The Tri-Cities NAACP Award Local Leaders from the Best Southwest DFW

DALLAS, TX (Nov. 4, 2019) - On October 19, 2019, the Tri-Cities NAACP Branch #6277 hosted its Inaugural Freedom Fund and Scholarship Banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn and Hotel in Duncanville, Texas. The award recipients who play vital roles in the betterment of the communities in which they serve were announced at the event. The banquet was hosted by Dr. Samone and mistress of Ceremony was Cheryl Smith, Publisher, and Editor of Texas Metro News.

Police Chief Reyes was presented the Tri-Cities President’s Award and the Honorable Candice Quarles was awarded the Distinguished Service Award. Ebony Smith received the Community Empowerment Award, and Dr. Candace Brown, DDS. received the Business Empowerment Award. Additional award recipients included Jamila Thomas who received the NAACP Unsung Hero/ Heroine Award along with Irma P. Hall who was honored with the Irma P. Hall Award for the Visual and Performing Arts.

The Tri-Cities NAACP serves Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and the surrounding communities. The mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

 “Any and every recognition allows us to talk about the need for nationwide Paid Family Leave,” says Quarles after winning an award for her work on Paid Family Leave. As of October 1, 2019, the city of DeSoto became the first city in North Texas to guarantee paid parental leave for city employees, an effort championed by Quarles.

Paid Parental Leave in this North Texas City Goes into Effect October 1st

The city of DeSoto will offer full-time city employees with at least a year of service time three paid weeks off after the birth of a child. This policy goes into effect October 1, 2019, making DeSoto the first city in North Texas to guarantee paid parental leave for city employees.

Councilwoman Candice Quarles proposed this benefit for all city employees, including the police and fire department.

Quarles believes she is fixing a broken system where new parents are forced to piece together vacation time, sick time and unpaid time off from work just to get a bare minimum of time with their newborns. 

Being the mother of a 5-year-old, this issue is personal for Candice. She and her husband enjoyed bonding time with their daughter when she was born but it was not simple. Quarles was restricted to bed rest prior to her daughter’s birth and had to use most of her sick and vacation time before she was born.

“Even if all goes well in a pregnancy, we should allow new moms and dads the all-important time to care, nurture and bond with their child. Anything less is putting our women and families at risk.”

Before the policy was passed, many testimonies were given in support of the policy including local elected official Candace Valenzuela, a school board trustee in Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. 

“Children are not a luxury item; children are an investment in the long-term care and growth of a city. If your city employees are setting an example for that, you’re going to have sustainable growth for generations” according to Valenzuela.

Policy details:

• 3 weeks of leave for all employees.

• Employees are eligible after 1 year of Full- time service with the City of DeSoto

• Parental Leave is separate from sick or vacation and not required to exhaust the other PTO

• In the case of a married couple at the city of DeSoto, both parents will be allowed to take the designated time off as long the time is not concurrently.

Quarles urges other leaders to follow suit to support the modern workforce.

The United States remains the only country in the developed world that does not mandate employers offer paid leave for new mothers. 25% of women in the U.S. have to go back to work in just two weeks to make ends meet and only 14% of civilian workers have access to any amount of paid parental leave,

“Most women do not have enough PTO for the full 12 weeks allowable by FMLA law and are exhausting all of their leave balances and receiving NO Pay to spend time with their newborns,” says Quarles.

Research shows paid parental leave is necessary for working families and benefits both families and businesses through estimated costs, potential savings and anticipated outcomes. This is shown in the nation’s first statewide paid leave program in California.

A study by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research found that paid family leave helps employers because it can increase employee morale, productivity, and labor force attachment once new parents return to work. Research also shows that paid family leave has a positive effect on infant and maternal health, reducing the rates of infant mortality and stress and depression for mothers.

“As a mother of a toddler and having spent 12 years in human resources; I know that new mothers are making the hard choice of going back to work sooner than ready because they cannot afford to stay home with a new baby. Parents should not have to choose between a paycheck or leaving a newborn child. It’s 2019. We can do better and we will do better in the city of DeSoto,” says Councilwoman Quarles.

