Texas Metro News 3-9-23 by Cheryl Smith

MetroNews

By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

A Legend Indeed!

Frisco student reprimanded for requesting sex from teacher

By Ayesha Hana Shaji

This is a continuation of last week’s story.

A 13-year-old boy has been sentenced to 45 days of alternative school for a TikTok prank gone wrong at Cobb Middle School in Frisco ISD.

When Jordan Thomas did the “mumble prank,” he meant for it to be harmless. But things took a turn when his teacher misinterpreted the prank to be a request for oral sex, a claim he denies.

“I’m sorry if that’s what [the teacher] heard but that’s not what I said,” Thomas said.

by assistant principal Reaunna Johnson, who levied another punishment toward Thomas - 45 days of alternative school and a threat to file a sexual harassment police complaint.

When the decision was appealed, an in-house hearing was held on Feb. 24 with Johnson, their legal team, Thomas’ mother Carla Broom and their representation, George and Sarah Roland, defense attorneys from a Denton-based firm. Unfortunately, the school didn’t rescind their punishment.

I met Thomas Dortch, Jr. in 1987.

As president of the Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, my focus was on service (serving our alumni, students, communities).

Unlike other organizations that have vice presidents who are like persons in waiting or acting in abstentia; my vice presidents were put to work!

So, I charged my VP, Dr Vivian Bradley Johnson, with a project that has withstood the test of time.

Now, those who are familiar with the 1970s cult favorite, The Warriors, will see the influence here. I told Dr. Viv to schedule a meeting at the historic Smokey John’s Barbecue; calling together the alumni chapter presidents of HBCUs located in the D/FW Metroplex.

The purpose of the meeting was to see if they would be interested in working together to better serve all of our institutions, because where there is unity, there is strength.

See MY TRUTH, page 10

Initially, Thomas served one day of in-school suspension and the case was closed by assistant principal Clay Grubb. However, it was reopened, without any further prompts,

Thomas will also have a seven-year record stating sexual harassment against a teacher, said Broom; who is again appealing the decision and awaiting a hearing date.

Rev. Dr. James Thomas, president of NAACP’s San Fernando Valley chapter, said he will fly to Texas and be present at the

final appeal hearing to show his support for the student and the mother.

“This is not just about Jordan but about every student and making sure the district and the school [are] a safe environment,” he said. “To make that school a safe environment for Black folks and people of color makes it a safe environment for everybody.”

Broom has also found additional representation for the final appeal - education advocate Gerry Monroe of Monroe Consultation, LLC.

“[Johnson] has a history of suspending Black boys at a higher rate than any other ethnicity,” Monroe said. “She has a history of sending Black boys to alternative school.”

Thomas does not have anything on his disciplinary record prior to this issue. Moreover, there is no documentation, even in the teacher’s written statement, suggesting Thomas asked for oral sex, said Monroe.

“So I represent kids every single day and this is a joke. It's got to be the biggest joke in the world,” he said.

According to Monroe, people are forgetting this is a 13-yearold and if anything this should be a learning curve and not an excuse to criminalize a child.

“We've gotten to the point in the United States of America,

BHM viewed from Ethiopian ‘Land of Origins’

By Norma Adams-Wade Texas Metro

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

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

During this time of Black heritage reflection, Gashaw asked us to take a look at how we share a common past and help shape the future of what scientists call

humankind’s “Land of Origins.”

Her premise comes from scientists who say that human life began in Ethiopia, the “Horn of Africa” because of its shape.

Ethiopia is where scientists

in 1974 discovered Lucy, who lived 3.2 million years ago. Lucy is one the world’s most complete and best-preserved hominids - a prehistoric ancestor to humans.

Bible researcher and author David T. Adamo notes that Africa and Africans are mentioned 1,417 times in the Bible.

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

The Ethiopian government says the country has more than 80 ethnic groups among its 100 million population. These groups are separated into more than a dozen separate “protected areas” with their own

TEXAS DELIVERING NEWS YOU NEED WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM • Vol. 10 • Mar. 9 - 15, 2023

TRUTH

See FRISCO STUDENT, page 6 See BLACK HISTORY MONTH, page 7

News Correspondent Yeharerwerk Gashaw Photo: David Minton for The Dallas Morning News Photo: Frisco ISD Yeharer photo from modeling days in the 1980s. Texas Metro News Team Thomas Dortch Jr. (r) talks with HBCU alum at Smokey John's Barbecue in Dallas in 1987.

Meet the 2023 Jack & Jill - Dallas Chapter Beaux Corp. pages 8, 9, 16

Destiny Meets Its Match

Thomas endorses Gracey for Dallas City Council Seat

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Team

Dallas City Councilman Casey Thomas endorsed Dallas City Council District three candidate, Zarin Gracey, at a press conference on Friday.

Thomas said Gracey has been on his team for eight years and has worked together with Thomas on every policy he implemented during his tenure.

By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor

One hundred tables. Over 1.2 million dollars raised. Destiny met its match during the St. Philip’s School & Community Center’s annual luncheon that supports their continuous efforts in South Dallas.

A conversation with renowned actor Sterling K. Brown was the headliner for the 23rd Annual Destiny Award Luncheon, polishing the jewel of the south many have come to grow with and love.

St. Philips is a staple. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Dallas, Texas, it’s been an educational beacon for youth, currently serving students in pre-kindergarten through 7th grade. The community center has served as a pivotal resource for many.

