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• Vol. 9 • May 6 - 12, 2021
MY TRUTH By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER
Mothers! Mothers! Mothers! Editor’s note: This is a reprint from Mother’s Day 2019.
I talked to one of my mother’s best friends over the weekend. I always check on her and a few others because they now get the Mother’s Day calls that I can’t make to my mother. Virginia is really sweet. While there are other friends who she has known since she was a teenager, Virginia is someone she met and they would hang out together for decades until my mother’s passing in 2014. Earline and Virginia went to church at the historic New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey. They attended events with other senior citizens, were active in the National Council of Negro Women and the NAACP branches, and they had their regular therapy sessions at the casinos in Atlantic City. Virginia even traveled with my mother to Dallas for the Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowla-thon around 2000. Then after Mother relocated to Dallas in 2012, Virginia returned to Dallas to spend quality time with her. They were friends til the end. I thank Virginia for being a friend to my mother and I will cherish and respect her forever. You see, I’m so glad that I have friends of my mother who I respect and can talk to. Her friends help me, especially during those times when all I can do is breathe heavily and say a prayer. Which brings me to my truth. About 29 years ago, Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price introduced me to Vera English. A very stylish woman, Vera was an entrepreneur. The owner of Pink Palace, a beauty salon in Oak See MOTHERS, page 12
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Happy Mothers Day A mother takes the place of everyone, but no one can take the place of a mother!
Election News 2021
Key races could impact midterm elections next year By Texas Metro News Team
For so many, there were obstacles that stood in the way of voting in the Texas Municipal elections, including COVID-19, inclement weather with threats of storms and on the flip side, beautiful weather that many saw as a sign to break out from the captivity of the past 14 months. Even with a pivotal race that could have serious implications in the 2022 midterm elections; many opted to stay away from the polls. In some key races, the votes paid off, sending some incumbents home in landslide victories while others braced for the runoff election on June 5. A race clearly on the minds across the state, was that of the Fort Worth Mayoral race, where long-serving Mayor Betsy Price, announced at the beginning of the year that she would not be seeking another term. After the results started pouring in Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued the following statement congrat-
Deborah Peoples in runoff for Fort Worth Mayor
ulating Deborah Peoples on winning the most votes and advancing to the runoff election. The former business executive and current chair of the Tarrant
County Democratic Party garnered 33 of the vote and will face outgoing Mayor Price’s former Chief of Staff, Mattie Parker, who secured 31%.
“I send my warmest congratulations to Deborah Peoples on her first-place victory in Fort Worth’s mayoral election today,” said Chairman Hinojosa. “Fort Worth could not choose a better leader to represent this great city, and I look forward to supporting Deborah every step of the way as we look toward her runoff election. Deborah leads with vision, compassion, and integrity, and I look forward to seeing the progress she will create on behalf of Fort Worth residents when elected. “As a business leader and longtime Chair of the Tarrant County Democratic Party, Deborah has worked every day to build a better Texas for all of us. She is a gifted leader who brings people together at every opportunity, and I know that as mayor, she will help build a stronger, more united Fort Worth. Deborah is focused on tackling the most important issues Texans are facing -- from fixing our broken criminal justice system to caring for our seniors. See ELECTION, page 12
Diane Ragsdale: A Life of Service -- Part II Man sentenced to 45 years for killing former Dallas city councilwoman, her daughter in car crash
I WAS JUST THINKING... By Norma Adams-Wade This is Part II of Diane Ragsdale’s story – detailing visions of police reform and enhanced community services in her future. Ragsdale is founder of the original nonprofit South Dallas/ Fair Park Innercity Community Development Corporation. (ICDC). Part I explored her professional achievements and creation of
Diane Ragsdale, has retired as ICDC managing director. Credit: LinkedIn
ICDC from which she retired as managing director in early April after 35 years at the helm. The South Dallas native and graduate of Madison High School and Dallas Baptist University here, See A LIFE OF SERVICE, page 11
The news of the sentencing of old Davis and 27-year-old MelisJonathan Alger Moore, 38, to 45 sa Lashan Davis-Nunn, pleaded years in prison for the guilty to two counts of deaths of former Dalmurder and was senlas City Council memtenced on both charges. ber Carolyn Davis and The sentences will run her daughter, brought concurrently. no feelings of comfort Mr. Moore has a for those who are still long history of driving mourning the death of while intoxicated and Former Dallas City has four prior criminal their loved ones. Councilwoman Mr. Moore, who was convictions for driving Carolyn Davis under the influence of under the influence of Ambien on July 15, 2019, when alcohol and drugs, according to he drove into oncoming traffic court records. and hit the car carrying 57-yearSee 45 YEARS, page 12
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BRIEFS
DeSoto ISD to Host Community Send-Off for State-bound Girls Track Team The 2021 DeSoto High School Girls Track Team is on the hunt for their ninth state championship title in 14 years under Head Coach June Villers at the May 8, 2021 UIL Track Meet. On May 7, the district will host a community-wide send-off from 9 to 10 a.m. in front of the fieldhouse at Eagle Stadium located at 700 Eagle Drive in DeSoto. The send-off will encourage this trailblazing team of scholar-athletes, their coaches and support staff as they depart for the meet set to take place in Austin at the University of Texas at the Mike A. Myers Stadium. On April 9, the Lady Eagles Track team won the District 11-6A team title with 162 points--earning 50 points more than their next highest-placing opponent! At the area meet on April 15, the Lady Eagles earned 170 points--91 points more than their next highest-finishing opponent. During the April 23 regional meet, the Lady Eagles accumulated 114 points in a series of stellar performances yielding state meet berths in seven events. A summary of the Lady Eagles’ regional performance is summarized below: • 4x100m Relay: 1st Place • Jalaysi’ya Smith, Ja’Era Griffin, Trinity Kirk, and Mia Abrahan--45.77 (Season best) T E X A S
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• 100m Hurdles: 1st Place • Jalaysi’ya Smith: 13.39 (Personal Best)
Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, Tx 75203 Website: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110
• 100m Dash: 1st Place • Ja’Era Griffin: 11.39 (Personal Best!) • 4x200m Relay: 2nd Place • Logan Neely, Mia Abraham, Trinity Kirk, and Chloe Shaw: 1:38.70 • 400m Dash: 7th Place • Amelliah Birdow 58.87
WASH HANDS WEAR MASK
The Southern University Alumni Federation - Dallas Chapter invites you to the 38th annual Bayou Bash on May 15, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the African American Museum of Dallas. Established in 1955, the Chapter provides scholarship and mentor support to Dallas/Fort Worth area students enrolled at Southern University (campuses are in Louisiana: Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Shreveport). Since 2015, they have awarded over $150,000 to assist scholars and
• 300m Hurdles: 1st and 2nd Place • 1st – Jalaysi’ya Smith 43.07 • 2nd – Logan Neely 43.16 • 200m Dash: 1st and 4th Place • 1st – Ja’Era Griffin 23.89 • 4th – Trinity Kirk 24.02 • 4x400m Relay: 1st Place • Amelliah Birdow, Lacie Deboskie, Caitlin Shaw, and Logan Neely (3:46.78)
drive-thru pick-up only. The deadline to purchase tickets is May 10. To support via ticket purchase, donation or sponsorship, visit https://bayoubash38.eventbrite. com. Thank you for helping provide scholarships to North Texas Students attending Southern University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Follow the Southern University Alumni Federation - Dallas Chapter at https://www.facebook. com/DallasJags/
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• Long Jump: 7th Place– 18’1.5” Join the send-off celebration for the track and field scholar-athletes to the state championship at 9am on Friday, May 7, 2021, at the DeSoto High School Fieldhouse and welcome them back after the state meet at 1 pm, Sunday, May 9, 2021, at the same location in front of the fieldhouse at Eagle Stadium located at 700 Eagle Drive in DeSoto.
their families in tuition, books and living expenses. In their efforts to provide scholarships, the Chapter engages in fundraising events throughout the year, with the signature scholarship fundraising event the Bayou Bash. The Bayou Bash celebrates the legacy of Southern University, as well as the culture and cuisine of Louisiana, right in the heart of Dallas. Your ticket purchase includes boiled crawfish, meat pie, fried catfish, red beans and more. This year the event is
Txlottery.org 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. © 2021 Texas Lottery Commission. PLAY RESPONSIBLY.
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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.
Bayou Bash continues to fund scholarships
• 800m Run: 3rd Place • Lacie Deboskie: 2:19.87 ( Season Best) • 10th – Jordan Keys: 2:23
Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@myimessenger.com
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• Vol-9
• May 6 - 12, 2021
COVID-19 Testing & Community Vaccine Center Helping our neighbors get tested and vaccinated against COVID-19
Friendship West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Road Dallas, TX 75232 • Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson • Walk-ups welcomed • Pre-registration encouraged Call for more information: 855.526.5257 or 214.820.4846 Website: www.nexgenpharm.com
Vaccine Schedule: (beginning 05.06.21)
Thursdays and Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM Saturdays 9:00 AM -2:00 PM Register now! http://bit.ly/3xJxhEFW
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Senator speaks on Mother’s Day and issues impacting women In recent times, more and more grandparents, primarily grandmothers, are taking on the responsibility of being the primary caretaker of their grandchildren. In many instances limited and fixed incomes can be stretched to the breaking point. could or would. In recent times, more and more grandparents — primarily grandmothers — are taking on the responsibility OUR of being the primary caretaker of their VOICES grandchildren. In many instances limited and fixed incomes can be stretBy Sen. Royce West ched to the breaking point. That’s why The celebration of Mother’s Day can I passed legislation giving a one-time be a very emotional one. For some, this financial grant of $1,000 to any person will be their first celebration as a mo- over 50 caring for their grandchildren. I ther, while for others it will be their first know that in today’s economic environor one of many commemorations since ment, $1,000 is not a windfall, but it is the passing of their mother, grandmo- a start as we continue to call attention ther, godmother, special aunt, or that to issues and seek respite. That’s why I subsequently created the Permanency female nurturer. I am blessed to be able to pick up Care Assistance program at DFPS, in the phone and hear my mother’s voice which a caregiver who assumes legal or drive over to visit. It’s special for me responsibility for the child can receive because she is the light of my life. She between $400-$545 per month. Further, I applauded U.S. Congressbrings joy and shares words of wisdom. women Alma Adams As the matriarch of “Mama was my (D-NC) and Lauren four generations, Gloria Ashford continues to be a greatest teacher, Underwood (D-IL) for a teacher of co-launching the Black source of inspiration and voice of reason, navigating compassion, love Maternal Health Caucus our family as we evolve and fearlessness. because I am also concerned about the disparity and her contributions to If love is sweet society will be her legacy. as a flower, then as it relates to maternal In celebration of Mo- my mother is that health and African American women. ther’s Day, I salute my mosweet flower of Subsequent legislation, ther, my super intelligent, love.” introduced by Rep. Adams beautiful, and compassi— Stevie Wonder and then - Sen. Kamala onate wife, Carol and all mothers, whether by birth, surrogate or Harris (D-CA), and supported by Rep. adoption. However, as a legislator, it’s Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), recognot enough for me to say Happy Mo- nizes “Black Maternal Health Week” to ther’s Day if I am not ensuring that eve- bring national attention to the maternal rything possible is done to bring those health care crisis in the Black commuwishes to fruition or taking care of mo- nity and the importance of reducing the rate of maternal mortality and morbithers and women. Many of our mothers are elderly resi- dity among Black women is also signidents in nursing homes. My legislation ficant and necessary as we express our expanded the list of criminal offenses love for mothers. There are so many issues, like gender that bar employment at nursing facilities. It also required owners and em- wage gap, protection of female migrant ployees of nursing homes to report all workers, human trafficking, birth conobserved instances of abuse and ne- trol, health insurance and child care, glect to health officials and law enfor- that must be addressed. If we don’t care about and address cement. And grandmothers have always been those issues, saying, “Happy Mother’s an integral part of the familial structu- Day,” is just an empty expression. Editor’s note: This story is being reprinted. re. Grandmothers were who everyone looked to in our villages, communities Royce West was first elected to the Texas and neighborhoods to cure, discipline, Senate in November 1992. He represents the 23rd Senatorial District on behalf of the educate and love, when no one else citizens of Dallas County.
