Garland Journal 3-16-23

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SERVING NORTH EAST TEXAS

My Truth

By Cheryl Smith Publisher

Black Press Love

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. DFW-ABC’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 trav-

THURSDAY MARCH 16, 2023 VOLUME X

A Family Wins Its Struggle

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

The family of Reeves Henry, an accomplished blacksmith, philanthropist and inventor who lived in Forney, TX until his death in November 1930, will get its wish when Forney officials unveil the historical marker recognizing his contributions that their relative made to the city, and its residents.

Jimmy Malone, a great-grandson of Henry’s who was born in Gregg County in 1859, said that members of his family had urged city officials in Forney for more than 30 years to pay tribute to Mr. Henry, whose business interests made him one of the wealthiest residents in Forney during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

“We expect that the marker will be unveiled this summer,” said Malone, a former supervisor at Dallas Area Rapid System (DART). “We are terribly excited that this struggle is finally coming to an end. There is a marker on the site in downtown Forney that notes that my great-grandfather repaired the first gas powered car in the state. But there is no mention of his name.”

The manager of the Spellman Museum of Forney, Kendall Nobles, said that the marker would make residents of the city proud

of the many contributions that Henry made to the quality of life in their city. Among his inventions was a cotton chopper that separated seeds from the plant.

“Mr. Henry was known throughout Forney as a mechanical genius and a great inventor. An approval notice was received by the city of Forney in February of this year. Among other accomplishments, Mr. Henry repaired

the very first gas powered horseless carriage in Texas in 1899, she said.

“The Henry marker will be the second in Forney dedicated to the contributions of prominent African Americans,” said Ms. Nobles. “It is very important to our community. Our board of directors is grateful that the Malone family contacted us.”

The other marker dedicated to

an African American in Forney tells the story of Mr. William McDonald, an educator, business owner and public official. There are a total of 10 historical markers in the city, Ms. Noble added.

Ms. Noble said that the Henry marker was approved under a program created in 2006 by the Texas Historical Commission in Austin to address omissions in the state’s historical marker program, and to include more women and ethnic minorities.

The first person in the Malone family to contact historical preservation managers in Forney was Mr. Malone’s uncle, Lt. Colonel George H. Jackson, a United States Air Force veteran who earned a degree in electrical engineering from Tuskegee when he was 19 years-old. Mr. Jackson made his first request to Forney officials in 1986.

“This has been a very long and important struggle for our family,” said Mr. Malone. “We were always puzzled why his name was not included in Forney’s history, and why he had not been recognized for all that he had done. We always knew that we had to do something to accomplish it.”

National Bankers Association addresses Industry

National Bankers Association (NBA) President & CEO Nicole Elam Esq. and Chairman Robert James II released the following statement regarding Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank.

“In light of recent industry events, the National Bankers Association wants to assure consumers that your money is safe with minority banks. Minority depository institutions are very different from both SVB and Signature Bank which had high concentrations in crypto deposits and volatile venture capital. Minority banks are not exposed to riskier asset classes and have the capital and strong liquidity to best serve consumers and small businesses. If you’re looking for a place to bring your deposits and have greater impact, bring your deposits to minority banks” said Nicole Elam, President and CEO of the National Bankers Association.

“The Biden-Harris Administration, FDIC, and Federal Reserve worked hard this weekend to

make sure that these bank failures are the exception, not the rule, and that all Americans can continue to have confidence in our banking system. I also applaud bipartisan leaders in Congress for keeping

association for the country’s minority depository institutions (MDIs). MDIs have always focused on safety and soundness as a part of our conservative, relationshipbased business model. We continue to monitor SVB’s impact on large corporate deposit concentrations, fintech, tech companies, and larger financial institutions that have partnerships with MDIs or who have made investments in MDIs. MDIs are in the strongest position ever to support their customers and here’s why:

exceptionally well capitalized, enjoys substantial liquidity overall, and has grown by 33% over the last three years in total assets. Nearly $4 billion in new, permanent capital has flowed to MDIs and currently, the median MDI common equity ratio is 16.4% versus 14.8% for non-MDIs.

stakeholders informed about how hardearned deposits are being kept safe.” said Robert James, II, Chairman of the National Bankers Association, President & CEO, Carver Financial Corporation

The National Bankers Association is the nation’s leading trade

• Traditional Banking Model with Diverse & Secure Assets: MDIs are diversified in terms of their assets, predominately focused on well-collateralized loans, and are not exposed to riskier asset classes. Unlike both SVB and Signature Bank, MDIs have very limited exposure to the venture capital industry and crypto.

• Well-Capitalized and Strong Liquidity: MDIs are in the strongest position ever. The sector is

• Positioned for Impact: 77% of MDI branches are in areas with a higher average share of minorities compared to 31% for all FDIC-insured depository institutions. According to a Dallas Fed Study in 2022, MDIs originate almost 40% of their mortgages to minority borrowers, versus only 10% by other banks. Additionally, MDIs originate 30% of small business loans to low- to moderate-income communities in comparison to 20% at community banks and 24% at large banks. Customer deposits are not only extremely safe in an MDI but are far more likely to have a positive impact in the community

Pursuing His Passion Leads Damarcus Offord from South Dallas to the Nation’s Capitol

By Sylvia Dunnavant Hines Texas Metro News Correspondent

Dedication, discipline and determination are attributes of Damarcus Offord that has caused former U. S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson to list him as one her top staffers in her 50 years of government service.

“Over the years, I have not had anybody better than Damarcus,” recalled the recently retired legislator. “He is thoughtful, diligent and respectful. There is no one that he would not approach if he thought it was important regarding his responsibilities in our office.”

Before her demise last year,

Linda Mitchell, owner of Black & Clark Funeral Home had similar expressions when speaking of the young high schooler who she introduced to the funeral business and is now making a name for himself in so many areas and at so many levels.

A stellar work ethic and loyalty are two characteristics that are important, he says, acknowledging that his interest in politics started in middle school at Pearl C. Anderson in South Dallas.

“I got involved in student government and student council in 6th grade. It was then that I developed a love for serving people,” said 31-year-old Offord.

While he was still in elemen-

tary school, Offord became one of 30 students who took a field trip to the nation’s capitol with longtime DISD administrator Shirley Ison Newsome. Along the route the students made several stops to historical spots from South Dallas to Washington, DC.

Not only would this field trip spark Offord’s interest in politics, but it would provide a forecast of his future.

A few decades later, he would be very familiar with Washington, DC as he became the Director of Outreach for Congresswoman Johnson.

Jimmy Malone

Robert James II Chair, National Bankers Association

Joseph Green-Bishop is a longtime journalist who has published newspapers in America and Africa. Currently he is a news correspondent for Texas Metro News.

According to Congresswoman Johnson, Damarcus Offord rises to the top of her list of staffers during her

Photo: twitter

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Team

The UniverSoul Circus, an electrifying and diverse entertainment experience, has once again made its way to Dallas, leaving audiences of all ages amazed. They celebrated performers and performances from all over the world including Mongolia, South

Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Ecuador and Columbia. From acrobatics to jaw-dropping stunts on motorbikes, wheels and horses; the circus was a vision for the eyes and ears.