Perot Family Headmaster

Dr. Terry Flowers is in his 40th year with the institution that has yielded numerous stories and esteemed individuals in a variety of career fields. He contributes the longevity of their success to their fearless commitment to faith in academics and service.

“The fact that we say it’s okay to pray and make an ‘A’ and celebrate God every step that we take, and make sure that we’re giving Him the glory in all that we do,” Dr. Flowers said. “Those would be the key elements of our success.”

The lobby of the Anatole Hotel was buzzing with students showing off their thinking, creativity and mastered skills nurtured by St. Philips. Brown visited with them, marveling at their glow. During the conversation part of the program, he shared his thoughts regarding his brief tour

of the school.

He was enamored by their creed.

“For two minutes, I was watching these little brown faces say the most profound things about themselves and the impact that they will have on the world,” Brown said. “The value of Black boy joy and Black girl magic makes my heart burst wide open, because it’s not all the time that people who don’t always look like us see it too.”

The event also featured student performances, student-led speeches, and awards presentations. Former Dallas Cowboys’ head coach Jason Garrett, along with his wife Brill, presented Ellen and John McStay with the 2023 Mona & David Munson Hu-

for bringing Brown in as this year’s luncheon speaker.

“Sterling K. Brown represents excellence,” Dr. Flowers said. “St. Philip's School and Community Center has students who aspire to pursue the arts, and we thought it would be fitting for him to be our speaker. But more importantly, our Destiny Award luncheon focuses in on the oneness of humankind, and if you look at his body of work, and the excellence that he has achieved, it encompasses all realms of life and helps us to tell those stories that our students aspire to.”

The middle initial “K” stands for “Kelby;” the name Brown preferred to go by in his early childhood years. When Texas Metro News asked Brown what he would tell young Kelby after looking over his life, he smiled as he shared his response.

Gracey said he has worked for the City of Dallas for almost 16 years in different positions, including executive manager of Business Inclusion Development and director of the Office of Business Diversity.

He has four main strategies if elected:

1. Economic development: revitalizing vacant warehouses and shopping squares without moving others out of the community.

2. Public safety: continuing to fund the police forces.

3. Quality of life: arts and parks; green amenities on unutilized land.

4. Racial equity: prioritizing minority and women-owned businesses and focusing on customer service.

Thomas said Gracey knows his way around the City Hall – and that’s an important bonus.

“That's important to have someone who can hit the ground running on day one. He has a heart to serve the community,”

Thomas said. “And he has the intellect and commitment to really build on the work that I've done and take things to the next level.”

ity center for seniors in Oak Cliff, the redevelopment of the Red Bird Mall and the Square 67 Shopping Center Revitalization Project.

He added the passing of the Racial Equity Plan to his list as well.

“The plan allows communities of color who have been historically overlooked and underrepresented an opportunity to receive the resources that they need in order to improve the quality of life,” Thomas said.

He also chaired the COVID-19 Black Task Force which provided critical information to citizens during the pandemic.

manitarian Award.

A special salute was given to the St. Philips class of 2017 who are now in their senior year at various high schools. At the request of Dr. Flowers, they proudly stood and waved to the audience.

Theater and acting icon Bruce DuBose led the moderated discussion with Brown, who made his entrance to the stage to the song and by doing the “Wobble.”

The crowd laughed and were delighted by this cheerful beginning. By the end, they seemed emotionally touched and inspired.

Dr. Flowers shared his reason

“Get ready,” he laughed. “I would tell him the same thing that my mom actually told me, which is that people would be watching, and not everybody is necessarily watching you to see you succeed; but that’s why it’s more important that you succeed because of that. That your actions are not just representative of you, of an individual, but of your family, of your community and of the people that you come from, so give them something to watch.”

While Brown has been watched a countless number of times by so many, with multiple acting accolades earned for his roles, the students of St. Philips are indeed worthy of watching as well.

According to Thomas, a few of his career highlights are the construction of an activ-

Thomas said his plan is to stay involved and busy and despite rumors he doesn’t have any intention of rerunning for office.

2 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Candidate Zarin Gracey and Hon. Casey Thomas Photo: FaceBook Actor Sterling K. Brown visits with St. Philips students during Destiny Award Luncehon event at Hilton Anatole in Dallas, TX March 3, 2023 Actor Sterling K. Brown visits with St. Philips students during Destiny Award Luncehon event at Hilton Anatole in Dallas, TX March 3, 2023 St. Philips supporter Lisa Perry and friends pose with Sterling K. Brown during Destiny Award Luncheon March 3, 2023 Eva D. Coleman is the Lifestyle and Culture Editor at Texas Metro News.

Historic First in Virginia

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

Jennifer McClellan, a lawyer and veteran member of the Virginia legislature has become the first African American woman from Virginia to win a seat in the United States Congress.

Congresswoman-elect McCellan takes the seat in the House of Representatives vacated by Virginia Congressman Donald McEachin who died of cancer last year.

A former member of the Virginia State Legislature where she served for 16 years, Congresswoman-elect McClellan will represent the 4th Congressional District in the state where she was

born and lived for most of her life.

Moments after her February 21st election victory she received a congratulatory phone call from President Joe Biden. She will join the Congressional Black Caucus with 27 other Black woman members of the House, after she takes her oath of office.

