The Voice of North Dallas’ African-American Community

A Platform for Representation

Where others saw a demographic to overlook; the North Dallas Gazette (NDG) saw a vibrant, upwardly mobile African-American community eager for a platform that reflected their realities, dreams, and contributions. While other minority-focused publications remain anchored in the southern sector of the city, NDG was built to serve the rising voice of African-Americans in the north. Those who are shaping business, influencing culture, and investing in their communities.

More than just a newspaper, NDG is a movement. A movement dedicated to telling untold stories, uplifting leaders, and fostering economic and social empowerment.

The Legacy of Leadership: Jim Bochum and MON

This movement began in 1991 with the founding of Minority Opportunity News (MON) by Jim Bochum and Thurman R. Jones. Inspired by Bochum’s vision, first illustrated by Mahogany Magazine, and spurred by a sense of responsibility to uplift the African-American community, MON was born just weeks after the demise of the Dallas Times Herald (in July 1991), a publication historically more sensitive to Black issues than its peers.

MON filled that gap with intention. It championed collective economics, exposed discriminatory lending practices, encouraged civic engagement, and promoted education as the cornerstone of personal and community success.

Jim Bochum, MON’s editor-in-chief, was no ordinary journalist. A Greenville native, USC graduate, and U.S. Air Force officer; Bochum brought discipline, integrity, and a quiet fire to his role. A lifelong learner, he was driven by the belief that education is “the secret to everything.”

Under his guidance, MON not only reported the news—it reshaped it. In 2000, the paper moved to Plano and was rebranded as the North Dallas Gazette—reflecting a commitment to serve a growing population of African-Americans in North Texas’ northern corridor. In 2007, Bochum’s Seniors 2000 & Beyond was merged into NDG as Seniors Quarterly, offering vital information for the elder community and bridging the digital divide for aging citizens.

Thurman Jones: Carrying the Torch

Thurman R. Jones, co-founder and current Publisher of NDG, has continued the legacy with vigor. Under his stewardship, NDG has become the publication of record for African-Americans in North Dallas and beyond. Whether mentoring youth in journalism through summer reading programs or spotlighting civic opportunities, Jones has remained true to the publication’s original mission: empowerment through information.

In 2012, Jones was recognized by the NAACP of Irving-Carrollton as “Business of the Year” for his outstanding contribution to the community. This honor underscores what some readers already knew. NDG isn’t just a newspaper. It’s a pillar of the community. In fact, NDG has twice received the A. Philip Randolph Award – also called the “Gentle Warrior Award” – recognizing civil rights leadership on a national level.

A Legacy of Change, A Future of Purpose

Over the past three decades, NDG has played a crucial role in holding institutions accountable and empowering readers with knowledge and opportunity. From exposing redlining to boosting nonprofit housing initiatives, from helping families find jobs and shelter to sponsoring scholarships and internships for young journalists, the publication has proven that journalism can be a catalyst for systemic change.

But NDG has never sought comfort in past accolades. Instead, it continues to look forward, recognizing that “change is not produced by complacent people.”

A Community’s Paper

The North Dallas Gazette remains a grassroots-driven publication. It amplifies voices from every corner of the community; educators, pastors, students, business owners, and civic leaders. Readers are not passive consumers, instead they are active participants. The “Letters to the Editor” section has been for a long time a forum for ideas, dissent, celebration, and accountability. Each issue of NDG carries job listings, business opportunities, commentary from trusted leaders, and resources for personal and professional growth. In an era where representation matters more than ever, NDG shows and showcases true hope, struggles, and achievements of the North Texas African-American community.

Why Advertisers Trust NDG

If you want to reach African-American consumers in North Dallas—real decision-makers with real buying power—NDG is your platform. It’s the only publication of its kind focused squarely on this vibrant market. Whether you’re a corporate brand seeking cultural alignment or a local entrepreneur looking to expand your reach, NDG connects you directly with readers who are informed, engaged, and ready to support businesses that support them. Advertising dollars go further when they work in service of truth, representation, and relevance. NDG isn’t just a wise business choice—it’s the right one.

Looking Ahead: The Best Is Yet to Come

The story of NDG is far from finished. As we continue to grow, we remain anchored by the values that started it all—truth, community, courage, and vision. We’re still here. Still pushing the envelope. Still giving a voice to the voiceless. Still educating, challenging, celebrating, and informing. The offices may have moved from central Dallas to Irving, but the mission remains unchanged: serve the people, speak the truth, and build a future where opportunity is available to all.

In the words of our late Chairman Emeritus, Jim Bochum: “Keep on keeping on—and go get it.”

Join us. Read. Advertise. Share. Be heard.