Garland Journal 3-2-23

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My Truth

By Cheryl Smith Publisher

Person of the Year

We’ve been holding off announcing this year’s Person of the Year and we’re glad to share this moment with the recipient and those who know, love and respect her and the work she has done over her lifetime.

We are proud of our previous recipients because whatever anyone feels about them, all we ask is that they check the receipts. This year’s recipient, like Rev. Yvette Blair Lavallais, Judge Tammy Kemp, Hall of Fame journalist Roland Martin, and Coach Deion “Prime” Sanders have long receipts and memories.

So many have benefitted

See MY TRUTH, page 7

UNHINGED

Marjorie Taylor Greene Says Quiet Part Out Loud: Wants Pre-Civil War United States Where Whites Dominated Enslaved Black People

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has said the quiet part out loud. The Georgia congresswoman, like some of her peers, doesn’t want to live anywhere near people of color.

Greene has called for the U.S. to be separated by red and blue states and for a shrinking of the federal government in a tweet on President’s Day, the two-term congresswoman’s latest in a string of controversial statements.

“We need a national divorce. We need to separate by red states and blue states and shrink the federal government,” said Greene, R-Ga, in the tweet. “Everyone I talk to says this. From the sick and disgusting woke culture issues shoved down our throats to the Democrat’s traitorous America Last policies, we are done.”

The racially-charged tone-deaf tweet does not take into account, among other things, that the United States fought a civil war in the 1860s after a group of southern states tried to secede from America.

Greene’s tweet received thousands of responses on her timeline, most of which called her out for her racism.

“And what you are requesting in only to get dumb people riled up,” sports card enthusiast Tony Posnanski responded to Greene. “You aren’t even a joke because jokes are funny. You are just trash.”

Added strategist and former Democratic Chair Chris Jackson, “If someone would have said something like this 15 years ago,

they would be deemed unstable and laughed out of politics. Today, it is embraced by the Speaker of the House. That says it all.”

Still, others noted how Greene and all members of Congress swore under oath that they “do solemnly swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that [they] will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that [they] take this obligation freely.”

Greene continues to openly support the insurrectionists from the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and American Democracy. As NBC News noted, many know Greene for her controversial statements. For example, she has said that Jewish space lasers could start wildfires if they were put

Superb Women

Our Superb Women!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

2021 was the "Year of the Woman," especially the Black Woman! For 10 months we dedicated this space to uplifting Black women and spreading a message that we need to show love and empower people with love instead of destroying them with hate and disrespect. We celebrate Black Women and call them SUPERB! AND WE ARE KEEPING THE CELEBRATION GOING IN 2023!

NIKOLE HANNAH-JONES

A multiple award winning journalist who has worked for The New York Times, ProPublica and The Oregonian, Nikole Hannah-Jones started her journalism career at The News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C. During her three years there, she wrote extensively on issues of race, class, school resegregation and equity. The creator of the 1619 Project, Nikole is a native Iowan, graduating from West High School. She received her BA Degree in History and African American Studies from the University of Notre Dame and her MA in journalism and Mass Communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. There is so much more about this dynamic sister!

JO ANNE SLAUGHTER BRUNSON

A Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, JoAnne Slaughter Brunson was initiated in the Spring of 1973 at Alpha Chapter, Howard University, where she received a BS in Microbiology. The Vice President of

Brunson Construction Services, she is a member of Concord Church. JoAnne is involved in the Trinity (TX) Chapter, The Links, Incorporated; Dallas Chapter, Jack & Jill – Associate Member; and she is the Past Secretary of Frederica Chase Dodd Board of Directors. She and her husband, who she met her freshman year in college are proud parents and grandparents.

president and received a Bachelor of Arts in English Education. She later received a Master of Education in English Education from Mississippi State University. A Teacher/Central Administrator, she is a member of St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church and a past president of Dillard University Alumni Association. Cafea is a Girl Scout Leader; Texas Democratic Party - Voter Registration Volunteer; and Children Ministry, Stewardship and Church Council Chair, St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church.

CAT SATTERWHITE

The racially-charged tonedeaf tweet does not take into account, among other things, that the United States fought a civil war in the 1860s after a group of southern states tried to secede from America.

into the right place. She has also said that Muslim congresswomen could not be sworn in properly.

But she has been trying to rebrand herself as someone who can bridge the divides in her party as she angles to be Donald Trump’s 2024 running mate, NBC News reported last month.

Green is not the first Republican to call for a line of succession, and support for a separate country has been growing since the 2020 elections.

A June 2021 poll by Bright Line Watch and YouGov found that 66% of Southern Republicans supported leaving the U.S. and forming a new country.

Support was also high among Democrats in the West, where 47% supported a division.

“Please cease from calling for a ‘Civil War’ under the guise of ‘National Divorce,’” attorney and activist Gerald Griggs wrote to Greene.

“You swore an oath to the United States of America and the state of Georgia to represent us. Please represent all the people.”

February 2023

University National Alumni Association (TSUNNA) - Dallas Chapter, Joyce is a former Friendship-West Baptist Church Usher Board Member, Lancaster Spring Creek Homeowner Association Board Treasurer; Dallas County Volunteer Deputy Registrar; and MLK Center Volunteer. She was TSUNNA, Dallas Chapter – 2013 Alumnus of the Year Honoree and TSUNNA, National Convention – 2022 Inaugural President’s Award Recipient.

JACQUELINE D. HOYT

Dr. Kristen Guillory is an author, performance and speaker coach, business strategist and self care and mental health consultant. The president and chief consultant of KSGuillory Enterprises, Dr. Kristen is the founder and director of Cozy Convos, a faith-based initiative for women, providing a safe space for some necessary conversations. She received her BS in Psychology from Texas Christian University, a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work from UTA. She has been an adjunct professor at UNT Dallas and Texas Christian University, a consultant for Healthways and evaluation specialist for Dallas ISD. Dr. Kristen has also enjoyed stints at Fortress Youth Development Center and Department of Justice. Her commitment to volunteering is extensive.

CAFEA HARRELL

A Golden Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Cafea Harrell was initiated in the Fall of 1972 at the Beta Gamma Chapter at Dillard University where she served as chapter

Cat Satterwhite is an arts and entertainment journalist who specializes in lifestyle and luxury copywriting and crafty content. She’s a multi-talented writer, blogger and influencer. A part time writer for the Dallas Weekly, she has served as a project manager for Super Purposes in Seattle WA.. Cat received her Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Marketing from American InterContinental University. Cat is into fitness, reading and antiquing. In addition to writing, interior design and decorating, and vlogging, she is a show host and was the co-host of Black Health Media, focusing on mental health in the Black Community and spirituality. SHe is also the creator of The Bubble Phase Fragrance.