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5 Helpful Tips for Women in Workplace OUR VOICES By Gina Richardson (OPINION) – We women face many challenges in the workplace. From combatting the gender pay gap to advocating for policies that support our unique needs, we must work tirelessly to address obstacles while seemingly having to be twice as good as our male counterparts to be recognized. Even though some progress has been made, there’s still much work to be done. While you can’t control every aspect of your workplace, you can take personal steps to help yourself grow professionally. Here are five ways women can take action to navigate today’s work environment. 1. Be Authentic – Why do most people use filters when posting pictures to social media? One reason is to hide blemishes. If you want to improve, you must accept and embrace your rough spots. I’ve learned that when I showed up to work with a “filter” on, I didn’t shine. I may have done the job well, but it wasn’t at my level of genius work, as psychologist Gay Hendricks describes in his book “The Big Leap.” Removing my filter and being my authentic self led me to enter the field of work I really wanted to be in. That’s when I began to excel effortlessly. If you’re not being real with yourself about your career choice and whether you like your work, it’s a disservice to those around you. Being authentic in who you are and in your goals in the workplace will help you make a difference in the world. 2. Be Admirable – Being ad-
THE SACRAMENTO OBSERVER – As women, we all succeed by helping one another get to the top. Understanding that there’s room for us all to advance in our careers ultimately creates a more positive work environment. mirable isn’t something you set out to do, you just do it. As a child I discovered the power of empathy; it pays dividends to understand the feelings of others. Having high levels of emotional intelligence will help you advance in your career and navigate uncomfortable situations. You can’t get to the top alone, so building positive relationships with team members is necessary for your business’s success and your own.
We women face many challenges in the workplace. From combatting the gender pay gap to advocating for policies that support our unique needs, we must work tirelessly to address obstacles while seemingly having to be twice as good as our male counterparts to be recognized.
3. Know Your Worth – It’s no secret that there’s a substantial wage gap in the workplace between men and women. Women on average make 30 cents per dollar less than men. So, what will you do about it? I learned the hard way in my early years in corporate America when I didn’t highlight my accomplishments, successes, or negotiate my salary. Thinking back on this, I believe I was just happy to get the job. Why? As a young black woman, people told me that I wouldn’t get a job because of how I looked, dressed, or wore my hair. So when I did get a job, I didn’t
question the benefits. Now in my 30s, I know my worth to a company. As women, we too have families we support, just like men. We also work hard and have qualifications on par or that exceed the men we work with. Research your earning ability in a certain field or position to understand the requirements and salary ranges. Highlight all of your experiences and accomplishments, no matter how big or small, because it all made you into the woman you are. 4. Be Confident – You need confidence to complete tasks, build, and lead teams. As women, our self-esteem often is directly related to the confidence we exude. If we’re proficient in our craft, we should own that we’re a subject matter expert in our field. Don’t pull back on assertiveness just so you won’t appear bossy. Your company needs your confidence, creativity, and direction to move forward toward success. 5. Be a Leader – Some of the best leaders have been women. I’ve had the pleasure of learning from leaders who were true to themselves and great motivators. These leaders may or may not have had “leader” in their title, but they taught me that each of us can lead by example and help others achieve goals. As women, we all succeed by helping one another get to the top. Understanding that there’s room for us all to advance in our careers ultimately creates a more positive work environment. Gina Richardson is a Senior Financial Educator at SAFE Credit Union. She can be reached at mediainquiry@safecu.org.
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Motherhood and Service:
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How One Dallas Black Mother is Changing the Lives of Black Mothers and their Babies FAITHFUL UTTERANCES By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew Leading a nonprofit organization requires a lot of tenacity, dedication, and adaptability. Whether it is providing direction to staff, working with board members, raising funds, or delivering programs, the work can be difficult with long hours and filled with significant challenges in order to ensure the program is meeting the needs of the clients and the community. For Black women, being in this sector can bring additional stress. Overall, the nonprofit sector is heavily dominated by women but Black women in leadership are underrepresented in executive roles compared to White women (Alvarez~Cleveland, 2017) proving the need for support is critical for Black women to do this work. In the 2020 Race to Lead Survey, Black women “… are also more challenged by inadequate salaries, the need for role models, lack of social capital/networks, and the need for relationships with funding sources.” For Black women led agencies, the challenge of raising money is not only complicated but frustrating. “…less than 1% of the $67 billion that foundations contributed went to organizations that specifically target minority women and girls, according to a report from the Ms Foundation for Women and the consulting group Strength in Numbers. Less than $15 million was specified as benefiting Black women and girls.” (https:// apnews.com/article/healthrace-and-ethnicity-businessphilanthropy-death-of-georgefloyd-7ce7a2d94414597376d8b6 780a9fde19) In order to continue to offer services, Black women in
Credit: www.heyblackmom.com
nonprofit management must not only work with foundations and individual donors but identify creative opportunities to raise funds to stay afloat. Building relationships is important externally to keep the doors open but also having support personally and professionally is the key to their success as leaders and mothers. In Dallas, there are several Black women leading nonprofits as mothers. Cessilye Smith, the founder of Abide Women’s Health Services in South Dallas, is dedicated to helping Black mothers while being a mother as well. Cessilye started Abide to improve birth outcomes in communities with the lowest quality of care by offering healthcare and complimentary services that are easily accessible, holistic, evidence based and free from judgment. “Abide was birthed when my third child was just a year old and I had a four and six year old at home as well. Not to mention we (my husband and I) were homeschooling... A few years later I found myself pregnant again and at a pivotal time for the organization. Raising small children and being pregnant while leading an organization is probably one of the most challenging experiences I have ever had, however, it has proved to be the most fruitful time in my life. It has given me the opportunity to re-envision what motherhood and entrepreneurship can look
like when done in a healthy way. Patience came with the understanding that I could only do so much with the time that I had, and I had to be ok with that. I had to trust and believe that the hard work I was putting in would eventually pay off, and it has. The biggest success for me is birthing my babies at home and building a legacy for them through Abide. Seeing clearly the world around me and deciding that I can be part of the solution to the disparities I see or I can ignore them. Waking up and building Abide from the ground up wasn’t for me. It’s for my children and my children’s children. I want the future of Black maternal health to change for them and many more. ”
in comparison to 13.0 deaths among white women.” (https:// bppj.berkeley.edu/2020/04/13/ spring-2020-journal-mitigatingblack-maternal-mortality/# ) A 2018 report from the CDC looked at infant mortality data in Texas and found that infants born to non-Hispanic white women was 5 deaths per 1,000 live births and was 10.52 for infants born to Black women. Infants born to Black mothers die at rates twice as high as white babies in recent years. (https://www.statesman. c o m / n e w s / 2 0 2 0 0 2 2 1 / f a c tchecking-bloomberg-on-blackinfant-mortality# ) “To be honest, I wish Abide didn’t have to exist. If it weren’t for the rate of Black maternal death in this country, it wouldn’t. Abide is important because it
Credit: http://voyagedallas.com/interview/meet-cessilye-smith-abide-womens-health-services-south-dallas/
Like many nonprofit founders, Cessilye saw a need and did something about it. Abide provides pre and post-natal care, free pregnancy testing, postpartum doula support, and material goods such as hygiene products, diapers, and formula. During COVID-19, Cessilye pivoted the work to provide on demand deliveries to mothers who needed resources including dropping off diapers at homes in the Dallas area. Dedicated to changing the dismal statistics for Black mothers, Cessilye and her team of midwifes are motivated to make a difference. In 2020, “According to the CDC, per 100,000 live births, there were 14.1 deaths among Asian women, 30.4 deaths among Indigenous women, and 42.4 deaths among black women,
provides a place of refuge. A place of safety for Black mothers. A place where they can feel free to be themselves, a place where they are heard and their lived experiences matter. A place that address biases that in the end kill Black women. Abide is necessary in every city.” Cessilye is hopeful and despite the odds that Black women face as mothers and as nonprofit leaders, she offers some sage advice: “Rest. Resist. Restore. You don’t have to do everything. It’s ok to say no. You matter and your health is more important than any deadline. Don’t underestimate the power you have to influence people, policy and the culture around you. Don’t be afraid to create the life you want and the life you desire for your team to have. Take time
to reimagine a life where the whole of your being is restored through a bold act of rest and resistance. And don’t forget to celebrate.” As COVID highlighted the existing disparities in healthcare for the Black community, some progress is being made to address this issue on a federal level. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Corey Booker (DNJ) and Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL) introduced The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021. This legislation includes 12 bills to address the maternal health crisis and its disproportionate impact on Black women. As we celebrate women like Cessilye Smith for their tireless efforts and advocacy, there is still more needed to care for and protect Black women and babies. To support Abide or learn more about this S. Dallas clinic, visit https://www.abidewomen. org/ Note: In Houston, Project Row Houses featured this subject in 2020 through a project titled, “Improving Maternal Health in Harris County, A Community Plan (2018)” funded by the Houston Endowment, a private foundation that convened a steering committee of leaders from a wide range of backgrounds-including healthcare, behavioral health, social services, businesses, government and philanthropy to identify the forces behind Harris County’s high rate of maternal morbidity. (https:// projectrowhouses.org/pressreleases/project-row-housesunveils-round-50-race-healthand-motherhood) I think this is an opportunity for Dallas to have a similar exhibition and conversation. Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the host of the Tapestry Podcast and the author of three books for women. She is also the Vice President of Community Affairs for the State Fair of Texas. To learn more, visit drfroswa.com.
