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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017 | FREE
AframNews
VOL. 22 ISSUE 36
AframNews
African-American News and Issues Newspaper
Did You Know?
“FORTY ACRES AND A MULE”
Greater Houston Area
Do Not Remove the Confederate Statues Colin Powell
Charles Drew Benjamin Banneker
In 1870, only around 30,000 African Americans in the South owned land (usually small plots), compared with 4 million others who did not. Power In Land Ownership In 2012, the number of black farmers in the United States was 44,629. This was a 12 percent increase percent since 2007, when the last agriculture census was conducted. That number is up 12 percent since 2007; most live in southern states. Nationally, black farmers were 1.4 percent of the country’s 3.2 million farmers in 2012. Ninety percent lived in twelve southern states.
Alexander T. Augusta
“Though, they quietly lost the war they put up them statues in our damn face, as a reminder that we still stand…” – Roy Douglas Malonson SEE PAGE 4
Marcus Garvey
Robert Smalls
Medgar Evans
MEET MR. ANDREW RICHARDS FOUNDER & CEO OF
Texas has more Black farmers than any other state, but they make up only 3 percent of the state’s total farmers. Freestone County, Texas, had more black farmers than any other county. Black farmers make up a larger share of total farmers in Mississippi (12%), Louisiana (7%), South Carolina (7%), Alabama (6%), and Georgia (4%). The 33,371 Black farms combined for an economic impact of $846 million in agricultural products and operated 3.6 million acres of farmland. History’s “Smoke and Mirrors” about Early Black Landownership With the southern economy in disarray after the abolition of slavery and the devastation of the Civil War, conflict arose between many white landowners attempting to reestablish a labor force and freed blacks seeking economic independence and autonomy. Many former slaves expected the federal government to give them a certain amount of land as compensation for all the work they had done during the slavery era. Union General William T. Sherman had encouraged this expectation in early 1865 by granting a number of freed men 40 acres each of the abandoned land left in the wake of his army.
SEE PG 5
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African
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American News&Issues
Editorial & Opinion
Walking a Mile in Blue Moccasins The Black Whisperer Darwin Campbell, Senior Journalist
S
upporting the Blue is getting harder to do each time a news story breaks about an officer not being indicted or charged in the death of a citizen. However, the perception of the police is shaped by the media and at this stage it appears that police feel that the news media treats them unfairly. The rioting in St. Louis over the deadly incident involving a police
Roy Douglas Malonson Chairman Shirley Ann Malonson President/C.E.O. Chandra Jarmon
Production/Editor
Kimberly Taylor
Production Asst.
Darwin Campbell
Senior Journalist
Chelsea Davis-Bibb
Journalist
Rebecca S. Jones
Contributing Writer
General: news@aframnews.com Ads: sales@aframnews.com Website: www.aframnews.com African-American News&Issues is published by African-American News & Issues, Inc., 6130 Wheatley Street, Houston, Texas 77091, (713) 692-1892. Our office hours are Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm. The entire contents of the paper are copyrighted by African-American News & Issues, Inc. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. African-American News&Issues is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the publisher. African-American News&Issues assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material, unless accompanied by a self-address stamped envelope.
Letter to the Editor
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e welcome all original responses from our readers to content found in the African-American News&Issues. Letters to the Publisher may be sent via e-mail to news@aframnews.com. Please keep all letters under 300 words. Be sure to include the author’s name, area of residence. All letters and articles may be verified before they are published. All letters are subjected to editing or being cut for spacing purposes. Thank you in advance for your submission.
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officer has been widely presented in media, print and social media. How does this kind of reporting affect the image of the police overall across America?