The UniverSoul Circus also brought a strong message of inclusivity and acceptance. They had children affirming to respect and accept everybody regardless of age, gender,

color, ethnicity and socioeconomic background. They also showcased a warm aerial dance performance promoting unity, hope and peace.

In addition to the impressive performances, the UniverSoul Circus offers a fun and interactive experience for the audience. There are opportunities for the audience to interact with the ringmaster and children participate in dance bat-

tles. There were also camel rides available during the intermission.

The two-hour show was packed with exhilarating surprises and is one that children and adults can enjoy alike. It was an evening of food, fun, entertainment and laughter that also included plenty of souvenirs and face painting.

The circus will be in Dallas through March 19.

UniverSoul Circus returns with a message of diversity, unity, inclusion

Photos: Ayesha Hana Shaji

Comerica introduces new venture for businesses

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News

Collaborative, connective and community.

The three words VR Small, founder and CEO of Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center, uses to describe Comerica Bank’s new venture - Business HQ.

Comerica Bank transformed idle real estate at their East R.L. Thornton location into a collaborative community space for small businesses.

The Business HQ will operate as a part of the Dallas Small Business Ecosystem and will help small businesses with capital, cultivation and connectivity, according to Brandon Jones, vice president of regional external affairs at Comerica Bank.

For Jones, wanting to do more

and leveraging the bank’s resources to benefit the community was inspiration enough.

“I think it all boils down to we have to help small businesses in South Dallas, we really have to do a much better job at supporting small businesses in underestimated communities.”

The 8,000-square-foot space offers incubator offices, conference rooms, administrative offices, coworking spaces, private rooms and even a content creation room with sound-defining paint, insulated doors, teleprompters, ring lights and green screens available.

All the rooms in the space are named after a Southern Dallas neighborhood or a Dallas neighborhood, Jones said.

Memberships are available after a vetting process done by the Business HQ team and they are

need-based and the membership is for one year.

Members can book the room spaces through an online reservation system, said Kayla Nimer,

ing partner. Last year when we were kind of pushed out of our original space, Comerica was a godsend,” Small said, adding they’ve been “homeless” and had to work remotely for a while.

Since their partnership with Comerica, they were able to move into the new space completely free of charge and with additional grants to help shift back to in-person mode.

“I really believe Comerica values us,” Small added.

Harrison Blair, president of Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce said many of his partners come to him saying they don’t have spaces to hold business meetings or access to basic resources to help get on their feet.

“Sometimes you need to just shred a document for your security and safety, sometimes you need to come access Wi-Fi or the printer,” Blair said. “This could be amazing for somebody to really step into business.”

The opening of the Comerica Business HQ in the South Dallas neighborhood is a positive development for the community, which has historically been underserved by financial institutions and resources for small businesses. The Business HQ will be open and functioning in May.

Texas A&M University undermines commitment to diversity

Texas State Senator Royce West expressed his disappointment in the recent announcement made by Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp, regarding the removal of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a factor in the university's admissions process.

“Diversity has always been a crucially sensitive issue at Texas A&M University, and the decision by Chancellor Sharp to remove DEI as a factor in admissions will have an even more detrimental impact on the university's efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its system. Chancellor Sharp did not reach out to any ethnic minority legislators before announcing this decision,” said Senator West.

Business HQ success manager.

Jones said one-third of the room spaces are held by the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center. “Comerica has been an amaz-

Comedy and music artists encourage community to Fall Back in Love

By Sylvia Dunnavant Hines Texas Metro News

Comedy and rhythm and blues might not sound like the ideal combination, but for the Fall Back the Love Comedy & Music Jam it was a winning combination.

More than 10,000 fans turned out to the American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas, to hear comedians: Brandon T. Jackson, Daphique Springs and Zoie Fenty; and listen to the music of Trey Songz, Jacquees, August Alsina, Monica, Trey Songz and Mario, among artists in the star-studded lineup.

“It was important to do this tour. I believe that comedy and music have always been synonymous,” said MTV comedian Rip Michaels. “I think the way to a woman’s heart is by making her laugh and good music. When I first put this concept together, they said it could not be done.”

After no-one seemed to latch on to his vision, he reached out to promoter Eugene Parker, the CEO of 5120 Entertainment, and a few of his friends to get things rolling.

Rip Michaels August Alsina

“I wanted to bridge comedy and music with the metropolitan communities across the country. It has been my object to help bring jobs and other financial opportunities to these areas as we also touch the culture of the community,” said Parker, who is already looking at expanding the tour.

The tour is currently scheduled in Houston, New Orleans, Detroit, and San Francisco.

“The Fall Back in Love Tour is all about bringing comedy and music together in a way that is safe. Our community needs to laugh, and we need love right now. We are in such a bad place, especially in the urban communities,” said stand-up comedian, Brandon T.

Jackson, who has several movies to his credit including the movie, “Lottery Ticket,” with Ice Cube.

“We have to laugh with each other and at each other with the understanding that it is all good. Comedy is very important and vital for the African American family. Laughter is a way for us to stay connected,” said comedian Emmanuel Hudson from Wild N Out.

The audience was captivated by a surprise guest appearance by Grammy award-winning DJ, and producer Kid Capri, who is globally known as a pioneer of the DJ Culture. He has been called the guru of mixtapes and is known for his crowd-hyping performance.

During the highlight of Capri’s performance, he dimmed the

lights and had the audience swaying with the lights from their cell phones; which completely lit up the arena.

“I was so excited to see DJ Kid Capri,” said Shannon Wilson, who attended the event with a few friends. “There was never a dull moment during the concert. The comedians kept things moving between artists.”

Although Daphique Springs was the only female comedian on the roster, she didn’t miss a beat as she made a joke referencing rapper, August Alsina, who has been romantically linked with actress, Jada Pickett Smith.

Spring attributed the overall successful attendance of the concert to the promoter’s ability to keep the price of the tickets affordable for everyday people; starting as low as $50.

“At a time like this with everything going on around us, mental health is important,” said Michaels, who wants to see the tour reach at least 10 cities. “It only takes five seconds to laugh and get rid of the pain. I think that is why this tour is so amazing.”

Sharp has become the first chancellor in the State of Texas to say that DEI will no longer be a factor in the admissions process and has directed staff to review employment practices, including faculty and staff application requirements.

“The exclusion of input from minority legislators on this very sensitive issue sends a clear message that Texas A&M is willing to sacrifice the benefits of a diverse student body for the sake of political expediency,” said Senator West.

Chancellor Sharp's statement that ‘no university or agency in the A&M System will admit any student, nor hire any employee based on any factor other than merit’ raises concerns about the impact on athletes at Texas A&M. As stated by Sharp, Texas A&M University will now prioritize academic merit as the sole factor in admissions decisions and the university will no longer consider athletic ability as a factor.