JOYCE GIBSON

Joyce Gibson is celebrating 50 years as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. A devoted member of the Texas Southern

Jacqueline D. Hoyt Is a Golden Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Jacqueline was initiated in 1972 at UT at El Paso, where she received a Bachelor of Science. She is a retired Vice President of Bank of America and a member of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church.

Jacqueline works with Citizens on Patrol (COP), Desoto, Texas; DeSoto Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association; Transforming Network Together (TNT); Lynwood Estate Neighborhood Association-Street Captain and Texas State Technical College, Women’s Resource Center, Waco, Texas- Financial Chair of Advisory Board. An outstanding Texas Delta 1999 she won the Volunteer of the Year Award-DeSoto Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, 2011; Woman of the Year-American Businesswomen’s Association; and Sisterhood Black Heritage Image Award-UT at El Paso.

Barbara Morgan Punch is a Speech Pathologist/Montessori Educator and a member of Singing Hills Baptist Church. She is a graduate of Texas Woman’s University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education. She is involved with Dallas Retired Teachers Association, Texas Retired Teachers Association, Texas Woman’s University Black Alumni (TWUBA) Lifetime Member, as a Past Member- Scholarship Committee of TWUB, Women’s Missionary Union of Texas (Dallas Baptist Association), Couples Sunday School Class, Co-Teacher and World Vision Child Sponsor (since 2012). A wife of 48 years, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for 50 years, the mother and grandmother loves to read, bake, listen to music and loves calligraphy.

Hailing from Sioux Falls, SD, Dee Dee James Kong is a 2022 graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies. While in school she was involved in the Black Student Union, Sydney Gray Student Development Program, as Women of Gold Treasurer, Miss White 2019, Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Order of Omega: Beta Xi Chapter, and Kappa Delta Pi: Alpha Iota Chapter. She is the current Miss Carrollton of the Miss America

Marjorie Taylor Greene

DR. KRISTEN GUILLORY

BARBARA MORGAN PUNCH

DEE DEE JAMES KONG

Metro Community Calendar powered by

The Potter’s House for the Wheel-U Network event! Register at http://Solo.To/TheWheelAtTPH ***

St. Philip’s School and Community Center will host its 23rd Annual Parrish Family Destiny Award Luncheon featuring a conversation with Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Sterling K. Brown, 11:30 am at the Hilton Anatole. The Student Showcase is from 10:30-11:15 am.

Winpear Opera House 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201

Afrobeats pioneer Wizkid has announced a spring 2023 tour across North America supporting his brand new album ‘More Love, Less Ego’. Wizkid - More Love, Less Ego Tour 7:25 PM –10:30 PM The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory ***

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18th Annual Dallas Blues Festival at the Texas Trust Theatre in Grand Prairie Bo Johnson is a comedian from Seattle, Washington. His stand up was featured on season two of Kevin Hart Presents: Hart of the City on Comedy Central. Dallas Comedy Club, 3036 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226, Upcoming Shows March 3-5 Texas Wall Street Women Dallas Golf Clinic at Tenison Park Golf Course, 3501 Samuell Blvd in Dallas. 10am-1pm Showtime Saturdays at Galleria Dallas 11:30 AM –12:00 PM Galleria Dallas DFW families’ favorite free performance series, Showtime Saturdays, continues throughout March! Showtime Saturdays at Galleria Dallas provides a variety of captivating shows by professional circus clowns, ma-

Breakfast Brothers expand business in Dallas with a new concept

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Staff

Have a midnight craving and want to steer away from the basic fast food chain?

Breakfast Brothers has got you!

Breakfast Brothers inaugurated their first food truck and Breakfast Brother Express on Tuesday at their third location, off of Commerce Street in Dallas with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Rickey Booker, co-owner and founder of Breakfast Brothers, said the Express is a new concept. Unlike their other locations, the Express store won’t have dine-in options but will offer services at the crack of dawn.

“So now when you get out of the nightclubs on Fridays

and Saturdays, we open up at 2 a.m. here and close at 2 p.m.,” he said.

Breakfast Brothers first started in a trailer behind a nightclub, Booker said. This introduced the late hours and they started extending their time as the demand for their food increased.

Thursday through Sunday they’re open at 6 a.m. and close at 2 p.m.

The food is also available for delivery through all third-party services like Grubhub, DoorDash and Uber Eats.

For Breakfast Brothers’ chef Kimberly Oyoko, her favorite things about the chain are the people and the food; especially the chicken and waffles.

Booker said the food items on the menu are unique.

While they sell the Texas’ beloved chicken ‘n’ waffles, they also have striking combinations of entrees and breakfast items like catfish ‘n’ pancakes, lamb chops ‘n’ waffles, and fried salmon.

“We integrate,” he said. “We don’t do the traditional brother; we do high-end southern [with] high-end ingredients [and] addicting flavor that touch your palates, making you go back over and over and over.”

Attendees at the ribbon cutting ceremony were treated to a taste of the cuisine as they dined on red velvet waffles and chicken.

Christina Argumaniz, who came to celebrate

Breakfast Brothers’ third store, said the food was delicious.

Both the waffles and the chicken were amazing, Argumaniz said, but the waffles stole the show for her. “Very crispy, so yummy,” she said.

Booker said he likes the new concept because it’s COVID-19-friendly. With minimal contact needed through their new service, Breakfast Brothers Express is able to cater to folks who

might still not be comfortable fully integrating back into society.

“So this concept is still good for the ones that just want to grab, go home, order it, and have somebody deliver it to them,” he said.

In addition to their other brick-and-mortar stores in Arlington and Dallas, Breakfast Brothers is looking to expand their business with more stores, including their Express services, Booker said.

A sample of Breakfast Brothers chicken and red velvet waffles

Photo: Nina Garcia

Rickey Booker - Co-owner and founder of Breakfast Brothers

Photo: Nina Garcia

Holmes brings strong message at St. Luke

Sharing stories of his tenure as senior pastor of St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, Rev. Zan Wesley Holmes Jr., Pastor Emeritus told a filled-to-capacity sanctuary that “these are some challenging times.”

“If we remain where we are, we won’t get very far,” he said. “The worse thing we can do is say we have arrived, that we have overcome. Our nation is struggling!”

Rev. Holmes returned to St. Luke for Black History Month and to kick off the church’s 90th anniversary celebration which will culminate with a huge event in December.

Instead of a sermon, after several musical selections, Dr. Holmes and Senior Pastor Richie Butler sat down for a conversation, which was more like a history lesson as the elder statesman talked about his college years, serving in the Texas Legislature and pastoring at St. Luke.

When asked about the future, he said,

“God has a brand new future for St. Luke and that future is taking place now.”

Dr. Holmes repeatedly referenced a “brand new future,” as he praised St. Luke for it’s work in the past.

“The struggle continues. We (congregation with other clergy) came together and made a difference in the city,” he pointed out, adding that the Church must always be in the forefront of any efforts dealing with racism; as well as the political and economic climates.