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Virtual and liVe Community Calendar National Foster Care Month
May 8
Mental Health Month
Cheryl’s World presents Debra Brown-Sturns “Family, Friends and Others Sharing Memories of Mothers” on Facebook.com/Texas Metro News and BlogTalkRadio.com. 12-2 pm. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.
Lupus Month Now-May 16 Jubilee Theatre Presents Pooled by Moses T. Alexander Green. Tickets: Box Office if you have any questions, Tuesday-Friday 12pm5p as 817 338-4411.
May 6 Developing and Leading Multi-Ethnic Congregations: A Black Church Choice. Host: Rev. Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr. Host The Centre for Prophetic Activism. 11:45am-1:15 pm. AARP Texas Meditation Series: Meditation for Better Sleep. Reg: https://bit.ly/3dswZtO. 9-10 pm. CDT. The Legacy of George Floyd. Event by Cuyahoga Community College. Visit: tri-c. edu/georgefloyd to register.11am-12 pm. CDT. Eventbrite.com. Sounds of Freedom: The Music of Black Liberation. Event by New York Public Library. Online: eventbrite.com. 5:30 pm CDT. National Day of Prayer Service. Host DeSoto, City Hall @Facebook.com/DeSoto, Texas City Hall at 7am, 12 pm, & 7 pm. CDT. Special Salute to Mothers. Event by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters Inc. Facebook.com/The Black Academy of Arts and Letters Inc. at 7 pm CDT.
May 7 Happy Birthday to Dr. Stacia Alexander
AARP Texas Meditation Series: Meditation for How to Meditate. Reg: https://bit.ly/3dswZtO. 2-3 pm. CDT. Crackin Jokes Catchin Chuckles Live Band And Comedy: at The Vault Arcade, 901 S. Polk St. #370. Tickets: Cash.me/ CracknJokes. Opens at 5:30 pm. Raheem DeVaughn at Fair Park Music Hall, 909 1st Ave. 8 pm. Tickets: Ticketmaster.com. Cece Winans Livestream Concert From Hampton! 6-10 pm. CDT. @cecewinansaneveningofthanksgiving - Concert Tour. Online with Facebook Live. Day Trippin Rooftop Day Party at Seven Lounge, 3017 W. Seventh St. Unit 500 Ft. Worth. 3-8 pm. Tickets: daytrippin2021.eventbrite.com. 5th Annual Expressions of Determination, Strength, & Triumph. Host Tampa Alumnae Chapter - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 4 pm. Reg: Eventbrite.com Feeding The Forgotten. Host PEER 2 PEER Wholewellness. The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center 1818 Corsicana St. 11 am. Dwight Holt Jr & Friends Fitness Frisco Block Party. Event by Dominique Lashae Jones at Jam Box, 7151 Preston Rd. 9-11 am Tickets: www.jamboxfitness.com On Evans Flea Market, Meet & Greet, Networking/Social Hub. Evans Flea Market, 1701 Evans Ave, Ft. Worth. 9 am-5 pm. Sat. & Sun. Contact : Carolyn, 917-576-7094.
M.A.D.E. Dallas, Makers-Artisans-Designers-Eats. Host Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood. 4-8 pm.
Legacy Celebration Bishop Vashti M. and Dr. Stan McKenzie 10th District AME. Virtual Live on Facebook and You Tube @ 10th District AME. 5-8, 11,13&14 at 7 pm. CDT.
From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@ TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.
Pan African Connections Feat: Book Signing and Discussion with Chief Obafemi Fayemi. Pan African Connection, 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 10 am.
First Friday. Hosted by Pastor Rupert Bushner, Mt Pisgah SDA Church. Live online from 7-8:30 pm. CDT at https://www.facebook.com/Mt.PisgahSDA How is the Lack of Diversity in Research Hurting the Black Community? Event by Community Conversations 11 am.–1 pm. CDT. Reg: http://s.hamptonu.edu/05-07-21 Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Salutes the 2021 DeSoto Eagles Basketball State Champions. DeSoto High School Dyer Gym, 600 Eagle Dr. DeSoto. 11:30 am.
Magnificent Mom’s Day Experience at The MLK, Jr. Center, 2922 MLK, Jr. Blvd. (Mural |& Stage Area) 10 am-12 noon. Contact: 214-670-8418
May 9
Mother’s Day The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. It’s thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459.
Taste of the Bishop Arts District, Host Dallas Bites and Sights Food Tours at Hunky’s Old Fashioned hamburgers, 321 N. Bishop Ave. 1-4:30 pm. www.dallasbychocolate.com. Sunday Drum Circle. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 2:30-4:30 pm. Email: Panafric@airmail.net.
May 10 Happy Birthday to Carlton McConnell The Crimson Connection B.O.S.S. Edition: Physical & Mental Health Session. Host Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of DSTS Inc. Facebook.com/Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 7:13 pm.
May 11 THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @docshepspeaks. The Jirah Nicole Show with Jirah Nicole Mickle. From 11:30 am-1:30 pm. CST Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646200-0459. Decluttering & Downsizing Part 1, host AARP Programs. Facebook Live from 6-7 pm CDT. Event: https://bit.ly/3ugg9V3 NAMC Business Opportunity Meeting, feat: Melvin Mance and Ben Aguirre. RSVP: NAMCDFW.ORG 2:30 pm. CDT.
May 12 I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson.12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson Saxophonist Andre Cavor performing songs by: Whitney Houston / Aretha Franklin / Diana Ross. Live on Facebook @Saxophonist Andre Cavor. 6-7 pm. CST AARP Texas Meditation Series: Meditation for Older Adults. Reg: https://bit.ly/3dswZtO. 6-7 pm. CDT. WE3 Virtual Feminar with Brandi Anderson Step Into Boldness. Host Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Reg: https:// bit.ly/3b2YsR4. 11:30 am-12:30 pm. CDT.
May 13
AARP Texas Meditation Series: Meditation for Better Sleep. Reg: https://bit.ly/3dswZtO. 9-10 pm. CDT. The Crimson Connection B.O.S.S. Edition: Scholarships. Event by Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Facebook Live at 10 pm CDT. Reg: https://bit.ly/3xTPjV0.
May 14 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio. com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. M.A.D.E. Dallas, Makers-Artisans-Designers-Eats. Host Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood. 4-8 pm.
May 15 Happy Birthday to Norma Adams-Wade Southern University Alumni Federation-Dallas Chapter Presents The 38th Annual Bayou Bash. Drive-Thru Edition. 4-8 pm. African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. Eventbrite.com. 3rd Annual Pizza Fest, host Dallas Pizza Fest. At Bottled Blonde Dallas, 505 N. Good Latimer Epxy. 12-8 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Watch My Shoes Rooftop Day Party @ Lava Cantina 5805 Grandscape Blvd. The Colony. 2-8 pm. Tickets: maturepartycrowd.com AKAnomics: Maximize Your Personal Wealth. Event by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Kappa Sigma Omega Chapter. 9-10:30 am. Online: regionsbank.webex.com. Neo-Soul Day Party. Event by Young Black Entrepreneurs Networking. One Love Lounge Caribbean Restaurant, 2315 S. Cooper St. Arlington, at 3 pm–8 pm CDT. bit.ly/3gWWq8S. On Evans Flea Market, Meet & Greet, Networking/Social Hub. Evans Flea Market, 1701 Evans Ave, Ft. Worth. 9 am-5 pm. Sat. & Sun. Contact : Carolyn, 917-576-7094.
