News Reader

The DeSoto Parks and Recreation Department is hosting an Autism Awareness Resource Fair at Ernie Roberts Park and is inviting members of the community to join in the fair.

The event takes place on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to noon and is free for all to attend.

The fair looks to provide crucial resources, support, and information to individuals and families affected by autism.

The event promises a day filled with various activities, experts, and organizations dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding of autism spectrum disorders.

With a diverse lineup of organizations and experts attending, attendees can expect to gain access to a wealth of resources and tailored information.

The event will feature booths and exhibits from various organizations specializing in autism advocacy, education, therapy, and support services.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with experts, learn about available resources, and explore different avenues for support.

In addition to informational resources, the Autism Awareness Event will also offer a range of activities and entertainment suitable for attendees of all ages.

From sensory-friendly games and art activities to music performances and therapy animal interactions, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

For more information about the Autism Awareness Resource Fair and to register for the event, click here.

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing Harris County over its recently implemented guaranteed income program, Uplift Harris.

The program provides nearly 2,000 residents with $500 per month for 18 months, according to Paxton.

The roots of the program, approved by Harris County Commissioners with a 4-1 vote in 2023, lie in its aim to address financial insecurity among residents.

However, Paxton argues that distributing public funds without conditions or oversight violates the state constitution.

Under Uplift Harris, selected households would receive $500 monthly for 18 months, funded by $20.5 million allocated from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act.

Despite receiving over 59,000 applications, only 1,924 households were chosen through a lottery system, as outlined on the county website.

According to Paxton’s office, the indiscriminate distribution of funds infringes upon the constitutional principle of equal rights.

The Attorney General asserts that Harris County’s approach fails to ensure public benefit and lacks transparency in recipient selection.

The Harris County program mirrors similar efforts seen in the state’s capitol.

The recent pilot program in Austin is aimed at addressing housing insecurity.

Unlike Harris County’s approach, Austin’s program disbursed $1,000 monthly to 85 households at risk of homelessness.

The city council’s decision in 2022 marked Austin as the first major Texas city to utilize tax dollars for guaranteed income programs.

Austin officials emphasized the potential for these programs to foster economic mobility and housing stability.

As the legal battle ramps up, the outcome of Paxton’s lawsuit against Harris County could significantly impact the future of guaranteed income initiatives in Texas and beyond.

The post Texas Attorney General Challenges Harris County’s Program in Court appeared first on The DeSoto Tribune.

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The DeSoto Police Department is searching for an elderly resident who has been reported missing and is seeking the public’s help.

Deborah Thomas, a 70-year-old DeSoto resident, was last seen Tuesday night around 9:45 p.m. at the intersection of Watercrest Dr. and Lakeview Dr., according to a press release via social media.

Thomas is described as a black female born on June 19th, 1953, and was last seen wearing distinct attire.

She was last seen wearing a white hat, reading glasses, a white and pink jacket, black pants, and mismatched shoes—one red and one blue.

Thomas is also believed to be suffering from dementia and has been known to approach random homes and knock on doors under the impression it is her own residence.

Authorities are waiting for medical paperwork from the family to issue a silver alert, a measure aimed at aiding in the search for missing individuals.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or relevant information to local law enforcement promptly.

If anyone has any information about Deborah Thomas, DeSoto Police is urging the public to contact the authorities at 9-1-1 or SWRCC Non-Emergency at 972-223-6111.

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