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The STATE FAIR OF TEXAS will receive sealed bids for re-roofing of the Administration Building. Qualified contractors only. Plans are available by contacting Ned at 214-421-8707. A mandatory pre bid meeting will be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 17, 2022.
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
WNBA’s Brittney Griner declared “wrongfully detained” in Russia
My Truth By Cheryl Smith Publisher
By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor
Thanks, Bob Ray! I will begin by saying I absolutely adore Peaches. She has always been sweet and loving to me and I appreciate her so very much. I also remember that when at an event I complimented her on her beautiful purse and she took it off her shoulder and gifted it to me.
Bob Ray Sanders
That’s who Peaches is and she’s married to an equally special person, veteran journalist and statesman Bob Ray Sanders. When we met almost 35 years ago, I was immediately impressed. He could have stopped in his tracks and never done anything else and he would have been good; with his legacy intact. See MY TRUTH, page 2
Three days before the start of the 26th WNBA season, significant updates have arrived concerning Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner. The 31-year-old, nineyear WNBA veteran has been detained over two months in Russia reportedly over drug charges. On Tuesday it was reported that the U.S. government now considers Griner to be “wrongfully detained by the Russian government” per a source to ESPN’s T.J. Quinn. The new designation of her status could mean a different strategy in negotiating and securing her release. Griner’s agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, in a statement to ESPN this morning, said: “Brittney has been detained for 75 days and our expectation is that the White House do whatever is necessary to bring her home.” Griner now being designated as wrongfully detained means that the U.S. government won’t wait on the Russian legal system and will seek to negotiate Griner’s return. A source close to Griner also confirmed that
Brittney Griner
League will honor star during the season Bill Richardson, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, has agreed to work on her case, per Quinn. Richardson has worked privately for years as an international hostage negotiator, Griner, a Houston native who played collegiately at Baylor University in Waco, has been detained in Russia since mid-Feb-
ruary after customs officials said they found hashish oil in her luggage at an airport near Moscow. At that time, Russian Federal Customs Service alleged it searched luggage believed to belong to Griner and found vape cartridges that contained oil derived from cannabis -- a crime that carries a
maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Griner was not mentioned by name at that point, but the customs service identified the detained person as a player for the U.S. women’s team but did not specify the date of her arrest. The customs service released video of an individual that appears to be the 6-foot-9 Griner going through airport security. Griner competes as part of Team USA Women’s Basketball and won gold medals in the 2016 and 2021 Olympics. Like most WNBA players, she plays basketball overseas in the offseason, most recently Russia.
Donald “Don” Payton – our Dallas African griot. Look it up. I Was Just Thinking... By Norma Adams-Wade Just finished a delightful twohour conversation with the “unofficial historian of Black Dallas.” For you who are not in the Dallas know, that would be the inimitable, the matchless Donald “Don” Payton. He is president of the African American Genealogical Interest Group, an affiliate of the Dallas Genealogical Society, and a former Dallas County Historical Commissioner.
WNBA Honors Griner The WNBA on Tuesday also released plans to ”acknowledge the importance” of Griner to the league as its 26th season tips off Friday. During the 2022 season Griner’s initials and jersey number (#42) will be featured along the sideline of all 12 WNBA courts. “As we begin the 2022 season, we are keeping Brittney at the forefront of what we do through See DETAINED, page 9
Donald “Don” Payton, genealogist and historian of Black Dallas. Credit: Dallas Historical Society
You can call this a tribute to Payton. He is a repository of oral history that he carries around in his head. He is, in fact, our African griot. Look it up. Oral history comes alive through him. Listen: “History repeats itself because during the first time we’re
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 Cheryl Smith that we need to show love and empower people with love instead Women and call them SUPERB! of destroying them with hate and AND WE ARE KEEPING THE CELEdisrespect. We celebrate Black BRATION GOING IN 2022!
BELINDA GRIFFIN Belinda Griffin has “A Mind for Business, A Heart for Service.”
She has served as president of The Links, Inc., Dallas Chapter; board treasurer for the North Central Texas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association; and board member of The Family Place. She has been Director of Finance and Administration for the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, a consultant with Griffin Marks Advisors LLC, Vice President and Managing Executive at a Northern Trust Bank, and Vice President for JP Morgan Chase (formerly Texas Commerce Bank). After graduating from Adrian C. Wilcox High School, Belinda received a BS degree in Biology and Chemistry from Texas Southern University, where she was Senior Class President. She also took continuing education courses in accounting at Houston Community College. A Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Belinda is a servant leader who leads with grace.
DEBRA NIXON BOWLES Debra Nixon Bowles is one of the best advocates that any community can have. She uses her voice and resources to help make this world a better place.
Debra Nixon Bowles is the Founder and President of A Woman Called Moses Coalition and Outreach. She hails from Houston, TX but for decades she has been uplifting, inspiring and supportive of families in the D/ FW area. Through her nonprofit organization, she helps battered women and their children. Her passion for this cause is driven by her own personal experiences with domestic abuse in her childhood and as an adult. As a business leader, mother, and survivor, Debra understands the spoken and unspoken needs, experiences, and aspirations of many women who find themselves stressed and navigating the unpredictable violent behaviors of their partners. Debra gives hope to those in despair and she works tirelessly to secure resources and call attention to the ills of domestic abuse.
EFFIE BOOKER-DENNISON Effie Booker-Dennison is a committed leader, servant and example of the epitome of womanhood; who leads with grace and love.
Effie Booker-Dennison is the Executive Vice President and Director of Community Development at Texas Capital Bank where she was also Senior Vice President Community Development and Corporate Responsibility. She has also served as Senior Vice President at VRM Mortgage Services; Senior Director - REO Operations at CoreLogic; North Texas Region Director for Fannie Mae and Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo. A member of The LINKS Inc., she is a past recipient of the Texas Women’s Foundation Maura Award; Southern Methodist University Women’s Symposium Profiles in Leadership Award; and Texas Executive Women, Women on The Move Award. She currently serves on the boards of Texas Women’s Foundation, Parkland Foundation and VNA/Meals on Wheels. She is a member of the Executive Women of Dallas, Genesis Women’s Shelter Domestic Violence Alliance Board, The Dallas Summit and The Charter 100. BERNARDETTE LOGAN HARVEY BerNardette Logan Harvey understands the importance of land ownership and she shares her passion as she helps families obtain generational wealth through homeownership BerNardette Harvey has over 20 years experience in housing, ranging from apartment leasing and property management to real estate broker, which includes residential and commercial sales. She’s held the title of “Top Realtor of the Year” with her
VOLUME X
past Real Estate Company, prior to forming BMarie Realty. She has also previously worked as a 911 operator and as a flight attendant at Southwest Airlines and American Eagle Air. A graduate of Bishop Lynch High School/Booker T. Washington High School, she graduated from Tyler Junior College and studied at Texas Woman’s University. ANDREA HOWARD Andrea Howard is highly skilled and focused. She has amassed an impressive portfolio with impeccable credentials.
Andrea Howard is a Senior Physician Liaison at Baylor Medical Center at McKinney (Baylor Scott & White Health). She has also worked at Novartis, Depomed, Eisai, Eli Lilly and Mars Promotional Services. She is graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a B.S. Advertising and Southern Methodist University - Cox School of Business with an MBA in Marketing. Andrea is often described as dedicated, independent, intelligent, and invaluable. A graduate of David W. Carter High School, she is also described as a consummate professional who is widely respected. DR. SHARON MIDDLEBROOKS Dr. Sharon Middlebrooks is a born leader who loves being of service.
She’s a consummate professional and focuses on taking care of business. Currently the president of the Dallas Branch of the NAACP, Dr. Sharon Middlebrooks was awarded the Doctor of Divinity for outstanding contributions to the community and world, from Grace International Seminary for Women. She’s also 1st Vice President of the Dallas Association of Realists (DAR), focused on democracy in housing. The broker/owner of Middlebrooks Realty LLC and Concept Development Corporation, she has worked as a realtor for KY II Realtors. She has also served as president of Women’s Council of Dallas Association of Realtors (DAREB) and Women’s Council of National Association Real Estate Brokers, Inc. (NAREB). Dr. Sharon is a joy to be around because she is genuine and sisterly. RAVEN GRAVES People describe Raven Graves as “brilliant” and she is focused on being the best educator by focusing on developing her students.
When you find a teacher like Raven Graves, who is passionate about and genuinely interested in educating students, you should celebrate and applaud her because she cares. She received her Bachelors Degree in Mathematics from North Carolina A&T State University where
See DONALD "DON" PAYTON, page 5
April 2022 she was involved in several on campus organizations. She was an assistant teacher instructor in Greensboro, NC and she is committed to her students and her responsibility to “spread knowledge for the betterment” of the community. Raven is pursuing a Masters Degree in Cyber Security at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Interested in children, education, health, human rights and social services, Raven has been a mathematics tutor. Raven said she takes to heart the African proverb “Each One, Teach One,” and says it is her responsibly to teach as many children/ students as she can. JAILYNN THORNTON SMILEY Jailynn Thornton Smiley cares. That says it all. She is compassionate, loving, supportive and genuine. Always a lady, what wonderful attributes!
Jailyn Thornton Smiley is the director of Community Engagement at CK Family Services. A former Family Recruitment Director, she has also worked for Covenant Kids. Jailynn is committed to our children. A wife and mother, many may remember Jailynn from her days on Soul 73 KKDA-AM. She’s a Dallas native who attended W.A. Blair Elementary School, Maynard Holbrook Jackson Vanguard School, Oliver Wendell Holmes Honor Academy, and graduated from The Skyline High School! She then went on to the University of North Texas where she was initiated into the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. See SUPERB WOMEN page 8
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
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Call issued to Support Black Businesses Haynes: "Buy Black" By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News
When Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the movement. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses. and we decided that the struggle continues and we must also. So enjoy reading about more Black-owned businesses and please support.