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• Vol-9
KILLERS who lived to be arrested WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND By Miles Jaye I expect this essay will be short. It shouldn’t take long for you to get the point and appreciate the irony. Milwaukee born, cannibal and necrophiliac, Jeffrey Dahmer, is known to have killed 15 Black, Latino and Asian boys. He was sentenced to 15 life sentences in 1992; but was killed by another inmate in 1994. Serial killer David Berkowitz, Son of Sam, the .44 Caliber Killer, was born in Brooklyn, New York. The subject of Spike Lee’s “Summer of Sam” film, he was convicted of six killings and was sentenced to a term of 365 years in prison or 15 life sentences. He claimed his neighbor’s dog, Harvey, told him to commit the murders. New York State Laws were passed in his name-- the Son of Sam laws. Theodore Cowell, aka, Ted Bundy, was a rapist and serial killer born in Burlington, Vermont. He confessed to 28 murders. Estimates credit him with more than 100. He was sentenced to death in 1979 and lived another 10 years until his execution in 1989. Rapist, John Wayne Gacy, the Clown Killer, is credited with 33 murders. His victims were men and young boys. Gacy was sentenced to death for his crimes, at the time the most murders committed by a single individual, in 1980, yet he lived another 14 years until his execution in 1994. Timothy McVeigh killed 168 people in his 1995 Oklahoma City bombing attack of the FBI building—then, the deadliest act of home-grown terrorism. McVeigh was given the death penalty and was executed June11, 2001. McVeigh accomplice, Terry Lynn Nichols, was given 162 consecutive life sentences. Celebrated Svengali, Charles Manson, was born on my birthday, November 12, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is the only name on this list convicted of murder by proxy. Among his victims was film star, Sharon Tate. Murderers like Manson, and Berkowitz are the best proof that
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America has a penchant for creating celebrities and folk heroes out of the worst monsters among us. It’s a sick but undeniable part of us. We idolize murderers and criminals like Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly and Bonnie and Clyde to name a few. The movies play and audiences cheer for the bad guy. Or more recently, they vote for the bad guy. Former President Donald Trump may not be directly responsible for the deaths of well over five hundred thousand U.S. citizens; however, he is arguably responsible for many of the needless deaths caused by his cover-up of the corona virus pandemic in the early days of 2020. The irony of it all is that these monsters, these wicked creatures, lived to be arrested, brought before a jury of their peers, tried and convicted of their crimes and incarcerated according to their sentences. None of the above-named abominations were murdered by law enforcement-- police officers, sheriff’s deputies, etc., in the performance of their duly sworn duties. They were subjects of exhaustive investigations and eventually apprehended. None of these monsters, Dahmer, Berkowitz, Bundy, Gacy, McVeigh, Nichols, or Manson, were shot dead in the streets. They survived the cops. Is the sad irony making you physically ill? I hope so! Police officers treated Dylann Roof to Burger King after his apprehension for fatally shooting nine members of a Bible Study at Emanuel AME church in Charleston, South Carolina. Sick yet? America is shamelessly unapologetic for its long history of genocide. Ironically, the newly formed Biden administration is tasked with demanding Turkish President Erdogan (pronounced: Er-do-wan) admit to the genocide of the Armenian people during World War I under the Ottoman regime. This… when no American administration has ever openly acknowledged the colonists’ genocide of the North American natives, or this young nation’s murderous treatment of Africans imported to these shores as livestock. That’s what’s on my mind. Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com
• May 6 - 12, 2021
7
Mourning a champion
TO BE EQUAL By Marc Morial This week we lost Judge Damon J. Keith, one of the greatest champions of voting rights in American history. More on his legacy. “By denying the most vulnerable the right to vote, the Majority shuts minorities out of our political process. Rather than honor the men and women whose murdered lives opened the doors of our democracy and secured our right to vote, the Majority has abandoned this court’s standard of review in order to conceal the votes of the most defenseless behind the dangerous veneers of factual findings lacking support and legal standards lacking precedent. I am deeply saddened and distraught by the court’s deliberate decision to reverse the progress of history. I dissent.” -- Judge Damon J. Keith, dissenting in the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals decision on Northeast Ohio Coalition, et al. v. Husted, et al. As the National Urban League prepares to release the 2019 State of Black America ® -- focused for the first time on the state of the Black vote – we mourn one of the greatest champions of voting rights in American history: Judge Da-
mon J. Keith. Keith, the grandson of former slaves, was Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and a former Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. He died this week at the age of 96. His extraordinary career included the desegregation of public schools in Pontiac, Michigan, establishing affirmative action in police departments, and halting President Richard Nixon’s illegal wiretap program. Following his desegregation order, Judge Keith received death threats and 10 Pontiac school buses were firebombed by Ku Klux Klansmen. His dissent in NEOCH v. Husted, which upheld, Ohio’s draconian voting restrictions on early in-person and absentee voting, included a photo gallery of voting rights martyrs. “I wanted to dramatize the racist attitude of the majority,” he told a reporter shortly after the decision. “Look at those pictures. These are men and women who died for the right to vote. I was really so hurt by the decision of the majority of the court. My grandparents lived in Georgia, and they were not allowed to vote because of racism. I thought about them.” Judge Keith was born in Detroit, the son parents who were part of the Great Migration from Georgia. His father worked for $5 a day in a Ford
Motor plant. He served in the segregated U.S. Army during World War II, working mainly at kitchen duties, and was discharged as a sergeant. While studying the law, he worked as a janitor at a newspaper, where a white reporter told him “keep mopping,” rather than strive for a legal career. He earned his law degree at Howard University, where future Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall was a mentor. “He used to tell us to remember those four words engraved on the Supreme Court: Equal justice under law,” Judge Keith said of Justice Marshall. “He’d say, ‘The white man wrote those letters on the Supreme Court. Now use those words to make equal justice under law a reality.’ Thurgood also used to tell us: ‘Use the law as a means of social change.’ I tried to do that throughout my judicial career.” We in the National Urban League join his family and friends in mourning his passing. His landmark decisions reflect the highest ideals of the equitable, honorable nation we strive to be. His life and work stand as an example of dignity, integrity, and determination. As a civil rights organization, we strive to uphold his legacy. Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.
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• May 6 - 12, 2021
SUPERB WOMEN - April 2021
Dr. Andrea Hilburn
Jill Louis
Trina Terrell-Andrews
Dr. Andrea Hilburn was an educator for over 30 years and although she is retired she is still educating and enlightening. A Dallas native, she graduated from Hamilton Park and earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas (formerly North Texas State University), where she was initiated into the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., of which she now has more than 50 years of service in. She received a Master’s degree from Texas A & M Commerce (formerly) East Texas State University), where she developed a prototype for a Special Education Work Activity Center for the Dallas Independent School District which was later utilized by Mary Kay Cosmetics. She prepared a Grandparent Study on Parental Involvement while studying for her Doctorate of Philosophy in Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Dallas. She has also worked as an adjunct professor. Dr. Hilburn currently serves as the president of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and she shows up and shows out every time. With almost 500 members in the chapter, at the onset of COVID-19 she reached out to every member, and most recently when members suffered in the weather storm, she reached out again. She cares, she loves she gives, she supports. She is superb.
Admittedly there was concern for Jill Louis in the past year. After all she is a powerhouse and the Dallas area has benefitted significantly from her involvement; so there was a concern that her line sister, Vice President Kamala Harris, was going to swoop her up and take her to Washington, DC. While she had a successful practice, currently she is the Dallas Office Managing Partner at Perkins Coie. We’re talking about someone who has served as general counsel for companies with billion dollar portfolios! A graduate of Howard University and the Harvard Law School, Ms. Louis is a member of the board of trustees of Howard University, 2006 Class of Leadership Dallas and Junior League of Dallas; and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and The Links Incorporated. She also serves on the executive committees of the AT&T Performing Arts Center and North Texas Public Broadcasting, Inc. (KERA/KXT). Ms. Louis served on the Girls Incorporated of Metropolitan Dallas, Board of Trustees, 2005 - 2010, Executive Committee, 2007 - 2009, Advisory Board Member, 2018 - present and she was a founding member of Village Giving Circle of the Texas Women’s Foundation. And we must say something about At Last, the school in Oak Cliff that will be a beacon of light for so many of our children. Yes, that Jill Louis! This sister is BAD
Trina Terrell-Andrews displayed an impeccable work ethic as a teen and years later, actually decades, she is not only exhibiting the same traits; she’s actually providing an example for others to model. As a high schooler, she interned at the Dallas Weekly and held her own amongst a competitive pool of college students and professional journalists. A graduate of David W. Carter High School, she went on to intern at The Dallas Morning News, having written her first story for the paper long before she stepped foot on the campus of Grambling State University, and also served as the student rep on the board of the National Association of Black Journalists. She is an award-winning journalist and she interned with Sen. Royce West’s Dr. Emmitt J. Conrad Leadership Program and is now a dedicated and wellrespected mentor and trainer. She’s had an impressive career in media and public relations and currently she’s the CEO of Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center, where this wife and mother not only oversees major community outreach, support, growth and development; but also trains young men and women in preparation for successful futures. Always a fashion statement, she is a real DIVA!
Jamie Jazze Radio-Chica Maxie
Dr. Lasonya Moore
LaDonna Castro
You’ve heard her for years and seen her in the community representing Urban One, Jamie attended UTA where she majored Broadcast Management with a Minor in Business. At Urban Radio, the home to 94.5 and 97.9, Jamie has multiple responsibilities as community affairs director and on-air personality. Radio has changed a lot with the pandemic, but Jamie knows how to pivot. Just like she was out in the community seeking opportunities for Urban One to be engaged, she’s taking the digital game to a new level by staying connected and reaching audiences virtually. She’s on the radio but could easily slide over to television or any other platform to display her talent, intellect and skills. When she has a job to do, Jamie is always well prepared and a joy to work with and be around. Then she’s drop dead gorgeous too! Wow! It’s important to note her level of professionalism because she wears a smile, but she’s thinking several moves ahead because she wants anything she does or is involved in, to be a success. She’s not about making excuses, she’s about taking care of business! And she’s about making opportunities for students as she coordinates opportunities working with the D/FW Association of Black Journalists. She can teach a lot because she is doing IT!
Lasonya Moore is the President and Founder of Plan Empower Grow (PEG), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small business owners. Dr. Moore is a Sr. IT Portfolio Manager, supporting U.S., LATAM and Canada for Marsh and McLennan Companies. She has served as: President of Women in Leadership of the Dallas Tower Club, STEM Mentor, African American Black Film Festival (ABFF) volunteer, Congressional Black Caucus Conference volunteer, Democratic Women in Leadership member, Black Enterprise Women of Power volunteer, Grant Reviewer for the City of Austin, awarding over $100k in technology grants to non-profits, North Texas Alliance to Reduce Unintended Pregnancy in Teens (Ntarupt) Community Advisory Board member, City of Dallas One Billion Dollar Capital Bond Task Force member and currently serves as an active member of the City of Dallas Office of Business Diversity Task Force team. With a BS in Computer Information Systems from Grambling State University, an MBA in Finance from LeTourneau University, a Master’s in Computer Information Technology from St. Edward’s University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Family and Consumer sciences/Human Sciences; this member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is an IT expert.
LaDonna Castro began pursuing her career in journalism at Duncanville High School and as a participant in the Urban Journalism Workshop sponsored by the D/FW Association of Black Communicators (now Journalists). After graduating in 1999, she lived in France as a Rotary Exchange student. She then returned to the States and enrolled in the “Global College Program” of Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. Fluent in five languages, she has studied in Kyoto, Japan; San Jose, Costa Rica; Bahia, Brazil; and completed her senior year in London, England. She studied in Cairo, Egypt and Dakar, Senegal where she completed her senior thesis, a video documentary, “Aswan Temples and the Nubians of Upper Egypt.” A lover of the arts, she graduated with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts Degree from Long Island University. The secretary/treasurer of DFW-ABJ, this mother of two is the creator of LaDoMedia International and she’s the person you want when looking for the best video producer. She is a modern day Griot who also loves to dance. She is the total package because she’s a pro. She’s a pleasure and joy to be around!