“As it implements this policy, I’m calling on the A&M System to certify that each athlete who is recruited and given a scholarship to ensure that the scholarship is also based on academic merit,” Senator West said. “Further, ‘merit’ needs to be defined and A&M must now make sure each student admitted meets the definition. While DEI considerations have to go, do legacy admits get to stay?”

Should this policy remain in place, the removal of DEI as a factor in university admissions could result in Texas A&M failing to properly prepare its students for the realities of a country that is growing more diverse. Senator West urges Texas A&M University and Chancellor Sharp to reconsider their decision and work towards a more diverse and inclusive campus environment.

AAEAHP Founders' Day at African American Museum

By Norma Adams-Wade Texas Metro News Correspondent

February – the month of Black History and Valentine’s Day love tributes – was also the perfect time for the African American Education Archives and History Program (AAEAHP) to celebrate their Founders’ Day.

That’s exactly what the group of veteran Dallas-area educators and their supporters did on Feb. 13 at the African American Museum at Fair Park.

The group of mainly elder Dallas-area teachers, principals and other education staffers celebrated 20 years of activities since Dr. Alfred Roberts facilitated founding the organization two decades ago in 2002. The Founders’ Day program was dedicated to Dr. Harry Jr., African American Museum founder who AAEAHP says has been a staunch AAEAHP supporter and founding member.

The group’s mission is to make the public aware of the importance of the African-American education experience in Dallas County and to recognize outstanding individuals who his-

torically and currently have supported educating Dallas County Black students. AAEAHP inducts these individuals into its Hall of Fame, collects artifacts and an oral history about them, and exhibits their histories at the African American Museum. The Bobbie L. Lang HOF, named for the event’s first chairperson, also presents scholarship to selected, aspiring students.

Various founding members were in the audience for the Feb.

13 Founders’ Day program. Second VP Dr. Andrea Hilburn moderated the program where Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney shared history

about notable African-American educators and African-American leaders in Dallas County.

Dr. Dulaney is a noted local historian and national president of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the stellar organization in 1915, then 11 years later founded Black History Week that became Black History Month.

Using a PowerPoint screen behind him, Dr. Dulaney also reviewed local Black educators’ and leaders’ struggles to gain equal pay and benefits for educators and to gain Black citizens

voting rights. These crusaders include Minnie Flanagan, Thelma Page Richardson, N. W. Harllee, and a roll call of others.

For instance, the brilliant and high-achieving Harllee was born into slavery in North Carolina in the 1840s. After he moved from North Carolina to Dallas in the late 1880s, Whites and Blacks alike recognized his genius, despite Jim Crow restrictions of the time. He held many prominent roles in education and civic affairs.

“N. W. Harllee (in 1927) was the first living person and first Black person in Dallas who had

a school named for him,” Dr. Dulaney told the audience. “It is still on 8th Street in Oak Cliff.”

Dr. Dulaney also pointed out that many people today do not realize that before Thurgood Marshall became a Supreme Justice, the then-NAACP attorney spent time in Dallas working on local civil rights and voting rights cases with his comrade in the struggle, businessman and civic leaders A. Maceo Smith.

AAEAHP will present its annual Bobbie L. Lang Hall of Fame ceremony at noon April 8, 2023 at Hilton Garden Inn, 800 N. Main St. in the Duncanville, southern suburb. COVID-19 safety protocol will be practiced. Retired judge Joan Tarpley Winn will receive the Trailblazer Award. Nine educators will be inducted in the Bobbie L. Lang Hall of Fame: Alene Baker, Dr. Lew Blackburn, S. Dean Hill, Earl Jones, Thelma Kelly, William Mitchell, Billie Roberts, Dr. Juanita Simmons, and Eugene Young.

Tickets are $75. To order and learn more, visit www.aaeahp.org or call 214-478-7228 or 972-2986980.

Hon. Royce West

Three AAEAHP elders -- Dr. Harry Roberson Jr., Dr. Alfred Roberts and Dr. Jesse McNeil – attended the Feb. 13 Founders’ Day observance at the African American Museum. Photo: AAEAHP

Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney spoke about the history of African-American educators and leaders in Dallas County.

Photo: ASALH

The Business HQ space

Comerica executives Kayla Nimer and Brandon Jones

View of Comerica Bank's Business HQ.

Ayesha Hana Shaji is a 2022 graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, where she was on The Shorthorn staff.

William Sydney Pittman Lives!

Quit Playin’

By Vincent L. Hall

Almost 10 years to the day, I wrote an article because the old Union Bankers Building, located in the heart of what we now know as Deep Ellum, was about to be upended. It was slated to be another in a series of Black heritage landmarks to suffer demolition by neglect.

“Demolition by neglect” may be foreign to you, but it is a national tragedy. It is defined as the destruction of a building through abandonment or lack of maintenance. So, as we consider the value of history, we must ask, “What can citizens and preservationists do about buildings destroyed by deliberate neglect?”

The answer is to regard, maintain and protect our interests as a community.

Initially built in 1915-1916, the Knights of Pythias Temple at 2551 Elm remains the first major commercial structure designed and constructed solely by African Americans.

It provided office space for prominent African American professionals, such as lawyers and doctors. In addition, the top

floor was used for social activities.

The site has enhanced significance because it was designed in 1907 by architect William Sidney Pittman. Pittman was the first African American in the nation to win a federal contract to design a building.

That same year, Pittman married Portia Washington, daughter of Booker T. Washington, who was the founder and principal of Tuskegee Institute. In 1913 the Pittmans moved to Dallas, TX, where they raised two sons and a daughter.

Between 1911 and 1927, they resided at three different addresses; at each, Pittman operated his architectural practice from home. He was the first practicing Black architect in Texas.

During his 16-year practice in Dallas, he designed at least seven major projects in the city and in Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Waxahachie. Five of his known structures still stood in 1990.

But, unfortunately, most of the buildings he designed have been demolished. They were torn down to build freeways and parking lots and the like. Somehow corporate progress always runs through and over our community.

Later in life, Pittman established the “Brotherhood Eyes”

newspaper. He used the paper to vent his criticisms of the Black community. A firm believer in supporting Black businesses, Pittman charged the Black middle class with hypocrisy for patronizing white companies instead of Black ones.

The Pittman Hotel website offers additional history you may need to investigate.

“Art, music, and culture have converged in Deep Ellum for over a century, and Kimpton Pittman Hotel brings this heritage to life. The very origins of

Between world wars, the Knights of Pythias Temple became a social, commercial, and cultural nexus for the surrounding community. And what is a culture without music? Jazz and blues legends like “Blind Lemon” Jefferson and Sam “Lightnin’” Hopkins performed in the grand fourth-floor ballroom of the temple.”

In 2020 D Magazine added another critical function in the history of the building.

“Pittman brought the BeauxArts style building to life, with storefronts filled by a barbershop and drug store and the inside serving as offices for African American professionals. But, in harder times following the Great Depression sold it. It went on to become a bank—recognized as the Union Bankers Building— and at one point, the red bricks were spray-painted white. It has been vacant since the 1990s.”