Bad rap? Most US police officers see significant challenges on the job in the wake of high-profile incidents involving law enforcement and black citizens. Among those challenges is a widespread feeling among officers that police are mistreated by the media, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey conducted by the National Police Research Platform. About eight-in-ten officers or (81%) who work in departments of 100 or more sworn officers say the media generally treat the police unfairly, according to the survey. Just 18% of officers disagree. About four-in-ten officers (42%) strongly agree that the media are unfair to police. Officers who have a strongly negative view about the way they are treated by the media also are more likely than their colleagues to see a disconnect between themselves and the public. Understand their pressures dealing with millions of people in major US cities. For example, did you know that the number of murders increased by almost 60 percent in the city of Chicago last year? And as you will see below, this year gang violence in the Windy City has risen to record new levels adding to the meanness and viciousness of the beats. In 2016, the number of murders in the city jumped nearly 60 percent to over 760, more than New York and Los Angeles combined. There were more than 4,300 shooting victims in the city last year, according to police. This pressure is repeated day in and day out in every US city. How unfair is it to report what is happening on our streets?. I don’t believe that is the issue. Perhaps, the larger picture of media reporting is the overemphasis of police overreactions, rudeness, rough heavy handedness, brutality and use of deadly force.
This creates the kind of panic and uncontrolled frenzy we see infecting our streets that boils over into the kind of stories that report violence, arrests of citizens and property damage. It is further promoted by groups wanting to destroy the unity and calmness in the community with their ungodly chants of hate that promotes killing and hurting all police.
Understand Where Police Stand in the Fight According to Pew Research, for police, attitudes about media bias are linked to other feelings about their jobs. Officers who feel strongly that the media treat police unfairly, for example, are more likely than their colleagues to say their work as a law enforcement officer nearly always or often makes them feel frustrated and even angry. Roughly two-thirds of officers (65%) who strongly agree that the media treat police unfairly say their work always or often makes them feel frustrated, and about one-in-three (31%) say it makes them feel angry. Feelings of frustration or anger are significantly less common among officers who don’t feel as strongly about media coverage of police. Further analysis would be needed to determine what comes first for police – cynicism about media coverage or feelings of frustration and anger – but these attitudes are clearly related. I think a little of both. The perception given of them by news media is projected nationwide and that image is painted on every cop walking a beat or driving a police car. That in turn creates hostility with the public and the community leading to the kinds of disrespect and rowdy rebellions we saw in St. Louis. Is it Us or is it Them? Before you go off think that most of those men and women are simply doing a job and do not deserve that kind of disrespect or threat as they protect us on a daily basis. Bad reporting or bad raps promoted by media clouds the image of the Boys in Blue and that shapes the public image that all cops are bad people and are the evil enemy who wants to kill us – That is just not true. I suggest you run far from a newspaper, television program or
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017
President Donald Trump Publisher of Groves Standard Billy “Hollywood” Groves
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ust like everybody else, I’m still trying to get my mindset right concerning America’s latest President. Where do you start? How can you wrap your mind around someone who is so out of character with American values on all levels and who happens to be the 45th President of the United States? The next logical question to ask is,
“Why would the citizens of America vote for a man who has displayed so much crazy, racist, anti-everything-American behavior to become the President?”
This is my opinion and mine alone on why Donald Trump got elected. For starters, America is still a divided, confused nation that has truly never dealt with racism in America. It seems like anybody who shows respect for White supremacy—people like David Duke and others—along with disrespect for non-White people, have already made themselves a favorite among a large segment of racist America. Then you have the poor people who think that they should be living better and have more money than a lot of the minority groups in America. They, almost to a person, believe the system is rigged against them because they can’t get wealthy.
Another base for Trump is wealthy people of all races who see Trump as someone who will help them protect their wealth and get even richer. Now let’s get to the so-called religious people who follow and voted for Trump. The reason I call them “so-called” religious people is because they abandoned every principle that Christianity is based on to support Trump. How many so called Christians believe God would look favorably at a man who has said and done the things that Trump has done? As they say, “Birds of a Feather Flock together”. How could any patriotic American vote for a candidate who supported using stolen personal information off the internet by the nation of Russia and their leader Putin. We all know that if a black man had said and done what Trump has said and done; he would not have a chance of being elected “dog catcher,” not to mention President of the United States! The most alarming part of Trump’s rhetoric and actions is his Hitler-like approach to American media. He has tried to intimidate the media with his outlandish behavior. What Trump is going to find out is that he is not going to be able to silence the true voice of America. I will end this article by saying the people who voted for Trump for whatever reasons, got the man they wanted. The only problem with that is, I am convinced that “they actually don’t know who Donald Trump really is”. God Bless America. Read more articles online @ www.aframnews.com
activist group who constantly harps about hurting Americans just trying to do the simple job of serving and protecting us.
the public they are sworn to serve and protect – Those are the ones who get that media attention that stoke the flames of hate and discontent.