“To be someone who fought my entire adult life to address the lingering impact that slavery and Jim Crow has had on America and on Black communities……… To be able to do that on a national scale is an incredible honor,” she said of her new role in the congressional district that begins in Richmond and extends to the northern border of North Carolina.

While a state legislator she was a powerful proponent of voting rights and women’s reproductive rights. Her opponent in the special election was a Black Pastor, Reverend Leon Benjamin who was making his second bid for

a congressional seat. Rev. Benjamin ran as a member of the Republican Party.

“It still blows my mind that we are having firsts in 2023,” McClellan said of her historic victory.

“My Ancestors fought really hard to have a seat at the table, and now I will have a seat in Congress. I feel a special responsibility to make sure that I am not the last.”

A single parent, the Congresswoman-elect said that she comes from a family of domestic workers and that her mother was the first woman in the family to complete the eighth grade. “I have got to keep fighting so that my daughter does not have to,” she said.

“Jennifer McClellan’s history-making victory as the first

Black woman elected to Congress from Virginia will have ripple effects across the Commonwealth,” said Susan Swecker, the chairwoman of the Democratic Party in Virginia. “Her leadership will expand upon the outstanding progress and advocacy for which we remember Congressman Donald McEachin. I cannot think of a better way to honor his life and legacy than with the generation of leadership that congresswoman-elect Jennifer McClellan will bring to Washington.”

Dallas' first open-air shopping center to undergo redevelopment

DALLAS – Brixmor Property Group (NYSE: BRX) (“Brixmor”) has announced plans for the next stage in a multi-phase redevelopment of Wynnewood Village, one of the first open-air shopping centers in Dallas.

This phase of the redevelopment will include the addition of Target as a retail tenant, renovated facades throughout the existing center, new public gathering spaces, enhanced entrances, new landscaping and new identity and wayfinding signage. The changes build upon the addition of LA Fitness (34,000 square feet) and Five Below (11,500 square feet).

The center’s redevelopment goals include capitalizing on Wynnewood Village’s prime location in Southern Dallas by improving the center’s mer-

chandise mix for one-stop daily needs and casual shopping while upgrading the center in a manner that honors the history and strength of the Oak Cliff community.

“Consumer research showed

that the community has affectionate, generational memories of Wynnewood Village and felt strongly that it ‘belongs” to the local community,” said Brett Milke, Brixmor’s Vice President of Redevelopment. “We wanted to honor the community’s ‘ownership’ by revitalizing and restoring the center as a valued community gathering place.”

The center’s newest tenant, Target, will be approximately 111,000 sq. ft. and located near LA Fitness.

Based upon consumer survey feedback, additional merchandising in the center will be focused on soft goods, home furnishings, beauty, pets, sporting goods, and dining.

Opening in 1949, Wynnewood Village was one of the

City’s first open-air shopping destinations with 17 stores. The center’s transformation will honor the center’s legacy by embracing and enhancing its Mid-century modern design, an

Target to Join the Center’s Tenant Lineup

architectural style that focuses on clean lines with a mix of both organic and geometric shapes.

The center’s iconic monument sign will remain as a focal point near the center’s original retail buildings. New signage will create a sense of arrival at the primary entrances and pro-

vide wayfinding throughout the 65-acre center.

Construction is scheduled to begin this fall with the first phase completing in early 2025. The center will remain open for business during the redevelopment.

Located just west of I-35 East at the corner of Illinois Avenue and Zang Boulevard, Wynnewood Village is anchored by two grocers, Kroger and El Rancho, and more than 80 retail, service and restaurant options, including Ross Dress for Less, Skechers and Foot Locker. The center draws 7.5 million visits annually.

Retail space is still available by contacting Selina Bolden at selina.bolden@brixmor.com or (214) 618-6521.

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 3

Brixmor Wynnewood Village Target Rendering Brixmor Wynnewood Village Redevelopment Rendering Hon. Jennifer McClellan Joseph Green-Bishop is a long-time journalist who has published newspapers in America and Africa. Currently he is a news correspondent for Texas Metro News.

William Sydney Pittman Lives!

QUIT PLAYIN’

By Vincent L. Hall

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

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

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

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

It provided office space for prominent African American

TEXAS

MetroNews

Publisher : Cheryl Smith

Editor: editor@myimessenger.com

Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203

Website: www.texasmetronews.com

Phone: 214-941-0110

professionals, such as lawyers and doctors. In addition, the top floor was used for social activities.

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

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

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

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

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

always runs through and over our community.

Later in life, Pittman established the “Brotherhood Eyes” newspaper. He used the paper to vent his criticisms of the Black community. A firm believer in supporting Black businesses, Pittman charged the Black middle class with hypocrisy for patronizing white com-

we can all be proud of.

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

panies instead of Black ones. He could do the same today.

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

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS

The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

OUR VOICES

By Dr. John E. Warren

Now that Black History Month has come to an official end, it is important, now more than ever, that we not only continue to review and remember our history and those that contributed to it, but also that we take up the guardianship of all our gains and not let new attacks destroy them.

I speak specifically to the “Jim Crow, 2 plus 2” attacks now underway in states like Florida and Mississippi. While the Governor of Florida would stamp out

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

came a social, commercial, and cultural nexus for the surrounding community. And what is a culture without music? Jazz and blues legends like "Blind Lemon" Jefferson and Sam "Lightnin’” Hopkins performed in the grand fourthfloor ballroom of the temple.”

