News Reader

Juneteenth, a national holiday marking the end of slavery following the Civil War in 1865, has been celebrated by Black Americans for decades.

However, it wasn’t officially recognized as a federal holiday until three years ago.

Many across the country celebrate Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.

The holiday is often celebrated with prayer and religious services, speeches, educational events, family gatherings, and picnics.

Recently, on June 15, the cities of DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and Lancaster celebrated Juneteenth with their annual Juneteenth Celebration.

The holiday is observed every year by the Best Southwest Communities with a festival, music, food, and dancing.

The annual observance marks the day on June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery.

It would be more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

In 2021, Juneteenth was designated a federal holiday, thanks in part to the efforts of activist Opal Lee in raising awareness.

The day is also observed internationally, with organizations in various countries using it to recognize the end of slavery and honor the culture and achievements of Black Americans.

As Juneteenth is recognized and celebrated, the holiday provides an opportunity for reflection and to honor those who fought for freedom, justice, and equality, as well as to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and achievements of Black Americans.

The post Juneteenth | Celebrating Freedom and Cultural Heritage appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

The DeSoto Police and Fire Departments have released their call volume reports for the week of June 2 to June 8, detailing a busy period for emergency services in the city.

The DeSoto Police Department handled a total of 2,332 calls during this period.

Most of these were neighborhood patrol calls, which accounted for 767, a 4% increase from last week’s 738 of the total directed patrols, followed by 360 calls.

Business-related calls numbered 256, while animal-related incidents prompted 76 calls.

Officers responded to 58 calls regarding suspicious activity and handled 301 traffic-related incidents.

Meanwhile, the DeSoto Fire Department responded to 232 emergency calls for service in the same week.

Of these, 164 were medical calls, highlighting the critical role of medical response in the department’s operations.

The remaining 68 calls were categorized under fire and rescue, including 4 major vehicle accidents, 1 Diesel Tanker Fire, 1 Car Fire, 1 Trash Fire, and 14 Fire Alarms.

Notably, 84 medical calls required additional assistance and manpower from a fire engine.

The data from these reports provide valuable insights into the types of emergencies and routine calls that the city’s first responders handle, aiding in the continuous improvement of their efforts.

The post DeSoto Police and Fire Departments Weekly Call Volume Reports appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

The DeSoto Corner Theater is set to host an evening of musical enchantment featuring the smooth and soulful sounds of jazz and neo-soul.

The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 22, at the DeSoto Corner Theater located at 211 E. Pleasant Run Road.

The concert is set to begin at 7 p.m.

The event promises to be a night of rhythmic bliss for music lovers of all stripes.

The concert will showcase the talents of K.Avett and Mahogany, two artists renowned for their ability to blend the melodies of jazz with the modern vibes of neo-soul.

Their performances are expected to captivate the audience with rich harmonies and rhythms that resonate with the heart and soul.

Draper Wynston, a notable figure in the music scene, will host the evening, giving the atmosphere a seamless flow of entertainment.

The event is an opportunity for the community to come together, have fun, and share in the universal language of music.

Attendees are encouraged to bring friends and family to experience live music at its finest.

With free parking available, the DeSoto Corner Theater aims to make this event accessible to everyone looking to indulge in a night of cultural and musical exploration.

The concert is expected to be a memorable experience that will leave attendees with a lasting impression of the smooth music of jazz and neo-soul.

For more information about the event including ticket information click here.

The post DeSoto Corner Theater Set to Host Jazz and Neo-Soul Concert appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

The Dallas Mavericks and the NBA came together at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater East Dallas to unveil the latest renovations of the facility.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Mavericks guard P.J. Washington, and Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins, who spoke highly of the Mavericks, spoke about the importance of organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club.

The post Dallas Mavericks and NBA Come together at Boys and Girls Club appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

As families across the nation celebrate Father’s Day, we honor not just biological fathers but all father figures who play a vital role in shaping the lives of many.

Whether it’s a stepfather, grandfather, uncle, mentor, or family friend, these men provide the guidance, support, and love that help mold children into who they are.

A positive father figure can profoundly influence a child’s development.

Research consistently shows that children with involved father figures perform better academically, exhibit healthier behaviors, and develop stronger social skills.

These children are often more confident, self-assured, and emotionally secure, laying the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life.

Father figures teach important life lessons, from the value of hard work and perseverance to the importance of kindness and integrity.

They offer a sense of security and stability, acting as role models who give guidance through life’s challenges and triumphs.

Their presence encourages children to pursue their dreams, knowing they have unwavering support.

Take a moment to appreciate the father figures who have made a difference in the lives of many, whether through a phone call, a heartfelt card, or spending quality time together.

Father’s Day is not just a celebration of fatherhood but also a recognition of father figures’ crucial role in nurturing and providing guidance.

Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing father figures out there! Your love and dedication make an immeasurable difference.

The post Happy Father’s Day from the DeSoto Tribune appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.