He could do the same today. Fortunately, some Black voices spoke up against the demolition, and Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price was chief among them. He lobbied the property developer to salvage as much history as possible. And the resulting product was the Kimpton-Pittman Hotel. It is a building that we can all be proud of.

the building are a history lesson.

William Sidney Pittman — Texas’s first African American architect, civil rights advocate, and son-in-law of Booker T. Washington — designed the building as a temple for the fraternal order of the Knights of Pythias in 1916. The structure hosted meetings, lectures, and dances and housed the offices of Black professionals.

The site has been repurposed, and Black history was kept intact. I love the Kimpton-Pittman because it is a template of business being sensitive to our accomplishments as a people.

Every time I walk in, I thank the original and the present owners. William Sydney Pittman Lives!

DeSantis on the Wrong Side of History

To Be Equal

By Marc Morial

“Every record has been destroyed or falsified, every book rewritten, every picture has been repainted, every statue and street building has been renamed, every date has been altered. And the process is continuing day by day and minute by minute. History has stopped. Nothing exists except an endless present in which the Party is always right.”

-George Orwell, “1984”

The Jacksonville ballfield where Henry “Hammerin’ Hank” Aaron played as a 19-year-old minor leaguer in 1953 now bears his name. It’s where he and two of his teammates, Felix Mantilla and Horace Garner, endured hostile taunts from fans. Off the field, they received death threats. When the team traveled, they couldn’t stay at the same hotels where oth-

er teammates stayed or eat with them at the same restaurants.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis doesn’t want the high school students who play on that field — at least the white ones — to know why. Other governors and elected officials, looking to capitalize on the racial resentment and white grievance DeSantis hopes will propel him into the White House, are following his lead. This insidious campaign is an effort not merely to warp Americans’ view of our past, but to thwart the dismantling of systemic and institutional racism.

To paraphrase an old business adage, you can’t manage what you can’t measure, and you can’t measure what you can’t see.

White students might feel “guilt” or “anguish” to learn that Aaron was forced to hide under his bed as a child when the Ku Klux Klan marched through town. Or that after he and his teammates ate in a Washington, D.C., restaurant, they listened as the staff shattered every dish they’d used. Or that he received as many as 3,000 racists, threatening letters a day as he closed in on Babe Ruth’s home run record.

That’s why school administrators in Duval County, where Jacksonville is located, temporarily barred the children’s book “Henry Aaron’s Dream” from its libraries and classrooms. Other books kept off the shelves were “Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates,” “Thank You, Jackie Rob-

sity in schools, and the Parental Rights in Education law — better known as “Don’t Say Gay” — explicitly require the reviews that forced the district to remove the books.

Among the 47 books the district returned to the publisher after the review was “The Life of Rosa Parks” and “Separate is Never Equal.”

Politicians in other states are embracing the DeSantis “Stop WOKE” ploy like cynical moths drawn to the flames of a burning cross.

“It’s a way essentially of preventing teachers, I think, from being honest about a lot of the uglier sides of American history and contemporary society.”

inson” and “Women Who Broke the Rules: Sonia Sotomayor.”

Following a nationwide outcry, those books and others that broached the topics of racism and discrimination have been reinstated, and DeSantis has tried to pass off the ban as “a joke” and a publicity stunt. But DeSantis’ own Stop WOKE Act, which restricts the discussion of race and diver-

At least 36 states have adopted or introduced laws or policies that restrict teaching about race and racism. In North Dakota teachers are effectively forbidden to acknowledge the existence of systemic racism. Researcher Jeffrey Sachs, who tracks such legislation for PEN America, said, “The law now is saying that whenever a teacher talks about racism, they may only describe it as a product of an individual’s own biases or prejudices. They cannot describe it — even when the facts command them to — as something more endemic or embedded within American society.

If DeSantis and his imitators get their way, our schools will produce an entire generation of Americans oblivious to the legacy of slavery and Jim Crow, to the decades of redlining that shaped our communities, trapping families within an endless cycle of poverty and violence, to the pervasive myths that deny Black patients medical treatment and pain relief.

When Americans saw the images of Elizabeth Eckford taunted by racists as she entered Little Rock Central High School, of Alabama state troopers bludgeoning John Lewis on the Edmund Pettis Bridge, of police dogs attacking teenagers in Birmingham, they were galvanized into action by what they saw. DeSantis and his imitators have learned the wrong lessons from history. They want to make sure no one else learns the right ones.

Jim Crow Battle Against Black History

Our Voices

By Dr. John E. Warren

The current battle to remove books and any discussion about slavery and the treatment of Blacks is not new. This is what we call “Jim Crow,” now presenting himself as “James Q. Esquire”, the legislator. For those who might have forgotten, Jim Crow was often the name used to describe segregation; laws, customs, and rules that arose in

the South after Reconstruction ended in 1877.

“Reconstruction” is what efforts to rebuild the South were called after the Civil War. It was an effort to put the South back together, economically, without the benefit of slavery, which had been its most precious product.

Newly freed slaves were finding ways to buy land, start farms, run for office as was the case.

During Reconstruction 16 African Americans served in the U.S. Congress, more than 600 were elected to the state legislatures, and hundreds more held local offices across the South.

White Southerners were not

Publisher: Cheryl Smith Address: 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203

Phone:214-941-0110

Website: www.garlandjournal.com

Editor: editor@myimessenger.com

pleased with either the independence of Blacks nor their efforts to own land, get educated and achieve, at the very least, equal status with Whites.

While we celebrate Black History month, and hopefully the resurgence of a study and appreciation for Black History, it’s important that we use our knowledge of past efforts to suppress or erase us to fuel our present

desire to do more and go further, collectively, than those who came before us.

Whatever title the racist put on “Voter Suppression”, and the battle against “Critical Race Theory” – which most can’t spell or define – we must recognize all efforts to curtail our freedom or to create a new legal “White Zone”, as the Mississippi legislature is attempting to do, all

amount to “Jim Crow” efforts under new names and titles.

The good news is that we overcame past efforts at segregation and Jim Crow laws. With the knowledge, education and skills we now have at our disposal, we, the Black People of this country, born with rights of equality guaranteed under the Constitution, will neither abandon those rights nor have them taken from us. If we look at Black History everyday, we will recognize the revised efforts to suppress or eliminate us and we will prevail.

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

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

"If we look at Black History everyday, we will recognize the revised efforts to suppress or eliminate us and we will prevail."

- Dr. John

E. Warren

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Photo: Gage Skidmore

Revisionism won’t work with Black history

Wake Up and Stay Woke

By Dr. E. Faye Williams

Among hikers and campers, and even among those who are simply logical thinkers, an old axiom provides the indisputable wisdom that, “If you don’t know where you are, you won’t know where you’re going.”

Stated another way, “Knowing where you are is the first step in successfully achieving a goal or objective.” Anyone who has attempted land navigation in the outdoors understands the truth of these statements.