Sidney Pittman

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

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

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

Between world wars, the Knights of Pythias Temple be-

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

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

End of Black History Month and Our Challenge

Black history, we must not only fight in the legislature itself, but take the battle to the courts as attorney Benjamin Crump is doing, to stop the efforts to remove books and discussions about race.

We must rally to support the people of Jackson, Mississippi as they fight efforts to create a new segregated judicial district, in the heart of Jackson’s Black community, that would empower White control of all legal aspects of life in a city with an elected Black Mayor. This is an effort to institute “apartheid” and nullify the U.S. Constitution within a state that is a part of these United States.

We can assume that the U.S. Supreme Court, which has been stacked with Trump judg-

es, would certainly find a way to uphold such actions much like we have seen before in a Segregated South.

These restrictive legislative proposals pending in the Mississippi State Legislature must be watched closely as we not only seek to support our brothers and sisters in that state and stand guard against such efforts in other states. We know from our history that we do have the

ability to self educate. We do have the ability to organize and vote to replace those in office who would legislate against our interest.

No. Black History is now everyday as we continue to make history by how we live. What we do today is the history of tomorrow.

4 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and an award-winning columnist. Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

"Black History is now everyday as we continue to make history by how we live. What we do today is the history of tomorrow."

- Dr. John E. Warren

Who Do You Run To?

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

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

I was drawn to a scripture that I had read the previous day. It reminded me that no matter what I go through I know that God is there. It’s not a time to complain and whine. It is the time to remember who God is and God’s greatness.

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

I shared this passage with several friends as we waited out the

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

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

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

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

Despite what goes on around us, how can we live a life of gratitude AND contentment? How can we remember the many things God does for us daily to bless us and even when things don’t go our way, how can we trust God and remain in the shelter of the Most High?

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

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” (Proverbs 4:25) Complaining has consequences in our lives. We know in Matthew 14:22-33, Peter almost sank because he took his eyes off of Jesus.

Keep your eyes on Jesus…no matter what.

Seek His grace instead of grumbling.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the CEO of Soulstice Consultancy and the founder of the Reconciliation and Restoration Foundation (r2fdn. org). She is the author of four books including Empowering Charity: A New Narrative of Philanthropy (Baylor University Press, 2022) and the host of the Tapestry podcast.

DeSantis on the Wrong Side of History

eat with them at the same restaurants.

By Marc Morial

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

-George Orwell, “1984”

The Jacksonville ballfield where Henry “Hammerin’ Hank” Aaron played as a 19-year-old minor leaguer in 1953 now bears his name.

It’s where he and two of his teammates, Felix Mantilla and Horace Garner, endured hostile taunts from fans. Off the field, they received death threats. When the team traveled, they couldn’t stay at the same hotels where other teammates stayed or

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

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

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

That’s why school administrators in Duval County, where Jacksonville is located, temporarily barred the children’s book “Henry Aaron’s Dream” from its libraries and classrooms. Other books kept off the shelves were

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

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

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

“Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates,” “Thank You, Jackie Robinson” and “Women Who Broke the Rules: Sonia Sotomayor.”

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

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

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

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

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

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Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

TO BE EQUAL

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Photo: Gage Skidmore

Revisionism won't work with Black history

WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE

By Dr. E. Faye Williams

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

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

If you look at a map without knowing where you are, it’s impossible to get to another location by design. In that circumstance, only dumb luck will get you where you want to go!

That same logic can be ap-

plied to provide a clear picture of the dilemma that many of our youth (and a distressing number of adults) suffer from.

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

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

Denying Black people an understanding of their identity is as old as our victimization in enslavement. It started on the docks of the Motherland where captives of many different tribes and languages were bound and kidnapped with the recognition that they could not offer

organized resistance without a common language – a common identity.

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

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

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

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

Irreconcilable differences

If nothing else, the realities

Frisco student punished cont.

especially with children of color, that we don't have a problem criminalizing them at the lowest level,” he said.

This will go on Thomas’ permanent record penalizing him and possibly keeping him from getting accepted into certain colleges and programs in the future, Monroe said.

“This is not what you need to do to a kid who doesn't have a disciplinary record,” he said. “But you're treating him as if he brought, you know, a pound of cocaine to school.

“We have to remember where we came from. In order

from page 1

of the economic worth brought to a growing nation by a system of human enslavement should have educational value. There are other essays that delve more deeply into the economics of enslavement, but the outline at History.com provides a clear picture of what we have meant to what is really important to this nation – the acquisition of wealth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

to change racism on any level in this spectrum, there need to be some sit downs, there needs to be some communication.”

Broom said the whole situation has affected her son so much that she had to start taking him to counseling. She said it’s been very hard on her mentally and financially, especially being a single mother.

Monroe said the school and the parents should sit down together, talk about the situation and issue a punishment that is fair. The one-day in-school suspension, he believes, was a sufficient punishment but

what they have now is unfair and extreme.

“And we need to understand that we're all different but we are all stuck in this together,” Monroe continued. “And if we work together, we can solve anything.”

With a Black education advocate representing them along with Roland and the support of NAACP, Broom feels more confident about the situation, she said.

Resident Endorses Joe Tave for Dallas City Council District 3

For Profit Management. He also has 30 years of planning, design and administrative experience in government.