THEO PONCHAVELI
– Theo Ponchaveli is a self-taught artist and sells promotional products based in the Dallas metroplex. The owner, Theomas Rhode, is happy to use his artistry skills to bring joy to the community and clients. He has won numerous awards from 1st place in a nationwide Frito Lay & Doritos art competition, which lead to his 1st solo art show sponsored by FritoLay, Doritos, UNCF and South Side on Lamar; where he won 1st place and the Grand Prize. For more information go to http://www.ponchaveli.com
JUST SERENITY HOME CO.
Just Serenity Home Co. is a home decor boutique that specializes in preparing luxurious fragrances to outstanding decor pieces to refresh your sanctuary. This JsHome Co. brand is a classy relaxing decor for all personalized spaces. Owners Jitendra and Scarlet shared a passion to create products that personify peace. For more information go to www.jshomeco.com
BAM’S VEGAN
Bam’s Vegan serves a variety of grab and go products, smoothies, nachos, and more. 100% vegan. Open Thursday - Sunday 12-5pm and located at 2301 N. O’Connor Road #C in Irving, TX. There’s also a Bam’s cookbook! Visit the online selection of books and products. You can also book catering services. www.bamsvegan.com
BELZONI’S CATFISH CAFE
Belzoni’s Catfish Cafe touts “fried catfish at its best!” What a refreshing thought and you can also order catering online or call 817-386-0714 for pickup or delivery. Established in 1994, they are serving only U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish, which allows for a clean and fresh flavor, without that fishy taste or smell and they use their own corn meal breading. Check them out at www.belzoniscatfishcafe.com
BLACK COFFEE
Black Coffee brings people and communities together over coffee or tea. They specialize in interfusing global flavors into their very own craft beverages. Located at 1417 Vaughn Blvd in Fort Worth, their rich and delicious coffee comes with a feeling of warmth and satisfaction that you won’t get from anywhere else. Black Coffee was created to show diversity in the coffee scene, to celebrate the blackness of the owner, the community, and the coffee.
BLACK JACK PIZZA
With two locations, Black Jack Pizza provides great pizza, wonderful service and the absolute sure to get you coming back, tea! But folks love the burgers and an entire menu of wonderful, delectable dishes. There’s the 2120 N. St . Augustine, Suite 100 location and 2536 Martin Luther King Blvd in Sunny South Dallas. Owner Dorothy Jones will make sure you are taken care of! Call (214) 565-1025 or (972) 329-1414.
THE BREAKFAST BAR
The Fort Worth native graduated from I.M. Terrell High School and pursued a degree at North Texas State University. He has excelled as a journalist and a journalism educator. He also serves as a mentor because Bob Ray is someone who has inspired so many whether they ended up being journalists or pursuing another career. Integrity, tenacity, excellence, methodical, conscientious, spiritually grounded and fearless; that’s Bob Ray. People respect him as a man and his work as a journalist. Decades before the term “multi-media journalist” would become the latest craze in the industry; Bob Ray was a master communicator and used his talents working in radio, television and at a newspaper. He could have worked anywhere in the country but he wanted to use his talents at home working for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, KERA-TV and KLIF-Radio. A captivating speaker, thought-provoking moderator and engaging panelist; Bob Ray’s strong communication skills
Dallas area. For more information go to http://www. herbalascent.com
PRAXIS
CAFE 214
The Breakfast Bar Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant is more than just for breakfast. Touted as friendly and “fabulous,” customers praise the menu, customer service,
My Truth cont. from page 1
and especially the Chicken and Waffles. Check them out at 4507 S. 2nd Avenue, Dallas. Call (469) 309-0632 and check them out on Facebook.
keeps him in demand today. The recipient of numerous awards, and 52 years since he accepted a job at the Star-Telegram, Bob Ray was saluted Saturday, April 23 as part of the 52nd Annual USA Film Festival at the Angelika Film Center in Dallas. Which brings me to my truth. Bob Ray Sanders is an all-around great guy; loved and respected by many. He’s honorable and a joy to know and work with as much as he is a joy to watch at work. It is so fitting that he is being saluted and hopefully there will be a packed house to show this brother some love because he has definitely loved on so many for so long. I’m also looking forward to the excellent programming for the USA Film Festival, which makes me think of another person who, like Bob Ray, did so much good; Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez, who transitioned earlier this year. Hollywood would have definitely been in attendance, saluting Bob Ray and covering the various movies on display. While Hollywood is no longer with us, we are so glad that we can share this special time with Bob Ray. Just think, 50 years in the business. Bob Ray, thanks for more than memories! And you too, Peaches!!
Cafe 214 is an upscale African Caribbean Restaurant & Bar located at 14865 Inwood Road in Addison, Texas. Not only is there good food, you can also experience the fun and energy of Cafe 214 by booking a private party for your next special event. Cafe 214 – Where the city converges, the drinks are flowing, the music is going, and the party is always on! Check them out at www.cafe214.com for the food, drink and hookah menu.
NEVAEH’S CREATIONS
Nevaeh’s Creations is all about catering to every women’s needs through handmade wholehearted products; including candles, shea butters and jewelry. Owner Donna Copeland is passionate about making organic products that are good for the body. For more information email nevaehsshea@ gmail.com and follow on Facebook Nevaeh’s Creations
MR. PIT -T
Are you looking for someone who can who can impersonate Mr. T? Then connect with Fort Worth native Sterling Hunter. He has created a business by being able to recreate Mr. T’s signature look and he is available to do all types of events. For more information Follow Mr. Pit – T or email: MRPITTY1983@gmail.com
PRAXIS is a marketing and communications services firm that is woman owned and cares about empowering small to emerging companies. Through elevating their capabilities, promote each clients victories and receive new customers. Owner Asheya L. Warren, wears many different hats from PRAXIS Founder/principal, idea generator, marketing strategist and Gadget Geek. She has 13 years of experience. For more information go to http://www.praxis-psm.com
THE LAW GEM
The Jade Mens, PLLC is based in Fort Worth, TX. Owner Jade Mens’ law firm is focused on providing amazing customer service, personalized attention and outstanding legal representation to all clients dealing with any matter, big or small. For more information go to thelawgem.com
THE CALDWELL CREATIVE
The Caldwell Creative is a marketing and design company located in the Dallas metroplex. Caldwell Creative is the #1 solution for small business branding, marketing, graphic design & printing! For 15 years, they have been taking small businesses to the next level with innovative, creative, and affordable graphic design and marketing solutions. Owner Idora Caldwell’s desire is to give you the best her company has to offer. For more information go to http:// www.ccmd1.com
I SPEAK FOXYE
I SPEAK FOXYE has been established for THE HERBAL ASCENT more than three years. The Herbal Ascent was She provides a safe created through love for helping place to talk about a others. Every single product is variety of experiences, handmade with natural ingrefrom sexual assault, dients by owner Lexus Wade. interpersonal violence, and mental abuse. All events are When Lexus developed her coordinated by founder Foxye Brown Jackson for adults passion for Herbal Ascent she and youth to explore tools like art, socializing and a realized how she can help variety of wellness programs. For more information go to others. This woman owned business is based in the T:5”https://ispeakfoxye.com/
LEGAL NOTICE These Texas Lottery Commission scratch ticket games will be closing soon:
Game Name / Odds
$
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End Validations Date
2351
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$1
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$1
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12/19/22
2365
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$2
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2319
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$5
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2258
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12/19/22
T:10”
Game #
Texaslottery.com is the official source for all pertinent game information. Game closing procedures may be initiated for documented business reasons. These games may have prizes unclaimed, including top prizes. In addition, game closing procedures will be initiated when all top prizes have been claimed. During closing, games may be sold even after all top prizes have been claimed. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket. For help with a gambling problem, ncpgambling.org. © 2022 Texas Lottery Commission. PLAY RESPONSIBLY.
