanks to those at the Dallas Morning News who said, “let’s do great journalism together' and I’m excited about The Black News Link and our future. This year the Black Press celebrates 195 years, thanks National Newspaper Publishers Association and all Black media for being that VOICE, even when those we are speaking for sometimes don’t realize that all ice is 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Speaking truth to power is what I do. The Black Press is here for you. If it is not what you want or need, use what you got to help it become better. Don’t tear it down. I close paraphrasing a message from my friend and creative genius, Chuck D of Public Enemy, “People will tear you down and try to break your spirit. Faith and fear can’t occupy the same space. Be the leader you are looking for and Whoever you are, Wherever you go and Whatever you do—Don’t Believe the Hype!”

Cheryl Smith is the owner, Publisher and Editor of I Messenger Media LLC the umbrella for Texas Metro News, Garland Journal, and I Messenger digital magazine. Email her at www.penonfire2@gmail.com

“My Truth” Black Press Love

On the Town with Elite News

Reflections of the F.D. Roosevelt HS Reunion at Big L park

This was really great, thank you Gary Jefferson and Peggy Edwards VELT Mustangs!!!

Thursday, April 6, 2023 5:30 – 8 PM

As the need has grown, so has our ER.

Methodist Charlton Medical Center knows that being a good neighbor is seeing a need and meeting it. That’s why we expanded one of the area’s most important emergency departments to 40,000 square feet, with more beds and trauma rooms, new imaging equipment, and more. Being there when our friends and neighbors need us most. That’s community and why so many people Trust Methodist.

Learn

Own a Piece of Dallas History

right direction.

You don’t see unity like this very often in America these days, but when you do, you better believe it is because of solid leadership. And that’s what Dallas has in my son and its 60th mayor — a true leader.

Thank you again for supporting Eric as he continues to lead our great city.

Dallas. Multi-hyphenated in this context, he explained, summarizes the various artistic titles he possesses that includespainter, filmmaker, photographer and videographer. Most galleries and museums don’t do a good enough job to make people feel welcome, Biggers said.

Hello Friend,

I hope you are having a wonderful week. I want to let you know about an opportunity this Saturday to spend some one-on-one time with my son and our mayor, Eric Johnson.

I also want to thank you, Friend: thank you for electing Eric to be our mayor back in 2019, and thank you for making sure Eric will remain our mayor for another term.

Because of you, Eric is the first person to run unopposed for Mayor of Dallas since 1967.

I remember 1967 vividly. I was only 21 years old, and Dallas was a very different city. I grew up in racially segregated federal housing projects in West Dallas and had graduated from one of Dallas ISD’s racially segregated high schools just a few years prior. I can still remember a man named Martin Luther King Jr. speaking to us back then about a world he envisioned where we would all be united by our common values and humanity, and not be divided by race.

Now fast forward to 2023: my son — the first African American born and raised in Dallas to serve as its mayor — has a nearly 80% approval rating and the city that he leads is believed to be headed in the right direction by a solid majority of its voters.

But here’s the most amazing thing I recently learned — Dallas is more unified behind Eric’s leadership than ever. Recent polling shows that Eric’s approval rating is equally high across all racial groups and geographic areas in our city. Polling also shows that people of all races and in every part of our city equally believe that Dallas is headed in the

In addition to saying thanks, I wanted to invite you to visit with Eric at his “Meet the Mayor” event this coming Saturday, April 1 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 8366 Santa Clara Drive in East Dallas. The first 500 people to arrive will receive one of the last remaining “Eric Johnson for Dallas Mayor” campaign yard signs, free of charge (limit of one per household). So come on out, pick up a yard sign, and celebrate my youngest son and our 60th mayor!

I hope to see you there!

Warmest regards, Alice

Jacobs Johnson

Is art elitist?