Jill Darden
Sherel Riley
Sophia Johnson
Noted and award winning journalist Jill Darden is a publisher and producer. She is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and she is the publisher of the Fort Worth Black News, following the footprints of her mother who also published a newspaper! She received a Bachelor of Arts focused in Broadcast Journalism from The University of Texas at Arlington. Brains, talent and beauty, while attending UTA, she was elected Miss UTA, making history as the first African American to hold that title. She received the prestigious Quest for Success Award, presented by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce in 2011; was recognized as Outstanding Woman of the Year 2013, by the Tarrant County Minority Leaders & Citizens Council for her work in Publishing; and she is the recipient of the Eagle Award for Outstanding Media, presented the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce. In 2017, Ms. Darden was recognized by Commissioner Roy Charles Brooks for 20 years of service to the community and the Bigger and Better Business Award from Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in 2019. This woman of service has been a true servant leader and has an extensive portfolio in broadcasting and print, marketing and public speaking and relations. All hail, the Queen! Now support her newspaper!
Sherel Riley is the Workforce Development Program Manager at Parkland Health and Hospital System, but, she is so much more! A graduate of UNT with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication and Drama, she later received her MS Degree in Human Resources and Training from Amberton University (then Amber University). While at UNT, she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and she is still an active member today, despite a very grueling and intense schedule. After all, she is a performer, an entertainer, an artist! She has juggled her corporate career, with her community service commitments, and her entertainment focus, and family. She loves to sing jazz and you will love hearing her! If you are a member of or ever attended Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, you probably heard her, even as a young four-year-old, singing her heart out, Her works provide an excellent argument for organizations to stop running all across America trying to find a headliner for your program. You have it all right here with the likes of Sherel Riley. Ms. Riley is very involved in community service and arts projects. She gives of her talents, experiences and resources in so many arenas; despite challenges that life throws her way. Ms. Riley just celebrated another birthday on April 11 and if you go back and look at our newsletter, you’ll see we didn’t forget her. She is unforgettable!
Sophia Johnson is Founder and President of ABI. The Dallas-based advertising and marketing agency has offices in Atlanta and Fort Worth. She is a Digital and Traditional Marketing Strategist, Speaker, Community Leader and supporter of women in business. This wife and mother is Chair of FRIENDS of Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy, Chair of the Education and Outreach Committee and Executive Committee member for AT&T Performing Arts Center. Ms. Johnson attended UCLA, UC Berkeley, Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and The Wharton School. Her board service also includes the City of Dallas’ Trinity River Local Government Corporation, former Chair of The Concilio and former board member of Cafe Momentum, Girls Inc. of Metropolitan Dallas and New Friends New Life Advisory Board. Ms. Johnson is also involved in several civic organizations including Boy Scouts of America, Girls Inc, Dallas Assembly, and local minority business advocacy organizations. She is an active member of Concord Church. She’s going to always greet you with a smile, because she knows what is in her arsenal. Ms Johnson is wellprepared, intelligent, beautiful, fearless and focused. And, she’s happy. Living her best life!
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• May 6 - 12, 2021
9
Valerie Baston
Henry Etta O’Neal
Yolanda Harper
Valerie Baston is a proud graduate of Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School in Fort Worth. She went on to UT and received her last degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. In addition to being a member of The Cochran Firm, she had her own thriving law practice, Baston Law, P.C., in Fort Worth and DeSoto. The former Tarrant County ADA and Fort Worth Assistant City Attorney is also a college professor at the UNT Dallas College of Law. She has served as 2nd Vice President of the Fort Worth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and is a member of The Links, Incorporated. Someone you definitely want on your side in the courtroom, Atty. Baston is smart, generous and kind. She has served as a scholarship chair with the Black Women Lawyers Association of Tarrant County from 2008 to 2020 and she has been affiliated with L. Clifford Davis Legal Association, J.L. Turner Legal Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, State Bar Association of Texas, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Texas Democratic Women, Tarrant County Democratic Women, Thurgood Marshall School of Law Advisory Board and Jubilee Theatre Board of Trustees.
Henry Etta O’Neal loves her alma mater and fortunately gets to sport colors in the same family for her college and sorority: Southern University and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Dedicated, supportive and a team player. Henry Etta has a reputation for taking care of business and her efforts have seen the Jonesville, Louisiana native, who graduated from Block High School, go on to represent organizations on a national and international level. For Sigma Gamma Rho, Henry Etta has served as Southwestern Regional Syntaktes (Director) (2012-2016), Southwestern Regional Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator and International Board Member (elected 2002), Southwestern Regional Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator (2008-2012). A wife and mother, Henry Etta received a degree in business management with an emphasis on marketing and she is an office administrator. Henry Etta is definitely the type of person you want representing your school and your organization. She works tirelessly and she honors her commitments!
Yolanda Harper is president of Alpha Discovery Group, LLC, and program manager- worksites for Texas Health Resources - Community Impact. A motivational speaker and author, she’s a fitness trainer who established something we all could use, an outdoor fitness boot camp, The Fit&40 Crew®. She attended the University of Houston where she was the Women’s Track and Field Team Captain and most valuable female athlete. She received a BA degree in Communication from Dallas Baptist University. Ms. Harper has served on the Board and as Chair of Women’s Business Division for the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce and Director of Ministerial Alliance at Bridge Builders International Church. A licensed minister, public speaker, mental health first aid instructor, certified corporate wellness specialist and certified conflict mediator; Ms. Harper’s impressive portfolio is extensive, intense and tested. Ms. Harper is committed to improving the lives of others through physical fitness and she is determined to empower you to LOOK better, FEEL better, LIVE better, and BE better! When she walks into a room, you immediately feel the vibe!
Elsie Cooke-Holmes
Judge Valencia Nash
Akwete Tyehimba
Elsie Cooke-Holmes is principal/owner of CookeHolmes, LLC a coaching and HR consulting firm, specializing in executive, leadership and career coaching, leadership development, facilitation, training and change management. She’s a former director of human resources at PepsiCo. She studied engineering technology at the University of Memphis, and received her MBA in finance and operations management from Columbia University. Ms. Cooke-Holmes is the national secretary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and an active member of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter. She previously served as National Second Vice President of the sorority and President of two chapters (University of Memphis and Westchester Alumnae). She is currently a member of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter and participates in a number of other community activities, including membership in The Links, Inc., NAACP, and NCNW. She attends St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church. She is a member of the WiNGS, Inc. Board of Directors and the Werthing Foundation Board of Directors. Yes, she is Madam Secretary, but more importantly, she is and displays the true meaning of being a “sister.”
The Honorable Judge Valencia Nash is a homegirl who makes her community proud! The “V” in her name could represent “VOLUNTEER” because she has that giving spirit. She was elected to serve as Justice of the Peace in 2007 but long before that historic election she has been serving. A native of Dallas, Texas and graduate of Wilmer-Hutchins High School, she attended the University of Houston and received a Bachelor of Science Degree. Judge Nash received her Juris Doctorate Degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. She is licensed and has practiced law in Florida, Georgia, and Texas and has practiced in the areas of environmental law and justice, family law, juvenile law, construction law and litigation. A wife and mother, Judge Nash is a very active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill Inc.; she is committed to serving the community, enjoys mentoring students and strives to provide excellent customer service. As a Justice of the Peace, she is well prepared, compassionate but very knowledgeable of the law. And guess what? If you have found that special person and want to get married, she can perform the ceremony!
Businesswoman, philanthropist, and activist Akwete Tyehimba hails from She graduated from Richfield High School in Waco, Texas in 1981 and attended McLennan Community College in Waco. She then attended the University of North Texas and North Lake College. Akwete was active in the Dallas County Democratic Party, and worked on Eddie Bernice Johnson’s campaign for Texas State Senate in 1986, and served as Johnson’s office manager for a year after she was elected. In 1989, she and her husband, Bandele Tyehimba, co-founded the Pan-African Connection Bookstore, Art Gallery, and Resource Center in Dallas, Texas. A longtime employee of Delta Airlines, in 2012, when her husband passed away unexpectedly, Akwete continued to manage and operate the bookstore, which also sells fabrics, art, and jewelry and serves as a venue for community events. This mother of three is an outstanding writer. She became well known for her column, The Monroe Doctrine. Very astute, community oriented and socially conscious, Akwete has a servant heart and a beautiful spirit. Oftentimes quiet and assuming, Akwete is the epitome of grace and wisdom.
Deborah Peoples
Misha Sturns
Dr. Deardra Hayes-Whigham
Deborah Peoples is the current chairwoman of the Tarrant County Democratic Party and she is serious in her efforts to turn Tarrant County into a Blue (Democratic) City. This member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration from Texas Woman’s University. A recipient of numerous honors, her impressive portfolio includes almost 35 years at AT&T and she retired as a vice president; which speaks to her leadership, organizational and management skills! Deborah is an activist and philanthropist whose benevolence extends internationally. She is committed to her family and her community. She’s also an entertainer, in numerous ways. She can cook, host a gathering for hundreds or thousands, and she has even “starred” in a movie. If you like surrounding yourself around people who are honest, sincere, smart fearless, loving and supportive; Deborah Peoples is ideal. And she plays a mean hand of cards!
Misha Sturns is an award-winning, high performing Specialty Account Manager at Kroger Specialty Infusion. She’s a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The Links Incorporated AND she is about to be a bride! Misha is a socialite! She studied Mass Media Arts/Public Relations at Clark Atlanta University and she has a servant heart! She’s one of the founding members of Friscovania, a philanthropic organization under the Model Behaviors umbrella and focused on raising funds to benefit underserved youth in Collin County. Internationally known, Misha is a former professional high fashion model with the esteemed Kim Dawson Agency, where she traveled extensively while working for major fashion conglomerates such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms, Dillard’s, JC Penney, Saks Fifth Avenue and more. And that’s no surprise, because anytime you see her, she is impeccably dressed and her hair and makeup are on point. In two words: Misha slays!
Deardra Hayes-Whigham is Executive Director, School Leadership at Dallas ISD and she’s also a long-time principal. She graduated from Coppin State University where she was Miss Coppin State. She later studied Education and received a Masters Degree from UNT and a Doctor of Philosophy/Public Affairs at UTD. A life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; she is a past president of the Omicron Mu Omega Chapter. She’s also a member of the Dallas School Administrators Association and The Links, Incorporated. Her leadership skills have served her well in the education arena and also as a public servant. Dr. Hayes-Whigham led low-performing campuses to high-performing campuses. On the collegiate level she taught graduate and doctoral classes at Concordia University and Abilene Christian University. This wife and mother, who has lived a life of service, recently founded a much-needed non-profit, Women’s Advocacy Center of Dallas; working with women experiencing depression. Talk about a legacy! Dr. Hayes-Whigham continues to excel! Much respect here!
