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Black El Paso Voice

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El Paso’s First Annual Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: A Historic Milestone

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El Paso will mark a significant historical moment on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 5 PM, when the Starlight Event Center (6650 Continental Dr.) hosts the inaugural Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This significant event, created by Monica Tucker, honors El Pasoans who have made exceptional contributions to the community. The goal is to establish the recognition as an annual meaningful tradition based on unity and inspiration. Tucker carefully chose the inaugural class of honorees to exemplify a strong standard of excellence and lasting impact.

Beginning in 2026, nominations will open in September of each year, with eight individuals and one organization embodying diversity and collaboration being chosen annually. The committee overseeing the selection process consists of active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who bring a wealth of experience, perspective, and dedication to ensuring the honorees truly represent the best of El Paso’s Black community.

Honoring the Trailblazers
Additional honorees will be announced. The first group of inductees includes distinguished leaders who have shaped El Paso’s cultural, civic, and professional landscape (six additional honorees will be announced):
• Maj. Gen. (Retired) Edward Greer (One of the first Black general Army Officers. Gen. Greer served in War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Active community member involved in real estate and civic organizations.)
• Maj. Gen. (Retired) Dana J.H. Pittard (First Black Post Commanding General of Fort Bliss Military Installation. Vice President of Defense Programs for Allison Transmission. Founder/Owner of Pittard and Associates Consulting Firm.)
• Billy Townes (Nationally recognized jazz musician, keyboardist, and filmmaker who has locally and nationally enriched the arts.)
• Bishop Juan O. Lawson (Professor Emeritus of Physics at UTEP and the university’s first Black Ph.D. professor who currently serves as Prelate for the Texas Western Jurisdiction of COGIC.
• Ouisa Davis (Attorney, community advocate, and the first Black female judge in El Paso) has played a vital role in the Black Roundtable since its relaunch.
• Lillian W. Crouch (Retired Educator, school principal, and current chair of a local credit union board.) Mrs. Crouch is a respected community leader and mentor.

The ceremony will also include a heartfelt tribute to individuals who are no longer with us but whose legacies continue to inspire and resonate within the El Paso community.

A Musical Highlight
The AJM Collective, a dynamic group founded by Abeni Janae, a current UTEP Music graduate student, will provide the music for the evening. The ensemble is composed primarily of UTEP students and professional community musicians and singers. Their performance will add a vibrant and soulful atmosphere to this historic celebration.

Supporting a Vision: Project 2030
Proceeds will benefit The Black Roundtable (TBR), a nonprofit organization committed to serving as a cultural hub for the Black community in El Paso to include the quarterly roundtable discussions on various topics, and meetings with entities like FBI El Paso. Central to their mission is Project 2030, an initiative to create a comprehensive community center that will feature:
• A cultural arts, events, and study center
• Entrepreneurial incubator
• Educational programs offering classes on entrepreneurship, history, arts, financial wellness, and essential life skills for youth and adults

The Black Roundtable also seeks to foster cultural collaboration through programs like the upcoming Respect My Culture event, highlighting Afro-Latinx heritage and other diverse traditions later this year.

The new format for discussions was inspired by mentors of TBR who are no longer with us: Professor Dr. Maceo Dailey and Activist Twymeni Purchase. Both played pivotal roles in the relaunch of TBR and its pending expansion to a physical location, with many planned activities reflecting their invaluable input. Their contributions will be remembered and honored during the event.

Celebrate and Support
The community is invited to support this premier event honoring the achievements and legacies of El Paso’s Black community while supporting a vision for progress and unity. The Black Roundtable committee comprises active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who work tirelessly to uphold the integrity and mission of the organization and its events and activities.

For more information or to purchase ads, sponsorships, or tickets, please contact Monica Tucker at monica@blackelpasovoice.com or 915.345.1661. You may also visit TheBlackRoundtable.com.

TICKETS Pre-Sale through January 31st

  • INDIVIDUAL: $100 per person After January 31st – $125 (General Seating)
  • TABLE FOR 10: $1000 After January 31st – $1250 (Reserved Seating)
  • INAUGURAL SPONSORS: $3500 (Reserved Table Seating for 10) (Three (3) Available)

Click here for more Information, tickets, sponsorships, advertising:  monica@blackelpasovoice.com | 915.209.1850 Deadline: Noon | February 14, 2025

This historic evening promises to be an unforgettable celebration of legacy, diversity, and forward movement. It is a milestone for El Paso that will serve as a pathway for youth and young adults as El Paso progresses.

Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Announces Virtual Talent Hunt for El Paso High School Students

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Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., proudly presents its Virtual Talent Hunt, an inspiring showcase for El Paso’s most talented high school students. Open to all students from grades 9 through 12, this competition encourages young artists to demonstrate their skills from oratory to dancing and various other artistic disciplines.

Event Details

Eligibility: High school students in El Paso, Texas (grades 9–12)

Application Deadline: February 7, 2025
Students must submit an application and a signed parent release form by this date to participate.

Entry Submission Deadline: April 26, 2025
Final entries must be submitted by this date.

Prizes:

  • 1st Place: $300
  • 2nd Place: $200
  • 3rd Place: $100

Categories for Competition
Participants may choose to submit their talent from any of the following categories:

  • Music (Vocal/Instrumental): Broadway | Gospel | Top 40 | Jazz
  • Dramatic Interpretation: Poetry | Oration | Monologue
  • Visual Arts: Sculpture | Photography | Drawing | Painting
  • Dance: Ballet | Modern Dance | Jazz |Tap

How to Participate
Students must complete an application and submit a parent release form by February 7, 2025. Once registered, participants will have until April 26, 2025, to submit their entries for consideration.

Students can gain recognition for their creativity, compete for cash prizes, and hone their skills.

For More Information and Forms
Contact: BorderQueTalentHunt@gmail.com
Don’t miss this chance to shine and inspire the El Paso community with your artistry.

Register today and get ready to take the stage virtually!

 

First Black Mayor of El Paso

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PHOTOS: El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, new city representatives sworn into office

by Elida S. Perez, El Paso Matters
January 7, 2025

Renard Johnson was sworn in as El Paso mayor Monday alongside six city representatives and a handful of municipal court judges during a ceremony at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown.

“Today marks a new chapter for our city, a day to reflect on where we have been, celebrate where we are, and to look forward with hope and determination where we are headed,” said Johnson, the city’s first Black mayor, after being sworn in by El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego. “I am honored to stand before you today as your new mayor.”

The Star on the Mountain, under the Starlighters program of the El Paso Chamber, was lit blue in honor of Johnson by his family Monday.

“Together we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead and make our city a better place to live,” he said, addressing the new council and staff and all public servants in the community. “El Paso is a city with rich history, a vibrant culture and an unbreakable spirit.”

In addressing El Paso residents, Johnson promised to serve with “humility, transparency and dedication,” saying he will never forget his duty is to the “people of this great city.”

More than 1,000 people – including family members, city employees and community and business leaders – attended the ceremony and the reception that followed at the theater’s lobby.

READ ALSO: Mayor-elect Renard Johnson talks about economic development, taxes, services and other issues

Also sworn in were city representatives Alejandra Chávez, District 1; Josh Acevedo, District 2; Deanna Maldonado Rocha, District 3; Cynthia Boyar Trejo, District 4; Ivan Niño, District 5; and Lily Limón, District 7.

RELATED: What exactly does an El Paso mayor do? We explain

The new elected city leadership will begin their official duties at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at City Hall, 300 N. Campbell St., and is open to the public.

You can watch council meetings live at the city’s YouTube channel. Find meeting agendas here, and sign up to speak at council meetings here.

Municipal court judges sworn in Monday include Michelle Morales, Kristin Romero, David A. Bonilla, Samuel Flores and Mike Herrera, as well as court of appeals Judge Maria B. Ramirez.

Here are some photos from Monday’s ceremony:

  • Newly-elected officials and judges for the city of El Paso applaud after the Star-Spangled Banner is sung, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Lily Limón is sworn in as city representative for District 7 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Ivan Niño is sworn in as city representative for District 5 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Cynthia Boyar Trejo is sworn in as city representative for District 4 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Deanna Maldonado-Rocha is sworn in as city representative for District 3 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Josh Acevedo is sworn in as city representative for District 2 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Alejandra Chavez is sworn in as city representative for District 1 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Renard Johnson, accompanied by his daughters, Aviva, left, and Neveah, stands to sworn in as El Paso city mayor by County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, left, congratulates newly-sworn in city of El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson and his family, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Mayor Renard Johnson, left, and Ciudad Juárez Mayor Cruz Pérez Cuéllar embrace after Johnson's swearing-in at Plaza Theatre Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Several El Paso county officials were sworn into office in separate ceremonies over the past few days, including Oscar Ugarte as county sheriff; Christina Sanchez as county attorney; Jackie Arroyo Butler as Precinct 1 county commissioner; and James Montoya as district attorney.