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
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Family seeks justice after fatal Dallas shooting By Jamie Landers and Nataly Keomoungkhoun The family of a man who was fatally shot in a Costco parking lot in northeast Dallas last year gathered Tuesday to push for the 16-year-old boy who police say pulled the trigger to be tried as an adult. In front of the Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center in West Dallas, Mary Elbanna joined her four siblings, their mother and a few dozen others to call for justice for her father, 60-year-old Ali Elbanna. Elbanna was shot Nov. 16 after two men, a woman and the 16-yearold robbed him, according to police. The Dallas Morning News is not naming the boy due to his age. His adult certification hearing, previously set for Tuesday, was rescheduled for July 8. Mary Elbanna described her father as a private man, which is why the family initially declined to speak to reporters following the shooting. However, after learning about the “wide range of potential punishments” for those involved, some she considered a “slap on the wrist,” she said her family decided their case needed more attention — and community support. “When decisions are being made under a cloak of darkness, no one fears being held responsible when it ends up going in the wrong direction,” said Elbanna, who was formerly Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson’s chief of staff. Ali Elbanna, who was born in Lebanon to Palestinian refugees, lived in Dallas-Fort Worth for
more than 30 years. His youngest George Ashford III, who is not is, regardless of what the juvenile daughter, Stephanie Elbanna, said involved in the case. department recommends, regardless he began working his way out of A judge will consider evidence from of what the family wants — the poverty as a child, selling and buying prosecutors and the defense before ultimate decision is on the judge,” merchandise on the streets, before reaching a decision, including a report Ashford said. achieving his dream of owning his conducted by the juvenile department own business — a small wholesale that looks at the individual’s history. What happened in November shop in Arlington. If juveniles are tried in adult court Then, she said, he devoted his life and convicted, they remain with Dallas police responded just before to helping others. others their own age until they turn 7 p.m. Nov. 16 to a shooting in the “The way he grew up, with 18 or 19, Ashford said. This gives them parking lot of the Costco Business absolutely nothing, helped Center at 8282 Park Lane, people to grow, helped people where Ali Elbanna was found to be good, helped people to wounded. He died at a hospital. be honest,” she said. “If they Investigators said James needed strength, he made Levels, 17; Janiya Lashay Miller, himself stronger.” 17; and Jacoby Bryce Tatum, 19, Stephanie Elbanna said she approached Ali and “demanded is concerned that if the boy is property” before the 16-yearnot tried as an adult, it would old shot him. not only make the statement The group had committed that her father’s life didn’t another robbery beforehand, matter, but could embolden according to an arrestother young people. warrant affidavit, taking two “Taking an innocent life in Fatema Mohammed Hadi, left, embraces Stephanie Young cellphones. Those victims were an open area, it’s almost as Elbanna, the widow of Ali Elbanna, at the Henry Wade able to give police a description Credit: Shafkat Anowar / Staff Photographer if to say, ‘I have a right to do Juvenile Justice Center. of the robbers, who drove away this,’” she said. “We can’t let young time to mature before moving into the in a black pickup. people think actions don’t have adult prison population. The phones were tracked to consequences.” If they are convicted in juvenile NorthPark Center, where police found court, prosecutors can send the the truck and Miller, who had the Adult certification in Texas case to a grand jury and ask for a phones, police said. Officers also found “determinate sentence.” This allows the two men and the juvenile and took In Texas, defendants 17 and authorities to keep them in juvenile them into custody. older are tried in adult court. But detention until age 19 and then, Levels and Miller admitted taking prosecutors can ask juvenile court depending on the sentence and their part in the robbery that led to judges to move the cases of minors behavior, transfer them to an adult Ali’s shooting as well as two other ages 14 to 16 to adult court based on prison. robberies, the affidavit says. several factors, including age and the Although attorneys and victims’ Levels and Miller were being held nature of the crime. families may push for the certification in the Dallas County jail Tuesday, with “The closer you are to 17 the more hearing to go a certain way, the bail set at $800,000 each. Both face likely you are to be certified, because decision rests with the juvenile court one count of capital murder and three if you were 17 you’d be considered an judge. counts of aggravated robbery. It was adult anyway,” said Dallas attorney “Regardless of what the offense unclear whether they had attorneys.
A grand jury determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Tatum for capital murder. He bonded out of jail on the robbery charges April 5.
‘This is only the beginning’ Mary Elbanna resigned as the mayor’s chief of staff earlier this year to spend more time with her family. “Very quickly, it all became too much,” she said. “My family needed me and I needed them, as we all continue to now. This is only the beginning.” Johnson held his third State of the City address Nov. 17 and voiced his support for the city’s latest budget, which increased investment in the police department and public safety. He praised police Chief Eddie García on his violence-reduction plan — police statistics have shown a reduction in violent crime during the new chief’s tenure, though homicides have seen an uptick this year. In a statement Tuesday, Johnson said he is grateful for the police department’s work in the case. “Public safety is not just a talking point,” he said. “Real lives are at stake — including the lives of the people closest to us.” Johnson said Elbanna’s death was “abominable and unimaginably tragic.” “This is — and always has been — the Elbanna family’s story to tell, and they have the right to tell it on their own timeline and in their own way,” Johnson said. “I just hate that they have to tell it; Ali Elbanna should still be here with his wife and his amazing children.” This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.
Texas State Fair VP’s resignation has South Dallas leaders demanding changes in pay, community input By Sriya Reddy When Froswa’ Booker-Drew joined the leadership of the State Fair of Texas, her goal was to engage the South Dallas community, which many in the neighborhood had felt had been neglected by the Fair for decades. Booker-Drew is leaving her position as vice president of community affairs and strategic alliances on April 15, according to an email she sent late last week to many South Dallas organizations. State Fair president Mitchell Glieber said Tuesday a search for a replacement is in the early stages. Her departure has left some leaders of South Dallas nonprofits shocked and angry, and it’s led a group of women leaders in the community to create a list of demands to the fair, hoping to raise equity and be a part of the conversations that affect their communities. These community members say the reason for her departure is related to money and a lack of opportunity for promotions. Booker-Drew did not return calls seeking comment. Sherri Mixon, executive director of the TR Hoover Community Development Center, said that no one has ever matched what Booker-Drew has done for the South Dallas community. She said she wants to fight for Black wom-
en to contribute to a workplace without having dignity taken away through inequitable pay. “‘We are having budget problems?’ Right?” Mixon said. “That will always be the excuse for us.” At a Tuesday meeting at TR Hoover, a group of leaders, all Black women, committed to speaking to fair officials with demands seeking community input in hiring, equitable pay and analysis of who is awarded money from
Some South Dallas leaders say that Booker-Drew was the reason residents began to trust the State Fair, and they are wary of how she will be replaced. fundraising efforts. According to the State Fair’s most recent 990 tax form from 2019, Booker-Drew was the lowest-paid member of senior management at that time. But in 2019, Booker-Drew was promoted to senior leadership, making the information on the tax form outdated, said Glieber. Glieber said that due to the struggles
of the pandemic, no promotions have been made in the last few years. “The time between 2019 and 2022, about two years of that was COVID,” he said. “So we didn’t have any promotions, pay raises or bonus payments during that time period.” In 2014, the State Fair added community involvement as a pillar to their mission statement. Booker-Drew was hired shortly after that in 2016. “Froswa’ taught us a lot about how to be great neighbors during her six years here,” Glieber said. “I think our staff is ready to move forward with that. We will be on the lookout here now for a new leader to replace her and keep the momentum moving.” Glieber said that the process of hiring a replacement is still in the early stages, but he has been having conversations with community members about the situation. He said that the State Fair plans on investing in and supporting South Dallas. Some South Dallas leaders say that Booker-Drew was the reason residents began to trust the State Fair, and they are wary of how she will be replaced. Black residents only had one day to go to the fair every year until the late 1960s. Many attempts to make their presence more known, like building
This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.
the Hall of Negro Achievement was short-lived. At the same time, the State Fair hosted Ku Klux Klan members and used eminent domain to expand into neighborhoods surrounding Fair Park.
Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew, VP of Community Affairs, poses at the State Fair in Dallas on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. BookerDrew provides support and resources to grassroots organizations. Credit: Lola Gomez/The Dallas Morning News
Aelicia “Chocolate” Watson, founder of Redeemed Women, said at Tuesday’s meeting that Booker-Drew is a friend and was there for her, and many others, during their toughest times. “This lady didn’t just bring us together as nonprofit leaders,” she said. “She cared about us as people.” Booker-Drew has been involved in South Dallas since her college days at the University of Texas at Arlington. From the Juanita Craft House to St. Philip’s School and Community Center,
Booker-Drew worked alongside South Dallas residents and developed strong relationships. “Her name has weight,” Watson said through tears. “When I think about how this will matter to South Dallas, I’m scared. I’m scared that we don’t have a seat at the table no more.” Numerous leaders were moved to tears speaking about the impact of Booker-Drew. They said they admire her leadership and are frustrated that she is leaving. Many noted that Booker-Drew was one of the few people that everyone in South Dallas respected and trusted. Thana Hickman-Simmons, founder of Viola’s House, is another South Dallas leader greatly impacted by Booker-Drew. She said that when she started her nonprofit, she wasn’t ready for what Booker-Drew would pour into her. “As we talk about the organizations she impacted, her impact has been incredible,” she said. “You could never put a price on it.” Sriya Reddy, Southern Dallas Reporter. Sriya Reddy covers southern Dallas as a Report For America corps member. She is a Dallas native and graduate from Southern Methodist University where she worked at the student paper, The Daily Campus, for three years. sriya. reddy@dallasnews.com https://twitter. com/SriyaReddy23
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
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My First Class on Class Quit Playin’ By Vincent L. Hall
At least annually, the nationally syndicated column named for Ann Landers used to repeat a piece that expounds on class. You know, what yo mama tried to teach you. Our saving virtue was classiness as a race of people when we were poor. So quit Playin’ like you forgot your upbringing! Simplistic yet profound, it goes like this: “Class never runs scared. It is sure-footed and confident. It can handle whatever comes along. Class has a sense of humor. It knows that a good laugh is the best lubricant for oiling the machinery of human relations. Class never makes excuses. It takes its lumps and learns from past mistakes. Class knows that good manners are nothing more than a series of small, inconsequential sacrifices. Class bespeaks of an aristocracy that has nothing to do with ancestors or money. Some wealthy “Blue Bloods” have no class, while some in-
dividuals struggle to make ends meet loaded with it. Class is real. It can’t be faked. Class is comfortable in its own skin. It never puts on airs. Class never tries to build itself up by tearing others down. Class is already up, and need not strive to look better by making others look worse. Class can “walk with Kings and keep its virtue and talk with crowds and keep the common touch.” (Thank you Rudyard Kipling) Everyone is comfortable with the person who has class because this person is comfortable with himself. If you have class, you’ve got it made. If you don’t have class, no matter what else you have, it doesn’t make any difference.” In one swoop of the pen, Ann Landers shows most of us for what we are. What we are as Americans, as individuals, and as a community and as a race of people. When you look at all of the whining, bitching, crying, and emotionalism that this nation has witnessed since 2015 A.T. (After Trump came down the escalator), we have shown ourselves to be everything but class. Contrary to what they show you daily in commercials and printed advertisements, cars and clothes
do not bestow class on the pitiful lot we have become. Nowadays, even “common folk” act like the megalomaniacal hedonists we were warned to avoid.
eryone and everything besides themselves an excuse or a scapegoat. Classy people do not allow their children to see them begging and
We want nothing to do with it if it does not complement our insatiable appetites for attention and notoriety. Boasts and vain glory have no value if they can’t be posted on Facebook or Instagram. But class is not something you wear or show. It’s a grace that wears and shows on you. Don’t be fooled—people with class vote…regularly! People with class do not make harrowing threats in the streets and fail to follow up. People with class do not make ev-
groveling for rights that belong to them by God’s promise. Classy people don’t storm the hallowed halls of Congress because the Messiah they voted for lost in a landslide. Class is so much more than brand names and brand new cars. Class does not find its home in fancy houses. Instead, it works to clean the streets that lead up to them. Class is taking direct action as directed by our intellect, our values, and for Black people, by the spirit of our ancestors.
