The Q4 Black Tie Gala at The Artis Event Center–Desoto, TX was nothing short of breathtaking. From the impeccable service to the exquisite decor, delicious cuisine, and seamless programming, every detail was a reflection of excellence. The venue itself, founded and operated by the uncle-and-niece duo Eric Lockhart and Jessica Brewer, embodies elegance, culture, and community.
“Every detail of the evening reflected empowerment, intention, and community.”
A Gathering of Black Excellence
“This wasn’t just a gala — it was a gathering of Black excellence.”
As I looked around the room, I realized I was surrounded by a different level of greatness. This wasn’t simply a gala — it was a gathering of leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and change makers, each shaping the world in real time.
The night featured influential voices and honorees, including:
Royce Colley, The Gentleman Builder, presenting the
Honoree Awards to Dominique Alexander and Damon
Crenshaw, Desoto’s Councilwoman Letitia Hughes and Mayor Rachel L. Proctor, Eugene Walker, Jr., President & CEO of EJ Smith Construction, serving as the Keynote Speaker, and others
“Black leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries filled the room.”
The atmosphere was charged with purpose, pride, and forward momentum.
“It’s Not How You Start — It’s How You Finish.”
Too often, people are written off, counted out, or underestimated because of their beginnings—the mistakes, the setbacks—rather than the fire that drives them forward.
The Highlight of the Evening — The Power of Resilience: R.D. Franklin
R.D. Franklin, the founder of Vision Truck Driving School, a CDL training institute dedicated to creating opportunities and second chances is that fire. Franklin’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s not how you start—it’s how you finish.
As he presented The Highway Hope and Vision Scholarship, he courageously invited us into his journey — the battles, the struggles, and the milestones that shaped him — all shared with humility. He never spoke of the full weight of what he endured and overcame, yet it was felt in the unspoken.
To witness where he started and where he stands today was a testament to resilience, redemption, and unwavering determination.
The strength it takes to rise from adversity, the unexpected cards life deals, and even our own missteps can be transformed into triumph. Franklin’s story echoed the message from Art McKinney’s BROKEN CRAYONS STILL COLOR series (IG: @jatsodesignz), currently on display at Shear Diva Artistry, 4100 Commerce St., Unit #4, Dallas, TX through December 31, 2025.
“Even when life bends you, chips you, or leave you with missing pieces, you still have the power to create, inspire, and transform.”
When you share your story, you inspire others. And when you create spaces for others to rise — to rebuild, to reclaim their future, and to embrace their second chance — that is impact.
That is legacy.
Author & Founder of BluLibra Ent: Tonika Wheeler | www.blulibraent.com | IG: @blu_libra | FB: @blulibraent | YT: @blulibraent