Dekalb County Chief of Police Mirtha Ramos
February 26, 2025
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For many women leaving the criminal justice system is a difficult transition, the journey to rebuilding their lives is full of obstacles; unstable housing, limited job opportunities, and adjusting to the world with a criminal record. Many reentry programs help women with their challenges, but Women Healing & Empowering Women (WHEW, *an exhale of...
DreamWorks Animation has officially announced that Zendaya will join the cast of Shrek 5, taking on the role of Felicia, the teenage daughter of Shrek and Princess Fiona. The film is set to hit theaters on December 23, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the Shrek franchise. Zendaya’s casting brings a fresh and modern...
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SAGAMI BAY (January 30, 2025) – Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Naomi Taylor from Houston, Texas, inspects a torpedo during ammunition onload on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) while conducting routine operations in Sagami Bay, Jan. 30. Ralph Johnson is forward deployed and assigned to Destroyer...
[Photo: texasobserver.org] AUSTIN, TEXAS – Representative Senfronia Thompson was named Dean of the Texas House of Representatives by Speaker Dustin Burrows for being the longest continuously serving member in the Texas House of Representatives. Dean Thompson was recognized for her wisdom and guidance based on the institutional knowledge she has gained from her...
February is observed annually as American Heart Month, it is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness about heart health, encourage the prevention of heart disease, and support research. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for all people, but Black adults are at greater risk than white adults and all other minorities because of a combination of genetic, social, and economic factors. According to research Black Americans are 30% more likely to die from heart disease than white Americans. Heart disease also develops at a younger age in Black people than in white people, the chance of developing heart disease is also increased when a person already has other health issues such as hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, and diabetes. Black adults are 40% more likely to have high blood pressure than white adults, heart disease can sometimes cause irreversible dam- age to the heart before symptoms are notice- able. In a 2018 study, Black adults were 1.3 times more likely to be obese than white adults; Black adults are also 60% more likely than white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes. In 2019, coronary heart disease (CHD) caused the death of over 20,000 Black men and over 18,000 Black women. Black men have a 70% higher risk of heart failure compared to white men; Black women have a 50% higher risk of heart failure com- pared to white women. Unfortunately, Black people are more likely to experience delayed diagnoses and inad- equate treatment due to issues within the healthcare system. Heart health is shaped by more than personal choices, it is also influenced by environmental and economic factors. Underserved Black communities experience limited access to fresh and healthy foods, as well as fewer spaces for physical activity. Stress related to economic instability can con- tribute to high cortisol levels, which negatively impacts heart health overtime. Cortisol is the hormone the body releases when stressed, too much of it is bad for the heart. Black cardiologist could in- crease the heart health of Black patients, but only 3% of cardiologist are Black. The American Heart...
[Photo: YouTube] The first Black woman Chief of Police in Dekalb County (which houses the Atlanta, Sandy Springs, & Roswell, GA areas.) was told that she had 21 days to resign or be terminated from her position. Dekalb County is Georgia’s fourth largest county and Ramos has held the Chief of Police position since 2019. “I want people to know that I didn’t just step down voluntarily. I would not have just left without saying goodbye to our community and our officers,” she told WSB-TV in Atlanta. Ramos was placed on administrative leave and was adamant about not doing anything wrong, she said if there had been any mistakes made, they were unintentional. In 2022, it was reported that over 400,000 Black people lived in Dekalb County, the largest racial group in the county. Under Ramos’ leadership the crime rate has significantly dropped, in 2024 homicide rates dropped 77%. The county has a police staffing issue, and they are short around 300 officers, the issue was before Ramos’ arrival, but it was no longer an issue when she became Chief of Police in 2019. The CEO of Dekalb County Lorraine Cochran-Johnson declined to comment on Ramos’ leadership, but Ramos’ said she is most proud of her ability to strengthen community engagement over time and a recommendation she had given former CEO Michael Thurmond on triple overtime, which kept enough officers on duty despite staffing shortages. Not only was Ramos’ the first Black woman to serve as Chief of Police in Dekalb County, but she was also the first woman and longest serving police chief the department had seen in over 20 years. Ramos’ was hired by former CEO Michael Thurmond, but before working in Dekalb County she served 22 years in the Miami-Dade County police department for 22 years. “I have faith that I will be directed to where I need to go. I have faith that I have done everything that I could for this department,” Ramos said. “I lived and breathed for this department for five years.” CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson says the county has new...