Class is a compounded virtue with equal parts of faith, hope, and love. Class does not suppress voters, turn away needy migrants or permit senseless acts of violence and mass shootings. Classy nations don’t lock up the poor, ignore the mentally challenged, and charge interest rates higher to the common than the rich. People with class don’t act like Americans who call this nation “exceptional.” I know something about class because my grandmother taught me. She may not have been Ann Landers, but she could read. She pointed me to I Corinthians 13 to paint me a picture of class. “Love is patient, love is kind, it isn’t jealous, it doesn’t brag, it isn’t arrogant, it isn’t rude, it doesn’t seek its own advantage, it isn’t irritable, it doesn’t keep a record of complaints, it isn’t happy with injustice, but it is happy with the truth. Love puts up with all things, trusts in all things, hopes for all things, endures all things.” I don’t know much, but I know what class is, and in 2022 America has very little of it!
Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.
Walking on the Water of Life Faithful Utterances By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew
I love water. Strangely enough, I cannot swim. As much as I love being near water and the sound it produces, I have grown to have a healthy respect for what water can do. After a trip to New Orleans in 2016, my daughter, mom and I were driving back to my mother’s neighborhood in North Louisiana. We could not enter the neighborhood because of the flooding and had to take an alternate route. As we went in another direction, the home on the corner was a beautiful two-story house that I always admired. That beautiful yellow home was now underwater
with only the roof showing. I had never seen that type of damage in person, and it was not only shocking but terrifying. As we pulled up into the driveway of my mother’s home, the water slowly began creeping up to her house. We moved quickly, unplugging items, and packing a few items to leave. In the moment, we did not have much time to think and plan. We just wanted to get to safety. In those moments, you realize what is important and it is not the stuff. You realize how important life is and that whatever we go through, we need to know that God is with us. We were blessed that there were no lives lost and mom’s house did not suffer much damage. My heart ached for those in her community who lost everything. It is in those moments that you realize that life brings challenges to all. It does not matter if
you are a good or bad person. Life happens. “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45) It is painful to go through experiences that take your breath away—not because they are positive—because they are difficult and heartbreaking. As a society, we have spent so much time pushing people to be strong that we do not give people the space to experience the grief and pain that are a part of life as much as good and happiness are. Tears are natural and temporary, but joy does come. “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” (Psalm 126:5) Tears are normal and necessary. I must remind myself in this season that God is with me. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not
sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” (Isaiah 43: 2-3a) Water is obviously important in the Bible: • It is in Genesis as the world was being formed. (Genesis 1:2) • Noah and the Flood (Genesis 6-9) • The dividing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14) • The Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17) • Jesus turning water into wine (John 2:1-11) • Jesus’ walking on the water. (Matthew 14:22-33) As I spend this weekend on the beach reflecting, I see the power of God through the water. I see what water represents—provision, salvation, and faith. Just as water is important for us as humans to live,
to release our pain, water is also important in our spiritual lives. Jesus tells the woman at the well that He has something for her that is eternal-- “Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14) Go through it and know that God is with you—now and forever. He will never leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6-8) even when it seems as if you are being drowned by the onslaught of the issues life brings, He has got you and will see you through. 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/
What Happens After Graduation? The Last Word By Dr. Julianne Malveaux
Graduations are an exciting time for most families. They will throng to auditoriums, gymnasiums, churches, or outdoor settings bearing flowers, balloons, and other goodies. They’ll likely go to lunch or dinner and share smiles and memories, congratulating the graduate on her achievement. Then what? About four million people will receive degrees, from associate to doctorate. Too many of them, though, will walk from the graduation stage to a debt trap. Those who have student loans must start paying them six months after graduation or if their enrollment status falls below half-time. Though student loan repayment was suspended (not forgiven) during COVID, payments must resume by September 1. Borrowers must repay whether they are employed or not. Al-
though loan servicers will sometimes adjust loan terms with modified repayment plans. Twenty-seven million Americans have student loan debt, totaling more than $1.7 billion. One in four Black women carries such an obligation, the highest proportion of any population subgroup. Black women owe more than others. And college-educated Black women earn less than other college-educated people, with Black women with a bachelor’s degree earning just $60,000 a year, compared to $75,000 for Black men, $67,000 for white women, and $91,000 for white men. The Education Trust, a Washington, DC-based think tank, produced a report, How Black Women Experience Student Debt, attributes the heavy debt burden Black women carry to unequal pay, the wealth gap, and flawed public policy. When we look at the debt through the lens of recent college graduates, it is essential to note that Black women’s unemployment rates may make loan repayment difficult.
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If repayment is difficult, failure to pay will adversely affect a credit score, limiting the ability to rent an apartment or purchase a home. In some cases, a low credit score may even limit employment possibilities. If you can’t work, you can’t repay your student loans, but if you can’t repay your student loans, you can’t work. While this situation is challenging for everyone, it is much worse for Black women. Twelve years after leaving college, Black women owe 13 percent more on their loans than when they graduated, while white men have paid back 44 percent of their loans. Black women end up owing more because interest piles up when they haven’t made their loan payments on time, and the unpaid interest adds to the already high debt. And because education is so highly valued among many Black women, a disproportionate number of black women who earn doctorates earn them from costly for-profit colleges, offer little financial aid, and often have few
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student support services. Some Black women graduate with six-figure debt to earn a doctorate that may only result in low-paid adjunct faculty employment when they compete against others with more traditional credentials. President Biden promised to alleviate student debt, but he hasn’t done it yet. Postponing the repayment date only delays the inevitable. Repayments resume just two months before the midterm elections. Has the President considered the fact that his failure to act may impact the composition of Congress in 2022? On the other hand, loan forgiveness might encourage some younger people to get out and vote because they’ve seen a return on their 2020 vote. The wealth gap has always been with us, and public policy sometimes makes the gap even wider than it needs to be. Why can’t students have the same low-interest loans as banks? Why can’t students have the same loan forgiveness as some businesses during COVID? Why
do we encourage students to pursue higher education, then penalize them with high costs of attendance and expensive loans? Community colleges and state universities are low-cost, not no cost. Yet the students who are enrolled in college are not only investing in themselves but in the future of our country. If we value an educated workforce, we must rethink how we both fund higher education and pay for it. By necessity, COVID has provided us with different options. When students and parents push back on high costs and the crushing burden of student loans, higher education leaders will be forced to offer other alternatives. Meanwhile, Black women, passionate believers in the power of higher education, pay a very high price to pursue their passion. Something to consider as we celebrate graduations Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, media contributor and educator. Her latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube. com. For booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com.
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
BIG MAMA SAID
DON’T MAKE A BED YOU DO NOT WANT TO LAY IN
WILL WE DO THE RIGHT THING FOR THE DISRUPTORS FROM THE JANUARY 6, THE TEXAS BORDER AND UKRAINE? Black Card By Terry Allen Lucille “Big Mama” Allen’s birth in 1906 sparked an imprint that created a lesson for a lifetime. Her lesson empowered all of her influencers she encountered. Her influencers included, but limited to, her three sons and three daughters, 16 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, 38 great-great-grandchildren, seven great-greatgreat-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and a multitude of ‘Bonus” family members. I mention her “bonus” family members because Big Mama always took in individuals that were not blood related
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the game of basketball and in the community,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “We continue to work on bringing Brittney home and are appreciative of the support the community has shown BG and her family during this extraordinarily challenging time.” The league also announced today that the Mercury have been granted both roster and salary cap relief so that it can carry a replacement player until Griner, who will be paid her full salary, returns home and is ready to get back on the court. The Mercury, who drafted Griner #1 overall in the 2013 draft, have also outlined several philanthropic initiatives recognizing Griner and modeled after her contributions to the Phoenix community. These will take place across the league during
to any of us yet they were treated as family and like family. Herein lies today’s lesson, “Don’t make a bed you do not want to lie in.” Big Mama meant an unmade bed that looks like an unfinished lumpy landscape that speaks to personal avoidance, procrastinating denial and creating a bad brand with an undesirable image of unchanged sheets. This is not a place for anyone to lay in again at all! Is this the bed you want to make or to Lie in? Lucille “Big Mama” Allen wanted us to know that no matter what, if you chose to make the bed you make, you must lie in it! Another intent is, if “Big Mama “says that you have made your bed and must, you must lie in it. She is saying that since you have chosen to do a particular thing, you must now accept the unpleasant results of your action.