If you look at a map without knowing where you are, it’s impossible to get to another location by design. In that circum-

Faithful Utterances

stance, only dumb luck will get you where you want to go!

That same logic can be applied to provide a clear picture of the dilemma that many of our youth (and a distressing number of adults) suffer from.

It is the foundation of the insidious plot of the likes of DeSantis, Youngkin, and scores of others who wish to mollify African Americans into a state of docile acquiescence by denying them a clear understanding of who they are and their complete story.

“If you don’t know who you are, you’ll never know who you can be.” Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Father of Negro (Black) History, said it with different words, but with a clear understanding of that outcome.

Denying Black people an understanding of their identity is as old as our victimization in enslavement. It started on the docks of the Motherland where cap-

tives of many different tribes and languages were bound and kidnapped with the recognition that they could not offer organized resistance without a common language – a common identity.

It worked then and its legacy has continued throughout our American experience.

Efforts to maintain divisiveness within the Black community offer no surprises. For decades, these efforts have been camouflaged with plausible deniability to refute claims of overt racism.

Now, brazenly and without shame, leaders of the Republican party announce their true intent to undermine an entire community by erasing the history of a people.

I should not have to explain how enraged I was to learn that DeSantis’ Florida Board of Education had reached the erroneous determination that Black History had no “significant educational value.”

Irreconcilable differences

If nothing else, the realities of the economic worth brought to a growing nation by a system of human enslavement should have educational value. There are other essays that delve more deeply into the economics of enslavement, but the outline at History.com provides a clear picture of what we have meant to what is really important to this nation – the acquisition of wealth.

It has been offered by these white revisionists that the teaching of Black History should begin in the year 1970 for any substantive learning to occur. Those of us born in the 40s, 50s, and 60s are dramatically aware of the scope of our history which would be eliminated.

Where then is Dr. King, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, SCLC, the Black Panther Party, Mary McLeod Bethune, the Civil Rights Movement, Brown v. Board, Emmitt Till, the Tulsa Massacre, the Little Rock Nine,

Charles Hamilton Houston, Daisy Bates, the thousands of nameless others who sacrificed life and limb for the freedoms denied by this country, and those who overcame what were designed to be insurmountable obstacles to freedom and success.

White America is caught in a web of irreconcilable differences. Their discomfort with the truth is an obvious nexus.

While they profess a nation founded on principles of justice and equity, their history and current actions belie this notion. They claim that no student/person should be made to feel uncomfortable with history, but I believe that to be a deception.

When the aim is the erasure of history, the real goal is the extermination of the spirit.

Who Do You Run To?

against my door and windows.

While I sat in the pantry, I was drawn to a scripture that I had read the previous day. It reminded me that no matter what I go through I know that God is there.

By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew

It doesn’t matter where you live, there are problems. If you live on the west coast, there are earthquakes and mudslides. If you live on the east coast, there is snow. If you live in the deep south, there are tornadoes and torrential rains that lead to flooding. I could go on about each part of the country. There is no location that is safe from some kind of natural disaster. It happens. The local news broadcasted that we needed to take shelter. The winds were more than 70 miles per hour. I could hear the city sirens going off as the wind beat

It’s not a time to complain and whine. It is the time to remember who God is and God’s greatness.

Psalm 91 states: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart… A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes…”

I shared this passage with sev-

eled 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.

eral friends as we waited out the storm and it is a reminder that no matter what we go through, God is present but there is a caveat…. are you dwelling in HIS shelter and resting in God’s shadow? Or are you finding fault with everything that is occurring around you?

As much as I wanted to add one more complaint to my already complicated week, I had another reminder. The children of Israel, as I shared in last week’s column, had a cloud by day and fire by night to lead them. Yet, they allowed fear, forgetfulness and their complaining to hinder their ability to enter the Promised Land.

In Numbers 21, God delivered them out of a potential enemy’s grasp and immediately after wit nessing God’s greatness, they started mumbling again. the people grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, “Why

have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!” Then the Lord sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died. The people came to Moses and said, “We sinned when we spoke against the Lord and against you. Pray that the Lord will take the snakes away from us.” So, Moses prayed for the people.” God told Moses to make a bronze snake so that the people could look at it on the pole and if bitten, they could look at the snake and live.

Despite what goes on around

Let me ask you this: What are you looking up to relieve you when you are afraid, lonely, or frustrated? Is it to your friends or other ‘feel goods’ when life bites you? It is remembering the goodness of God or replaying the situation that hurts?

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” (Proverbs 4:25) Complaining has consequences in our lives. We know in Matthew 14:22-33, Peter almost sank because he took his eyes off of Jesus. Keep your eyes on Jesus…no matter what.

Seek His grace instead of grum-

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!”

Dr. E. Faye Williams is President of the National Congress of Black Women and host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-89.3 FM

Mavs Ball Raises Record $1.8 Million for local charities

The Dallas Mavericks raised a record $1.85 million at the eighth annual Mavs Ball Friday night at the Omni Hotel. The funds will help support charities supporting children, women and families throughout North Texas that the Mavs Foundation serves each year.

Close to 900 attended the Mavs Ball including the entire Mavs team, coaches, former Mavericks, and many fans and sponsors. Entertainment was provided by the legendary group Kool & The Gang.

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Photos: Dallas Mavericks and Dorothy J. Gentry

Christian Wood and JaVale McGee

Cynt Marshall

Coach Jason Kidd

Reggie Bullock

By Norma Adams-Wade Texas Metro News Correspondent

As Black History Month ended, one North Texas activist said we failed to see that we all share a common history.

For most of her life, Yeharerwerk Gashaw has advocated for peace and independence for her homeland of Ethiopia. Her name should be familiar to those who have followed her 40-year career as a model, actress, international human rights activist, political organizer and ambassador for social causes. Generally, her name is pronounced Ye-HA-rer-work Gas-HAW and usually shortened to Ye-HA-rer.

During this time of Black heritage reflection, Gashaw asked us to take a look at how we share a common past and help shape the future of what scientists call humankind’s “Land of Origins.” Her premise comes from scientists who say that human life began in Ethiopia, the “Horn of Africa” because of its shape.

Ethiopia is where scientists in 1974 discovered Lucy, who lived 3.2 million years ago. Lucy is one the world’s most complete and best-preserved hominids - a prehistoric ancestor to humans. Bible researcher and author David T. Adamo notes that Africa and Africans are mentioned 1,417 times in the Bible.

All of this fuels Gashaw’s pride in her Ethiopian homeland. And during Black History Month, she says more people of the world should care and take action to stop Ethiopia’s civil wars. The violence is largely between the main Ethiopian military and the rebel Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) that is seeking more power and independence for their region and ethnic group.

The Ethiopian government says the country has more than 80 ethnic groups among its 100 million population. These groups are separated into more than a dozen sep-

arate “protected areas” with their own governing councils. There are boundary disputes, and some residents say they resent that some regions are forbidden to leave their designated areas to prevent clashes with other regions.