“Joe Tave will ensure that the 21st Century infrastructure we need to grow will be built and in place so that District 3 will be ready to build the homes and businesses we need and deserve,” Baker said.

Baker is adamant that Tave is the candidate needed to create a community of inclusion.

“Joe Tave is ready to serve, ready to lead, and will put together the team of resident leaders who will fill the boards and commissions that turn the wheels of progress at City Hall,” he said. “Joe Tave knows the history and has the experience needed to make the right things happen for District 3."

Dallas resident Darryl Baker says he knows who will best lead his district and that person is Joe Tave, candidate for Dallas City Council, District 3. Baker is a retired City Planner with a Masters degree in Architecture and Urban Design as well as an MBA in Not

He continued, "We are blessed with a long-standing record of diversity and inclusion in District 3. Joe will tap into that wealth of human resources to make sure that everyone is included and that EVERYONE will have a voice and a say in how we build our future here!”

6 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

Ready to Serve, Ready to Lead: Your Ad belongs here, Contact: 214-941-0110

Joe Tave

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

Black History Month viewed from Ethiopian cont.

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

“I want this genocide to end,” Gashaw said in an interview. She said invaders and leaders from other countries manipulated Ethiopia’s many opposing ethnic groups that clashed with

offering political and economic gains for joining their “peacekeeping forces” that in reality only create more carnage, she said.

Gashaw has a more than 30-year record of joining and founding organizations to try to create unity and peace. She founded the Ethiopian National Government in Exile in Dallas in 2005.

each other. She said colonizers and foreign diplomats set up more than a dozen regions and governing bodies in Ethiopia. Critics of that plan say organizers either knowingly or ignorantly still attract violence by

Gashaw became a celebrity after losing both parents by age 9. She was born in Harar in southeast Ethiopia and grew up in Addis Ababa, the capital city, during the reign of Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie. Her father was an army officer, and her mother a homemaker. Gashaw left Ethiopia at 16 to get an education, and that opened the door for a modeling career that took her to Paris. There she began a parade of “firsts,” including the first African model to feature Christian Dior fashions and Guerlain cosmetics.

She held beauty queen roles at public events while fueling her budding activism.

She followed her then husband to Dallas in the early 1980s as her name and her activism became known and respected.

She was the first Black woman to appear in the television series Dallas. She also was in the stage production Backstreet. She became the first African-born civil rights activist in the area and was the first African featured in The Dallas Morning News’ High Profile section. The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center’s executive board appointed her as the first chair for its new Friends of MLK Jr. Community Center advisory group. Her scrapbook brims with articles about her missions and photos with prominent global

leaders and African and Ethiopian heads of state, including former South African president Nelson Mandela and former Ethiopian president Mengistu Haile Mariam. She has held advisory appointments under leaders including the late Democratic congressman Mickey Leland of Houston, Texas Gov. Ann Richards and Dallas Mayor Annette Strauss. There also are grotesque photos of war scenes she says she keeps to show recruits the seriousness of the longstanding effort to bring peace.

She said she realized at age 5 that something was wrong in her homeland, and she wanted to help the adults who huddled to talk about whatever it was. Eventually she was allowed to sit at a desk and hand out

printed information. She never looked back and kept advancing in the movement. She still works with her current cause during Black History Month and will do so in the future.

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

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

norma_adams_wade@yahoo.com

Texas A&M University undermines commitment to diversity

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

“Diversity has always been a crucially sensitive issue at Texas A&M University, and the decision by Chancellor Sharp to remove DEI as a factor in admissions will have an even more detrimental impact on the university's efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its system.

Chancellor Sharp did not reach out to any ethnic minority legislators before announcing this decision,” said Senator West.

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

“The exclusion of input from minority legislators on this very sensitive issue sends a clear message that Texas A&M is willing to sacrifice the benefits of a diverse student body for the sake of po-

litical expediency,” said Senator West.

Chancellor Sharp's statement that ‘no university or agency in the A&M System will admit any

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

“As it implements this policy, I’m calling on the A&M System to certify that each athlete who is recruited and given a scholarship to ensure that the scholarship is also based on academic merit,” Senator West said. “Fur-

ther, ‘merit’ needs to be defined and A&M must now make sure each student admitted meets the definition. While DEI considerations have to go, do legacy admits get to stay?”

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

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 7

from page

Yeharer meeting with South African President Nelson Mandella. Yeharer meeting with Ethiopian President Menjistu Haile Mariam Modern day photo of Yaharerwerk Gashaw, also know as Yeharer. Yeharer sitting at a desk at a press conference discussing one of her human rights causes. Photos: Yeharerwerk Gashaw Hon. Royce West

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

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

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

Beau Bryce Elliot Vaughn

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

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

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

Beau Austin Bryce Wesley

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

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

are Braeden and Spencer.

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

Jirden has received a Cheer scholarship to Blinn College.

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

Beau Christian Alexander McKendall

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

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

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

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

Beau Christopher Jirden Ware II

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

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

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

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

Beau Christion Anthony Gause

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

Christion Anthony is an ex-

Beau Hampton O’Neal Aldridge is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard O’Neal Aldridge, Jr. and paternal grandson to the late Mr. and Mrs. Howard O’Neal Aldridge, Sr. and the maternal grandson to the late Annie Coleman Scott. Hampton has two older siblings, Dr. Jasmin Aldridge Hamlett and Howard O’Neal Aldridge, III.

ceptional senior graduating from Plano East Senior High School who is in the National Honor Society and National Society of High School Scholars.