What saved me, is that Big Mama’s bed making lesson taught me how to make decisions. Her play book said, 1. Outline and list all the information on the decision you have to make BEFORE you decide. 2. Eliminate all ideas, suggestions and thoughts that create polarization that marginalizes other humans. 3. Deeply explore all factors that making the best decisions and diminishing bad choices We as citizens and influencers are now in the midst of making decisions and adding our responses to the landscape. We must not leave our bed unkept and unmade, as it will have consequences. 1. We need to show our democracy is not unraveling and deliver justice to the January 6 disruptors at the top, not just on the front line.
2. We must be certain that we are protecting our borders at the same time ensuring humane treatment for all BIPOC people. 3. We must peel back the layers to show the atrocities of the opposition in the Ukraine war, and stop standing by on shallow diplomacy excusing no-action. I hope that we as a voting American public and world leader influencers will make a decision that says “I made this bed because it is where I want to lie as a human, as a citizen and as a world participant!” Thanks, Big Mama. Did you make a good bed, let me know at TerryAllenPr@ gmail.com Terry Allen is an NABJ awardwinning Journalist, PR professional and founder of 1016 Media, the charity - City Men Cook and Chapter President of NBPRS-DFW
tip-off weekend into the 2022 season. Every WNBA market will support “BG’s Heart and Sole Shoe Drive”, which is in partnership with the Phoenix Rescue Mission. Griner founded the initiative in 2016 to support the homeless population. “It’s a tough situation. Regardless of basketball, just as a person,” said Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale. “She’s an amazing person. She’s a family member of the WNBA and everybody likes her. She is nice to everyone. “Plus with Phoenix, she just came off a great season and to not have her right away is tough. We are all praying for her, the world is praying for her and her safe return. Hopefully that happens really soon.” Said Marina Mabrey, Wings guard: “We all miss her. It’s so unfortunate. We wish her safety and that we get her back as soon as possible. “The game misses her. The world misses her.”
Donald "Don" Payton - Dallas African griot not listening and learning,” Payton said, explaining his theory of racial progress and decline. “Our traditions are always there. We just need to pick them up and carry them on.” I don’t mean to be unfair and make Payton sound too good. He is, of course, a mere mortal. But -he has that special flare for walking us through history and making us like it. I hated history in high school, but now, I love it and can’t seem to live without it. That’s Payton’s point. I interviewed him on the Texas Metro News Blog that was recorded Wednesday, April 20, 2022 on Facebook Live and Blog Talk Radio. Look it up also. More than a decade ago, historian and former university professor Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney and educator Dr. Alfred L. Roberts also interviewed Payton in a 2011 project that is now digitized history. The 72-page interview – in print and online -- was part of a project entitled Documenting the History of the Civil Rights Movement in Dallas County, Texas. It is part of the University of North Texas Libraries Special Collections to The Portal of Texas digital repository.
Dallas Black history is shut up in his bones – like fire, burning in a pit. He uses every opportunity to unleash those flames as nuggets of cultural experiences. Payton gave detailed memories and research about local happenings and his and other Dallas Black families’ histories since Dallas was settled in the 1830s. Payton’s ancestors are recorded as among the first enslaved Africans who arrive in Dallas with prominent Dallas settler William Brown Miller. The ancestors were given Miller’s surname that both White and Black descendants retain. Payton’s
grandmother was a Miller. “William Brown Miller brought my ancestors here in 1847. My ancestors walked from Independence, Missouri to Hord’s Ridge that is now Oak Cliff in Dallas,” Payton said. “My grandmother’s great grandfather John Miller became one of the largest Black landowners in Southern Dallas, near what is now Simpson-Stuart and Bonnie View roads.”
els, author and historian Alex Haley. Payton met Haley before the writer released his classic book, Roots, that later became a record-breaking television series. Similar to Haley, Payton (our own relatable and down-to-earth griot) first began to retain oral history while sitting as a preschooler in grandparents’ and relative’s homes listening to the elders’ stories of their early lives as Afri-
Miller Family Park, 2814 Persimmon Rd. at Tracy Rd, near Bonnie View and Simpson-Stuart roads. Credit Dallas Park and Recreation Dept
Ask Payton anything – anything – about the history of Black people in Dallas, Texas. He either will give you an exact answer --or tell you, almost with chapter and page number, where to look it up. Payton has been interviewed and recorded countless times in numerous other media over his more than 40-year career and he always has new stories and details to unveil. You hear about folk with elephant memories. Payton has one. In our two-hour conversation, captivating historical facts, names and anecdotes about numerous Dallas pioneer families – Black and White -- cascaded from his mouth with unbridled ease and retentive detail. I was just thinking… Dallas Black history is shut up in his bones – like fire, burning in a pit. He uses every opportunity to unleash those flames as nuggets of cultural experiences. Payton’s story telling does remind you of one of his role mod-
can-Americans in the 1800s and early 20th Century. Payton’s deep reservoir for detailed storytelling about such experiences; some laced with humor, some evoking anger and grief – indeed is extraordinary. During our talk, his rollcall of names, places, and personal anecdotes sounded like a history course of Black and White Dallas. Our topics ranged from how to start your own family genealogy to what telling details to look for in a family photo. Payton shared many stories about persons whose names are now well-known freeways, buildings, schools, libraries, neighborhoods, such as Hamilton Park, Simpson-Stuart Road, Five Mile Creek community, Webb Chapel Community, Hord’s Ridge in Oak Cliff. He told nuggets about memorable individuals, including Frederica Chase Dodd and her Dallas attorney father Frederick K. Chase, William Brown Miller, T. L. Marsalis, John Neely Bryan,
cont. from page 1
Dr. John Wesley Anderson and wife Pearl C. Anderson, Arch and Charlotte who were among Dallas’s first enslaved African-Americans, N. W. Harllee, William Perry Overton, Julia Caldwell Frazier, Dallas Black Giants Negro Baseball Team, … more, more, more. There is so much to Don Payton’s oral histories that reams of daily newspapers and broadcast recordings still have not told. We will keep listening. Upcoming Miller Family Reunion The free, annual, 24-hour Miller Family Reunion will be held July 9-10, 2022 at Miller Family Park, 2814 Persimmon Road at Tracy Road near Bonnie View, Simpson Stuart roads, and Paul Quinn College. The city renamed Cedardale Park to Miller Family Park in 1989 paying homage to Payton’s enslaved ancestors who helped settle and later owned the land. This is the 175th year since the Miller family –Black and White -- settled in Dallas in 1847. The reunion draws relatives and friends internationally and features live music and lots of camaraderie. The public is invited but must bring your own food, beverages, tables and chairs if needed. A program will feature relatives who have achievements to celebrate. To learn more, contact Payton at donpayton47@gmail.com or 214-328-2618. The African American Genealogical Interest Group meets the 3rd Saturday each month, 2 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., September through May, in the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1st floor West Room, 1515 Young St., downtown Dallas. Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists and was its first southwest regional director. She became The News’ first Black full-time reporter in 1974. norma_adams_wade@yahoo.com
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Think About It Wake Up and Stay Woke By Dr. E. Faye Williams Throughout my life, I have been blessed with family and friends who have admonished me to be a critical thinker. I was challenged not only to think, but to think with clarity, appropriate urgency, and logic. The old idea of being one who thought “while others were sleeping” was not lost on me. In fact, preemptive thinking has saved me from misfortune “a time or two” — both personally and professionally. Because of the life of organizational leadership that I now live, I commonly spend a great deal of time thinking about the subtle and not-so-subtle statements made by political leaders. Others may find it too time-consuming to analyze every errant statement made by politicians, but, with the ever-increasing racial hostility in this nation, I find it essential. A great example of this is the statement made earlier this year by the Senate Republican leader. Mitch McConnell told the world just what he was thinking about African Americans. To instill fear and terror in the minds of white people who might be thinking of not voting, in a moment revealing his true feelings, he warned, “African American voters are voting in just as high a percentage as Americans.” As a former civics teacher and political candidate, this statement was wildly offensive. The long-standing tradition in this nation’s political process has been for political parties and politicians to articulate positive policies and positions which will influence voters to vote for them. This rapidly disappearing tradition has been replaced with exclusionary rhetoric, racial animus, and hatred fueled by the desperation of “losing something those who are undeserving.” Did Mitch infer that African Americans are not real Americans? Yes! Did Mitch tell whites that African Americans would vote against the interests of “real” Americans? Yes! Well, Mitch, we are not easily fooled! We know the reason that you oppose anything you consider beneficial to African Americans. It’s also a sure bet that your Republican cronies are going to oppose it because they, like you, don’t think we are Americans! Neither you nor any of your like-minded lackeys will ever acknowledge that we African Americans pay a substantial portion of your salaries with our tax dollars while most of your industrialist/business cronies pay little or nothing. Tell us Mitch, what makes one American? Is it white privilege? Is it the size of your bank account? Does our blood sacrifice in times of national conflict mean nothing? Or what about our 200-plus years of free labor building an economic juggernaut heretofore unknown to the world? Consensus agrees that your party members embarrassed themselves during the confirmation hearing for the Supreme Court for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. I’m sure that questions like “What is a woman?” or disparaging her for judicial decisions that are/were consistent with those of her peers was not because she was a woman. Since she is an African American woman, was it because your party didn’t think she is an American? Is Sen. Tim Scott an American or do you give him a pass because he votes with you — even when his vote is against African American interests? How will you reward Senator Scott for voting against the confirmation of a Black woman whose brilliance on the subject of American jurisprudence runs circles around every member of your party who was in the room when her confirmation vote was taken. Mitch, despite your lame justifications, we have given great thought to you and yours. We are not fooled, and you need to re-educate yourself to the reality that we, too, are Americans! 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
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Metro Community Calendar powered by RECURRING: The African American Genealogical Interest Group meets the 3rd Saturday each month, 2 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., through May, in the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1st floor West Room, 1515 Young St.