His advice was to work with others to deal with the problems of the world, “We need coalitions.

Throughout the conversation, which lasted over an hour, Rev. Holmes praised the congregation and those who pastored since he retired, including Pastor Michael Bowie, who was also in attendance. “I shall ever be grateful to this congregation.”

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered

MARCH

This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what more than 17 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years! It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change! Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St in Dallas at 8p.m. 11

The Tradition is back - The Best St. Paddy’s Day Race in Texas! The St. Paddy’s Day Dash Down Greenville 5K is back in Dallas and so is the Dallas St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival that follows. Dress up in your luckiest gear and join the sea of green for the best 5K and post-race party this side of the rainbow. ‘Twill be a fine morning to celebrate with lots o’ beer, food, great music and prizes. Energy Square Dallas, 4925 Greenville Avenue at 6:30 am.

JEFF TYZIK conducts DARREN LORENZO soloist CHESTER GREGORY soloist MICHAEL LYNCHE soloist With Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik at the helm, Kings of Soul shines a spotlight on the music of legendary artists Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, James Brown, Otis Redding, The Temptations, Al Green, Barry White, Smokey Robinson and Curtis Mayfield in an evening of soulful rhythms and melodies, at Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2308 Flora St., Dallas - March 10-12

Business CommUNITY Clean Ups Register at dallasblackchamber.org

The Power of Community Creating Social Change Appreciation Gala, 2501 North Harwood St. at 7p.m. *** America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, comes to Winspear Opera House in Dallas, Texas, to perform his newest stand-up routine at

St. Luke Leadership, past and present: Rev. Zan Holmes Jr. and Rev. Michael Bowie with Rev. Ritchie Butler (c)

St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church Choir

The Black Mystery Series

By Vincent L. Hall

I keep a Bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other. My job is to afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted!

– Zan Holmes

Black Dallas History!

Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. arrived in Dallas in 1956, fresh from his undergraduate work at Huston-Tillotson College, a historically Black college near Austin, Texas. The school was formed by merging two schools; Samuel Huston College and Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute.

Huston-Tillotson, the amalgam produced by the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church in 1952, was virtually new in its nomenclature when Holmes graduated. The association with the United Methodist Church also helped lead him to Dallas and the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University.

Zan Holmes was a household name in the contingent areas from Waco to Austin. Holmes was

Zan is Still the Man!

the son of a preacher and always had a winning smile and winsome segues. He will never allow a conversation to be about him.

Zan repositions accolades meant for him as a conduit for making positive observations about others. Dr. Holmes is a walking billboard of kindness and generosity.

“Sweet Jesus,” as some knew him in south Texas places like Lockhart, Luling, and Seguin, has a place and personality of his own.

Creating a stand-alone identity can be challenging for PKs (preacher’s kids) to establish.

Zan made a name for himself as a bridge-builder, a powerful preacher and a peace-promulgator

After years of a rigorous daily running regimen, his doctors prescribed its cessation. It was too hard on the knees. The slight limp doesn’t slow him, though.

He had that natural “pimp walk,” before Barack Obama could spell Air Force One!

Zan was the second African American to claim Dallas’ coveted Linz Award. Juanita Craft was first and former First Lady Matrice Ellis-Kirk became the third in the awards’ 90-year history. Mrs. Craft won a Linz award for what she did, and Zan was recognized for what he did and for what he prevented.

Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, Zan’s most prolific member, made Dr. Holmes the official interpreter for the Dallas press corps. Price would curse out the media and any white folks that didn’t like it, and Zan would be hounded for interviews and

Zan, a former Texas State Representative, could keep his feet firmly in the center of the political aisle. He has the MLK touch, and it is genuine. Love and temperance ooze from every word and deed. His panoramic view of life and humanity allows him to see and comprehend everyone’s place and point.

“Zan Holmes was the model of what a preacher should be,” according to community activist and leader John Fullinwider.

clarifying statements.

The retirement of Dr. Zan Wesley Holmes, now Pastor Emeritus at Dallas’ St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, was the beginning of a socio-ecclesiastical diaspora for lots of us.

Dr. Holmes’ final benediction as the angel of the house at Saint Luke was followed by an abundance of groans and sad goodbyes.

There were no natural substitutes for Zan the Man, Sweet Jesus, or whatever name you may know him by. No one.

Zan Holmes was always an ally, an alibi, and an objective overseer. He used his position as a clergyman and his powers of racial reconciliation to assuage and heal wounds. Zan knows how and when to say the right thing to the right people. At one point, almost half of Dallas’s Black leaders and politicians were members or claimed association with his congregation.

The Reverend Zan Holmes, always the mediator and unbiased voice, has a knack for ending every encounter in a conciliatory tone and manner. After a police protest went way off the charted path in the 1990’s Dr. Holmes quieted the fires on both sides.

“We are not against our police department; we want a better police department, ” he firmly stated.

His sentiments were simple

but accurate. No group of citizens needed the police more than the Black community, and no other community was abused more by the police.

In-person, he humbly drops his strong square jaws, slightly tilts his head and peers into every

face-to-face encounter. He is an active listener who gives you your moment.

There is an old church hymn titled, “Let others see Jesus in you.”

Dr. Zan Holmes is the walking manifestation of the song and a standard bearer for the Christian faith.

Zan lives in his purpose. He points to the Bible while he comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable.

I love Dallas’ Black History, and I love me some Zan!

The Black Superbowl and the Chal lenge of Anti-Blackness

The Last Word

By Dr. Julianne Malveaux

African American history was celebrated at this year’s Super Bowl. It was the first time that two Black quarterbacks faced off against each other. Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles and Patrick Mahomes played a good game, and the Chiefs won narrowly. The NFL is more than 100 years old. What took so long for it to reach this milestone?

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell trumpeted the historic moment when he gave a press conference on “The State of the League .”When asked why it took so long, he replied, “there are probably a variety of reasons, probably none of them good.”

The NFL has a history of virulent racism. According to Dave Zirin, an MSNBC columnist, “only eight Black men have ever

quarterbacked in a Superbowl.”

And Colin Kaepernick, the courageous African American who took a knee to protest racism, has not yet found a place in the NFL.

The Black National Anthem, rousingly delivered by Sheryl Lee Ralph, was featured live at the Superbowl for the first time. The anthem was written 123 years ago by James Weldon Johnson, an NAACP official, and teacher.

It was a family affair, with his brother John Rosamond Johnson composing the music to accompany the song.

The Superbowl was, in some ways, a celebration of African American History. But Black folks can’t celebrate our history with others offering resistance and backlash.

The conservative Congresswoman Lauren Boebert twitted, “America only has ONE NATIONAL ANTHEM. Why is the NFL trying to divide us by playing multiple? Do football, not wokeness” Boebert and her sidekick Marjorie Taylor Green shamelessly and thoughtlessly carry the right-

wing agenda, operating publicly without a shred of dignity.