[Photo: Mike Segar/Reuters] Houston native Jalen Hurts, quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles made history last night in Superbowl LIX with an amazing performance against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. Hurts became the first Eagles quarterback to make multiple Super Bowl appearances and joined three others as the fourth Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. He also became the third Black quarterback to earn the Super Bowl MVP award. He led the Eagles to a 40-22 win over the Chiefs, completing 17 of 22 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns, he also rushed for 72 yards and a touchdown. The Eagles previously lost to the Chiefs in Superbowl LVII in 2023, with a final score of 38-35. Before last night’s game, only three Black quarterbacks had ever won a Super Bowl. Doug Williams was the first, leading Washington Redskins (now called the Commanders) to a 42-10 win over the Denver Broncos in 1988. It took 26 more years before another Black quarterback won Russell Wilson, who led the Seattle Seahawks in beating the Broncos 43-8 in 2014. Patrick Mahomes has won multiple Super Bowls, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to victory in 2020 (Super Bowl LIV), 2023 (Super Bowl LVII), and 2024 (Super Bowl LVIII). One of those wins was against Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles. Mahomes also played in the 2021 Super Bowl (Super Bowl LV) but lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Steve McNair led the Tennessee Titans in Super Bowl XXXIV (2000), but they lost to the St. Louis Rams 23-16. Donovan McNabb took the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl XXXIX (2005), but they fell just short against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots, losing 24-21. In 2013, Colin Kaepernick and the San Francisco 49ers played in Super Bowl XLVII but lost 34-31 to the Baltimore Ravens. Cam Newton led the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 (2016) but was defeated by Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos 24-10. Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles made it to Super Bowl LVII (2023), but Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs...
LUCRETIA ELIZABETH GRANT AUGUST 6, 1925 – JANUARY 4, 2025 Born on August 6, 1925, in Houston, Texas, Lucretia Elizabeth McGartha was the third of eleven children born to John Preston McGartha and Beatrice Thomas McGartha. A lifelong member of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, she was baptized at an early age and carried her faith with her throughout her entire life. Lucretia attended Woodcrest Elementary School, Harper Middle School, and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. On November 3, 1941, Lucretia was united in holy matrimony to James Astor Grant, beginning a beautiful union that spanned over 71 years. Together, they raised 14 children, 9 boys and 5 girls, creating a family foundation built on love, respect, hard work, and devotion. Lucretia was the epitome of the Proverbs 31 Woman- quiet yet strong, patient yet profound. Her nurturing spirit, soft spoken demeanor, and calming presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Lucretia’s greatest joy was her family. She was a natural matriarch, creating lasting bonds with every member of her large family.
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By: Travis McGee All across our city we often hear the term “Affordable Housing” and you also see so- called affordable hous- ing projects thrown up overnight. Affordable means a lot of different things to a lot of differ- ent people. To the Haves it means that they could afford to build, invest in, and even pay the mortgage, if need be, but to the HAVE NOTS it means it has been the largest part of the budget which includes mortgage/rent, taxes, insurance(s), groceries, transportation, a family, and overall cost of living. This irresponsible construction is called Gentrification, but it’s the kind that’s on steroids due to very bad ordinance written by our City Council. All underserved, under developed, poor communities that set below the poverty level are all experiencing the same thing. ThThe passage of Chapter 42 Ordinance in 2013 by a vote of 14-3 on Houston City Council made this type of Unaffordable development legal. What is Chapter 42, you may ask? Well, it basically decreases the minimum lot size to build on and allows developers to replat one residential lots into multiple sections /lots to build multiple structures on that one lot. NOTE: If they combine two or more of the said lots that property can become another whole subdivision within an already pre-existing subdivision. This ordinance was said to be used to increase the density here in the city of Houston (basically to fit more people) here by any means necessary. Even if that means putting $2,000,000.00 worth of property up to 75 ft high next to traditional single family 1 story dwellings on top of a prehistoric $2.00 infrastructure system. The ordinance only benefits the city through tax revenue and fees as well as the developers through unaffordable housing and landgrabs. You would think the ordinances would protect the residents / taxpayers, but it doesn’t. It really doesn’t matter if you have deed restrictions or not if the city is issuing the permits and approving the construction. You are extremely lucky if you get a variance/ notice of construction these days. Once the city writes...
We are inviting the public and diverse leaders and organizations to protest. The protest will be held at Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby on Sunday, March 2nd at 3 P.M. This will be a demonstration of commitment to protecting, preserving, and promoting justice for all victims of the dehumanizing, insulting, and undemocratic policies of the present administration. Houston United for Justice Rally, Sunday, March 2, 3PM
...By: Travis McGee Who’s coming to save us? If our answer doesn’t include us, we really are in serious trouble. When I say save us, I mean by choosing commonsense over nonsense. We often give every one a chance other than ourselves. In a political driven world, we can’t afford to not be proactively...
On February 14th, 2025, the United States Department of Education released a letter demanding that schools (K-12, colleges and universities) end their diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and race-based initiatives in two weeks or they will be at risk of losing federal funding. The Department of Education was created in 1979 by the Carter Administration;...
The multi-trillion-dollar company Google, founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin removed its DEI holidays from online and mobile calendars. Those holidays include Black History Month, Women’s History Month, LBTQAI+ holidays, Indigenous Peoples’ Month and many more. Google previously supported DEI efforts, they were in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund...
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.