I believe that the police have difficult job protecting all of us and we must understand that.
I call on people to start researching information on police and others for yourself. Don’t walk out blind into the streets marching and screaming about issues and situations where you don’t have all the facts.
However, the anger and attitudes of many a cop have been demonstrated by words and actions of officers caught on tape or on body cameras misbehaving or being downright as*$h#les to
Continue reading online @ www.aframnews.com
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017
Editorial & Opinion
Thank God For Ruby Bridges The Overflow By Chelsea Davis-Bibb, M.Ed
I
wasn’t around during the time of segregation, and I can’t even begin to imagine what things were like during that time period. I want to start by first saying Happy Belated Birthday to Ruby Bridges. She turned 63 on September 8th.
I remember the first time I learned about her, and her impact on the world. I was intrigued by her bravery, and her ability to do something that no one had done before in the South, as she was the first African American student to integrate a White elementary school. Her story stuck with me, and will always be one that I’ll never forget. One interesting fact that was made known while reading about her was that Bridges was born the exact same year of the Brown v. Board of Education decision, which desegregated schools. It was destined for her to walk the path that she did. The fact that she lived close to an all White school, but had to attend school numerous miles away baffled me. I can’t imagine walking past a school close to my home, but not being able to attend due to my skin color. Bridges was also one of the few African American students who were able to pass the test that allowed them entry into the White schools. The test was known to be difficult as the idea was for the African American students to fail so that they wouldn’t have a
chance to integrate the school systems. How familiar does that sound? In today’s society, standardized testing has caused many students to not experience great success in their education. In some cases, many students haven’t been able to graduate from high school due to the students not being able to pass the test. Is it ironic that research shows that minorities, specifically African American students perform the lowest on standardized tests? Is it safe to say that we still have a system in place for some of our students to failI’ll let you think about that.
I admire Bridges, as her journey was not an easy one. She received numerous threats, and was isolated from the rest of the school due to her skin color. These are just two of many things that she endured, and let’s not forget that she was just a kid in elementary school experiencing all of this. When I think about elementary kids, I think about innocence, and how they are still learning about the world around them. They are still like sponges at that age just trying to soak up what their environment is offering them, and for Bridges, it was nothing but negativity, hatred, and racism. However, it was her mental strength and family that helped her endure her journey. We can learn a lot from Bridges, as we can connect to her story in one way or another. Maybe you didn’t have to go through exactly what she went through, but I am sure you have been faced with an obstacle that was challenging. For me, Bridges reminds me to never give up. Continue reading online @ www.aframnews.com
African
American News&Issues
Are Banks Doing Enough to Aid Community Disaster Relief Efforts in the Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey?
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he Community Reinvestment Act, is it “window dressing” or can we count on it to ensure banks will do their part in rebuilding our community?
In case you didn’t know, the Community Reinvestment Act is intended to encourage depository institutions to help meet the credit needs of the communities in which they operate, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations. It was enacted to address the practice of redlining. 1. “Redlining” refers to the practice whereby lending institutions refused to offer home loans in certain neighborhoods, based on the income, racial or ethnic composition of the area. The term “redlining” stems from some lenders’ practice of using a red pencil to outline such areas. The CRA has extended and clarified the long-standing expectation that banks will serve the convenience and needs of their local communities. Banks make big promises to support especially when it comes to making the grade on their CRA Performance. Banks can receive one of four ratings: Outstanding, Satisfactory, Needs to Improve or Substantial Noncompliance. The latter two ratings can make or break the bank by impacting its ability to to grow and expand in the community. We MUST Understand the law not only holds banks accountable for their record of lending in low to moderate income communities, but it also says they must invest and serve (provide money and volunteer) to support programs that address the needs of the community. In other words, banks are graded on how they respond to needs of low to moderate income communities. Those communities that might otherwise be “redlined” or deemed undesirable to invest or pursue business opportunities. Every bank has a tag line, they use it to help customers remember who they are and what they do. For example you probably heard “What’s