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

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

Beau David Allen Williams

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

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

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

Beau Hampton O’Neal Aldridge

Hampton is a senior at Jesuit College Preparatory School and has not decided which college he will attend to obtain a Doctor ofPharmacy degree and continue the 42-year family legacy. He is escorted by Belle Jada Mitchell, daughter of Tracy and Kimberly Mitchell.

Beau Ian Patrick Lee-Wiggins

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

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

8 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Beau Ajani Dasan Lyons

See JACK AND JILL, Page 9

Jack and Jill

continued from page 1

of Hawai’i at Manoa to study Marine Biology.

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

Beau Jacob Clayborn

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

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

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

Beau Jayden Gavri’el Musco

Winston Leadership Academy and serves as the Senior Class Student Government representative.

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

Beau Jordan Immanuel Dillard

and service-related endeavors while achieving academic honor roll status. He plans to major in sports management and minor in communications.

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

will attend college in the Fall.

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

Beau Myles Barrett Sturns-Thomas

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

Beau Nicholas Dietrich Abram

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

Jayden is a senior at The Winston School, where he is an honor roll student, participant in the

Beau Jordan Immanuel Dillard

is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Dillard, Sr. He is the paternal grandson of the late Jobe Dillard, Sr., and Seccession Dillard. He is the maternal grandson of the late Billy Coulter and the late Vastie Coulter Fisher. He has one brother, Phillip Jr. and three sisters, Alexandria Dillard and Dr. Victoria Dillard and Dr. Lashundra Watson of Memphis, TN.

Jordan is a senior at Lewisville High School with 3.7 GPA. He will be attending Morehouse College or Morgan State University and will pursue a degree in sports journalism.

He is escorted by Belle Mikiya Love, daughter of Michael and Mellannise Love.

Beau Kenneth Michael Chapital

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

Kenneth is a senior at Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas, where he balances his academics, extra-curricular activities,

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

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

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

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

Beau Myles Rufus

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

Myles is a senior at The Oakridge School in Arlington, TX and a member of the Oakridge Owls varsity basketball team and varsity track team.

Myles is undecided where he

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

Myles is a senior at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts where he is a drama thespian maintaining a 3.94 GPA. He hasn’t made a decision where to pursue a degree in economics while continuing to refine his passion in musical theater.

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

Beau Myles Tyson Archibald

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

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

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

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

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

Beau Noah McCoy Green

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

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

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

See JACK AND JILL, Page 16

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 9

Beau Mason Barack Daniels

My Truth: A Legend Indeed! cont. from page 1

With each alumni association having two representatives, everyone was on equal footing and under the direction of Mr. Dortch we organized an organization that still exists, almost four decades later, the Dallas Metroplex Council of Black Alumni Associations.

This organization has funded scholarships for hundreds of area students and Southern University’s Valerie Roussell is leading the charge today. Our chapters have helped one another on so many levels and we have a bond that allows us to be able to take jabs at one another in the spirit of competition, but come together for the greater good, which is the sustainability of HBCUs.

Which brings me to my truth.

The growth and development of HBCUs is only part of the legacy of Mr. Thomas Dortch. At the time of his death, he was serving on the board of trustees of Florida A&M University, and he served with distinction as he did on several other boards. Wherever he served he brought his intellect, commitment and resources.

Born in Georgia, Tommy, as he was fondly called, was an Eagle Scout.

A National Science Foundation Scholar, student council president and basketball star in high school, he attended Fort Valley State University where he was the Student Body President and pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, becoming a life member.

Tommy earned a B.A. Degree in Sociology and Pre-Professional Social Work from Fort Valley State University in 1972 and a Masters of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Clark Atlanta University in 1986.

He also attended Georgia State University as a Ford Fellow in the Urban Administration Program. He received Honorary Doctorates from Fayetteville State University, Jarvis Christian College, Fort Valley State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Livingstone College.

He did so much for so many and his works will live on forever.

I was saddened to hear about his passing because I always en-

joyed reading about his works. Tommy Dortch showed us how to live life to its fullest.

Born April 12, 1950, the author, entrepreneur, and community activist passed away on February 15, 2023.

For his many contributions, please join me in making contributions to: Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. Foundation or National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 42118, Atlanta, GA 30311.

Comerica Bank names Jeff Banks Senior VP

Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) announced that Jeff Banks has been named to the new role of Senior Vice President, Chief Data and Analytics Officer. He will report to Megan Crespi, Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer.

In the role, Banks will serve to define the enterprise data vision and strategy for Comerica and establish an enterprise-wide data and analytics program across all lines of business. Banks will be based in Dallas, working at Comerica Bank Tower and transition to the bank's new Business & Innovation Hub in Frisco when completed.

"Effectively harnessing the power of data and analytics is critical to our ability to meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers," said Crespi. "Jeff's leadership and experience in data management will enable Comerica to establish a strong data-driven foundation on which to expand our capabilities."