Local City Councilwoman Connects Talented Workers with Great Employers

DALLAS, TX. (September 5, 2019) - Disciple Central Community Church to host the 2019 DeSoto Works Job Fair on Wednesday, September 11th from 1 to 5 PM at 901 North Polk Street #101, DeSoto, TX 75115.

This no cost event is open to the public. DFW Job- seekers will have the opportunity to network with over 20 employers seeking individuals to fill their positions. This job fair caters to those looking for seasonal work for the upcoming holiday season or those looking for a career change.

The DeSoto Works Job Fair features workshops geared towards resume writing, financial planning and a clothes closet to help attendees “dress for success.”

Job seekers are urged to dress professionally and bring plenty of resumes.

Childcare will be provided. To reserve, email prosperity@dc3online.org.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to connect our community’s talented workers with great employers looking to hire. We want to make sure our residents have livable wage jobs. This is one of the first collaborations I championed as a Council Member. I have 12 years of HR experience and it is my belief that a good job can change your life,” said Candice Quarles, DeSoto City Councilwoman. “We are proud to partner with so many organizations including Disciple Central Community Church. They are a strong partner that has been the host location for the past 4 job fairs under the leadership of Pastor Marcus King,” 

This event is brought to you by the City of DeSoto, the DeSoto Economic Development Corporation, the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce and Disciple Central Community Church.

For more information, visit www.desotoworksfall2019.eventbrite.com

Statement from Terrence Hopkins, President of the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas

We Stand in Support of Police Chief Hall

Dallas, TX - June 12, 2019 - The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas is firm and unwavering in its support of Police Chief U. Renee Hall. It is our belief Chief Hall has been under an orchestrated attack ever since her hire.  Chief Hall inherited one of the most volatile police departments and has done a stellar job attempting to steer its troubled ship.

I encourage the citizens of Dallas, the Dallas City Council, the City Manager’s Office, the Dallas City Mayor’s office and the police officers within the Dallas Police Department to continue to support Chief Hall, who has done nothing but attempt to make the proper changes to not only clean the Dallas Police Department but to promote it in a positive light.

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas stands by its mission to advocate and promote justice and fairness for its police officers and surrounding communities.

We support Chief U. Renee Hall and will continue to stand beside her in making this city safer.

For questions call the BPA of Greater Dallas at 214.421.7644 or email bpaoffice@bpadallas.org.

Terrance Hopkins, President

Black Police Association of Greater Dallas

About the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas, POA consists of 650 sworn officers/deputies, whom have taken an oath to maintain law and order for our citizens, and represent the finest element of our community. You can be assured that each and every day, we are working diligently to build a safe and prosperous environment for everyone; especially our children. We are proud of the various community, regional, state and national charities who benefit from our support and involvement. We have proudly served the community of Dallas for over forty plus years. We are committed to not only the safety of our citizens and business but to providing charitable contributions to those in our community who need our help the most.

PRESS RELEASE: Saturday Events Honor Fallen Dallas Officers

Officer Down Foundation Commemorates Two-Year Anniversary of 2016 Police Shootings by Hosting Day of Events to Honor Officers and the Dallas Community

It’s been two years since one of the deadliest attacks on officers where five police officers were killed in an ambush attack in 2016 and just a few months after the North Dallas Home Depot shooting that claimed the life of Dallas police officer Rogelio Santander. On July 7th at Dallas City Hall Plaza, the Officer Down Foundation will host a special event and memorial to honor lives lost in the line of duty and honoring officers that continue to persevere every day. Funds raised will support injured and fallen officers.

Last year, the Texas House passed a bill making July 7th Fallen Law Enforcement Officer Day in the state as a way to remember every year the men and women that put their life on the line to protect us every day. To commemorate this day, the Officer Down Foundation has planned a day of community events including the 5th Annual Officer Down Motorcycle Ride to serve as a reminder of the sacrifices police officers make and honor the resilience of officers and the Dallas community.