“I want this genocide to end,” Gashaw said in an interview. She said invaders and leaders from

unity and peace. She founded the Ethiopian National Government in Exile in Dallas in 2005.

Gashaw became a celebrity after losing both parents by age 9. She was born in Harar in southeast Ethiopia and grew up in Addis Ababa, the capital city, during the reign of Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie. Her father was an

in the television series Dallas. She also was in the stage production Backstreet. She became the first African-born civil rights activist in the area and was the first African featured in The Dallas Morn-

ey Leland of Houston, Texas Gov. Ann Richards and Dallas Mayor Annette Strauss. There also are grotesque photos of war scenes she says she keeps to show recruits the seriousness of the longstanding effort to bring peace. She said she realized at age 5 that something was wrong in her homeland, and she wanted to help the adults who huddled to talk about whatever it was. Eventually she was allowed to sit at a desk and hand out printed information. She never looked back and kept advancing in the movement. She still works with her current cause during Black History Month and will do so in the future.

other countries manipulated Ethiopia’s many opposing ethnic groups that clashed with each other. She said colonizers and foreign diplomats set up more than a dozen regions and governing bodies in Ethiopia. Critics of that plan say organizers either knowingly or ignorantly still attract violence by offering political and economic gains for joining their “peacekeeping forces” that in reality only create more carnage, she said.

Gashaw has a more than 30year record of joining and founding organizations to try to create

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Seattle Kraken at Dallas Stars 23

army officer, and her mother a homemaker. Gashaw left Ethiopia at 16 to get an education, and that opened the door for a modeling career that took her to Paris. There she began a parade of “firsts,” including the first African model to feature Christian Dior fashions and Guerlain cosmetics. She held beauty queen roles at public events while fueling her budding activism. She followed her then husband to Dallas in the early 1980s as her name and her activism became known and respected. She was the first Black woman to appear

ing News’ High Profile section.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center’s executive board appointed her as the first chair for its new Friends of MLK Jr. Community Center advisory group. Her scrapbook brims with articles about her missions and photos with prominent global leaders and African and Ethiopian heads of state, including former South African president Nelson Mandela and former Ethiopian president Mengistu Haile Mariam. She has held advisory appointments under leaders including the late Democratic congressman Mick-

“The American and international public can do like it did to support [Nelson] Mandela to end apartheid in South Africa,” Gashaw said. “Humanitarians and human rights activists and Pan-Africanists can appeal to their organizations and push the American government to help end the genocide. That’s my message now and going forward.”

To contact Gashaw, visit her Facebook page or email yehar9@ aol.com.

norma_adams_wade@yahoo. com

Hit the road to adventure when Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures skates into your hometown! Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey Mouse and his Disney friends embark on a wild ride to your favorite Disney destinations at American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas.

25

Dallas Black Dance Theatre presents DBDT: Encore! Dancing Beyond Borders - Pushing the Boundaries of Physicality.

7:30 pm at Eisemann Center - Richardson. Get Tickets DBDT.com

*** 13th Year Anniversary of AIDS WalkSouth Dallas!

This event fund raises will support the programs and services of AIDS Walk South

Yeharerwerk Gashaw

Photo: David Minton for The Dallas Morning News

Yeharer photo from modeling days in the 1980s.

Yeharer sitting at a desk at a press conference discussing one of her human rights causes.

Modern day photo of Yaharerwerk Gashaw, also know as Yeharer.

Yeharer meeting with Ethiopian President Menjistu Haile Mariam

Yeharer meeting with South African President Nelson Mandella.

Jack and Jill - Dallas Chapter: 46th Beautillion Beaux Corp

Beau Ajani Dasan Lyons

Beau Ajani Dasan Lyons is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Anthony Lyons. He is the grandson of the late Stone Lyons, Jr. and Pearl Stein Lyons and the youngest maternal grandson of Alice Faye Thomas and the late Hezekiah Watford. He has one brother, Dage, and two sisters, Kendall and Kira.

Ajani is a senior at The Oakridge School in Arlington, TX and he will attend Grambling State University where he plans to study kinesiology or sports management and play baseball.

He is escorted by Belle Ryan Ella Marie Brown, daughter of Andrea MeShonn Evans Brown, Esq. and the late Clarence B. Brown III, Esq.

Beau Austin Bryce Wesley

Beau Austin Bryce Wesley is the son of Kerry and Dr. Danielle Wesley. The paternal grandson of the late Eria Wesley and the maternal grandson of Pecolia Kimber. Austin has two brothers, Kerry Wesley II and Courtland Grant Wesley.

Austin attends Plano East Senior High School. He is an honor and advanced placement scholar-athlete, a member of the Plano East varsity football team and the National Society of High School Scholars.

Austin attends Concord Church. Upon graduation, Austin plans to attend an HBCU, majoring in criminal justice.

He is escorted by Belle Elle Chavis, daughter of Terrence Chavis, and Audra Chavis.

Beau Bryce Elliot Vaughn

Beau Bryce Elliot Vaughn is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kyle and Latasha Vaughn. He is the paternal grandson of Jacqueline Vaughn and the maternal grandson of Valencia Kelly and the late Gene L. Kelly. Bryce is the older brother to Brooke Vaughn.

Bryce is a senior at the Oakridge School in Arlington, TX where he is a varsity letterman in football, basketball and track and field.

Bryce has not decided where he will attend college next year but will pursue a degree in communications with a focus in broadcast media.

He is escorted by Belle Caraday Martin, daughter of Dr. Richard and Candace Martin.

Beau Christopher Jirden Ware II

Beau Christopher Jirden Ware II is the son of Joelle Hinds and Christopher Ware. He is the grandson of Joy and Joseph Hinds, Willie Marie Blye, and the late Julius Ware. Jirden’s sisters are Braeden and Spencer.

Jirden is a senior at Rockwall High School in Rockwall, TX where he participates in the Rockwall High School Varsity Orchestra as the firstchair upright bassist. He is also the co-captain of the back-to-back championship winning varsity men’s gymnastics team (2021/2022).

Jirden has received a Cheer scholarship to Blinn College.

He is escorted by Belle Ali Perpall, who is the daughter of Frederick and Abigail Perpall.

Beau Christian Alexander McKendall

Beau Christian Alexander McKendall is the son of Christopher and Laurie McKendall. He is currently a Senior at Rowlett High School, enrolled in the Pathways to Technology Early College HS Magnet (P-TECH) Academy. Christian is an Eagle Scout representing Troop 1020.

After high school, Christian will attend Morehouse College along with Georgia Institute of Technology, Prairie View A&M, or North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University majoring in biomedical engineering.

He is escorted by Belle Sydney Roberts, the daughter of Noelle LeVeaux.

Beau Christion Anthony Gause

Beau Christion Anthony Gause is the son of Kevin E. Gause and Jasmine McFerren-Gause. He is the paternal grandson of Kathy Lynn Gause and maternal grandson of Jacqueline McFerren. Christion has one brother O’Riyan McFerren-Gause and one sister Madison Kendall Gause.