This article first appeared on El Paso Matters and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Eta Pi Omega Chapter Hosts Founders’ Day Celebration

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The Eta Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® invites the community to join their annual Founders’ Day celebration on January 18, 2025, at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center.

The “Pink Ice Affair” event promises an evening of elegance, fellowship, and entertainment.

Guests are encouraged to wear formal attire as they gather for this memorable occasion.

The highlight of the evening will be a keynote address by Dr. Kevin James, President of Morris Brown College and recipient of the prestigious HBCU President of the Year award.

Doors open at 7:08 p.m., with tickets priced at $70 per person. Attendees can secure their spots by visiting elpasoaka.org and navigating to the Events section. For additional details, call (803) 394-5222.

Join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Eta Pi Omega Chapter for a night of celebration, connection, and community spirit. Don’t miss this extraordinary evening!

El Paso’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and Observance

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El Paso, TX — The MLK Committee of El Paso proudly announces its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and Observance, scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Temple Mount Sinai, 4408 N. Stanton St., El Paso, TX 79902. This year’s event will be held both in person and online, ensuring accessibility for all.

Themed “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” this gathering will reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and the collective responsibility to uphold his vision of equality and peace.

Keynote Speaker:
Pastor Joi Wilkes
Kingdom Full Gospel Ministries, Jonesboro, GA

Pastor Wilkes is a dynamic spiritual leader and social justice advocate known for her passionate commitment to equality and nonviolence. Her address will inspire action and reflection on advancing freedom, justice, and democracy.

Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King through an afternoon of meaningful dialogue, inspiring messages, and community solidarity. This observance is free and open to the public.

For more information, please contact:
MLK Committee of El Paso | mlkelpaso.org

 

El Paso Commission for Women Seeks Nominations for Women’s Hall of Fame

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

El Paso Commission for Women Seeks Nominations for Women’s Hall of Fame

Honoring Outstanding Women in El Paso County

El Paso, TX – The El Paso Commission for Women is now accepting nominations for its esteemed Women’s Hall of Fame, an annual event that celebrates exceptional women in El Paso County who have made lasting contributions in fields such as civic leadership, education, military service, professional careers, athletics, and more.

The Hall of Fame Induction Banquet will take place on March 29, 2025, at the El Paso Community College Administration Building, 9050 Viscount Blvd. During the banquet, honorees will be recognized for their distinguished accomplishments, and their names will be permanently displayed at El Paso City Hall and the El Paso County Courthouse, joining a legacy of trailblazing women who have shaped the community.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include Dr. Manuela Gomez and Dr. Adeeba Raheem, who have been recognized for their remarkable contributions to education and professional leadership. Past inductees also include notable figures such as Congresswoman Veronica Escobar and County Attorney Jo Ann Bernal.

Nominations Are Open: Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding women for this honor. Applications must be submitted by Friday, January 17, 2025.

Nomination Details: Visit elpasocommissionforwomen.org/nominate to submit a nomination.

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About the El Paso Commission for Women:

Founded in 1984, the El Paso Commission for Women was established as an independent organization to focus on the needs and achievements of women in the region. It originated as an extension of the Texas Governor’s Commission for Women and has since recognized hundreds of outstanding women for their contributions to the community.

Contact: Monica Tucker at elpasocfw@gmail.com

El Paso Public Health Officials Confirm Two Cases of Mpox in 2024

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EL PASO, Texas—The City of El Paso’s Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed two cases of Mpox in the community for 2024.

The individuals, both males in their 40s, reside in the same household and are currently recovering at home. Public Health officials have launched contact tracing efforts, with the DPH epidemiology team actively working to identify close contacts and provide vaccinations as needed.

“Mpox continues to pose a global health threat, and we urge everyone at-risk to remain vigilant in practicing preventive measures to protect themselves and their families,” said Dr. Hector Ocaranza, City-County Health Authority. “This includes safeguarding our most vulnerable community members from not only Mpox, but also other diseases like COVID-19 and the flu.”

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads between people through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, and can also be transmitted from certain animals to humans. It is characterized by a distinctive rash that may be painful or itchy, which can appear on various parts of the body, progressing through several stages including scabs before healing.

Symptoms of Mpox include:

 

  • Distinctive rash
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Exhaustion
  • Muscle aches and back pain
  • Headache

 

Symptoms typically begin within three weeks of exposure. Some individuals may experience only a few symptoms, while others may experience the full range.

How Mpox Spreads:

  • Through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
  • Through intimate physical contact, such as kissing or sexual activity
  • Through contact with infected wild animals via scratches, bites, or handling infected animal products

A person is contagious from the time symptoms appear until the rash has fully healed and new skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks.

