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Ward 7 Councilwoman Jannie Thomas held a Ribbon Cutting on Monday for Rosjah J. Butler Jr. Memorial Greenery Park.

The Park was named in honor of Butler, a three-year-old child who was murdered on April 27, 2010 at the 1400 block of Church Street. Butler was killed when one of the three bullets that went through the walls of the home struck him in the chest, while he was playing next to his sister.

Members of the family attended the ceremony, and Thomas praised them for their courage.

According to law enforcement, and civic leaders, Ward 7 has suffered the most murders in years compared to other Wards.

Thomas credited former Selma Mayor George Evans for igniting her Stop the Violence slogan. Evans’ widow, Jeannie Evans, attended the event.
“I thank former Mayor George Evans for starting this with me,” Thomas said.

Dallas County Commissioner Curtis Williams, who has Ward 7 in his district, praised Thomas for her leadership and determination.

“Councilwoman Jannie Thomas has represented Ward 7 well,” Williams said. “She’s done a great job. I thank God for her.”

State Senator Robert Stewart said he used to live in Ward 7 and never forgot his roots.

Thomas thanked several businesses  for their assistance, including Snow’s Cleaning Service, Domino’s Pizza and Cash and Carry.

Snow’s Cleaning Service Owner LeMarkus A. Snow said he was glad to see the Ward 7 community and political leaders rally behind Thomas.

“Since the death of Rosjah J . Butler Jr. Councilwoman Jannie Thomas since getting elected said she’d fight to get this park named after him,” Snow said. “It’s been a long time coming but the day came. The tears of joy from the family tells it all. Ward 7 has been cursed with so many senseless murders but Councilwoman Thomas has been on hand since day one trying to clean the entire neighborhood up.”

Selma City Councilwomen Lesia James, Christie Thomas, and Dallas County Clerk Lynnethia Bennett, attended the event.