Dallas-based artist strives to change the narrative around art

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Staff

“They make it seem like you have to be aristocratic or rich or an artist yourself to be able to go in and enjoy those spaces,” he said. “Being able to bring high-end art to regular people [through murals] that they can walk up to, they can get as close to it as they want, they can touch it if they want to, there was definitely an appeal there for me.” Having been raised in South Dallas where there was very little public art and barely any murals, the thought of paintings around the neighborhood intrigued him, Biggers said, adding that he still continues to enjoy those forms of art.

Seeing artwork around your neighborhood and being able to interact with it during your commute help build a relationship with the artwork and make people take ownership of the piece, he said. “It kind of democratizes the art a little bit more so than galleries and museums do,” Biggers said. Even though Biggers wanted to scale his pieces to larger frames, his first mural experience was one that fell onto him unexpectedly.

Galleries are often stuffy and can be perceived as elitist and inaccessible to the common man, according to artist Jeremy Biggers. Biggers is a “multihyphenated” artist based in

“It was a miscommunication,” he said. The gallery gave him a curved wall to exhibit his work which made it impossible for him to hang his pieces. He said he did not want to lose the wall space as it was already small. So, he painted a mural of one of his smaller pieces. “I've always had the itch to go bigger with my work to have that problem be presented,” Biggers said. “I finally figured out that that was

Continued on page 11

Continued on page 7

Is art elitist?

Dallas-based artist strives to change the narrative around art

By Ayesha Hana Shaji

Texas Metro News Staff (CONTINUED)

they are located, he is helping to bridge the gap between the art world and the common man. Through his work, he powerfully communicates art is not just for a select few, but for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. “If we just changed the lens in which we looked at what we considered art, I think a lot more people will be open to [the idea] that art is not this thing that’s only for rich people or the people that can ‘afford,’” Biggers said.

Photo Credit: https:// jeremybiggers.com/

Ayesha Hana Shaji is a 2022 graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, where she was on The Shorthorn staff. Email: www.ayeshahshaji@ gmail.com

and Voting Rights Act passed in Congress. Some historians speculate that of all the vile and vicious attacks by the Klan and other supremacist militias, killing these young girls was the most disgusting, but paid the highest dividends.

Some of the Civil rights activists of that day placed the blame squarely on Alabama's Governor, George Wallace. Just one week before the bombing, Wallace either brazenly declared or properly prophesied these murders. The Governor of Alabama and the chief spokesperson for “states’ rights told the New York Times that to stop integration, Alabama needed a "few firstclass funerals."

the moment that I was going to make it happen.” The process of figuring out how to execute and the reaction of people when they saw his work on such a large scale set him up to fall in love with murals, he said.

However, he believes society continues to shift to a more minimalist and simple concept, shifting the aesthetic from colorful and vibrant to beige and boring. “Dallas goes out of its way sometimes to paint over murals just to paint the creamcolored wall for whatever reason, like I don't know why,” Biggers said. “We love this sandy dusty brown color everywhere.” A lot of folks equate public art as tags they see under the bridges or shutdown buildings, he said. People in Texas don't value it and want to feel “safe.”

But it’s time to change that narrative. Art is not a luxury, he said. Be it the chair you’re sitting on or the car you’re driving or the phone you’re holding, it’s all art. By bringing his art out into the open and creating pieces that reflect the communities where

Quit Playin’

It’s Tick-Tock Dummy!

By Vincent L. Hall Texas Metro News

There is no doubt that Wallace wanted a “King funeral," but he had to settle with the deaths of four little princesses studying to become queens. According to a Washington Post story the next day, "Thousands of hysterical Negroes poured into the area around the church, and police fought for two hours, firing rifles into the air to control them. When the crowd broke up, scattered shootings and stoning’s erupted through the city.”

Birmingham Police killed two Negro teens, Johnny Robinson and Virgil Ware, 16 and 13, respectively. Robert Chambliss, a card-carrying cadet of the Ku Klux Klan, was identified as the church bomber. A witness alleged that he placed 19 sticks of dynamite under the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church's steps. Chambliss was arrested and charged with murder and the possession of 122 sticks of dynamite without a permit.

Sunday, September 15, 1963, was just another day in the life of four little African American girls at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL. However, by 10:22 a.m. that day, it became evident that there was a different subject on the Sunday School syllabus. The history of American apartheid and disenfranchisement was the theme!