Prevention Tips:

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a rash that could be Mpox
  • Refrain from touching objects and surfaces used by someone with Mpox
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water

The City currently has approximately 200 vaccines available for individuals at-risk and those identified as close contacts of confirmed cases, with more vaccines being requested to meet the community’s needs.

Public Health officials will continue to investigate all confirmed cases and offer vaccines to those who are identified as close contacts.

Residents experiencing symptoms of Mpox should seek medical advice to receive a proper diagnosis and guidance on next steps.

For more information, please visit the City’s Mpox informational webpage (https://www.elpasotexas.gov/public-health/current-incidents/Mpox/).

Afro-Latinx Heritage Week: September 29 – October 5, 2024

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Via the City of El Paso: “We are excited to announce that from September 29 to October 5, 2024, we will celebrate “El Paso Afro-Latinx Heritage Week”! Founded by the inspiring Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, this week is dedicated to raising awareness and educating our community about the rich Afro-Latinx experience in the United States.
As we honor the legacy of individuals like Nancy Lorenza Green and recognize the contributions of champions like Tomas Arellano, Angie Barraza, Maria Kennedy, Adenaji Jones-Tornes, Tanya Berry, and many others, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting a more inclusive and equitable El Paso.
Join us in celebrating the vibrant heritage, culture, and contributions of our Afro-Latinx community! Let’s come together to create connections and uplift voices that enrich our city.”
Stay tuned to find out about upcoming events and educational sessions relating to #AfroLatina #AfroLatinoHeritage … sign up at soymaravillosa.org.  #AfroLatinxHeritageWeek #ElPasoPride #SoyMaravillosa

Dionne Mack Chosen as New City Manager

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EL PASO, Texas—In a significant move for the City of El Paso, Dionne Mack has been appointed as the new City Manager. This decision follows a thorough and inclusive selection process, during which Mack emerged as the top candidate. She will succeed Interim City Manager Cary Westin, who has played a crucial role in guiding the city through this transitional period.

Mayor Oscar Leeser voiced his enthusiasm about the appointment, remarking, “Dionne Mack has shown exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all El Paso residents. Her experience and vision for our City make her the right choice to guide El Paso into a bright and prosperous future. I am confident that under her leadership, we will continue to make significant strides in addressing the needs of our community and building a stronger, more vibrant city.”

Mayor Leeser also expressed gratitude to Cary Westin for his service in his statement. “I want to thank Col. Westin immensely for his dedication and service to El Paso during this critical time. His leadership has been invaluable, and his commitment to our City is deeply appreciated. We are grateful for the stability and direction he has provided, ensuring a smooth transition as we welcome our new City Manager.”

Background on Dionne Mack

Dionne Mack arrives in her new role with 28 years of public service experience, including 14 years in New York and another 14 years with El Paso. As the Deputy City Manager for Quality of Life, she has been instrumental in driving initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s parks, cultural services, and community programs.

Mack expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for her new position, stating, “I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with this critical role by the Honorable Mayor and the City Council. I want to express my deepest gratitude for their trust and confidence in me. My lived experiences, education, and professional background have uniquely prepared me to serve as your next City Manager. As a resident of El Paso, I am deeply committed to serving our city humbly and dedicated to improving the lives of all our residents. This commitment is not just a promise, but a mission that I will tirelessly pursue.”

She continued, “I am deeply committed to building solid connections with the City Council and with all of you, the heart and soul of this vibrant community. El Paso’s strength lies in its diversity, rich history, and the resilience of its people. I am here to listen, learn, and work with each of you to address our challenges. I firmly believe that the best solutions come from within the community, and your voices are not just important, but invaluable. I am committed to holding regular meetings and open forums and seeking your input through surveys and various feedback mechanisms. Your concerns, ideas, and aspirations are crucial to our decision-making process. Together with our City Council, we will chart a path forward that truly reflects the desires and needs of our residents.”

About the Selection Process

The appointment of Mack follows a comprehensive national search that began in March 2024. This search attracted over 100 candidates and involved community input sessions, bilingual surveys, and feedback from various stakeholders. This process was designed to ensure the selection aligned with the values and goals of El Paso’s residents, making you an integral part of this significant decision.

The final decision was made through four community Meet and Greet events, where residents interacted directly with the finalists. Additionally, two Council-appointed community panels provided essential input that guided the final choice. Mack’s deep-rooted connection to the community and her proven track record in improving the quality of life in El Paso were pivotal in her selection. Her leadership is anticipated to foster continued progress and innovation as the city moves forward.