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1878: Inventor J.R. Winters patents fire escape ladder.
1862: Slave crewman Robert Smalls commandeers a Confederate ship and sails to freedom in Charleston harbor.
16 1929: Improvisational jazz singer Betty Carter is born.
1960: President Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act.
MAY
5 1988: Eugene A. Marino was installed as Archbishop of Atlanta, GA. - the first Black Catholic Archbishop in the U.S.
MAYFEST 2022
High School Students of TX-30:
EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON
Reception: For more information on the guidelines of the Congressional Art Competition, All 2022 participants will be honored and the Reception: you can visit website at Institute sponsors a national art 2022 winner will be my announced during a Each year, the Congressional will beMorton honored and the EBJohnson.house.gov. competition that celebratesAll participants reception at the H. Meyerson talented students the winnerSymphony at 10:00AM on Institute sponsors a national art from across2022 will be Center announced during a country. I am delighted to invite Saturday, May 7, 2022. competition that you celebrates reception at the Morton H. Meyerson to submit your original work If you have any questions, please contact Yasmine talented students from across at Prize: 10:00AM on Grand for this year’s the competition to my Symphony Center Wicker in Congresswoman Johnson’s District country. I am delighted to Office inviteby 5:00PM on Saturday, May 7,by2022. The winner, selected an art advisory District Office at (214) 922-8885. Wednesday, May 4, 2022. council, will have their art displayed in you to submit your original work the United States Capitol for one year.
for this year’s competition to my District Office by 5:00PM on volunteers to Wednesday, May 4, 2022.
*** Dallas CASA will honor WFAA-TV anchor and Wednesday’s Child host Cynthia Izaguirre with the 2022 Caroline Rose Hunt Cherish the Children Award at noon at the Omni Dallas Hotel. The luncheon will also feature Dallas CASA Board Chair and Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall. Find out more at www. dallascasa. org.
1946: Baseball great Reggie Jackson is born.
19 1925: Malcolm X born. He was a Black Nationalist and civil rights leader, orator.
Reception:
Each year, the Congressional All participants will be honored and the Institute sponsors a national art 2022 winner will be announced during a competition that celebrates reception at the Morton H. Meyerson 1825students Market Suite 440, Dallas,onTX talented fromCenter across the Boulevard, Symphony Center at 10:00AM country. I am delighted to invite Saturday, May440, 7, 2022. 1825 Market Center Boulevard, Suite Dallas, TX you to submit your original work Grand Prize: for this year’s competition to my District Office by 5:00PM on The winner, selected by an art advisory Wednesday, May 4, 2022. council, will have their art displayed in the United States Capitol for one year. High School Students of TX-30:
Dallas CASA needs more Black serve our community’s Black children living in foster care. On line information sessions will be held today and Friday May 20 and Thursday, May 26. To register, visit www. dallascasa.org.
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CONGRESSWOMAN CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON
Each the Congressional High School Students ofyear, TX-30:
1931: Baseball great “Say Hey Kid” Willie Mays is born.
1954: U.S. Supreme court rules against segregated schools unconstitutional in Brown vs. Board of Education.
THE HAT CHAT LADIES ALL WHITE Yatch Brunch Party Sam’s Dock - Pier 121 Celebrating Ladies The TRUE Definition of EMPOWERMENT! CONGRESSWOMAN 12pm to 3pm EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON 121 Marina1825 816 E. State Highway 121, ste Market Center Boulevard, Suite 440, Dallas, TX 105, Lewisville, TX, 75057 https://www.eventbrite.com/.../the-hat2022 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION chat-ladies...
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Mayfest, and there’s free admission to pa2022 CONGRESSIONAL ARTART COMPETITION 2022 CONGRESSIONAL COMPETITION trons for Mayfest 2022 Guidelines: 2401 University Dr, Fort Worth, TX
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8 Grand Prize: The winner, selected by an art advisory Guidelines:
more information on the guidelinesin of council,For will have their art displayed
2022 Congressional ArtPorters Competition, 1932: Brotherhood of the Sleeping Carfor the United States Capitol oneat year. you can visit my website founded by A. Phillip EBJohnson.house.gov. Randolph.
Just HEAL Bro Tour Featuring Jay Barnett, Lamman Rucker, Dr. Rukudzo Sithole, Lawrence Adjah, DeMario Davis and Joel Tudman Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St. RSVP JustHeal.co
13 1950: Winner of 25 Grammy Awards Stevie Wonder is born.
Tap Takeover with Four Corners Brewery -The Village Dallas Sample beers from local breweries. Stop by the beer garden outside of Over Under for FREE samples from Four Corners Brewery, Paletas for purchase, and live music from 6-9pm!
The World According to Andrew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646200-0459 on Andrew’s World.
After Hours in the Garden
Guidelines:
Mother’s Day
ForIf more information onplease the guidelines of you have any questions, contact Yasmine the 2022 Congressional Art Competition, Wicker in Congresswoman Johnson’s District at (214) 922-8885. you can Office visit my website at EBJohnson.house.gov.
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If you have any questions, please contact Yasmine 1964: Trumpeter Louis “Satchmo” ArmWicker in Congresswoman Johnson’s strong’s Hello Dolly! tops atBillboard chart. District Office (214) 922-8885.
Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining! Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am. CST Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews, @ fnsconsulting, and YouTube Live @ docshepspeaks.
10 1943: Famed dancer, choreographer Judith Jamison is born.
11 1967: May 10th - 11th - riots broke out on Jackson State College campus. 7 Blacks killed and 2 wounded.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden Enjoy the beauty of the Garden after hours! Unwind after a long week, bring your friends, bring a date! Relax with an adult beverage, delicious bites, and the jazz stylings of the Danny Stone Trio, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Members receive early access at 6:00 p.m. at Leonard Courtyard and The Fuller Garden (just behind the Garden Center), Must be at least 21 years old
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1952: Boxer “ Marvelous” Marvin Hagler is born. Green Funeral
I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459.
1961: Ku Klux Klan members attacked Freedom Riders in Birmingham, AL while local police watched.
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1963: Arthur Ashe became the first Black to be named to Davis Cup tennis team. He was 19 years old.
Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by MAY
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Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 5 Downtown Dville!
Denton’s MHMR LOSS Department is hosting a Music and Art Fest at Red’s Yard, 410 N. Bell Ave., Denton from 12 pm – 4 pm in efforts to provide outreach to local suicide survivors. The Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc presents Extraordinary WOMEN IN THE ARTS at 2pm at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street in Dallas
PIZZAFEST 2022
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Dallas.org or call the Pre-K Enrollment Hotline at 214-932-7735
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Dallas Senior Program Division
Mother’s Day Luncheon, 11am-1pm at Dallas Rec Centers
*** SOUL INSPIRATION LINE DANCE -
DBCC 37th Annual Quest For Success 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM CST On The Levee 2525 N Stemmons Frwy Dallas, TX 75207
Dance with Myra every Friday at 11:30 am on YouTube - “Myra Line Dance Session”
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Paul Quinn College Commencement Ceremonies Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is providing free transportation to polling locations today. Riders can use promo code VOTE 22 at checkout for a complimentary Adult Local Day Pass in the DART GoPass app
GET OUT AND VOTE! *** A Magnificent Mom’s Day Experience at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center MLK Mural and Stage Area, 2922 MLK Blvd., presented by the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center and LIRA Group, 10am
*** Virtual Fellowship in celebration of Greenville Ave. Church of Christ’s 36th Adolescent and Ladies Symposium 9am-12:30 pm. Register on line at GACOC.org
13th Annual Meal for the Minds, honoring Mental Health Awareness Month, featuring a conversation with Dak Prescott. The emcee is NBC5 Anchor Laura Harris at the Hilton Anatole, at 11:30 am. Get more info at www.metrocareservices. org/dak
12 -14 UT Arlington Commencement ceremonies www.uta.edu *** Dallas College Graduation Curtis Culwell Center 4999 Naaman Forest Blvd. Garland, TX
21 The 4th Annual Denton Freedom Charity Golf Tournament is being hosted at Wildhorse Golf Club at Robson Ranch, 9400 Ed Robson Blvd A, Denton to help raise awareness for homelessness and hunger and freedom from addiction.