At the State of the Union Address, Taylor Green, clad in all white, including a white fur collar, should have worn a matching hat (or hood) to make herself clear.

Boebart’s Twitter racism generated nearly 92,000 likes, more than 10,000 retweets, and much attention. Her backlash to Black excellence is similar to the conservative backlash to truth and Black history.

According to Sarah Schwartz of Education Week, 44 states have “introduced bills or taken other steps that would restrict teaching “critical race theory” or limit how teachers can discuss racism. Eighteen states, of this writing, have passed this pernicious legislation.

More than 1600 books have been banned in 138 school districts in 33 states so far, as the momentum for ignorance is increasing. Among the banned books – Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye and Beloved; and Margaret Atwood’s, The Handmaiden’s Tale.

This book-banning, history-ig-

noring climate has some teachers frightened and intimidated. In some school districts, teachers who mention race can be fined or incarcerated. One teacher covered her books with plain book covers so students couldn’t see titles that might be perceived as “offensive.

“Many of the banned books have themes that deal with sex and sexuality. All the books apparently tell a truth that conservatives can’t handle.

Legislators are passing laws that are vague and silly. In South Carolina, a proposed law would prevent teachers from discussing anything that creates “discomfort, guilt, or anguish on the basis of political belief.”

Florida has passed similar laws, and its governor has been a lead proponent in limiting teacher speech around race matters. Sarah Huckabee, the new governor of Arkansas, said she didn’t want students being taught to “hate their country.” But many African Americans, despite the oppression our people have ex-

perienced, love our country

It is no surprise that Florida’s governor has attacked an Advanced Placement (AP) Black Studies class and says it cannot be taught in Florida public schools. He has created a national controversy and prevaricated his interactions with the College Board, the organization that developed the class. His lies are not unusual. It reflects the lies he’d like teachers to tell when he waters down American history. Black history is American history. The history of enslavement, lynching, and Jim Crow isn’t pleasant, but it happened. The theme of this Black History Month is resistance, which Black folks must do economically, politically, and educationally. Black educators and our allies have work to do. We must teach the truth and tell the truth, or the entire nation will suffer.

Making Black History Month Truly Meaningful

Our Voices

By Dr. John E. Warren

It’s not enough that Black History Month is the shortest month in the year; or that many capitalize on it with lip service and faint recognition. By this we mean the commercialization of “Black History Month” by some while others are attempting to erase us by banning books that speak to our history and struggle.

When we personally stop and reflect or read the accounts of what people like James Weldon Johnson and his brother did in writing the “Negro National Anthem” over 123 years ago; when we consider that this was done in the midst of a segregated society with much open race hatred, it’s a testimony to the personal and family commitment to a people that you not only identify with, but are proud of.

To make Black History meaningful to us individually and to our people, we must first get reacquainted with our history. For example, it is embarrassing to be

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

Phone:214-941-0110

Website: www.garlandjournal.com

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in a Black History program calling for the singing of “Lift Every Voice & Sing” (the Negro National Anthem) and watch people struggle to sing one verse or fumble while looking for the words in a program. The act of meaningful engagement with our history must be year-round and based

- Dr. John E.

on a commitment to who we are collectively and how much we care for our own heritage.

Let’s start by learning the words to the song and studying the meaning for what it tells us about those who came before us. Let’s be able to sing the song from our hearts just as the peo-

ple of South Africa do with their national anthem. Because the South African people care and identify with their song, we can feel the depth of their emotions.

When we re-enter that space for ourselves, we will no longer have to be concerned about what others do or say about us. The words to the song will rekindle our desire to revisit what our ancestors have done both for us and this nation. Let’s make Black History everyday, as some of us, like this paper, already work at.

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

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at California State University, Los Angeles.

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

Zan Holmes, back in the day

Rev. Holmes with Vincent Hall

"The act of meaningful engagement with our history must be year-round and based on a commitment to who we are collectively and how much we care for our own heritage."

Warren

Your Life Depends Upon It

Faithful Utterances

By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew

Much of my research and life work has been rooted in the belief that we need each other to thrive. I was recently teaching a session for a nonprofit certificate program on the value of partnerships and collaboration. The participants commented on the need to be more intentional about their interactions beyond the transactional to creating more transformative moments with others. YES!

It’s always serendipitous when I discover something that affirms my research and work. The next day, I read an article in the New York Times that shared some data that confirmed the need for connection.

“…somewhere between a third and two-thirds of Americans re-

port being lonely. Loneliness exists on a feedback loop: Fraying cultural bonds, damaged physical health and reduced social contact both exacerbate loneliness and are exacerbated by it, to the point that loneliness lowers life expectancy. Loneliness is a challenging phenomenon for researchers to quantify, but there are telltale signs — and they point to a society losing its way. The number of Americans who report having no close friends at all has quadrupled since 1990, according to a Survey Center on American Life study. An average American in 2021 spent 58 percent less time with friends than in 2013, the Census Bureau found.”

It’s important to note that the pandemic created much of the distance that we all experienced as a result of our need for safety and health, but as the world has opened back up, our relationships continue to suffer. Social media has provided space to connect but we are missing opportunities for the energy that occurs when we are present and proxi-

mate. Social media can create a persona of who we desire to be and allows us to hide who we really are behind a barrage of photos, quotes, and posts that only show the good times. We need relationships. We need friends. God designed us to be in relationship with others. There are many powerful friends in the Bible that reveal the need for relationships: Jonathan and David, Elijah and Elisha, and Ruth and Naomi. These relationships show us what happens when friends provide comfort, constructive critiques, and even coaching. We live in a time of rampant selfishness and these relationships remind us of the importance of close friendships for our mental, spiritual and emotional needs. The relationship of Ruth and Naomi in the Bible demonstrates that Godly friendships are rooted in loyalty, purpose, love, dedication, and perseverance. Ruth tells Naomi, “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my peo-

ple, and your God my God.” (Ruth

1:16-17) Ruth had the opportunity to leave Naomi, an elder, and go back to her people. Instead, she recognized the pain they both experienced in losing their loved ones and chose to be there for Naomi. Their friendship proved to be a blessing for both of them. Our need for relationships is essential. Research from the CDC confirms that loneliness and a lack of connection can have severe and even deadly consequences: Recent studies found that:

• Social isolation significantly increased a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.

• Social isolation was associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia.

• Poor social relationships (characterized by social isolation or loneliness) were associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.

• Loneliness was associated with

New Dangerous Assaults on Teaching the Truth

By Marian Wright Edelman

When Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida’s Department of Education make headlines for banning the new Advanced Placement African American Studies course from being taught in the state’s schools, saying the class “significantly lacks educational value,” we need to pay very close attention. Florida’s move is the latest front in an ongoing war against teaching children the truth about our shared history.

When Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the son of former slaves, a pioneering, Harvard-trained historian, and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, created the precursor to Black History Month in 1926 he did so because he was alarmed how few people, white or Black, knew anything at all about Black people’s achievements. Dr. Woodson believed it was critical to claim our rightful place in the history books and teach future generations about the great thinkers and role models who came before us. As he said, “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching

of biography and history. But Dr. Woodson also understood that this was much more than just an academic discussion. He saw the connection between erasing Black history and assaulting Black bodies, and said the crusade to teach the truth about Black history was even “much more important than the anti-lynching movement, because there would be no lynching if it did not start in the schoolroom. Why not exploit, enslave, or exterminate a class that everybody is taught to regard as inferior?”

In his seminal book “The Mis-Education of the Negro,” Dr. Woodson also explained that providing a standard “mis-education” to young Black children in the school system — “the thought of the inferiority of the Negro is drilled into him in almost every class he enters and in almost every book he studies” was a calculated and insidious attack: “When you control a man’s thinking you do not have to worry about his actions. You do not have to tell him not to stand here or go yonder. He will find his ‘proper place’ and will stay in it. You do not need to send him to the back door. He will go without being told. In fact, if there is no back door, he will cut one for his special benefit. His education makes

it necessary.” Decades later, James Baldwin put a similar insight in sharp words that resonate right now: “It’s not the world that was my oppressor, because what the world does to you, if the world does it to you long enough and effectively enough, you begin to do to yourself. You become a collaborator, an accomplice of your own murderers, because you believe the same things they do.”

Today, just as Dr. Woodson believed would happen, knowing our history makes it easier to spot moves like Florida’s hostile ban of A.P. African American Studies and immediately see them for exactly what they are and where they fit in in the long, long history of deliberate attempts to hide the truth and miseducate children. The adults desperate to control children’s thinking today will have to work overtime as they try to block every new avenue for young people to access and discern the truth for themselves. For example, the Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is responding to book bans and purges in other libraries and schools by making its “National Teen BPL eCard” available for a limited time to young people ages 13-21 across the country, giving them free access to BPL’s full eBook collection and learning da-

tabases. BPL was inspired in part by the American Library Association’s and Association of American Publishers’ “Freedom to Read” Statement, originally drafted 70 years ago, which begins: “The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label ‘controversial’ views, to distribute lists of ‘objectionable’ books or authors, and to purge libraries. … We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.”

And as Dr. Woodson also taught us, the preservation of the freedom to read and the freedom to learn our nation’s true and full history is not just an academic discussion today either. Every attempt to limit teaching the truth about Black history — or about Asian American, Native American, Latino, LGBTQ, or women’s history—has a very dangerous subtext. This is a book we’ve read before. We must all stay vigilant against every new effort to miseducate our children and our communities.

On 50th Anniversary of Landmark Abortion Decision, Legality Alone Isn’t Enough

bodies and futures.

By Marc Morial

“Overturning Roe and outlawing abortions will never make them go away. It only makes them more dangerous, especially for the poor and marginalized. People will die because of this decision. And we will never stop until abortion rights are restored in the United States of America.”

— Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Fifty years ago, women across the country celebrated the infamous Roe v. Wade decision that recognized the constitutional right for people to have an abortion. Now, after decades of scheming, right-wing politicians finally have forced their unpopular agenda on the rest of America. They have decided that the government — not pregnant people and their doctors — should make a private health care decision and deny women the right to control their own

Since the Supreme Court made its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization last June, nearly half the states in the country have either outlawed abortion services or placed heavy restrictions around abortion access. This decision put important health care decisions out of the reach of millions of women and violated their right to decide what happens to their own bodies. Access to safe abortion services have proven over time to discourage women from exploring unsafe methods to end their pregnancies, a reality that has mostly impacted Black women and women in underserved communities.

Black women are four times more likely to die as a result of childbirth than white women, according to American Medical Association. Meanwhile, due to racialized income and wealth disparities, inequitable access to medical care, and the other insidious ways manifestations of structural racism, people of color

are more likely to require abortion care and but are less likely to be able to afford out-of-state travel to obtain care if it is outlawed in their state.

Forcing women to carry preg-

higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.

The Bible reminds us of why friendships are important:

• If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. (Ecclesiastes 4:10)

• One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. (Proverbs 17:17)

The antidote to loneliness is connection—not superficial relationships, but those that allow you to be yourself where you can be vulnerable and safe. Seek good, Godly, reciprocal friendships that are life giving. Your very existence depends upon it.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is an author of three books and the host of The Tapestry podcast. To listen to episodes of the podcast, visit https:// www.spreaker.com/show/the-tapestry_1 and to learn more about her work, go to https://drfroswa.com/

NFL no Black coaches in 1973, two in 2023

Our Voices

By A. Peter Bailey

When reading or hearing about the extremely limited number of Black head coaches in the National Football League (NFL), I remember an article entitled “Where are the Black Coaches?” in the December 1973 issue of Ebony Magazine.

Under the title it stated that “No Blacks lead professional teams; only five have been selected as assistants.”

The article reported that “This year in the National Football League, 198 coaches are coaching, approximately 1,118 players. While some 435 players are Black, not a single Black is listed among the 26 head coaches in the League and only 5 Blacks are among the League’s 172 assistant coaches.

They are Emlen Tunnell of the New York Giants, Willie Wood of the San Diego Chargers, Lionel Taylor of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Al Labor of the Cleveland Browns and Earnell Durden of the Houston Oilers.”

Fifty years later the question asked by Ebony Magazine still hasn’t been answered. In the January 11, 2023 issue of The Washington Post, included an article, “The NFL is Down to Two Black Coaches.

‘A closed fraternity’

nancies against their will can have devastating and lasting consequences for them and their family and push women and families deeper into poverty. Our health care system already fails Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, and barriers to abortion care make that worse.

As we continue to navigate this crisis, we must not settle for legality. Legality alone will not ensure everyone can get the abortion care

they need. We must aim for abortion justice and fight for that justice in our communities, city halls, state legislatures, in Congress, and the White House. We need bold solutions like the Women’s Health Protection Act to codify the right to an abortion into federal law and ensure all pregnant persons can make personal health decisions without government interference. So, this weekend, the 50th anniversary of the landmark decision, we stand with all women in solidarity in the fight to protect women’s rights. The devastating decision to overturn Roe will reverberate for future generations of women and girls who would need access to such an essential service. Abortion access is an economic and racial justice issue, and I am proud to say that the National Urban League will continue to fight for the reproductive rights of women and the civil rights of all of us.

The 1973 Ebony article included comments by two former Black players, Gayle Sayers, a great backfield star with the Chicago Bears and previously mentioned Emlen Tunnell. Sayers was recorded as saying that “Coaching is a closed fraternity.”

Owners and general managers usually hire friends for a head coaching post. But I don’t think racism has anything to do with it.”