Banks joins Comerica after four years with Meta/Facebook as Head of Client Data Services and Head of Data Management Operations, where he led the execution and maintenance of the organization's advertising and marketing data management policies. Prior to Meta, Banks served as the Global Head of Data Governance, Policies and Standards at General Motors and spent 11 years with USAA leading the data practice as Enterprise Data Officer. Banks is also a United States Air Force veteran, serving eight

years as a commissioned officer.

Banks earned a master's degree in Management Information Systems from Northwestern University and bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from Southern University and A&M College.

Comerica Bank is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank and Wealth Management. Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Michigan, California, Florida and Arizona, with select businesses operating in several other states, as well as Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported total assets of $85.4 billion as of Dec. 31, 2022.

Garland Business and Professional Women’s Club NANBPWC, INC.

Saturday, March 25, 2023

Time: 10:30 a.m. Garland

10 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Jeff Banks Thomas W. Dortch, Jr.

Women Who Tell Our Stories”

“Celebrating

Central Library (North Meeting Room) 625 Austin St. Garland, TX 75040 Cheryl Smith Publisher - I Messenger Media Texas Metro News, Garland Journal, I Messenger Norma Adams -Wade Texas Metro News Columnist Dallas Morning News Retired Senior Staff Writer Special Guest Appearance: Centenarian, Ms. Adell Christmas Smith Via Zoom Contact: Co-Chair Gilda Smith – gsmith717@yahoo.com Co-Chair Carol Blakes – c_blakes@hotmail.com

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

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

By Ayesha Hana Shaji Texas Metro News Team

The UniverSoul Circus, an electrifying and diverse entertainment experience, has once again made its way to Dallas, leaving audiences of all ages amazed.

They celebrated performers

and performances from all over the world including Mongolia, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Ecuador and Columbia. From acrobatics to jaw-dropping stunts on motorbikes, wheels and horses; the circus was a vision for the eyes and ears.

The UniverSoul Circus also

brought a strong message of inclusivity and acceptance. They had children affirming to respect and accept everybody regardless of age, gender, color, ethnicity and socioeconomic background. They also showcased a warm aerial dance performance promoting unity, hope and peace.

In addition to the impressive performances, the UniverSoul Circus offers a fun and interactive experience for the audience. There are opportunities for the audience to interact with the ringmaster and children participate in dance battles. There were also camel rides available during the intermission.

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

The circus will be in Dallas through March 19.

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 11

Photos: Ayesha Hana Shaji

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by

MARCH

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Brain Injury Awareness

Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Kidney Month

Nutrition Month

LGBT Health Awareness Week Tuberculosis

SOS North American Tour

featuring SZA and Omar Apollo at American Airlines Center in Dallas at 8p.m.

KINGS OF SOUL

JEFF TYZIK conducts DARREN LORENZO soloist CHESTER GREGORY soloist

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

million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years! It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change! Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St in Dallas at 8p.m.

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce

Virtual Orientations to learn how to maximize your chamber investment. https://dallasblacktxcoc.weblinkconnect.com/events

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

Business CommUNITY Clean Ups Register at dallasblackchamber.org

BLACK PRESS LUNCHEON at National Press Club, 529 14th Street, NW, 13TH Floor, Washington DC 20045. The luncheon, in acknowledgment of Black Press Week, will be live streamed on NNPA platforms, and is themed “State of the Black Press.” The keynote is National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO, Dr. Benjamin Chavis.

Taste of the Bishop Arts District Tour

skates into your hometown! Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey Mouse and his Disney friends embark on a wild ride to your favorite Disney destinations at American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas.

13th Year Anniversary of AIDS WalkSouth Dallas!

This event fund raises will support the programs and services of AIDS Walk South Dallas, Inc. whose mission is to empower persons living with and affected by HIV/AIDS through prevention, advocacy, education, peer support and emergency financial assistance. Headquarters is the historical Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center located at 2922 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Dallas. This will be a 5k walk/run and at the conclusion, there will be entertainment and other various activities for adults and children alike.

The Power of Community Creating Social Change Appreciation Gala, 2501 North Harwood St. at 7p.m.

1:00 PM Dallas Bites & Sights Tours

Menopause The Musical – Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what more than 17

America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, comes to Winspear Opera House in Dallas, Texas, to perform his newest stand-up routine at 2403 Flora Street, 7p.m. 12

Black Press Week

The Black Press is celebrating 196 Years of “pleading” our own cause

Sample the charm of the Bishop Arts District, a neighborhood known for its totally unique shops, foods and colorful past. Follow in the footsteps of Bonnie & Clyde, Oswald and Batgirl on this fun walking tour, as we slip into fascinating galleries and shops, and stop at great eateries. These may include a Texas BBQ legend that’s the pitmaster’s choice for Best BBQ in Dallas, a Bonnie & Clyde shrine/restaurant and much more! Drinks beyond water are on your own. 4925 Greenville Avenue, Ste 255, Dallas

Seattle Kraken at Dallas Stars

Hit the road to adventure when Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures

12 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Send your calendar items to editor@texasmetronews.com 214-941-0110

Mavs Ball Raises Record $1.8 Million for local charities

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

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

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 13

Photos: Dallas Mavericks and Dorothy J. Gentry Christian Wood and JaVale McGee Cynt Marshall Coach Jason Kidd

Your Ad belongs here, Contact: 214-941-0110

Reggie Bullock

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

Ed Bell Construction Company

An Equal Opportunity Employer

March 1, 2023

Ed Bell Construction is a Dallas based heavy highway contractor doing business in the North Texas market since 1963. With clients such as TxDOT, Dallas County Public Works, and the Cities of Dallas, Fort Worth, Richardson, and Mansfield (plus many others), we have a strong backlog of work in the highway market locally.