Christion Anthony is an exceptional senior graduating from Plano East Senior High School

who is in the National Honor Society and National Society of High School Scholars.

Christion will be attending an HBCU to pursue his dreams of majoring in political and computer science.

He is escorted by Belle Avari Madison Easter. The daughter of Avan and Maviea Easter.

Beau David Allen Williams

Beau David Allen Williams is the son of Melvin and D’Angela Williams and grandson of Melvin Williams and Pastor Brenda J. Smith, Mary Emma Barnes and the late David Barnes. He has one brother, Melvin and two sisters Samiya and Danyelle Williams.

A senior at DeSoto High School, where he was captain of the football team, David was inducted into the National Honor Society as a sophomore. He’s a dual credit student finishing college courses. David earned a full scholarship to West Texas A&M where he will play football and major in business.

He is escorted by Belle Sydney Elyse Thomas, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Thomas.

Beau Hampton O’Neal Aldridge

Beau Hampton O’Neal Aldridge is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard O’Neal Aldridge, Jr. and paternal grandson to the late Mr. and Mrs. Howard O’Neal Aldridge, Sr. and the maternal grandson to the late Annie Coleman Scott.

Hampton has two older siblings, Dr. Jasmin Aldridge Hamlett and Howard O’Neal Aldridge, III.

Hampton is a senior at Jesuit College Preparatory School and has not decided which college he will attend to obtain a Doctor ofPharmacy degree and continue the 42-year family legacy.

He is escorted by Belle Jada Mitchell, daughter of Tracy and Kimberly Mitchell.

Beau Ian Patrick Lee-Wiggins

Beau Ian Patrick Lee-Wiggins is the son of Melanie Lee and Gregory Wiggins and stepson of Dwight Hugget. He is the grandson of James C. Wiggins, Sr., Bessie Walton Wiggins and Evelyn Scott and maternal grandson of Geneva E. Lee and the late Verbra T. Lee.

Ian is a senior at Centennial High School in Frisco, where he is a member of the Varsity Wrestling and Football teams. He has been accepted to the University of Hawai’i at Manoa to study Marine Biology.

He is escorted by Belle Rhyan Elise Conley, the daughter of Brian Conley and Milo Conley.

Beau Jacob Clayborn

Beau Jacob Reese Clayborn is the son of Marlon and Kamili Clayborn. He is the paternal grandson of Roger Johnson and Linda Clayborn and maternal grandson of Toni Johnson and the late Clark Johnson. He has sisters Keiseandra and Kendall, and brother Dorian.

Jacob is a senior at Sachse High School and the Garland Career & Technical Center. He will graduate with significant college credit and will attend Tuskegee University where he was awarded the Distinguished Presidential Scholarship Award so study Business Management and Marketing.

He is escorted by Belle Taylor Grace McCowan, daughter of Cornelia McCowan and the late Ainsley Edwards.

Beau Jayden Gavri’el Musco

Beau Jayden Gavri’el Musco is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Musco, Jr. He is the maternal grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Othra Grant and Mr. and Mrs. Donald Turner. He is the paternal grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Musco Sr. He has one brother, SeMaj, and one sister Trinity.

Jayden is a senior at The Winston School, where he is an honor roll student, participant in the Winston Leadership Academy and serves as the Senior Class Student Government representative.

He is escorted by Belle Sasha Alexis Smith, the daughter of Jackie and Darryl Smith.

Beau Jordan Immanuel Dillard

Beau Jordan Immanuel Dillard is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Dillard, Sr. He is the paternal

grandson of the late Jobe Dillard, Sr., and Seccession Dillard. He is the maternal grandson of the late Billy Coulter and the late Vastie Coulter Fisher. He has one brother, Phillip Jr. and three sisters, Alexandria Dillard and Dr. Victoria Dillard and Dr. Lashundra Watson of Memphis, TN. Jordan is a senior at Lewisville High School with 3.7 GPA. He will be attending Morehouse College or Morgan State University and will pursue a degree in sports journalism. He is escorted by Belle Mikiya Love, daughter of Michael and Mellannise Love.

Beau Keith Ya Donn Abney II

Beau Keith Ya Donn Abney II is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Keith Abney. Keith is the paternal grandson of the late Arthalise and Linda Hulett, and Leotis Wafer and maternal grandson of Ms. Brenda Pearse and Mr. and Mrs. Leotis Ratcliff. Keith has three brothers and one sister.

A senior at Waxahachie High School, Keith is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Society of High School Scholars. Selected to the 2020 USA Football All-American Team, Keith is a 3-year varsity letterman in football and track and a 4-time national championship in-line speed skater setting several National records.

Keith will attend Arizona State University.

His escort is Belle Amiyah Carter, daughter of Brittany and London Thibodeaux.

Beau Kenneth Michael Chapital

Beau Kenneth Michael Chapital is the son of Kenneth Stephen Chapital and Melanie Monroe. He is the maternal grandson of Venice Monroe and the late Dr. Claude Monroe, Sr. and the paternal grandson of Ms. Ella Chapital and the late Mr. Allison Chapital, Sr. He has one sister, Peyton Chapital.

Kenneth is a senior at Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas, where he balances his academics, extra-curricular activities, and service-related endeavors while achieving academic honor roll status. He plans to major in sports management and minor in communications.

He is escorted by Belle Megan Manning, daughter of Ms. Sharanza Williams.

Beau Mason Barack Daniels

Beau Mason Barack Daniels is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Darren Daniels. He is the grandson of Mrs. Arnell Daniels, the late Joseph Daniels, Michelle Dillon and the late Edgar Dillon, Jr. He has one brother, Miles.

Mason is a senior at Reedy High School in Frisco, TX and a member of the National Honor Society, the Black Student Alliance, as well as a varsity track and field athlete.

Mason plans to attend college next fall and pursue a degree in Finance and Accounting.

He is escorted by Belle Maci Curtis, daughter of Mr. Steven and Dr. Michon Curtis.

Beau Myles Rufus

Beau Myles Rufus is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Eric D. Rufus. He is the grandson of the late Ms. Shirley Rufus and great-grandson of the late Dorothy Albert Giles and Walter Albert. He is the maternal grandson of Frances Strickland and John Strickland. Myles has three sisters, Bria, Braelyn, and Brittni Rufus.

Myles is a senior at The Oakridge School in Arlington, TX and a member of the Oakridge Owls varsity basketball team and varsity track team. Myles is undecided where he will attend college in the Fall.

He is escorted by Belle Chloe Grinnell, daughter of Tasha Leilani Stringer Grinnell and Nevin Erich Grinnell.

Beau Myles Barrett Sturns-Thomas

Beau Myles Barrett Sturns- Thomas is the son of Misha Sturns and Dante Williams. He is the grandson of retired Judge Louis E. Sturns and Marilyn Sturns and the maternal grandson of Sharon K. Sturns.