in your wallet?” There are many others but one in particular stands out to me in the days and weeks following the storm relative to the banking industry’s response to Hurricane Harvey. This bank says their committed to “...raising your expectations of what a bank can be...”. Hmm, as I thought about that and began to look at all the announced relief efforts by major corporations and in particular banks, I must say I have been a little underwhelmed by the banks response to the community in the wake of the catastrophic events that we have experienced in Texas but particularly in Houston the 4th largest city as Mayor Turner and many of our officials tout. I scratch my head as I ride down the street and note the number of banks upon banks in more affluent areas of our city and then other communities are virtual “banking deserts.” Again, I ask is CRA for real or is it just fancy “window dressing?” I did a little research and it seems that some banks have made some real commitments and others have not. We MUST Understand all or most banks have made substantial contributions to Red Cross that happened within days of the storm, $100,000 or more. This is what majority of organizations would do. But for a Texas based bank that says they are “raising expectations” I expected a more robust response. Wells Fargo, Bank of America, JP Morgan have given at least $1 million with apportions going to Red Cross and local nonprofits (boots on the ground) organizations whose are in direct contact with their communities. What about the small business owners, what are the banks doing to help them come bank online. Small business is the “economics engine” of our economy. Are banks investing in helping those that drive our economy to recover. I don’t see much happening outside of FEMA and SBA. Has your community banker been out or sponsored a meeting in your community to discuss your needs? While I realize we are all trying to recover,
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We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman
banks that have a regional presence should be at the forefront like first responders in hot pursuit of its customers and community base to lend assistance to recovery efforts. As a small business or business chamber, has your lender or someone from the their Community Development or Community Reinvestment Department contacted you since the storm. Probably not... that would be a “raise your expectation” response. Again, effective legislation or mere “window dressing”... I’m not sure? I’ve seen many individual contributors step up and commit $1 million to the relief effort. If one person can commit $1 million think how much more a bank can do. Banks take our individual and business deposits, invest and lend us money and pay us little to no interest in comparison to what they profit from investing our deposits and the interest charged on loans they make in the community. They make 100 of millions of dollars to return to their shareholders many of whom do not reflect the community. Don’t be fooled by the window dressing, it seems like a modern day sharecropper system to me. I don’t say that aimlessly, I checked the earnings of the top 25 banks in Texas and as it March 31, 2017 banks particularly the larger banks reported Net Income (that’s after all the bills are paid) between $29,000,000 and 215,000,000 or more depending on the size and assets of the bank. This is profit made from your deposits and loans. I think they an afford to part with $1,000,000 to address an event of this magnitude. Here’s the short list of some of the most notable Texas Bank’s reported net income by assets and their commitment to the Harvey relief effort. #1. JP Morgan - Net Income was not available but they announced at least $1,000,000 with in days of the storm/ flooding - August 28, 2017 Continue reading online @ www.aframnews.com
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African
American News&Issues
Statues from pg. 1 HOUSTON - Marcus Garvey, one of the most powerful African-Americans to exist, shared a truth that heavily relates to the cultural history of our nation. He said,
“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” I thought on these words in regards to the recent issue concerning the removal of several Confederate statues around the country. I have no objection at all in regards to leaving the Confederate monuments that have adorned this nation for decades, in place. The history of confederacy and all that it stood for should remain in place; because it is a vital ornament of American History. In fact, I believe removing the statues eliminates the truth behind the strength of oppression that was imposed on Black slaves, years ago. However, the only request that I have is that in each place that a Confederate statue is exemplified, there should be an equal balance of Blacks displayed. After all, it was slaves who built this country and laid its very foundation. Confederacy and slavery are integral elements of American history and people need to know our children need to know – the world needs to know. An adequate reflection of the deep hatred and jealousy that existed in the mentalities of the confederates needs to be exposed. People need to understand that these great generals, lieutenants and commanders, who are held as idols in modern society; were harsh on imposing slavery measures and completely against equal rights for Blacks. This is why I am stressing that the statues should not be removed, because the true history behind them is one of the most crucial pieces to American history. In some cases, it appears as if some type of mockery is being made at the expense of AfricanAmericans. There are countless of cities with Black mayors in which these Confederate soldier statues stand tall. Many people are not aware of the true history of the Confederate. Although, they quietly lost the war they put up them statues in our damn face, as a reminder that we still stand… It’s almost as if they are laughing from the grave saying, ‘Yeah, we lost, but we still in your face everywhere you go; and the only power you have is what we gave you.’ These statues are all over the South, many of which have been in place for over a century. Houston is no exception to the rule compelled by the Southern spirit of Confederacy, either. If you don’t believe me, just take a ride near the medical center towards Sam Houston Park. There you will see the bronze statue of Dick Dowling, above an inscription which reads, “The Spirit of the Confederacy.” That monument TX- 4