The Congressional court summoned by the late John F. Kennedy and led by President Lyndon Johnson was solidly in deference to many Southerners. The Civil Rights Bill

Nevertheless, on October 8, 1963, Chambliss, aka "Dynamite Bob," was found not guilty of murder. Instead, he received a hundreddollar fine and a six-month jail sentence for having the dynamite. The church bombing and this blatant betrayal of the law marked a turning point in the civil rights movement. White Northerners were incensed. They had witnessed the peaceful assembly of 250,000 protesters two weeks earlier.

Continued on page 13

What Are the Causes of Lung Cancer?

By Julie Lynn Marks

Medically Reviewed by

Conor Steuer, MD

Both environmental factors and genes play a role.

Secondhand smoke causes more than 7,300 deaths among nonsmokers in the United States every year. (4)

Radon

Exposure to radon, a natural, invisible gas that can get trapped in buildings, is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that about 10 percent of all lung cancer cases are caused by radon, leading to about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year.

of lung cancer cases are caused by outdoor air pollution. Common culprits for air pollution include diesel truck exhaust, coal-fired power plants, and wood smoke. (7)

Other Causes

Other potential causes of lung cancer include:

• Radiation Therapy to the Chest Radiation to the chest area as a treatment for certain cancers may cause lung cancer.

cause many cases of lung cancer, but they do play a role in some. For instance, individuals who inherit certain mutations on chromosome 6 are more likely to develop lung cancer, even if they don’t smoke.

Additionally, some people inherit defective DNA repair enzymes that make them more sensitive to chemicals that cause cancer.

Doctors are working on developing specific tests that can identify

Continued on page 13

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Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, followed by radon exposure. Shutterstock

Lung cancer involves the out-ofcontrol growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the bronchi (tubes that move air in and out of the lungs) and other parts of the lungs. (1)

Researchers have identified harmful substances (carcinogens) that can cause cell damage and lead to lung cancer. Genes may also play a role.

Knowing the causes of lung cancer can help you take appropriate steps to minimize risk factors and recognize symptoms.

Lung Cancer Causes in Smokers vs. Nonsmokers

Smoking is the No. 1 risk factor for lung cancer, contributing to 80 percent of lung cancer deaths in women and 90 percent of lung cancer deaths in men. (2) Cigar and pipe smoking are almost as likely to cause cancer as cigarette smoking. (3)

While tobacco smoke is the top cause of lung cancer, not everyone who smokes will develop the disease.

Secondhand smoke, or smoke that’s breathed in from someone else’s cigarette, cigar, or pipe, can also lead to lung cancer.

The agency also estimates that nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the United States has dangerous levels of radon.

You can test your home with a simple, inexpensive kit to see if radon levels are too high. (5,11)

Asbestos

Asbestos is a material used for insulation in construction. When fibers of asbestos break off, they can become airborne and dangerous to inhale, causing scarring and inflammation in the lungs as they accumulate.

Exposure to asbestos raises your risk of lung cancer as well as mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer that starts in the pleura — the lining surrounding the lungs.

Many studies have shown that the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure is particularly hazardous.

While asbestos was once commonplace, many countries, including the United States, have greatly reduced its use. (6)

Air Pollution

Particle pollution (a mix of tiny solid and liquid particles in the air) can cause lung cancer.

Between 1 percent and 2 percent

• Other Chemicals Exposure to several other substances has been linked to the development of lung cancer. Some of these include arsenic (in drinking water), chromium, and some forms of silica. (8)

Marijuana

There’s no evidence that smoking marijuana raises lung cancer risk, but there’s reason to believe it may. Marijuana smoke contains tar and several other cancer-causing substances that are found in tobacco smoke.

Since marijuana is illegal in many places in the United States, researchers face challenges in studying its health effects.