26 Bottled Blonde in Deep Ellum 505 N. Good Latimer Expwy www.pizzafestdallas.com
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8 am, 12 pm, 4 pm UNT Coliseum
*** UNT DALLAS COMMENCEMENT Ceremonies
PRE-K POP UP DRIVE THRU Pre-K Registration Saturdays in May 10am-2pm. Visit PreK-
Sponsored by Mudhook, Black & Bitter Coffee and Books and First Fridays at Main Station at 100 S. Main Street, Duncanville
UNT DENTON Commencement
Texas Women’s Foundation Hosts #BestSelf 2022 for Tween and Teen Girls at Paul Quinn College Self-awareness, self-confidence, self-care and self-wellness highlighted. Keynote speakers : ● Tori Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor, Graceful Journey Counseling ● Bishop Arts Theatre Center (BATC), Award-winning, multicultural, multidisciplinary nonprofit arts institution ● Stefanie Tovar, Bhakti yoga instructor based in Dallas ● Tisha Crear, Chef and founder of Recipe Oak Cliff WHERE: Paul Quinn College, 3837 Simpson Stuart Rd, Dallas
ROYAL ROUNDZ II
Kingdom Boxing presents Shurretta “Chiccm” Metcalf, Charles “The Future” Hatley and Ray “Valentino” Ximenez Jr at the Factory, 2713 Canton St. more at kingdomboxing.pro
Elusive Ladies celebrate 44th DELTAversary -- #BADST JUNE 4 ‘Live Out Proud’ at the Dallas Pride Music Festival & Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade in Fair Park June 4-5. Dallas Pride readies for its return to Fair Park June 4-5 to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its allies with a weekend of events with the theme of “Live Out Proud.” Tickets are on sale now at dallaspride.org for the Dallas Pride Music Festival
Send your calendar items to:
editor@texasmetronews.com at least 2-4 weeks before your event
GarlandJournal
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
South Dallas Club Awards $54,200 in Scholarships at Trailblazer Program By Gwendolyn H. Daniels Texas State Representative for the 100th Congressional District and candidate for U.S. House District 30 in the Democratic run-off, the Honorable Jasmine Crockett was the keynote speaker, while Ms. Coffey Caesar of the Dallas Gospel Connection and a proud member of the South Dallas BPW Club served as the program emcee for the South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc.’s 58th Annual V. Alyce Foster Trailblazer Awards Program on April 23, 2022. The virtual event began with instrumental renditions of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and “The Lord’s Prayer” by the Thom Brownlee, Jr. Jazz Quartet. President Ollie Gilstrap brought a heartfelt welcome and greetings were delivered by the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC) Treasurer, Brittany Montgomery, followed by Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford, Governor of the NANBPWC South Central District. Past President Marion Hill-Hubbard took the audience down memory lane visiting the life and legacy of V. Alyce Foster and sharing how the Club renamed the Trailblazer Awards Luncheon in her honor on January 11, 1986 during the presidency of Mae Frances Saulter. Ms.Foster, a charter member of South Dallas BPW Club was the creator of the signature Trailblazer Awards Luncheon. Carla Dennis, the Club’s Director of Membership introduced keynote speaker Rep. Crockett who opened on the subject of Supreme Court Justice nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson, saying “what we saw is resilience.” She revisited how “qualified the nominee was over and above the Jus-
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tices currently sitting on the highest court of the land” and she left the viewers with three takeaways: “Be graceful; lean in on your faith; and always show love.” South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc. awarded a phenomenal $54,200 in scholarships to deserving seniors in the DFW metroplex. Derria Money a senior at Kathlyn Gilliam Collegiate Academy received the Alberta Blair Scholarship, $7,500; Aaliyah Brown of Lake
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Ridge High School received the Ada Adams Scholarship, $6,500; Niara Hardin of James Martin High School received the Kathryn Mitchell Scholarship, $5,500; Ahmad Brown of Lake Ridge High School received the Ombudsman Scholarship, $5,500; Jamie Bowers of Duncanville High School received $5,000; Serenity Davis of DeSoto High School received $5,000; Rebecca Oladejo of Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy received $5,000; Kimaari Mondy of Yvonne
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Ewell Townview Magnet Center received $4,800; Katelayn Vault of Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet received $4,800; and Dynasty Coe of DeSoto High School received $4,600. President Ollie Gilstrap presented Trailblazer Awards to Curtis J. Cornelious, the first African American elected as mayor of Little Elm; Luenora DeWitt, first African American Program Director in the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services for Region 3; and Latosha Herron Bruff, the first African American Senior Vice President of Community Engagement for the Dallas Regional Chamber. The 2022 Humanitarian Award went to Toni Reynolds-Criner, a former youth in the Texas Foster Care System and a worker in the office of Congresswoman Karen Bass, before she founded T.C. Mentoring and Consulting LLC in Washington, D.C. Dr. Donald Arnette, PhD, a cardiologist, author, speaker, NFL mentor and a philanthropist was named Man of the Year. Dr. Arnette has spent countless hours researching why cardiovascular disease is more prevalent in minority communities. The 2022 Youth Achiever Award was presented to Kevin Robinson, Jr. a teenage dessert entrepreneur named “The Pie Dude.” The Association’s highest award, the Sojourner Truth Award, was presented by NANBPWC National President Sherelle T. Carper. Ms. Carper expounded on the life and legacy of Sojourner Truth and recapped the extraordinary life of Opal Lee, the South Dallas Club’s 2022 Sojourner Truth Award recipient. In December of 2021, Texas Christian University awarded Ms. Lee an honorary Doctor of Letters degree for her work as an activist and educator. Dr. Lee is a 95-year-old retired teacher, counselor, and activist in the movement to make Juneteenth a federally-recognized holiday! Trailblazer Awards Chair Gwendolyn Hunt, Esq. gave closing remarks of gratitude, followed by President Gilstrap who delivered final remarks congratulating the Trailblazer Chair and Committee and the entire membership for their contributions in making the 58th Annual Trailblazer Awards program a huge success. For more information on the South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc., visit their website: www.southdallasbpwc.org; Instagram: South Dallas 1954; Facebook page: southdallas1954.
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HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST
He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or
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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classi-fieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.
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THURSDAY MAY 5, 2022
SUPERB WOMEN continued from page 1
DR. DELVA KING Dr. Delva Cotton King excels in business and community service.
Delva J. King, Ph.D. is the owner of The King Group and KG Concessions. Hailing from Houston, TX where she graduated from Jack Yates High School. Dr. Delva King graduated from Texas Southern University, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and The Links Inc. A recipient of the Connie L. Davis Volunteer of the Year award, Dr. Delva has an impressive portfolio in community service and business, with her agency receiving numerous awards. She established Ethnic Focus Research, a consumer marketing research firm and she also has partnerships with Pappas Restaurant and TGI Fridays at DFW International Airport. Dr. Delva is a trailblazer.
CEO of the T.D. Jakes Foundation, where she’s leading the fund toward a $100 million fundraising goal and improving disadvantaged communities by providing economic growth globally through science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). She received a Bachelors Degree in education and a Masters Degree in Psychology from Arkansas State University. Hattie is a masterful speaker and author of multiple books written to give women practical advice and encouragement to gain control over their personal and professional lives. Her board service includes Texas Women’s Foundation, National Restaurant Association, VisitDallas, Dallas Regional Chamber and the tech startup, ShareMaster. Prior to founding Hattie Hill Enterprises, Inc., Hattie was president and CEO of the Women’s Foodservice Forum, where she worked to champion gender equity with women in the food ecosystem. QUEEN CORA Talk about talent, beauty, brains and personality; you’re talking about Queen Cora!
CAROLYN L. BAILEY Carolyn L. Bailey has lived a life of service and recently celebrated 50 years as a member of her beloved sorority.
A Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Carolyn was initiated Spring 1972 into the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter at the University of North Texas (Denton) where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She also received a Masters of Education from Texas A&M Commerce. A retired educator, she is a member of Friendship-West Baptist Church and she has spent decades as a community servant, volunteering for numerous organizations and causes, including Dallas Women Council; State Fair for North Texas Food Bank; and walking to raise funds for March of Dimes and Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer organization. A Cum Laude graduate of Lincoln High School, Port Arthur, TX, she was an Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc Debutante and was inducted into the African American Educators Hall of Fame. A wife, mother and grandmother, she loves shopping, reading and traveling.
clients, a joy to work with and result driven, Hattie’s family has a story worth sharing. Seven generations and almost 100 relatives have attended Grambling State University and almost as many have gone to Southern University. Thanks to the efforts of Hattie and family members, they are listed in the Guiness Book of World Records! A strong advocate of Hattie is known as a consummate professional who was a joy to work with and produced quality work. KESHIA BARNES She’s a great legal mind with a commitment to community service and leading as an example.
Keshia Barnes is an Associate Attorney at DeHay & Elliston L.L.P. where she concentrates on premises liability and product liability defense. She has also worked as an associate attorney at The Washington Firm, U.S. Small Business Administration and Kirkendall Dwyer L.L.P. A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a Bachelor’s Degree in political science and a Doctor of Law from the SMU Dedman School of Law, Keshia is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and she is licensed to practice law in Texas and California. REGINA TAYLOR The talented Regina Annette Taylor continues to represent Dallas and the best it has to offer as a stellar actress who has never forgotten her roots.
Queen Cora is an author, producer, business owner, philanthropist and international drummer. She graduated valedictorian of her class at Kashmere High in Houston, TX and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Music Performance at Howard University. Queen Cora designed her own 60 degree “Cosmic Electroacoustic” drum set and also released her first edition of The Queen Cora Magazine. She has performed in two Super Bowls and Queen Cora has travelled the world with some of the biggest names in music. The multitalented businesswoman is the Founder and CEO of the VIVO Club, Inc., a U.S. based media and music company, and Building Simple, Inc., a U.S. based cutting edgeconstruction company. Her talents landed her as the house drummer for BET’s annual Black Girls Rock Awards TV Show and she currently serves on the Texas Southern University School of Communications Advisory Committee. ROYCE BROOKS Leading with authority, wisdom, and grace — that’s Royce Brooks.
HATTIE HILL A much sought after award-winning speaker and businesswoman, Hattie Hill is inspiring, exciting, invigorating and motivating. Hattie Hill serves as the president and
SHANNON POWELL HART Shannon Powell Hart is a go-getter. Talented, creative and focused, she is a star!
A wife and mother, Shannon Powell Hart enjoyed stints as Communications Lead at Infosys Knowledge Institute, SPH Media, Texas Ale Project, WFAA-TV, KXAN-TV, Junior League of Austin and WAVY-TV. Shannon received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Radio, Television, and Digital Communication from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and MBA in Marketing from LSU Shreveport. She also attended Hendrix College. Shannon is a longtime journalist and member of the National Association of Black Journalists. A community servant, Shannon cares and gives of herself, her time and her resources. a longtime journalist and member of the National Association of Black Journalists. NATALIE BROWN Natalie Brown cares about making this world a better place. An entrepreneur and philanthropist, she continues to lift as she climbs!