Cover Story
has highlighted the area since its introductory unveiling on January 19, 1908. It was at that time, that like-minded Houstonians gathered to celebrate the birthdays of General Robert E. Lee and Gen. Stonewall Jackson. Though I have just shared one example, this experience is prevalent in various cities and towns throughout these United States, especially in the Southern region. History of the Confederacy By no means am I being impartial when it comes to exposing truths behind the true history of our country. Therefore, I will provide our readers with brief background information as it relates to the Confederacy. First of all, Webster defines the term confederate as, “a person one who works with, especially in something secret or illegal; an accomplice”. Furthermore, it describes confederate as being, “joined by an agreement or treaty”. So for our understanding, amidst the time of the American Civil War (1861), there were 11 states that seceded from the union. These states became known as the Confederate States of America. In correlation to the actual meaning of confederate; these 11 states agreed to conduct a separate government within the union. None of these states wanted President Abraham Lincoln’s, declaration of the Emancipation Proclamation changing their way of life, by freeing the slaves. History.com revealed that these states promoted the preservation of, “slavery, states’ rights and political liberty for Whites”. The Confederate States of America originated with seven states including: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and Texas. The other four joined once the war that the Confederates initiated began in Fort Sumter. Those states were: Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. For four years, these states vigorously warred with the union at an attempt to acquire their succession, with Jefferson Davis serving as president. Thousands of lives were lost as a result of the war and billions of dollars were spent. The main motivation behind the brutal bloodshed of these Southern confederates was the mindset that, “Black lives didn’t matter.” Since that time, there have been several key players, who have been memorialized, with statues erected and dedicated in honor of their allegiance to the Spirit of the Confederacy. The Southern Poverty Law Center recently reported that there are at least “1,503 Confederate symbols displayed in public spaces”. A few of the statues honoring diehard Confederates include: General Robert E. Lee, President Jefferson Davis, Albert Sidney Johnson, John Reagan, James Stephen Hogg, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, General Nathan Bedford Forrest, Joseph Wheeler, Henry Watkins Allen and J.E.B.
Texas • September - October 1, 2017 Texas25 • August 12-18, 2013
Stuart, just to list a few. As previously fore mentioned many of these statues have stood for at least a century, or more. However all of a sudden, citizens appear to be outraged behind these symbols of American history, which represent the dark period of slavery that prevailed within these United States. An Equal Balance Should Exist… The scales of history should remain balanced if the true history is going to be told. Hence, there is no need to remove the Confederate statues the playing field should just be leveled. There should be equal Indian-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Chinese-American and triple African-American statues. Emphasis should definitely be placed on the African-American community, because we are the ones who literally built the country. The reflection of the true rainbow color and history of these United States needs to be exemplified, instead of just highlighting the majority race. But, as long as it’s a one-sided version of history depicted, there will always be a problem because they are only telling their story. In the present-day, we are witnessing an obvious whitewash of the administration of former President Barack Obama. Despite his own transgressions, Donald Trump has been on a war path trying to destroy the footprints of the former POTUS. Yet, this is no new concept being demonstrated within this nation. There are many influential African-Americans who have left remarkable footprints in American history, whose works and efforts have been swept under the rug. Oftentimes great leaders like, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Booker T. Washington and Frederick Douglas are placed out on the forefront to represent the African-American culture. Perhaps many feel that their messages and contributions are more acceptable than some of our other greats. However, I wanted to share a few names of people that are definitely worthy to stand beside these Confederate statues. The way I see it, everywhere there is a Confederate statue, there should be at least three or four Black monuments right alongside it. Amongst the top of the list should be Marcus Garvey and Malcolm X. These are two leaders of all times that were strong supporters of Black equality, economic wealth, respect and power. Though their tones and messages did not always resonate in a way that their White counterparts could respect, they still fervently presented their views of empowerment. Other powerful Blacks such as: Benjamin Banneker, Colin Powell, Charles Drew, A. Phillip Randolph and Medgar Evers and many others deserve a place in American history. Just
“You can keep your confederate statues just balance it out with our Black statues and give credit where credit is due.
