Latest news with #Blackfamily
CBS News
08-08-2025
- General
- CBS News
Crowley names new school for family who broke racial barriers
History — and the heroes behind it — often hide in plain sight. "Walking in that white school for the first time you know... it was a scary moment," recalls Billy Baylor of Crowley. "Yes, it was a very scary moment." It was a moment Baylor never forgot. It was 1965, and he and his siblings — Alton, Linda and Jackie — were stepping bravely into the buzzsaw of change and hate. The Baylors were the first Black family to integrate Crowley schools. "You had people on this side of the street yelling at you as you walked by," Baylor remembers. "You just walked on... try not to say nothing, just keep walking." Now 74, Baylor remembers with tears the betrayal of a white student who had convinced him he was a friend before luring the ninth grader outside to this. "The bus was here... and that's when all the kids started yelling at me... every kid on that bus. They [racial slur] me to death," Baylor recently shared for a Crowley ISD video on the family's history. "Everybody on that bus. I stared in a daze and then walked back in the building." He wipes his eyes and continues, "That happened, but a lot of people treated me well." Decades later, healing in Crowley will have the last word. It all began when Superintendent Michael McFarland became curious about the history of Black students in the area. A local author and historian, Sandie Isaacs, had written about a school for Black children before integration. McFarland wanted to know more. Isaacs led him to the Baylor family. "I'm like, 'Is any of the family around?'" recalls McFarland. "And she was like, 'Yes, he works at Russell Feed.' And I'm like, 'Oh, my gosh! Like it was like a lightning bolt.'" Then lightning struck again. Following McFarland's recommendation, the Crowley school board voted unanimously in February to make Baylor Elementary a reality. "When Mr. McFarland said 'Congratulations, Mr. Baylor,' I said 'Oh my God,'" said Baylor, wiping away more tears. "I was overwhelmed... I was very touched." And if you think that having the Baylor name on the building is special, consider this: his granddaughter Blair will be one of the new school's first students. "I try to keep telling my granddaughter, 'Hey, don't worry about what people call you. We know who we are. We are the Baylors.'" Still, it will be years before she and her classmates can fully understand what the honor cost her ancestors. But having their name on the building is a lesson of its own. "It's not just that they integrated the school," McFarland said. "But he integrated the school, remained in this community, and is just loved and beloved. So for someone to be able to go through all of that and then to still be here... that he chose, he chose love over hate." Even when the memories—and the tears—remain. "Mom, Dad, I made it," shares Baylor... and then, as he wipes his eyes again, "Quit crying, Bill!" It's OK. Some moments were made for tears.
Yahoo
08-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Director of Wiltshire seating firm announces retirement
A director and co-founder of a global seating solutions firm has announced his retirement after more than two decades of service. David Black helped to start Hussey Seatway, alongside Jason Earl and Stephen Brackley, in 2003. The firm is based in Northacre Industrial Park in Westbury. Mr Black has been central to the company's expansion across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Read more: Ford car dealership under new ownership in town With more than 40 years of experience in the seating industry, his career began in the financial sector, focusing on business development, before moving to the seating industry. In the US, he further refined his knowledge in the seating market. Under his guidance, Hussey Seatway has become a leader in its field, known for innovative solutions and a commitment to quality. Mr Black's leadership has been crucial to the company's success and reputation. He is now set to hand over the company to his two sons, Chris Black and Johnny Black, along with co-founder Jason Earl. Though retiring, he will continue to support the company as an advisor, ensuring a smooth transition. Mr Black said he is "excited to see the next generation of the Black family step into leadership and share his passion for the company." He added: "Even though I'll still be around to support when needed, I'm excited to step back to travel and bike across Europe." The company, which has 50 employees, provides seating solutions for various venues, including theatres, schools, and sports facilities. A Hussey Seatway spokesperson said: "David's journey in the seating industry is a testament to his dedication and expertise. "From his early days in the financial sector focusing on business development to his transition into the seating industry, David has always had a knack for understanding market dynamics and customer needs. "His move to the USA further enriched his understanding of the seating market, making him a formidable force in the industry. Read more: Update on work to transform historic pub into house "Under his leadership, Hussey Seatway has not only grown in terms of sales but has also set industry standards with its innovative solutions and commitment to quality." The spokesperson added: "David's vision and strategic direction have been key to the company's success and reputation. "As he passes the baton to the next generation, his legacy of excellence and innovation will continue to guide Hussey Seatway into the future. "David's contribution to the seating industry is unparalleled, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations at Hussey Seatway."