The Fallen Officers Memorial at Dallas City Hall Plaza

Starting at 9 AM, officers and community members will gather for a chance to remember, but also celebrate the lives of officers lives lost. The ceremony includes a Color Guard presentation of The US Honor Flag, the national anthem sung by William Vaughn, and speeches from the CEO of the Officer Down Foundation, Willie Ford, and Chief of Staff of the U.S. Honor Flag, Chris Heisler.

The Officer Down Motorcycle Ride

Following the memorial at Dallas City Hall Plaza, motorcycle riders and the community will unite through The Officer Down Motorcycle Ride to commemorate the two-year anniversary of the 2016 Dallas Police shootings, the resilience of the city and honor those who lost their lives. Registered riders will be issued a commemorative patch at the culmination of the police escorted ride, prior to the movie. The 35-mile motorcycle ride will end at Studio Movie Grill Northwest Highway.

Special Screening of Uncle Drew at Studio  Movie Grill

Not riding? Friends, the family of riders and the Dallas community are invited to meet at Studio Movie Grill off Northwest Highway for a special screening of Uncle Drew. Registration includes a meal and, like the ride, directly benefits The Officer Down Foundation.

The Officer Down Foundation, participating Police and partners wish to thank the community for their ongoing and unwavering support from Dallas citizens and beyond.

Thanks to our partners: The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas, Event Southwest, The Honor Network, Rental Stop, Operation Blue Shield and Space Lighting. Each is committed to supporting both the Officer Down Foundation and the Police community as a whole.

The Officer Down Motorcycle Ride will be a fun packed day for people of all ages. Register today at http://odfevents.org

About the Officer Down Foundation

The Officer Down Foundation provides financial assistance to all active Dallas Police Officers and Dallas Independent School District Officers who are facing the loss of income due to a serious injury, life-threatening illness or other catastrophic events. Assistance is also available to an officer's immediate family member (ie, Spouse and children) in the event of the death of an active officer.

PRESS RELEASE: Community Policing Grows in Dallas

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas’ Members Take the Lead in Mending Community Relations in Dallas County

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas has been dedicated to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve for over forty years. For this association, community policing means being proactive about and developing solutions to the immediate problems contributing to public safety issues. This is why the BPA is dedicated to hosting events that encourage police officers to form relationships with civilians and creating programs that solve the needs of the communities they serve, as well as, facilitating conversations on community-police relations.

On March 24th, the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas sponsored a community policing event led by its board member Officer Lamar Glass in collaboration with local nonprofit, First Stripe, called PD Madness. PD Madness was a basketball tournament where eight law enforcement teams hit the court, in a March Madness inspired tournament, against eight community teams.

April 7th, the association held a Home Buying 101 seminar led by local real estate agent, Randy Bell, giving police officers and community members the tools needed to purchase homes in Dallas county including grant information and financing options. This is the first of many seminars the association will be hosting as part of their new home buyers community outreach program.

The Association’s President, Officer Terrence Hopkins (known to many as T. Hop), has made it his own personal mission to bridge the gap between officers and law enforcement by leading conversations on his radio show every Tuesday from 7 to 9 PM called Police Talk 101 where local leaders are invited to discuss community and police relations.

BPA Member, Officer O. Buster, was honored on April 6th for helping save the life of Bailey Adam, a marathon runner that collapsed during the Dallas Rock and Roll Half Marathon. Buster was one of the CPR people on the scene that was able to save the Half-Marathon heart attack survivor.

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas believes community policing involves forming partnerships with community organizations and giving people the opportunity to interact with law enforcement officers. It is proven that good relationships are essential to good police work.

To learn more about the association's community outreach programs and opportunities to partner, please email info@dallasdoesgood.com and visit their website at www.bpadallas.org.