Tunnell, the first Black player for the New York Giants, was quoted as saying that “The color of one’s skin shouldn’t be used to measure the wealth of a man, but it will for the rest of our lifetimes.”

One question today is how many 2023 Black NFL players share the positions attributed fifty years ago to Sayers and Tunnell. Another question is whether they have the me, myself and I attitude expressed by too many Black folks today.

If today’s Black NFL players do share the positions attributed to Sayers and Tunnell a question about the lack of Black head coaches will still be relevant fifty years from now. On the other hand, if the players work together and are backed by serious Black folks that question will be irrelevant.

FL. Gov Ron DeSantis

Photo: official photo

Demonstrators converged outside the Supreme Court building in D.C. on June 24 after it was announced that the court overturned Roe v. Wade.

Photo: Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer

Marian Wright Edelman is founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund.

Duke It Out

By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor

CREED III movie channels friends becoming foes, then there’s family

When the ring around your past is dirty, you will fight your “friends.” CREED III is about Adonis Creed’s attempts to clean up his mental torment of childhood guilt from an incident involving his friend Damian “Diamond Dame” Anderson. Having retired from boxing, Creed, played by Michael B. Jordan, is an astute businessman enjoying a happy life with his wife Bianca (Tessa Thompson), daughter Amara (Mila Davis-Kent) and mother Mary-Anne (Phylicia Rashad). Happiness gets flipped with a nice-nasty reentry of Anderson (Jonathan Majors) into his life.

Anderson smiles, yet deep-seated anger and jealousy seethes through, having built up over time from an 18 year stint in prison. His unabashed, violent tendencies soon make him a clear villain.

Beyond boxing, CREED III is unflinching in its focus on family and fatherhood. There are numerous heartfelt moments throughout the film that showcase the beauty a family unit brings.

Then, there are also times when family secrets surface, yielding to resentment over what possibly could have changed life’s trajectory.

“Let go of everything that was and walk into what is,” Tony ‘Little Duke’ Burton, the matter-offact trainer and friend played by Wood Harris, said. Duke’s memorable line could easily

serve as the defining statement of Creed’s longtime, successful run… until he’s forced to stop

and deal with his past. The punches, blood, sweat, and slow-motion of saliva spewing from mouths are gut-wrenching along with a rhythmically invoking soundtrack that takes you ringside. With all of the noise, the juxtaposition of communicating via sign language with Creed’s daughter Amara, who is deaf, heightens an onscreen loving awareness of experiences for those with disabilities. A father’s love on display is the soft spot of the movie, aiming straight for the heart of which it lands. Fight. Fame. Family. Then, fending off evil forces. Michael B. Jordan’s directorial debut, CREED III, will rope you into an emotional battle that ends with what’s most important. The final scene is touching. Check it out in theaters March 3, 2023.

Media and the Mean Green UNT

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By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle &

From giants to emerging professionals, the University of North Texas (UNT) Mayborn School of Journalism celebrated alumni and industry greats in part one of their Celebrate Mayborn series of events on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023 in Denton, Texas. Once part of an extended program that presented scholarships to students, UNT Mayborn

dean and professor Andrea Miller announced the separation of the programs to adequately honor recipients in a special way. The Student Scholarship Gala will take place April 20, 2023 with plans to award a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships and honor their 2003 and 2022 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) student chapters of the year.

UNT President Neal Smatresk provided opening remarks, mar-

veling at the amount of journalism and media professionals the Mayborn School has produced. He expressed pride in alumni doing great things around the globe. Industry icons and alumni celebrated this evening included NABJ Hall of Famer Neil Foote who received the C.E. Shuford Award, and The Dallas Morning News Executive Editor and NABJ member Katrice Hardy as a recipient of

the Distinguished Professional Achievement Award. CBS News producer Cydne Robinson was celebrated among the Rising Star Award Winners, and National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) Hall of Famer Rebecca Aguilar was one of two recipients of the Super Alum Award.

Congratulations to all for their commitment to the journalism and media industry.

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Culture Editor

UNT President Neal Smatresk delivers opening remarks at Celebrate Mayborn Feb. 26, 2023 in Denton, TX

Eva D. Coleman with UNT Mayborn School of Journalism Dean Andrea Miller at Celebrate Mayborn Feb. 26, 2023 in Denton, TX

Award recipient Neil Foote receives C.E. Shuford award during Celebrate Mayborn Feb. 26, 2023

In Conversation with Person of the Year cont.

from the works of the aforementioned and while some will ever admit it, others are proud to say they stand on the shoulders of these giants.

For at least 50 years, we have publicly had an opportunity to scrutinize, criticize, praise, challenge and more. She’s taken the critiques and praise with grace and stayed her course, ending her career in public office as not only the eldest member of Congress, but one of the most effective members; just ask her biggest critics who really know the deal.

Recently during a “conversation” with the Gentle Lady from Texas, she spoke candidly about how she got started in politics.

Retired U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was the featured speaker at the annual In Conversation benefitting the Zan Wesley Holmes Outreach Center, which is named in honor of longtime statesman, pastor and Johnson’s Waco school mate, Dr. Zan Wesley Holmes, Jr.

As I interviewed the woman who has so. Many “firsts” in front of her name; I was impressed with her memory as she talked about moments in her life that helped

to shape her into a woman who would travel to more than 80 countries, meeting world leaders and helping to build a better world.

She championed issues that were not always popular and she remained committed to the causes she deemed worthy. Passionate, devoted and focused, you could never say she was ill-prepared.

Her story is a wonderful one and soon we will be able to read, in her own words, about her journey and those whose paths crossed with hers.

When she announced her retirement, it was a shock to many and to her credit she named the person she felt could carry on the work of District 30; so for those who say Black leadership does not support, encourage and prepare future leaders, here was an example, with her selection of thenTX. State Representative Jasmine Crockett.

There are also many other rising stars, like Damarcus Offord who we can expect great things from in the future; or Gary Hasty whose efforts on behalf of homeless veterans is laudable.

And then she retired with grace, lending additional support to Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), who now serves as House Democratic Leader and credits Rep. Johnson for her unwavering support and guidance.

Now we have heard the negative comments and we have heard the praise. We also did our research.

In addition to being a leader on the political front, she has served in numerous leadership positions in other organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, and Link’s Inc.

Ms. Johnson is mother, grandmother, community servant and world leader.

She has served with distinction in an ofttimes hostile environment that has definitely not been friendly to Black women. But still “EBJ” as many affectionately call her, stays true to her beliefs and conviction.

Further, in her portfolio she has numerous accomplishments and I am going to list just 10 which I hope will spark you to pursue further information about this dynamic woman.

1. First African American and first female chair of the House

Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

2. Authored the CHIPS and Science Act, which included an emphasis on scientific research funding (became Public Law 117-167).

3. Authored the Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which requires the Federal Communications Commission to designate 9–8–8 as the universal telephone number for a national suicide prevention and mental-health crisis hotline.