And since studies of lung cancer and marijuana have often found that many marijuana smokers also smoke cigarettes, it’s hard to know how much each contributes to lung cancer risk. (3)

A Swedish study that followed nearly 50,000 men over a 40year period found a link between marijuana use and lung cancer. Heavy marijuana smokers — those who reported smoking more than 50 times in their life — were twice as likely to get lung cancer as those who didn’t smoke marijuana. (9)

Inherited Gene Changes

Some people inherit certain gene mutations — or changes in their DNA — that can raise their risk of developing cancer.

These gene changes alone don’t

For Your Health with Debra Blair Abron- “I’m No Doctor Or A Dietician’ But What I Learn I Will Share.”

What Are the Causes of Lung Cancer?

By Julie Lynn Marks

Medically Reviewed by Conor Steuer, MD (CONTINUED)

people who have these gene defects.

(3)

Acquired Gene Changes

More often, gene mutations that impact lung cancer are “acquired,” rather than inherited. This means that the defect develops during your lifetime.

These acquired mutations often occur because of exposure to cancer-causing substances, such as tobacco smoke.

But some gene changes happen without a known cause and may just be random events.

Everyone develops mutations in cells during the course of their lives, but toxic exposures cause more of those mutations, increasing the risk of acquiring a mutation that lead to cancer.

Gene mutations may also make some lung cancers more aggressive.

(3)

Causes in Men vs. Women

Historically, rates of lung cancer have always been higher in men than women. But a study from 2018 found that rates of lung cancer are now higher in women than men among white and Hispanic people born since 1965.

For instance, rates of lung cancer among white women ages 40 to 44 went from 12 percent lower than men during the 1995–1999 period to 17 percent higher during the 2010–2014 period.

More studies are needed to understand the cause, but the researchers speculate that women may be more susceptible to the health hazards of smoking than men, or are more likely than men to get lung cancer even after quitting.

(10)

Quit Playin’ It’s Tick-Tock Dummy!

By Vincent L. Hall Texas Metro News

(CONTINUED)

The March on Washington, spearheaded by Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream," offered an opportunity. Instead, the church bombing served as a pointed example of the racism and hatred King denounced. In 14 days, America went from hopeful to dreadful. The nation moved from a "new morning" to needless mourning. In November 1977, Chambliss was tried again for the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church bombing. At 73, Chambliss was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. Chambliss died in an Alabama prison on October 29, 1985.

But the lives of the four little girls should never die. These martyrs would never know they were destined for eternal fame. 60 years ago. It belittles and besmirches their legacy that African Americans must be courted and coaxed to go to the polls. After the deaths of 14-yearolds Cynthia Wesley, Carole

Robertson, Adie Mae Collins, and 11-year-old Denise McNair, we should always be the first to arrive and the last to leave whenever a ballot is available.

George Wallace's push for White Supremacy and segregation seemed defeated in 1963. Or was it? America's public schools are more segregated today than in some regions before Brown v. Board. Dallas ranks last in the nation when it comes to economic inclusion. The GOP and the fragments of the movement left in the post Trump era are grinding their weapons in Red State Legislatures to hold on to the spirit of George Wallace without ever mentioning his name.

If he were alive today, he could dust off his 1963 speeches and leave presidential hopefuls Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis in the dust. For the sake and in respect to the innocent lives of four little girls whose frames were tossed onto America's fiery grill of racism, you have to take a stand. You need to vote intelligently, which requires you to do more than text, tweet, or TikTok. BTW, that's why they call it tick-tock dummy…Your time for fun and games is up Negro.

Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and an award-winning columnist.

Senator Royce West Councilmember Casey Thomas, II Fmr. Councilmember Vonciel Jones Hill

Community Leader Edna Pemberton

Community Leader Anga Sanders

ZARIN GRACEY CAMPAIGN.