Dalphna Curtis
Maxine Pride
Jade Tinner
Dalphna, or “Dee” Curtis owns and operates an accredited trade school, PC Center; offering programs in medical and computer technologies in Cyber Security, Health Information Technology, Medical Assisting, Computer Technology, and Microsoft Office. She also founded and operates the JFS Women’s Center, assisting women in all phases of their lives. She has served on the boards of the United Negro College Fund, DeSoto Economic Development Corporation, Texas Women and Children’s Foundation and DeSoto Chapter of Southern Christian Leadership Conference. A graduate of the University of North Texas, the member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. received a Masters in Organizational Behavior Studies from UTD and she is currently competing her doctorate in Public Administration and Law. Dalphna is superb because she spends her waking hours trying to make lives better for women. And we know, when women are doing well, the world is doing better!
A proud graduate of Alcorn State University, where she obtained a B.S. Degree in Business Administration. After 22 years with American Airlines, the Lambert, MS native, retired, but she didn’t slow down! She served as president of the Dallas Metroplex Council of Black Alumni Associations for almost a decade! Yes she loves Alcorn State, but she realizes the importance of HBCUs and she has worked tirelessly being a champion, spreading the message of the HBCU and how critical they are to society. Ms. Pride is a strong leader and even stronger supporter. She is valued because she honors commitments and is 100 percent dedicated to anything she undertakes. This was evident in the tireless hours that she devoted not only to her alma mater, but others. Currently an independent associate with Legal Shield, Ms. Pride has a demonstrated history of working in the legal services industry. And as always, she focuses on bringing others along with her. That’s why people like her so much. She is a selfless leader and servant.
Jade Tinner is the Vice President of Community Investment at Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce and Founder/CEO of JTBE INK. A publicist, strategist, and consultant; she previously worked as a Major Gift Officer for Catholic Charities Fort Worth. Jade holds a degree in Marketing from the Bloch School of Management at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she was a four-year Division I basketball player. She also serves on the Executive Board of BRIDGE Fort Worth and is an active member of the DFW Urban League Young Professionals, and the Minority Advisory Council (MAC). Jade is the founder of The One Unified Resource Foundation, a progressive nonprofit with the belief that we are all responsible for the overall well-being of OUR communities. Jade cares! Keep your eye on Jade because she is a winner! She brings receipts, having put in the work and she is continuing to learn and grow. Add her beautiful personality. Well, she’s a joy to work with, she’s a team player and a prepared leader.
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Feelings of remorse after My Cheating Ex-Boyfriend Wants Without Remorse Me to Befriend His Daughter AT THE MOVIES By Hollywood Hernandez Michael B. Jordan stars as a Navy seal who comes home after a covert operation for the US in Syria. However, he soon discovers that Russia was really behind the conspiracy. He makes that discovery after Russian agents break into his home with plans to assassinate him for his role in the mission. The Russians end up murdering his pregnant wife Pam, played by Lauren London (who was the wife in real life of slain rapper Nipsey Hustle) and he survives the attempt on his life. The Navy Seal uses all of his Navy training to locate the foreign spies and to find out who was behind the secret mission and to get revenge on everyone involved for the murder of his wife and unborn child. He enlists the help of two people who he thinks he can trust, his Navy commander, Commander Green, who’s played by Jodie Turner-Smith, and C.I.A. Agent Robert Ritter played by Jamie Bell. The entire story of WITHOUT REMORSE is pretty much all summed up in the movie’s trailer. There’s a lot wrong with this movie. While it seemed like a promising premise the movie just did not deliver. First, for me there were some major issues with the film’s dialog. There was a lot of
mumbling in the movie by the on screen actors. I feel like I missed a lot because I simply could not hear what the actors were saying. The movie is also very dark. I don’t mean the tone of the movie, I mean the way the actual scenes were shot with very little light. I couldn’t see what was happening. What was plenty loud was all of the gunfire in the movie. Automatic weapons were blazing and explosives were going off non-stop.Most of the movie’s 90 minutes were just filled with a loud racket on screen. I haven’t read the novel, so I don’t know if the limited dialog was Clan-
cy’s doing or the fault of the screenwriter, but I just wasn’t satisfied with the written words on the page, or perhaps I should say the lack of written words. Although, most likely Clancy will write another novel that will become a big action movie, they’ll have to do better making it into another film. The movie is rated R with a run time of 109 minutes and on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate TOM CLANCY’S WITHOUT REMORSE a MEDIUM.
ASK ALMA By Alma Gill Dear Alma, I joined the Air Force after graduating from high school. It seemed like the best decision for me and my boyfriend at the time. We wanted to be on our own and start a new life together. We promised to remain faithful to each other, until we could get married once I was settled and sent to my duty station. Well, all that came to a halt when I found out another woman was pregnant by him. He tried to apologize and tell me that he still wanted to get married, but I couldn’t. I was heartbroken and just couldn’t bear the thought of co-parenting this child that would be a constant reminder of his betrayal. We found each other on Facebook last year, so we started communicating again. We both apologized and had a long conversation about how we could have better handled the situation. I forgave him. I mean after all, life carried on. We’ve both been married and are both currently divorced. I don’t have any children. He has four. We met a few months ago and although there weren’t any heavy flames, we decided we will remain the best of friends. He’s now seeing someone else, so we agreed to stay in touch and talk often. His oldest, the one that broke up our relationship, will start college next year in what’s currently my hometown. He says he’s excited that we’re talking again, because she doesn’t know anyone in the area. He has mentioned on more than one occasion that I can become her family away from family. I’ve got to be honest, Alma, I don’t think that’s something I want to do. I can honestly say I’m over what happened many years ago, but I don’t want to
meet his daughter. How can I let him know, “No thanks,” without coming off childish about the situation? Signed Cheating Ex Needs My Help Now Dear Cheating Ex Needs My Help Now, You’re coming off childish and immature, because that’s still where your heart is. TBT, you’re stuck in that summer after high school graduation, and that’s a long, long way away from forgiving. You’re still so deep in this yearbook of a broken heart, you can’t even turn the page. Let me help you let this go, because honestly, enough time has passed for your heart to have healed. Take my hand and let’s face your truth. Here’s where we take a minute to grieve the perfect relationship you thought would last forever. Over the years, you’ve been able to fantasize and worship this extraordinary courtship that never was. You said you’ve forgiven him, but ahh raah, my sista, I’m not seeing that. Not in your words or actions. Entertaining forgiveness alone hurts and constantly reminds you of the pain unless you forget. What you’ve gotta do is, erase, delete, zap, remove, shazam, be gone – Umhm, get it allll ooooout! Yes, yes, that’s right, remove it completely from your recollection. I know this takes determination, practice and prayer, but that’s okay, you can do it. Before you make your decision based on a twenty year-old emotion, lace up your big girl sneakers and invite her to meet for lunch. The encounter will update your gut, give clarity to your heart and make room for the forgiveness you speak of. Step out in maturity and faith. You aren’t that teenage girl whose heart was broken by her daddy anymore.
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The circumstances of her birth, in relation to you, are not her fault. That baby girl doesn’t know details I’m sure, or at least I hope. He most likely speaks highly of you and your friendship since high school. No dirty details were necessary in the discussion. I think you may find that she’s a lovely young lady. One who happens to be in your city all alone. The way you handle a situation at 20 should be vastly different from the way you handle it at 40. Flip the script and be the blessing she
needs at this time. You never know, this acquaintance might only last a season or a semester, open up to it. I’ve got a feeling meeting her will warm your heart, allow for forgiveness, and bring about a positive resolution to what was once a painful memory. Alma Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.