4. Served as the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 107th Congress. Founded the tri-Caucus (CBC, CHC, and CAPAC).

5. Was the lead lawmaker overriding President Bush’s veto of the Water Resources and Development Act as chair of the Water Resources Subcommittee.

6. One of the most influential Members in bringing back infrastructure funding to North Texas and State of Texas, covering various projects including roads, bridges, aviation, and transit projects.

7. Involved in multiple pieces of legislation focused on diversifying STEM professions and ensuring all minorities—espe-

cially African Americans—have access to STEM education

8. Used experience as the first Nurse elected to Congress to provide valuable insights when drafting and passing the Affordable Care Act.

9. Played an essential role in drafting and passing a UN resolution focused on Women’s Peace and Security and founded a nonprofit focused on Women’s role in world peace.

10. Worked with Local and National stakeholders to help increase benefits for SNAP assistance recipients through the FARM bill and to tackle hunger. Founded the Dallas Coalition of Hunger Solutions.

Just a snippet. There is so much more and I encourage you to get in line for the book, but also check out this conversation: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zQxy-9TRAXI And if you didn’t know, now you know!

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

Athletes Unlimited Kicks Off Season 2 at Dallas’ Fair Park Coliseum

Season Two of the player-driven league Athletes Unlimited tipped-off Thursday night with two action-packed games at Dallas’ Fair Park Coliseum.

Team Cloud, led by Natasha Cloud of the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, defeated Team Cole, led by Taj Cole of the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun by a score of 78-72 in Game 2, the second game of opening night.

The first game was won by Team Williams, led by Courtney Williams of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. They defeated Team Sims 9893 in overtime. Team Sims was led by Odyssey Sims, an Irving, Texas native who graduated from MacArthur High School in Irving.

AU, a player-driven league where they get to make all of the executive decisions, is in it’s second season and is featuring 44 of the best professional women’s basketball players – the major-

ity of which play for the WNBA - competing on four teams. The 30-game season is five-weeks long and Fair Park Coliseum and concludes on Sunday, March 25. Individual athletes earn points on every play and the leaderboard will change constantly. In addition, teams change each week, with the top four athletes in the standings serving as captains and drafting their teams. At

the end of the five-week season, the player with the most points is crowned as individual champion.

The teams play three games per week, most available on WNBA League Pass. CBS Sports Network will air five of the 30 games live, while the remainder of the games can be viewed via the Athletes Unlimited YouTube page. Select games will be simulcast by the Women’s Sports Network and

Bally Sports regional sports networks.

Athletes Unlimited is a new model of pro sports where athletes are decision-makers and individual players are champions of team sports. Athletes Unlimited features faster play and new team rosters every week. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased at auprosports.com. Also visit the site for the game schedule.

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

Photos: Jesse Hornbuckle

Odyssey Sims Banner

Odyssey Sims AU Bball Game 1 Photos: Jade Hewitt, Athletes Unlimited; Dorothy J. Gentry, Texas Metro News

Award recipient Rebecca Aguilar takes selfie with attendee during Celebrate Mayborn Feb. 26, 2023

recipient Rebecca Aguilar delivering remarks

SUPERB WOMEN

continued from page 1

Organization and former Miss Space City 2022 and former Miss Aubrey. A committed volunteer and born leader, she also serves as the National Second Vice President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Upon graduation she joined the U.S. House of Representatives as a Staff Assistant.

GAIL O’BANNON

Gail O’Bannon is the Dallas Mavericks’ Chief Diversity Officer. She is one of the longest-tenured women of the Dallas Mavericks after starting her career in the ticket sales and service department more than 20 years ago. She has also enjoyed stints as the Founder of My Sisters & Me Women of Color Photographers, and Black Butterflies Photography She also worked at Wise DFW, Texas Women’s Foundation, Sabre Corporation, American Airlines and A-1 Sundown Travel. Gail attended Cameron University studying Business Administration and Management, Cornell University studying Diversity and Inclusion and Oklahoma State University studying Accounting and Business/Management.

ORETTA B. JOHNSON

A Golden Life member initiated in the Fall of 1972 at the Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority at the University of North Texas (Denton), where she received a Bachelor of Political Science, Oretta Johnson is a retired, Information System Technology Manager. A member of Concord Church, she has served as President-Elderwoods Neighborhood Association; Board of Directors-Dodd Education & Support; Heads UP! Foundation Board; Group Leader - Bible Study Fellowship; Mayor’s Rebirth of Redbird Community- City of Dallas; General & Primary Election Clerk (Dallas County); Member, UNT Black Alumni Network; Concord Church Expository Preaching Conference Staff; and I.D.Ministry LifeMinistry Oretta has been the recipient of Concord Church - Deborah Award for Christian Sacrifice and Elderwoods Neighborhood Association - Presidential Award.

DAISHA BOARD

Daisha Board is the Owner and Curator of Daisha Board Gallery, a Contemporary Art Gallery representing BIPOC ARTISTS locally and abroad. She hails from Queens, NY and studied political science at Bethune Cookman University. Daisha is the founder of Black Sheep Art Culture and she also provides Public Relations, Marketing Consulting, Brand Consulting, Visual Design, Financial Advisory, Wealth Management, Career Development Coaching, Management Consulting, and Brand Design.

MARY ANN WALLACE

working at Life 180 Prison Ministry and a Bible Teacher at the Youth Village. Mary organized the Personal Item Drive for the Genesis Women Shelter, Organized Clothes and Goods for Turn Around Store at Oak Cliff Bible Church. A tutor and past secretary of Skillful Living Center, she was the Pearl C. Anderson Career Academy PTA’s Teacher of the Year and Mother of the Year at Bibleway Bible Church.

ALICE RIGGINS STEVENSON

Alice Riggins Stevenson works at All in One Tour Services as a tour operator. She hails from Dallas, TX and studied midmanagement at El Centro College where she graduated in1973 after graduating from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School. A lover of arts and culture, she is committed, conscientious and a joy to be around with her vibrant sense of humor. She is also praised for her wonderful tours because she is knowledgeable and provides a rewarding experience. A wife and mother, she loves to sing, dance and play the piano. Check her out at http:// www.allinonetourservices.com/.

TINA PANIA

A writer, editor and communications coordinator, Tina Pania is communicators coordinator at Dallas ISD and she has enjoyed stints as a communications consultant for Health Care Service Corp; assistant international editor at the Dallas Morning News; copy editor for the Los Angeles Times National/Washington wire editor for the San Jose Mercury News. She graduated with highest honors in journalism from University California, Berkeley. A lover of art, books, music and travel, Tina is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists. https://www.facebook.com/tina. pania/linkedin.com/in/tinapania

LINDA MANUELFONTENEAUX

Linda Manuel-Fonteneaux is a Golden Life and 50-year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, initiated in the Fall of 1972 at Delta Gamma Chapter, Texas Southern University where she was chapter president and received a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree. She is a member of The Village United Methodist Church and her community Involvement: includes being an active member of Women of Faith-North Texas Conference; Reading Partners of Texas - Student Tutor; Methodist Hospital of Dallas Auxiliary and Charlton Methodist Auxiliary.