Economic Development Public Safety Local & Small Businesses Quality of Life

SAN ANTONIO OKLAHOMA

Ministry House of Restoration San Antonio Church

1729 E. Houston St

San Antonio, Texas 78202

(210)375-4176

www.mhorsc.com

St. Phillips Missionary Baptist Church

6000 Singing Hills Dr. Dallas, TX 75241 (214)374-6631

Morning Worship

8:00AM & 10:15AM Sunday School 9:00AM Lords Supper 1st Sunday 6:00PM Pastor Rev C.J.R. Phillips

New Mount Zion Baptist Church

550 Shepherd Rd , Dallas, TX 75243 (214)341-6459

Intercessory Prayer Wednesday

6:16PM – 7:15PM

Bible Study Every Wednesday 7:00PM – 8:00PM Pastor Rev. Tommy Brown

Surviving The Times

Service Times:

Sundays: 11:00AM Thursday Bible Study: 7PM

Come Worship with Us

556 Rancho Canyon Haslett, Texas 76052

Tel-Star Baptist Church

Sunday School:9:30 AM

Sunday Worship: 10:30AM

Bible Study-1st and 3rd

Wednesday's

Rev. Mark A. Proctor / Pastor

2515 S. Denley Drive Dallas, TX 75216

Saved By Grace Restoration Ministries

1700 NW 7th Street

Oklahoma City, OK 405 537 1061

Sunday Morning Prayer 10:00 AM Service 11:00 AM

Mon-Sat 7:00 AM

Bible Study

Monday Night 5:00PM - 6:00PM School of Ministry 6:00PM6:30PM

East Gate Missionary Baptist Church

6960 S. Polk St. Dallas, TX 75232 (214)371-2633

Sunday Worship:

David E. Wilson

7:30AM & 10:30AM

Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00PM & 7:00PM Pastor Rev. KennedyYoungJr.

Lighthouse Church of God in Christ

2127 S. Corinth St. Rd Dallas, TX 75203 (214)371-2421

Morning Worship: 11AM

www.lighthousecogic.com Superintendent Michael Clerkley, Sr

Cornerstone Baptist Church 1819 MLK Blvd Dallas, TX 75215 (214)426-5468

Sunday

Sunday School: 9:30AM Worship: 8:00AM & 11:00AM

Wednesday Bible Study 7:00PM Pastor Chris L. Simmons

Bexar Street Baptist Church

2018 S. Marsalis Ave Dallas, TX 75216 (214)943-3579

Sunday School: 9:30AM

Sunday Worship: 10:45AM

Bible Study

Wed: 7:15PM

Thursday 11:00AM Pastor TC Marshall

Concord Ministries Baptist Church

6808 Pastor Bailey Drive Dallas, TX (214)331-8522

Worship: 7:30AM - 9:15AM 11:00AM – 12:24AM

A. Charles

www.concorddallas.org Pastor Bryan Carter

PLEASANT GROVE

COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH

1655 N. JIM MILLER RD DALLAS TEXAS, 75217

SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9:45AM10:30AM

MORNING WORSHIP: 10:45AM -12:45PM

WEDNESDAY BTU: 7:00PM - 8:00PM

Community Baptist Church

One Church Two Location (972)230-4477

115 W. Beltline Rd, Desoto

Sunday: 7:30AM – 9:30AM

820 E. Wintergreen, Cedar Hill

Mark A. Proctor, Pastor

CHURCH MOTTO: THE BIBLE SAYS…,

First Lady Monica

Sunday School : 9:30AM

Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Pastor Rev Oscar D. Epps

Tabernacle of Praise

MBC

6925 Woofford Ave. Dallas, TX 75227 (214)275-4959

Sunday School: 8:30AM Worship:9:45AM

Wed. Praise and Prayer:6:15PM

Wed. Bible Study: 7:00PM Reverend Dr. A. E. SharpPastor

Rev.

Pastor Marc Blair, Sr. and First Lady Dicloria

Pastor George and

Sneed

Pastor

Pastor Azor Barnes

New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church

411 N. Hampton Rd. Desoto, TX (469)297-4771

Sunday Worship

Sunday School: 9:00 A.M.

Morning Worship: 10:30 A.M.

Wednesday

Mens & Women Ministry: 7:00 P.M.

Young Adults Ministry: 7:00 P.M.