A Life of Service
cont. from p. 1
with studies at Texas Woman’s University, also is a noted community activist and former Dallas City Council member who was Dallas Deputy Mayor pro Tem. In several lengthy conversations with Ragsdale over a few days, we discussed many highlights of her life: her youth; parents and family; entering public service as an activist and community organizer; proud moments and frustrations involved; why she is retiring now and that her “what’s next” involves volunteering as an ICDC adviser while volunteering as organizer of policy and advocacy operations – a new trend emerging across the country in urban areas. We also discussed her passionate take on a wide swath of current events, particularly those that impact African-American life and communities – police/community relations, and benefits that contribute to quality of life: jobs, home ownership, transportation, access to food, education, public safety, retail complexes, community services, and so on. Venus Cobb will succeed Ragsdale at ICDC using the title executive director whereas Ragsdale preferred managing director. Cobb is no stranger to ICDC, the South Dallas community, and managing huge amounts of federal funding. She is a 30-year veteran in community affairs and has worked with the City of Dallas Office of Economic Development for more than a decade. She has collaborated with community partnerships – including with ICDC -- and was a Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce board member. She
Venus Cobb, new ICDC executive director. Credit: LinkedIn
grew up in Chicago and Gary, Indiana, graduated from Purdue University in Indiana and the University of Colorado at Denver, and has lived in Dallas about 11 years. Cobb said she seeks to take Ragsdale’s exemplary achievements with ICDC even higher. “First, I seek to enhance existing programs, and then development comprehensive new ones,” said Cobb, who spent her youth in the midst of the economic decline of northeastern urban cities including Gary, Indiana where she grew up. “Most importantly, we would assist residents …to accomplish economic mobility” – the ability to improve their income and quality of life. Filling Ragsdale’s shoes is a challenge she assumes with respect, she said. “I feel accountable and responsible to continue her legacy, which is to address economic disparity in our community,” Cobb said. “I am a passionate leader and look forward to intentionally engaging community residents and partners in our (ICDC) efforts.” Ragsdale said her own new role, through a volunteer policy and advocacy committee, will be to put such issues as poverty and police abuse under a more intense microscope to find solutions. She gave a detailed syn-
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opsis of the historical creation of police – largely to track down and return enslaved Africans who had escaped the plantation – and how and why police and people of color clash so drastically today. She recounted a childhood of watching family and community role models as they reacted to racial injustices all around them. Media profiles of Ragsdale have well documented local civil rights warriors who influenced her and her late sister Charlotte Ragsdale who also was a community activist. One of her less talked about positive influences was her mother, Lula Simpson Ragsdale, one of the few pioneer Black licensed vocational nurses, (LVNs) at the early Parkland Hospital in the 1950s. Her mother’s career inspired Ragsdale to
Diane Ragsdale with mentor Al Lipscomb. Credit: Dallas Public Library
become a Registered Nurse (RN) and to continue that career even as she served on the Council. Born in unincorporated Gause, Milam County, near Cameron Texas, Ragsdale’s mother regularly talked to her daughters about Jim Crow disadvantages that restricted her own youth. Ragsdale’s father, Cottrell Ragsdale, was born in Jacksonville, Texas and became a longtime
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FROM DIANE RAGSDALE “You cannot reform a system that has a foundation based on white supremacy…You can talk all day about addressing community violence, but … (the budget goes elsewhere). So, to address the question ‘who do you call when you need the police at your house?’ Address the causes with funding and you may not have the problem.” “Our goal is not to just put different complexions at the table, but to change the policies of that institution.” “In the past we had affirmative action. Now we have the push for equity and diversity. Affirmative action did provide some help…but that model did not serve the masses…When you say health care should be affordable to everyone, that’s policy.” “If we continue to attempt reforms, 40 years from now we will have the same issues. We cannot reform. We have to dismantle existing systems and create new ones.” gas company general maintenance worker. Ragsdale spoke intensely about her years of dealing with police-community conflicts as both a street protestor and an elected official. She listed nearly a dozen hard-fought police reforms that have failed, including new police chiefs, de-escalation training, and civilian review boards. Then she shared her world vision “to dismantle the existing system and create a new system of public safety;” to redirect police funding to community and social services that address underlying causes and potentially blot out crime. Decades of previous attempted reforms were not funded. She insists that such a new system is possible and that it would eliminate failures of the current system that has produced the litany of unjust killings, broken-hearted families, and schism between police departments and communities. “What is so clear is that the
strategies we have used throughout the years have not worked,” she stressed. “The Diane Ragsdale of the world, throughout the country, need to acknowledge that. What we have done has not worked. That’s step #1: Y’all, that ain’t working!! When we look at all the recent killings of unarmed Black men and women, you’ve got to conclude that what exists now is not fixable!” Dallas surely will hear more such planning details from Ragsdale as she moves forward with her policy and advocacy visions for the future – just as we heard and saw when she envisioned the now real and relevant ICDC. Ever forward. 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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Sentenced 45 Years from page 1
Prosecutor Lauren Black filed a motion to hold Mr. Moore’s bond insufficient in December 2019 after he had two breath testing violations and didn’t charge his electronic leg monitor. His bail was subsequently increased and he was re-arrested. “He wasn’t doing what he needed to do. If he was out on the streets, I was worried,” said Ms. Black, the chief of the misdemeanor division in the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. In July 2019, Mr. Moore was speeding in the eastbound lanes of Ledbetter Drive and crossed over the raised median into the westbound lanes. He did not attempt to use his brakes before the fatal crash. His SUV hit Davis’ car head on. A witness told authorities she heard Mr. Moore say he had fallen asleep at the wheel, police records show. Moore had been released from probation for a prior driving while intoxicated case days before the fatal crash, according to court records. “He had his chances multiple
times. The court system gave Jonathan Moore plenty of time to get his act together,” Ms. Black said, adding that Mr. Moore’s initial arrests were related to his alcohol consumption but, over time, he turned to other intoxicants to escape detection. His escalating behavior is the reason for his lengthy sentence, she said. She said it’s hard for the families of those killed by an intoxicated driver. “I know how these types of crimes affect everyone. It’s traumatic for who’s left,” Ms. Black said. “This has been a hard time for the Davis family.” Several shared their thoughts on social media and in public as they dealt with the tragedy again in the wake of the sentencing. Many praised Ms. Davis for her service and commitment to her hometown. “Carolyn Davis, was a leader that didn’t mind sticking her neck out and making lasting decisions. One example is her leading the way in changing Grand Ave. to Al Lipscomb Blvd, bold and audacious she was,”
Yafeuh Balogun of Guerrilla Mainframe. Her term on the Dallas City Council and continued efforts were lauded. “Whether it was racial, economic or environmental justice, Sis. Carolyn fought to make our community and district whole,” said Bro. Jeffery Muhammad, former minister of Muhammad Mosque No. 48. “She wasn’t afraid to invite the planning commission and community to meet at the mosque.“ Touting other efforts by Ms. Davis, Mr. Muhammad elaborated on her efforts to make the community safer and more progressive. “I’m happy to see the progress in removing Dead Man’s Curve, connecting Hwy 175 and and I45, making S. M. Wright Freeway a boulevard with economic development zones and reconnecting the community it divides. May Allah be pleased with our dear Sister,” he said. Under Texas law, Mr. Moore is required to serve half of his sentence before he is eligible for parole.
My Truth from page 1
Vera English
Mother
Virginia Magee
Cliff, Vera has won numerous hair competitions and when I need my hair/scalp taken care of, I go see her. But then again, I go see her for more than hair treatment. Vera, much like my mother’s friend, Virginia, is a source of inspiration, support, guidance and love. She speaks truth to power, and more importantly, truth to my heart. I don’t worry about whether or not she is telling the truth or whether she has a hidden agenda, or an ulterior motive. I know that Vera is the real deal. Like my mother and Vir-
ginia, Vera loves to dress! She loves to be color-coordinated and yes, she can top off the most stylish outfit with a hat. That hat or headpiece notwithstanding, Vera always made sure that should it blow off your head, the hairstyle underneath was just as glamorous and appealing. Going to the Pink Palace was an escape for me, a place to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the world. Sure we would have discussions about the troubles of the world, but it was also a place that gave new meaning to the phrase, “let your hair down.”
The Pink Palace was the “no judgement” zone, where women and some men could share thoughts and offer advice, without condemnation or vicious attacks. Sure there were the discussions about politics, education, and world peace. And we talked about raising children, caring for parents, relationships and more. But for some reason, the people who came to Pink Palace and engaged in conversations came with a positive spirit and a respectful tongue. Maybe it was because of the leadership of Vera.
Although small in stature, probably standing 4 feet 4 inches in those stiletto heels she loved to strut around in, Vera seemed almost larger than life. Okay I may be exaggerating. But she is short! With a big heart. And her heart and infinite wisdom has kept my head level many a time. You see, Vera is quiet and unassuming. And while she does not appear to carry a big punch, her actions and demeanor command and receive respect and reverence. She doesn’t have to raise her voice to get your attention. A word to the wise should be sufficient and if you don’t take heed with Vera; it’s all on you because you are definitely operating at a deficit and could end up in a very bad situation. I thank Vera for being my friend, my confidante, my light at the end of a sometimes dark tunnel. I’m talking about unconditional love. A mother’s love. Find someone to share love with, especially during these times!
Elections from page 1 Noting that Ms. Peoples’ success was a testament to the groundswell of Democratic power rising up across Texas, Mr. Hinojosa added, that “her leadership flipped Tarrant County blue in the 2020 presidential election for the first time in recent memory, and that same organizing and dedication has propelled her to today’s victory.” Ms. Peoples welcomed the support. “I am grateful to have the support of Chair Hinojosa. Fort Worth’s success is success for our state as a whole, and I am ready to use my 30 years of executive experience and lifetime of service to the community to lead us out of crisis.” With so many contested races across the state, a couple of others garnered attention, like in Terrell where City of Dallas senior staffer Tonya Derrick was elected to the Terrell. ISD School Board - District 3, with a little help from her long-time friend, awarding winning actor and entertainer Jamie Foxx. By a three-to-one margin, Ms. Derrick defeated long-time educator Pat Martin, in both ladies’ inaugural run for political office. City of Dallas, in addition to dealing with controversy; had polling site issues and some overcrowded races with a total of 57 for 14 seats. Not as overwhelming for some as was choosing between 23 candidates seeking to fill the U.S. Congressional seat that became vacant when Congressman Ron Wright died after contracting COVID-19. His widow, Susan Wright, was among the 23 and she garnered a spot in the runoff, against Looking back West, eyes were on Mansfield as business owner Christie K. Moore attempted to unseat Place 5 incumbent, Julie Short, for a seat on the City Council of the city of 70,000.
While she was not successful, business owner, wife and mother, Moore said campaigning has been a rewarding experience and she is looking forward to working with citizens to make the Mansfield community better. “They (citizens) want a more diverse leadership and the City Council should have people on the Council who understand business.” As citizens went to the polls, she said she wanted voters to take into consideration her almost 30 years of service, education, community involvement, leadership skills and business acumen, adding that with her in a position of leadership, everyone and “all neighborhoods would have a voice.” But the election hasn’t been without some hiccups, she admits. In March, she found herself addressing the regular city council meeting regarding claims about who she received campaign funds from and that she was not legally eligible to be on the ballot. “This has been a race within a race as we have raced back and forth in the courts,” the certified mortician said. “Now we’re racing to the ballot.” Calling the race “somewhat contentious,” Ms. Moore said she has persevered and did not become discouraged over attempts to have her removed from the ballot. “One would not believe how my opponent has tried to subvert the vote and undermine the campaign,” she said. “Diversity is a strength and not a threat. “You can’t just look to ethnicity as an indicator of diversity, you also have diversity. You have to consider other elements; like age, sex, orientation and geography, if you want to be inclusive and supportive.” For more coverage, visit www.texasmetronews.com and www.dallasnews.com
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ZimSculpt and Black Heritage Celebration exhibit at Arboretum
Story and Photos By Marva J. Sneed It was a beautiful, exciting event for all as the Dallas Arboretum presented the return of the international blockbuster exhibit ZimSculpt, a worldrenowned collection of handselected, modern Zimbabwean stone sculptures, at the first-ever Black Heritage Celebration, last weekend. It’s the signature event of Summer at the Arboretum and ZimSculpt runs through August 8, featuring the talent of several contemporary Zimbabwean artists with more than 100 handselected, exquisite sculptures on display. The Black Heritage Celebration opened with a performance by the St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church choir. Special features of the day included the Black-Owned Businesses Fair presented by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce and Dallas Mavericks. All eyes were glued to the runway, for the fashion show, the Crown Jewel Fashion Experience,
Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority enjoying the ZimSculpt Sculptures
which was presented by Mary Kay Cosmetics. There were 10 Black designers showcasing their women and men fashions. Produced by entrepreneur, model, and philanthropist Anita Hawkins and under the direction of Willie Johnson, of J3 Productions; the show was
Vendors and Shoppers enjoying the Black Heritage Celebration
exquisite. The ZimSculpt is an exhibit worth seeing. Dallas Arboretum, and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd. Dallas, TX 75218. Reserve your tickets www. dallasarboretum.org.