BRIANNA MATHIS

CHERYLE GAIL FLEMING

Cheryle was initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in the Fall of 1972 at the Theta Nu Chapter at East Texas State University (now Texas A & M UniversityCommerce), where she received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Education in Elementary Education. Now a retired educator, she is a member of Saint John Baptist Church, Wichita Falls, TX. She was a charter member of the Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter (SWDCA), where she also served in leadership positions.

MICHELYNN WOODARD

Michelynn “Miki” Woodard is Texas Women’s Foundation’s President and CEO. Miki served as Head of Social Impact, Diversity and Inclusion for Bad Robot Productions, Inc., and Senior Advisor of the Katie McGrath and J.J. Abrams Family Foundation. Miki co-founded The Artemis Agency. She served as President, Philanthropy at JCPenney; Managing Director for Be the Change, Inc.; and at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Miki is the immediate past board chair of Community Coalition, a board member for the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, a founding board member of The Papa John’s Foundation, and sits on the California Advisory Board for The Trust for Public Land. Miki is a fourth-generation graduate of Hampton University, with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She recently joined the Challenger Center Board of Directors.

BETTY CULBREATH

Betty Culbreath was born and raised in Dallas, TX and attended Booker T. Washington High School. She graduated from Huston Tillotson University, where she studied sociology and education. Betty served as chairwoman of the Dallas City Plan Commission, Dallas County Health and Human Services director, and chairwoman for the D/FW International Airport Board. She is a recipient of South Dallas Business and Professional Women Trailblazer Award, the Linda Keithley Award for Women in Public Management, the FAA Minority Procurement Award, and the 2002 Texas Black Women in Health Matters Award. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Betty served as a member of Dallas County Hospital District Board and vice chair of the Duncanville Plan Commission. She has been named a Trichair of Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson’s HOPE Task Force on Homelessness Organizations, Policies, and Encampments.

TIFFANY EGAN

Administration from the University of Phoenix. She has enjoyed stints at Career real, Medline Industries, Inc., Dallas VA Medical Center, The Henry Dean Group, Parkland Hospital and U.S. Navy.

LENORA LINDSEY

Hailing from Dallas, Lenora Lindsey attended Skyline High School and Lincoln Humanities and Communications Magnet. She works at the U.S. Department of Justice and she is also in real estate. Lindsey has worked as business specialist at Business Specialist at ARMY & AIR FORCE EXCHANGE SERVICE - AAFES, also worked as a payroll supervisor at Citigroup and Call Center Administrator at AT&T She attended Dallas Baptist University, studying business administration and management. The founder and CEO of Sisterhood, Inc., she focuses on children, education and health.

LORRI DOTSON

Lorri Dotson is a consummate professional! She received her Associate of Arts Degree from Tarrant County College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at Northwood University and Masters in Public Administration, Economics and Nonprofit Management from the University of Texas at Arlington

College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs. She is the investor, founder and CEO of VIGCE LLC (VISION Group Cleaning) and Fleetwood Cleaning Services of GA. She operates the 7-day a week service cleaning office buildings, schools, university, medical center, apartments and more. Lorri is also a member of Top Ladies of Distinction and Who’s Who of Business Executive Professionals.

KEEYA VAWAR

A resident care associate at Bochy’s Place and public speaker at Mosaic Mission Network; she has also worked as an administrative assistant at Texas District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod; local missionary at Peace Lutheran Church; PR coordinator at ISO Sports International; and receptionist/accounting clerk at The Dallas Weekly. Her book, One Thousand Elsewhere: A True Survivor Story is available for purchase on Amazon. Keeya is a survivor and she shares her story to help others. Beautiful, talented and smart, Keeya works to strengthen fundraising efforts for organizations in the human trafficking space, bringing awareness to the horrors of human trafficking globally by sharing survivor stories.

LINCOLNETTE LOCKRIDGE

organizing health and job fairs. She loves reading, traveling, walking, baking, and watching crime shows.

Mary Ann Wallace is a 50-year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She was initiated in Spring 1973 at Iota Psi Chapter at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She received a BA in Education and became an educator. A member of Bibleway Bible Church of Dallas, she is a community servant,

Brianna Mathis is the Dallas Mavericks Sponsorships Activation Coordinator. Previously she worked as Executive Assistant Project Manager for Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls; Gameday ticketing customer service for Houston Texans Athletics Sales and Promotions Assistant for Texas A&M University-Commerce. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Sport and fitness administration/management from Texas A&M University-Commerce. She later studied Health Kinesiology Sport Studies/Sport and Fitness Administration and Management at Texas A&M -Commerce. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Tiffany Egan is a leader in the Xi Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Arlington Foundation for Excellence in Education. Tiffany received her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is a licensed clinical social worker at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Fort Worth ISD and she owns Paramount Affairs Event Planning Company, specializing in party planning and wedding coordination. Tiffany is former Texas Director - Little Miss Perfect at Citrus Pageant and Model Search and Texas Perfect Pageant at World’s Perfect Pageant.

AUNDRIA CYRS

A U.S. Navy Veteran and experienced and result-producing supply chain manager, AunDria received her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care Administration and Management from Southern Illinois University and a Master of Business

Lincolnette Lockridge received a Bachelor of Arts in Education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University where she was initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority the Spring of 1973 at Iota Psi Chapter. Upon graduation she became a teacher and school counselor. A member of St. John Unleashed Church (Grand Prairie) she has assisted in

Rev. Felecia Anderson Brewster received her Bachelor’s degree education from Texas A&M University - Commerce, a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Doctor of Education - EdD in Educational leadership and Administration from Dallas Baptist University. She has worked as a site coordinator in DeSoto ISD and a program coordinator for Dallas College. Rev. Felecia is a mentee of Dr. Sheron Patterson and a member of the #PulpitTeam, serving as part of Hamilton Park UMC’s Pastoral Team. She has been in leadership for more than 20 years and has provided a 10-week journey of coaching, mentoring and leadership for women who’ve said, Unapologetically, ‘Yes!’

Evangelist and Minister Schneil Dunn Clark is an author, speaker, prayer warrior, podcaster and teacher. Beautiful, smart and inspiring, she received a BS Degree in Sociology from Jarvis Christian College and a Masters degree from Amberton University. Hailing from East Saint Louis, IL, where she graduated from East Side High School, she is a wife and family person who loves uplifting people and especially WOMEN! She’s a member of Squad Check and Women of Esteem Ministry and you can check them out on Facebook Live.

REV. FELECIA ANDERSON BREWSTER

MIN. SCHNEIL DUNN CLARK