High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society and captain of the cheerleaders. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Kamron also studied at Amberton University, where she received a Masters of Arts Degree in School Counseling. She’s a proud health conscious mother, community servant and born leader! YEHARAWERK GASHAW Hailing from Ethiopia, Yeharerwerk Gashaw is our international Superb Woman!
Yeharerwerk Gashaw is a model, actress, ambassador, activist, humanitarian, philanthropist and all-around beautiful sister. Yeharerwerk was the first Black Model to be showcased by Christian Dior and Guerlain in Paris in the 80s and she also was a spokesmodel for Proline Hair Products. She is the first Black woman selected to chair an executive committee in the World Cup (1994) to protect the interest of Africans in the game. Yeharerwerk worked tirelessly to better relations between African people and the world; and especially Black people in America. She appeared in the television series, “Dallas” and also in the stage play, “Backstreet,” about an African woman and her African American drug addicted music producer. She has lent her name to numerous efforts to raise money to help Black people around the world and she is passionate about education. CHEF TIFFANY DERRY Good cooking and more is what you get from Tiffany Derry.
Regina Annette Taylor is West Dallas’ finest. An American actress, playwright and producer, the Pinkston High School graduate who also graduated from SMU has won several awards including a Golden Globe Award and two NAACP Image Awards. She served as the Denzel Washington Endowed Chair in Theater at Fordham University and soon she will return to Dallas when the new Fine Arts Department at Pinkston High School will be named in her honor. Today she will portray Marian Shields Robinson, the mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, in the new Showtime limited series, The First Lady. Talk about gracious, humble and classy; she’s all that and more! SHARNETTE HYTER Sharnette Hyter is a singersongwriter, author and actress.
Natalie Brown is a licensed agent of New York Life Insurance Company where she offers a variety of products that can help you meet a number of insurance and financial needs. Formerly an affiliate sales manager at Kaan Royal Limousine and Quality Control Coach at RideCentric, General Manager and customer experience coordinator for ETE’s & Associates Inc., she received her Bachelor of Applied Science from Sam Houston State University. Natalie is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. She graduated from Dwight D. Eisenhower Senior High School DANIESHA FRAZIER She’s beautiful, bright and full of life. Daniesha is a professional voice artist and communications pro.
Tiffany Derry is co-founder of T2D Concepts, the Texas-based purpose-driven hospitality group behind Roots Chicken Shak, Roots Southern Table and ‘Chef Tiffany spice and apparel lines. Denied from her first cooking job at the age of 15 because of her race and gender, Tiffany, who hails from Beaumont, TX, has rose through the culinary ranks to run her own restaurant concepts, appear on national television, and cook for President Obama at the White House. Tiffany makes regular appearances as a judge and contestant on television shows including Chopped, Chopped Kids, Top Chef, The Great American Recipe, Beat Bobby Flay, Tournament of Champions, The Great American Soul Food Cook-off, Bar Rescue, Top Chef Junior and Top Chef Amateurs. JOYCE ELAINE DANIELS Everyone has known forever that Joyce Elaine Daniels is special and outstanding so you shouldn’t be surprised that she is also superb!
As executive director for almost four years, Royce Brooks recently presided over Annie’s List’s most successful election cycle ever. Prior to joining Annie’s List, Royce, a Fort Worth native, served as Chief Equity Officer for the City of Atlanta; Director of Policy for Sylvester Turner for Mayor (Houston); and Statewide Policy Director for Wendy Davis for Governor (Texas). She also enjoyed stints with the U.S. Senate, the Joint Center for Political And Economic Studies, and Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. Royce received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Rice University and a Doctor of Law degree from Harvard Law School. Royce was also a board member for Leadership Austin. HATTIE WAYNE Full of energy, confidence and spirit, Hattie Wayne is about taking care of business.
The president of Hattie Wayne PR & Advertising, Hattie Wayne received her Bachelor’s degree from Grambling State University and Master of Fine Arts from Southern. Methodist University. Described as committed to meeting the needs of her
Women for the Next Generation Ministries. She describes herself as an “example of a teen mom who beat the odds.” Cynthia graduated from college (twice) and received multiple degrees and she devotes much of her time to providing services and resources to help a person in their personal growth, to become self-sufficient in every area of their life.” Cynthia is the author of “This is Crazy!” In this riveting story, she tells of her experience losing her only child, almost 15 years ago on August 2, 2007. BERNADETTE NUTALL Talk about a beautiful mind and beautiful spirit, that’s Bernadette Wright Nutall, who also cares about youth and education.
Hailing from Killeen, TX, Bernadette Nutall is a graduate of Sam Houston State University with a B.A. in Business Administration, and the co-founder and executive director of Circle of Support, Inc. -an organization that provides families in under-served areas of Dallas with high quality summer learning. A former Dallas Independent School District Board Trustee, Bernadette is a wife and mother and community activist/servant. She attended the Certificate of Competence Training Program in instructional leadership at the University of North Texas in Denton and she also attended several sessions of the Summer Changes Everything National Conference at Johns Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning. Bernadette is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. KRISTI NELSON The vibrant and dynamic Kristi Nelson is the author of “The Chamique Holdsclaw Story,” and a product of Dallas’ Talented & Gifted Magnet High School.
DR. SHARON L. BLACKMAN Dr. Sharon L. Blackman is committed to working with other women and youth, including the Women’s Leadership Summit, Church vestry, and providing educational guidance.
Dr. Sharon L. Blackman is a Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and recently celebrated her 50th Deltaversary; initiated Spring 1972 at Theta Rho Chapter at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She has a Doctorate of Education, a Master of Education and Bachelor of Science. Now a retired Higher Education Administrator, she is a member of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer. Dr. Sharon has held several leadership positions in organizations. Honors include Paul A. Eisner Excellence in Leadership Honoree Dallas County Community College District “Learning Technology Innovation of the Year” Award Winner, “Woman of Distinction” Award from the Pontiac Club, and National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. Also a member of Links, Inc., she loves listening to jazz music, the arts, dancing, reading and going to the beach.
in Psychology from the University of North Texas and a MEd in Counselor Education with an emphasis in Higher Education from The University of Texas at Austin. In addition to working as a professional counselor at Dallas College and Psychological Evaluator at the Private Practice of William July Ph.D.; Timberly has enjoyed stints at Collin College, Stepping Stone Learning Center, UT Austin and Austin ISD.
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Southern Soul music artist Sharnette Hyter describes herself as “a bowl of gumbo, a flat-footed country girl.” A native of Dallas with Louisiana roots, she is a graduate of Skyline High School and comes from a tradition of gospel-rooted singing. Sharnette attended Robert L. Thornton Elementary, Boude Storey Middle School, and Skyline High School where she was in the horticulture cluster. Next she was off to Cedar Valley College and then to Larry’s Barber College, before becoming a hairstylist. The licensed barber instructor also attended Renee’s Cosmetology Center and studied theological studies at Grace Seminary College. TIMBERLY LEWIS Timberly Lewis is a licensed professional counselor who is skilled in nonprofit organizations, relationship and mental health counseling
A participant in the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists Urban Journalism Workshop, Timberly Lewis was an honor student who received a BA Degree
Daniesha Frazier hails from Oklahoma City, OK, where she graduated from Northeast High School in OKC. She also studied Broadcast journalism at University of Central Oklahoma and Langston University. Daniesha also studied at Rose State College and Francis Tuttle Vocational Technical School. She is the executive director at D-D Eb Productions where cost effective marketing, event planning and promotions is her specialty. A proud mother, Daniesha is a motivational speaker, national talent scout, writer and graphic designer. KAMRON BARTON MCGEE Kamron Barton McGee is one proud Rattler and Cowboy homegirl who makes Dallas proud wherever she goes and whatever she does.
T. SCHNELL BLANTON T. Schnell Blanton is multitalented and dimensional. She’s a businesswoman, an entrepreneur and a philanthropist. The Director of the Hamilton Park United Methodist Church Learning Center, Joyce Elaine Daniels received a B.S Degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Grambling State University. A life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she is a charter member of the North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter. A servant leader, Joyce has received multiple certifications in training and continuing education in Early Childhood Education Administration. Joyce was recently named the Outstanding Woman of the Year by the Psi Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority. CYNTHIA WILLIAMS Cynthia Williams is a survivor, a leader and an author.
A graduate of David W. Carter High School, Kamron went on to study journalism at Florida A&M University and is celebrating her 20th Rattlerversary as a member of the Class of 2002. A native Dallasite, Kamron is a graduate of David W. Carter
An award-winning journalist and anchor at NBC5- KXAS-TV, Kristi Nelson is a long time member of the National Association of Black Journalists and recipient of several awards. One award was won for a multipart documentary, “Kristi’s Gift,” that chronicled her donation of a kidney to her mother. She interned at The Dallas Weekly and The Dallas Morning News and she also worked at the Philadelphia Inquirer, Cincinnati Enquirer and National Basketball Association’s Communications Department, before returning home to work at NBC5. A member of the Gamma Beta Phi honor society and graduate of the University North Texas, Kristi was a Dupont Fellow and received a Masters Degree from Columbia University. She is the proud mother of son, Lucca.
Cynthia Williams is the founding executive director of Women Empowering
T. Schnell Blanton has enjoyed stints as a senior corporate trainer at Nielsen, president and CEO of Imperial Beverage Group, Instructor at the University of Oklahoma, Sr. Instructional Designer at Transmerica, Training Program manager for Sprint Telecom and Senior Trainer at Paymentech. She is a graduate of Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management where she served as President of Alpha Omega Literary Social Organization. Schnell is licensed in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by the University of South Florida Muma College of Business. She has also served on the advisory board of Women with Heart for the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association and Arlington Hall Conservancy.