Black Heritage Committee Chairperson Linda Todd(r) and Janet Jack
Dallas Arboretum presents the ZimSculpt Zimbabwean stone sculptures
Black Heritage Celebration
Dionne Anglin Black Heritage Celebration
Zimbabwean Artist Passmore Mupindiko
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WITH EACH NEW YEAR The shadows are parting and the New Year brings me hope. That memories and His grace will help me to cope. With my loss and your absence and all in between. Still not understanding what it all means. Forced into a reality not of my choice. Often finding myself screaming although I don’t hear my voice. Comforted by friends and family who can. Yet, they think my pain should be over because they don’t understand. How deep my sorrow and
how broken my heart. My world seems together yet, it’s falling apart. I’m through it ... I THINK then, I cry. I’m over it for sure yet, I sigh. Each day is something different and I expect tears. I’ll miss you and love you each day of the New Year.
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MetroNews
T E X A S
16
DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE
• Vol-9
WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM
• May 6 - 12, 2021
SUPERB WOMEN - April 2021 Lyria Howland
Sheila Taylor Clark
VirLinda Stanton
Lyria Howland is a powerhouse in the public relations world. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and for 30 years she has been accredited in Public Relations by the Public Relations Society of America. Her work is legendary in a profession where you need someone you can trust to provide excellent service and represent your interests with the highest level of professionalism. Lyria’s work ethic is impeccable. She’s highly respected and has received several awards for her work across the country. There’s nothing phony about Lyria and she lets her work speak for her. She has mentored so many aspiring PR students and professionals, inspiring them to practice the highest standards, putting the client first, versus promoting themselves. Those who know Lyria know she is the consummate pro who comes armed with a notebook and that notebook is lethal because she has compiled the formula for your success. Lyria is very conscientious. She has won numerous awards for her works and community involvement. She was the Founding Chair of the FRIENDS of Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy and Past President of the Leadership Dallas Alumni Association. Her work, with Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, Ramses the Great Exhibit, and the Alliance for Higher Education; was impeccable! She ought to be teaching because you don’t find many Lyria’s around, unless they came under her tutelage.
Sheila Taylor Clark. That Smile. That Smile. This three-time breast cancer survivor is a Lifetime Member of the National Association of Black Accountants (DFW Chapter) and a former National Treasurer and CFO of the organization; serving at the national, regional and local levels. Sheila is also a graduate of Lewisville Citizen’s Academy Leadership Program and was appointed by the Lewisville City Council as a Commissioner to the Lewisville Housing and Finance Commission, to serve a 2nd two-year term. She graduated with honors from Jackson State University and will this year receive a Masters Degree. A United States Army Reservist, Sheila has served on the Board of Directors for The Bridge Breast Network, an organization that provides life-saving medical care to uninsured women diagnosed with breast cancer and this member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, Omega Alpha Omega Chapter, is also active with Komen North Texas and Komen Dallas. Still smiling! She founded the nonprofit, Sock it To Cancer, providing comfort items to women in treatment for breast cancer and she volunteers with Little Pink Houses of Hope which provides free weeklong retreats to breast cancer patients and their families. A member of the Junior League, she is also a contributing author to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, having been published in four of the anthology’s books: My Kind of America; Best Mom Ever; Dreams and The Unexplainable; and Empowered Woman.
Now how many people have a street named after them? Well, VirLinda Stanton does — right in Tyler, TX. And she also has an extensive portfolio that makes her a hometown favorite for the East Texas community she grew up in. The multi-talented singer, actress, motivational speaker, philanthropist and activist is also an author. In the recently released Souled Out, she is a contributor and gives her testimony, sharing a secret she has kept close, only revealing to a select few. When the time was right, for her, she opened up about her HIV status and because she has lived with HIV for several years and no one knew, she has done much to help people understand that you can live with HIV. You never see VirLinda out looking as though she is in pain or having a bad day. That doesn’t mean that she isn’t in pain or that she’s not having a bad day; she’s just been managing and remaining faithful and spreading love and joy wherever she goes. She’s been on stages nationally, appearing in The Color Purple National Broadway Tour, and locally at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters. A member of the Potter’s House in Dallas, VirLinda stays engaged and supportive of her community and programs that benefit her community. Here again is a talent, right in our backyards and she definitely is not a lightweight. She’s our songbird!
Cynthia Nevels
Tonya Derrick
Lynne Haze
Cynthia Nevels is President of Integrality, LLC and known as “The Go-To-Lady,” and for good reason. She’s a guru in the business world who also makes the time to mentor and advise others. She describes herself as a “strategist, entrepreneur, investor, techie, Salesforce.com expert, philanthropist, and kick ass mom.” Cynthia studied Accounting at Texas Woman’s University and her resume includes serving as a senior business advisor and alumni manager of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program in addition to making her mark in Silicon Valley. Her clientele has included: Capital One Bank, Palo Alto Software, Dallas County Community College District, Denton County Transportation Authority, LiftFund, RealPage, Wells Fargo, City of Austin, City of Dallas, Tarrant County College and Stella McCartney Enterprises. And if she didn’t have enough on her plate, she owns and operates a vegan and vegetarian food truck, “Soulgood.” A sought after and accomplished speaker, she also established the Cynthia E. Nevels Foundation; a nonprofit organization, to “create a mechanism to do more in the communities we serve and to fill the poverty gap.” The Foundation offers grants, scholarships and social impact investing opportunities. Cynthia uses the education and experience that she received to help women-owned and minority-owned businesses. In a male dominated industry, Cynthia dominates!
Tonya Derrick was born and raised in Terrell, Texas. The 1985 graduate of Terrell High School graduated from the University of North Texas with a BS in Library & Information Science and as a proud member of the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is employed as a Sr. Security Analyst -eDiscovery for the City of Dallas. She is a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Terrell. Tonya is a past president of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and still remains active today, honoring her lifetime commitment she made more than three decades ago. Full of energy and dedicated to service, Tonya is passionate about education and helping young people to succeed. But her activism doesn’t stop with our youth, an involved and educated family and community is of benefit to the world. She has volunteered in the political sector for a number of years, holding a variety of roles and titles throughout her career. Committed to change in our world, Tonya has high standards and will always advocates for our students, our community and all people. People like and respect her because she carries herself with dignity and respect and she cares. Remember her name you’ll be hearing it more and more! Tonya Derrick!
This native New Yorker, Lynne Haze, is the “Daytime Diva w/ the Voice,” TV & Radio Personality on Smooth R & B 105.7, Corporate/ Motivational Speaker and VO Talent. She came to Dallas to Soul 73 KKDA, where she gained a loyal, huge fan base. She’s a highly-sought after emcee, voice-over talent and speaker. Women love her because of her sincerity and commitment to uplifting women. And men love her because she is smart, carries herself in a very dignified manner and always looks gorgeous. Then there’s her conversation that is motivating and fun-loving, in addition to being a bright spot in the lives of those she interacts with. At the peak of her career, Lynne decided it was time for a challenge and transitioned to a career in the record industry, where for 10 years she thrived considerably at RCA Records, Warner Brother Records and Mercury Records. A former president for the National Black Programmers’ Coalition, Lynne has won numerous civic and entertainment awards, including Air Personality of the Year, Promotion Person of the Year at Mercury Records and a local award for the dedication at the West Dallas and Oak Cliff Boys and Girls Clubs. Her popular Meetings in the Ladies Room provided an outlet for women to grow and manage their lives. Lynne is that bright spot!
Beletra D. Thomas
Cathy Conwright
Dionne Anglin
Beletra D. Thomas is a woman with a history of great service professionally and in the communities where she has lived and worked. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a BA Degree in Broadcast Journalism. She later received a Masters of Professional Studies in Strategic Public Relations. In addition to working for UTA as an information writer, she also honed her skills at Texas Woman’s University, Ware & Associates, Moroch and Associates, McDonald’s, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and now as the Sr. Manager of internal Communications - US for Galderma. She’s a highly respected Senior Communications Leader, C-Suite Advisor, Brand Storyteller and Dot Connector. A graduate of the DallasFort Worth Association of Black Journalists’ Urban Journalism Workshop, she’s a community servant and an entrepreneur. Her business, BE FLY DESIGNS uses the highest quality materials and the designs are definitely “FLY.” Beletra lifts as she climbs and this young, gifted and Black sister is someone to keep your eyes on because she is an excellent example of preparation + commitment + faith + hard work + love looks like!.
Cathy Conwright is a portfolio manager at IBM, where she has worked for almost 40 years! A proud 1981 graduate of Grambling State University, where “everybody is somebody,” she majored in computer science. In addition to serving in numerous positions, she also was president of the Dallas Alumni Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association (GUNAA). Hailing from Marion, Louisiana, the graduate of Marion High School is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her family became even more noteworthy for The Wayne family, from Marion, Louisiana, recognized at the Grambling State University Kicks Ball during the 2019 Bayou Classic weekend. The family is in the Guinness Book of World Records for holding the position of “having the most family members to graduate from the same university, than any other family in the world.” While she loves GSU, she also has love for all HBCUs and while she is an AKA, she loves all women. People know and love Cathy because she is full of love, spirit and support. She loves to dance and have a good time, but she is also about taking care of business. Loyal, committed and conscientious, Cathy is superb!
Born and raised in Fort Worth, Dionne Anglin graduated from Trimble Tech High School and pursued a career in Radio/Television/Film at the University of North Texas, where she also interned at KDFW Fox4 and became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; a membership she cherishes to this day. She attends Saintsville Cathedral in Fort Worth and is celebrating a milestone year in television with stints in Tallahassee, Florida and other stops in New Orleans, Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Antonio; before landing home, where she is loved and respected! Dionne is the mother of a Class of 2021 College Graduate and she is dog owner. She does the work that makes members of the National Association of Black Journalists proud and her hometown toots her horn also! She’s involved, she’s engaged and sincere. She’s a consummate professional and loved and respected by those in the industry. She encourages aspiring journalists to: “Follow your heart, pursue your passion and do not let anyone or anything discourage you from obtaining your goals and dreams.”