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

• Mixer Operator (Earthwork)

• Laborer (Earthwork, Paving)

• Loader Operator (Earthwork)

• Form Setter (Structures, Paving)

• Excavator Operator (Earthwork)

• Paving Machine Operator (Paving)

• Boom Mobile Crane Operator (CDL)

• Concrete Finisher (Paving, Structures)

• CDL Drivers (Water Truck, Haul Truck)

Available: multiple openings

Rate: Negotiable Must have own transportation.

Years of Experience required will vary, from 6 months to 2 years (depending on position)

Physical and Drug Screen Required

Must have a Clear Background

Must be at least 18 years old (CDL Driver, 21 yrs.)

Must APPLY IN PERSON at 10605 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75220 from 7am-11am Mon-Fri.

Please visit our website: www.edbellconstruction.com/careers

Or email your resume to: careers@edbellconstruction.com

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

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Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

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Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Dis-counts. Call 1-833-610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

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not realizing they're empty.

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HughesNet Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlim-ited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-7294998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-866479-1516

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money,

reduce reliance on grid, pre-pare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote.

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Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line in-stallation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financ-ing available.

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MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure!

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Free high speed internet if qualified.

Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/ one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom!

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunder-standings, 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 guaran-tee 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.

14 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

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on PEOPLE!

targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come

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Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU? Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

Check on the strong one. The one that is always standing. Always smiling. Always checking on others. They're strength expended holding everyone else up. Crying with others and wiping away massive amounts of tears that there are none left for them. Answering every call. No matter the time. Because they really care. Giving encouragement and all that they have. Left empty by those

Metro Community Calendar powered

Leela

The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 1309 Canton St, Dallas, TX, 75202

Friday Night Blues

The Warehouse 1125 East Berry Street, Fort Worth 9pm -12 midnight BYOB - $15 www.jimaustinonline.com

Legendary Blues guitarist Buddy Guy epic farewell tour across North America. Check him out at Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St, Dallas at 7pm

UniverSoul

HBCU/NPHC

Annya Smith, 2013 Ms Jabberwock for Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc, born

Friday Night Blues

The Warehouse 1125 East Berry Street, Fort Worth 9pm -12 midnight BYOB - $15

Garland BP&WWomen’s History Program Garland Central Library, 625 Austin St., Downtown Garland at 10:30am ***

SDBP&W Women’s History Program Country Club- Redbird Lane 11:30am 29

Friday Night Blues

Elroy Roberts holding Auditions for Back to Church Gospel Festival on June 17, 2023. looking for gospel groups, choirs, singers, comedians dancerand drill teams. Call 682-333-8871

The Warehouse 1125 East Berry Street, Fort Worth 9pm -12 midnight BYOB - $15 www.jimaustinonline.com APRIL

special guest Tank, 7p.m.

Arena

ROYAL COMEDY with SOMMORE, BRUCE BRUCE, LAVELL CRAWFORD and Dallas’ own D Ellis 25

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.

• Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 TEXASMetroNews WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 15 MARCH Celebrate women this month and every month! DART Student Art Contest DART.ORG/ARTCONTEST 12 EARTHX FILM A PARTY FOR THE PLANET AT SXSW featuring a performance by KISHI

Music, Film and Discussion Event to Raise Awareness for Polar Bears’ Shrinking Habitat S- 3TEN ACL Live at The Moody Theater in Austin, Texas at 1pm

BASHI

Circus

Mall

Night Red Bird

www.jimaustinonline.com

James & Kevin Ross with special guest Sentury Sentury Presents a night of Real R&B! Featuring Leela James,...

New Edition live

@ The Dickies

5 12 21

See

Fort Worth

Send your calendar items to editor@texasmetronews.com

call 214-941-0110

Jack and Jill - Dallas Chapter: 46th Beautillion Beaux Corp cont. from page 9

Beau Rance Julian Greer II

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

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

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

Beau Roman Dale Clark

Beau Roman Dale Clark is the son of Dale and Terry Clark. He is the grandson of Wayne and Mary Brown, also the late

Mr. Robert Clark. He is the maternal grandson of Charles and Louvader Jenkins and the late Mrs. Lynette Jenkins. He has one sibling, Ryan Clark.

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

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

Beau Rylan Christopher Kennedy

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

Rylan is a senior at Lake Ridge High School in Mansfield, TX Rylan will attend Texas A&M University on a full scholarship, where he will major in sports science and play Division 1 Football.

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

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

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

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

Beau Tyler James Bozeman

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

Bozeman.

Tyler is a senior at Frisco High School, where he is the Homecoming King, Black Student Union-VP, Varsity Basketball-Captain and Chairman of the Frisco Athletics Board. He will major in Biology to become a neurosurgeon.

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

man, and one sister Haley Bozeman.

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

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

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

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

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

Wesley is a scholar athlete with a 4.0 GPA and plans to attend Hendrix College and major in kinesiology/biology.

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

16 • Vol-10 • March 9 - March 15, 2023 MetroNews DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

Beau Timothy Glenn Waters III Beau Tyson Charles Bozeman Beau Wesley Samuel Smith