Myles is a senior at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts where he is a drama thespian maintaining a

3.94 GPA. He hasn’t made a decision where to pursue a degree in economics while continuing to refine his passion in musical theater.

He is escorted by Belle Kyla Nicole Rounsoville, daughter of Mr. Walter and Mrs. Djameal Rounsovill.

Beau Myles Tyson Archibald

Beau Myles Tyson Archibald is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jarvis T. Archibald. He is the grandson of the late Spencer Archibald and Thelma Archibald and the maternal grandson of Rena Hurley, and the late Noah Hurley, Jr. Myles has one brother, Jaylen.

Myles attended John Paul II High School in Plano and is currently a senior at Frisco High School. Myles is a three-year and two-year Varsity letter recipient in golf and basketball, respectively and will attend the University of Arkansas to pursue a degree in business.

He is escorted by Belle Lauren Sydney Evans, daughter of General and Mrs. Edward H. Evans.

Beau Nicholas Dietrich Abram

Beau Nicholas Dietrich Abram is the son of Ronald Dietrich Abram and Dr. Felicia McLeod Abram. He is the grandson of the late John Abram and Edith Petties. He is the maternal grandson of John Major McLeod and Dr. Yolanda McLeod Lewis. He has one sister, Paige, and one brother, Sage.

Nicholas is a James Martin High School senior with a 4.65 GPA and he is one of three senior ambassadors for the STEM Academy and the Vice-Captain for the competitive Roboboat Computer Science Team.

He is escorted by Belle Leah Victoria Glover, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbert Glover Jr.

Beau Noah McCoy Green

Beau Noah McCoy Green is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James C. Green. He is the paternal grandson of the late Willie J. Green and the late Ruby Green. He is the maternal grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Hardy Sr. He has two brothers, Jameson and Riley.

Noah is a senior at Allen High School, where he is on the varsity cross country and track & field teams. Noah was awarded the Prairie View A&M University Regents Student Merit Scholarship and he will study computer engineering.

He is escorted by Belle N’dia King, daughter of Roy King and Michon King.

Beau Rance Julian Greer II

Beau Rance Julian Greer II is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rance Greer I. He is the paternal grandson of Jesse Greer and Evangelist Diane Greer and the maternal grandson of Deacon and Mrs. Michael St. Julian. He has one brother, Julian.

Rance is a senior at John A. Dubiski Career High School on the Health Science Pathway and intends on joining his mother’s legacy as a Texas A&M Aggie to pursue a degree in biology.

He is escorted by Belle Daisha Kiara Clayton, daughter of Taj and Tonika Clayton.

Beau Roman Dale Clark

Beau Roman Dale Clark is the son of Dale and Terry Clark. He is the grandson of Wayne and Mary Brown, also the late Mr. Robert Clark. He is the maternal grandson of Charles and Louvader Jenkins and the late Mrs. Lynette Jenkins. He has one sibling, Ryan Clark.

Roman is a senior at Plano East High School, where he is taking a rigorous curriculum of honors and AP classes. Roman plans to attend Hampton University to major in sports management business.

He is escorted by Belle Amalia Simone Evans, daughter of Dr. Thomica James-Evans and Jason Evans.

Beau Rylan Christopher Kennedy

Beau Rylan Christopher Kennedy is the son of Rhonda Kennedy, Leonard Kennedy and the grandson of Luevater Scott, Coleman and Nellie Kennedy. Rylan has two younger brothers, Camden Michael and Kason Allen Kennedy.

Rylan is a senior at Lake Ridge High School in

Mansfield, TX Rylan will attend Texas A&M University on a full scholarship, where he will major in sports science and play Division 1 Football.

He is escorted by Belle Morgan Brooks, daughter of Monica and Everett Brooks.

Beau Taylor Anthony Brown

Beau Taylor Anthony Brown is the son of Terry Brown and Tonya Brown. He is the maternal grandson of Jerry Farmer, Janice Farmer, and the late Wendell Holmes Lester. He is the paternal grandson of Mary Hines and the late Mitchell Hines. Taylor is the godson of Tiffany Lester.

Taylor is a student-athlete and senior at Pantego Christian Academy, where he maintains a 3.94 GPA. Taylor has placed extraordinary value on high academic achievement, growth in character and leadership, and service.

Taylor plans to major in engineering with a minor in cyber security.

He is escorted by Belle Lauren Renee Ingram who is the daughter of Vera R. Ingram and Tyrous W. Ingram III.

Beau Timothy Glenn Waters III

Beau Timothy Glenn Waters III, affectionately known as “Trey,” and is the son of Timothy and Selah Waters, and Tracy Lynn Adams. He is the grandson of Timothy Glenn Waters Sr. and Cynthia Waters. He is the maternal grandson of Jon and Elizabeth Adams. He has two sisters; Savannah and Xavier.

Trey is a senior at Lone Star High School in Frisco, TX, where he is completing dual credit AP courses. He will attend Texas Tech University to study civil engineering with a focus on urban planning.

Beau Timothy Waters is escorted by Belle Kennedy Jewell Carter, daughter of Pastor Bryan and Stephanie Carter.

Beau Tyler James Bozeman

Beau Tyler James Bozeman is the son of Frederick and Tiffany Bozeman. He is the grandson of Ms. Bettye Gilkey and the late Charles Bozeman. He is the maternal grandson of Stanley & Geneva Hughes; and Mrs. Georgia Neasley and the late James Author Neasley. He has one brother, Tyson Charles Bozeman, and one sister Haley Bozeman. Tyler is a senior at Frisco High School, where he is the Homecoming King, Black Student UnionVP, Varsity Basketball-Captain and Chairman of the Frisco Athletics Board. He will major in Biology to become a neurosurgeon.

He is escorted by Belle Kaleigh Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eric Williams.

Beau Tyson Charles Bozeman

Beau Tyson Charles Bozeman is the son of Frederick and Tiffany Bozeman. He is the grandson of Bettye Gilkey and the late Charles Bozeman. He is the maternal grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Hughes, Georgia Neasley and the late James Author Neasley. He has one brother, Tyler James Bozeman, and one sister Haley Bozeman.

Tyson is a senior with a 3.5 GPA at Frisco High School, where he is involved in Student Council and Honor Society and is a 3-year Varsity Basketball Letterman.

He is escorted by Belle Isabella Dellinger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Dellinger.

Beau Wesley Samuel Smith

Beau Wesley Samuel Smith is the son of Retired Master Sgt. Raymond Smith and Wendy Smith. He is the paternal grandson of the late Willie Wesley and Carolyn Smith. He is the maternal grandson of the late R. J. Simmons and the late Annie Bell Simmons. He has two sisters, Ericka and Brandee Smith.

Wesley is a senior at Pantego Christian Academy in Arlington, TX, where he is a member of the Athletic Leadership Council.

Wesley is a scholar athlete with a 4.0 GPA and plans to attend Hendrix College and major in kinesiology/biology. He is escorted by Belle Ava Francis Perpall, who is the daughter of Frederick and Abigail Perpall.