About the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas, POA consists of 650 sworn officers/deputies, whom have taken an oath to maintain law and order for our citizens, and represent the finest element of our community. You can be assured that each and every day, we are working diligently to build a safe and prosperous environment for everyone; especially our children. We are proud of the various community, regional, state and national charities who benefit from our support and involvement. We have proudly served the community of Dallas for the forty plus years. We are committed to not only the safety of our citizens and business, but to providing charitable contributions to those in our community who need our help the most.

Ring in the New Year with these 5 Marketing Goals

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on the previous year and declare what you would like to achieve in the future. It’s also an opportune time to set goals and resolutions that will help meet your business goals in the New Year. 

Part of setting your business goals is refining your Marketing goals to make sure you take your business to the next level in 2017 and beyond. Investing time in your business marketing strategy will help set the foundation for long-term success. 

So, where do you start? Success starts with setting specific goals and planning actions to achieve those goals.

Read more in January's issue of Southern Dallas Business and Living Magazine on page 25.

View issue here: http://www.southerndallasmag.com/

Align your Marketing Goals with your Business Strategy

Two Questions: What have you done so far to achieve your business goals? But more importantly, is your marketing and business goals aligned?

Yes, these two goals must work in concert with each other and should never operate independently. This is the most fatal flaw in the business planning process and can lead to a waste of time, effort, money and resources. When you set your revenue goals, your marketing should be planned and aligned to help your business achieve them. 

Setting goals and making plans is the easy part, following through with them is the challenge. Hopefully, the questions below help make this process a little easier:

1.    How much revenue do you need to generate through your Marketing efforts?

Your Marketing efforts should be a revenue generator for your business. Creating more brand awareness in the market should bring in more prospects, convert more prospects to customers and in turn increase sales.

2.    How many sales do you need to make to hit your revenue goals?

Be sure to set your sales target. Set a specific sales goal, so you know exactly how many sales need to be made to reach your revenue goals.

3.    How many leads do you need?

Meeting your revenue goals also means acquiring new business. You will need to create an action plan to gain these new customers through creating new opportunities to connect with new customers.

4.    How are you going to increase your retention rate from current customers?

Retain current customers by making them pay attention to you. You can do this through building a relationship with your customers by implementing a monthly email campaign and/or writing a weekly blog informing customers of recent news, services and insight on how your service can help them and anything else that may be valuable to your customers. This will also position you as thought leader in your industry which will make customers trust you more.

5.    What are your success metrics and do you have quarterly benchmarks in place to make sure you’re on track to achieve your goals?

Pick meaningful metrics and always track your progress. Your marketing should have a direct influence on your revenue.

6.    Does your marketing tie into the overarching business strategy?

If the answer is no then why are you doing it? Make sure you can explain how your marketing strategy will bring in new business in the future.

Aligning your marketing goals with your business strategy will not only make your company more successful, but it will make your brand even more impactful. 

As you hit your benchmarks, remember to treat yourself. You deserve to be rewarded for your accomplishments.

Need help? Don't hesitate to email us at info@dallasdoesgood.com.

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas Responds to Recent Demotions in Dallas Police Department

DALLAS, TX– Effective December 13th, Chief U. Renee Hall will reduce the size of her command staff within the Dallas Police Department by demoting several chief-level officers. Four members of the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas will be affected by either promotion or demotion.

The association would like to acknowledge and congratulate the two chief level officers who were promoted. Although the association has two deputy chief members that were affected by demotion, they will continue to support them and advocate on their behalf. The BPA remains prayerful that the Chief is making the right decisions and hopes to foster a constructive dialogue in light of these changes.

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas will continue to advocate and promote justice and fairness for their members and the community they serve.

About the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas

The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas, POA consists of 650 sworn officers/deputies, whom have taken an oath to maintain law and order for our citizens, and represent the finest element of our community. You can be assured that each and every day, we are working diligently to build a safe and prosperous environment for everyone; especially our children. We are proud of the various community, regional, state and national charities who benefit from our support and involvement. We have proudly served the community of Dallas for forty plus years. We are committed to not only the safety of our citizens and business but to providing charitable contributions to those in our community who need our help the most.