Carver Height Baptist Church

2510 E.Ledbetter Rd, Dallas, TX 75216 (214)371-2024

Sunday Worship

Sunday School: 8:30 A.M.

Morning Worship: 9:30 A.M.

Wednesday: 7:00 P.M.

Marsalis Avenue Baptist Church

2723 S. Marsalis Avenue

Dallas, TX 75216

Ph: 214.943.6007

Church School: 9:00 A.M.

Morning Worship: 10:00 A.M.

Wednesday Prayer & Praise: 7:00 P.M.

Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church

1819 n. Washington Ave., Dallas, TX 75204

Phone : (214)823-7308

Fax : (214)823.9720

Sunday: 10AM

Sunday School: 9AM

Pastor Darrell W. Pryor Pastor Rev Daryl Carter

New Birth Missionary Baptist Church

444 West Ledbetter Dr. , Dallas, TX 75224 (214)374-0828

Early Risers Sunday School

7:15 AM

Morning Worship: 7:50AM

Sunday School: 9:30AM

Morning Worship: 10:30

Tuesday Night Bible Study

www.marsalisavenuebc.com

Terry White Pastor/Teacher

New El Bethel Baptist Church

2023 Mouser Ln Dallas, TX 75203

Sunday Service

9:30 AM – Church School

11:00 AM- Worship II Mountain Top Experience

Wednesday Services

12:00PM - Noonday Prayer

6:30M - Corporate Prayer

7:00PM -Bible Study

http://www.pilgrimrestdallas.org/ Pastor Carlos D. Williams

Greater Emmanuel Baptist Church

2110 E. Eleventh St. Dallas, TX 75203 (214)942-0218

Sunday Service

10:00AM

Wednesday Daytime Bible Study/Prayer: 11AM

Evening Bible Study/Prayer Dinner Served: 5:30 PM

Prayer: 6:30PM

Bible Study: 7PM Pastor Rev BurleyHudson

Friendship West Baptist Church

2110 E. 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Dallas, TX 75232 (972)228-5200

Sun Morning Services

8:00AM & 10:45AM

Wednesday Bible Study

Pastoral Bible Teaching Class Pastor Rev Micheal D. Pryor

7:00PM

New Leaf Family Church

1707 St. Augustine Dr. Dallas, TX 75217

**order of services**

Tues- 12 Noon & 7pm BibleStudy

Sunday School: 8am

Sunday Praise & Worship: 9:30am

St. Paul Baptist Church

1600 Pear Street Dallas, TX 75215

Phone: (214)421-3741

Fax: (214) 421-3926

Sunday School

9:30AM

Service Times

8:00am and 10:45 am

Greater Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church

1010 Bayonne St., Dallas, Tx (214)744-1677

Morning Glory: 7:45AM

Sunday School: 9:15AM

Morning Worship: 10:30AM

12:00PM & 7:00PM Pastor FrederickD.Haynes, III

Divine Inspiration Missionary Baptist Church

4325 W. Ledbetter Dr, Dallas, TX 75233 (214)337-1713

Sunday School: 9:15AM

Pastor / Founder : Dr. Corey C. Toney / Clarette L. Toney-First Lady

Bible Study: 7:00PM

The “Exciting” Singing Hill Baptist Church

6550 University Hills Blvd, Dallas, TX 75241

Main: (214)375-5952

Fax: (214)371-1611

Sunday Worship: 8AM-10:45AM

Sunday School: 9:45AM

Wednesday Night: 7:00PM Pastor

Pastor Rev Lelious A. Johnson

Dr. H.E. Anderson

Morning Worship: 10:30AM Pastor Rev Wade Simmons

Grace of God Baptist Church

601 N Hampton Rd, DeSoto, TX 75115 Phone: (972) 274-1074

Sunday School 9 am

Praise & Worship @ 10 am

Brotherhood & Women Ministry meet every 4th Sunday @ 930 am

Choir Rehearsal - Thursday @ 8 pm Pastor BrianBonner

Thursday Night Theology @ 7 pm

Pastor

Dr. Timothy J Brown

Pastor

Rev Ned Armstrong