as the Confederates, there were scores of Black folks who fought in the war that should be honored for their action. As in the case of Robert Smalls, who engineered a successful plot to steal a boat from the Confederates. His act of bravery afforded him the privilege to appear before President Abraham Lincoln. From this experience he was able to convince the President to allow Blacks into the Union Army. Another was, Aaron Anderson, he received a Medal of Honor for his role in sparing himself and his crewmembers when they were under attack by hundreds of Confederate soldiers. Dr. Alexander Thomas Augusta became the first Black physician and operated in the Union Army. He rose to the rank of Major and became a poster boy for equality for Blacks. Miles James fought as a soldier in the army, in which case he lost his arm to being shot while in battle. Even in the face of the enemy, he remained in the war and continued firing against the enemies. Sergeant James Daniel Gardner received his promotion and a Medal of Honor for shooting and courageously stabbing a Confederate officer. Nonetheless, space will not allow me the opportunity to present ALL of the Black folks who have made major contributions to American society, because the list is endless. Concluding, space will not allow me the opportunity to present ALL of the Black folks who have made major contributions to American society, because the list is endless. But, if Confederate images that have stood within these United States were coupled with those of others who fought for “Our Cause”, were revealed; the true reflection of American history could be exemplified. Accordingly, there would be no need to remove the Confederate statues, because an equal balance would exist. By: Roy Douglas Malonson
Texas • September 25 - October 1, 2017 Black Heritage from pg. 1
Entertainment
HOUSTON – Performing artists, Eric Benet, Tamia, Elle Varner, Young Lyric and a host of others will be live on September 30, at Discovery Green - Houston Downtown Park. The Houston Black Heritage Music and Arts Festival in partnership with, EBONY Media Operations will celebrate its 3rd annual event. The festival will feature an interactive youth zone, band and step competition from local Houston high schools, amidst other activities. In wake of the recent catastrophic events of Hurricane Harvey, organizers are anticipating that this festival will help uplift the spirits’ of Houstonians and provide a refreshing outpouring to all affected. A portion of the proceeds received will benefit students of Texas Southern University, the alma mater of Founder, Richard Andrews. WHAT IS THE HOUSTON BLACK HERITAGE MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL? The Houston Black Heritage Music and Arts Festival (HBHMAF) is an, “all-day cultural affair that features inspirational speakers, Black exhibits, nationallyrenowned musicians, artists, spoken word and craftspeople, both locally and nationally.” The celebration was designed to, “promote historical and cultural solidarity.” While the inception of this festival dates back to over a decade, it has officially premiered for three years. Thus, it has become a glorious experience, which accommodates a gallery of events for all ages. It educates in the areas of Health & Wellness, financial empowerment and uplifts self-expression; while incorporating, “the unique blend of African and African-American style and culture”. EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH FOUNDER RICHARD ANDREWS, OF THE HOUSTON BLACK HERITAGE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL Behind the Scenes: Inspiration through Music Richard Andrews hails from the small community of Amite, located in the Tangipahoa Parish of Louisiana. At an early age, he developed a passion for music. Stemming from a large family, he recalls his grandfather hosting weekend dance contests. Family members and locals from the area would gather to participate in what he describes as a, “love-fest”. From the exuberant joy that he saw demonstrated, he became fascinated with the spirit of music. Furthermore, he would often walk miles to various events throughout the parish, as a child to see famed entertainers. He shared that he once journeyed six miles as an adolescent to an outdoor concert. Upon his arrival, the organizers welcomed him behind the scenes and he fell in love with the orchestration he witnessed. Later in his life, these experiences served as contributing influences into the work that he would perform.
In the early 90’s, Andrews relocated to Houston. Upon entrance, he began promoting hip-hop artists from Louisiana, such as DJ Jimi and others. This privileged him with the opportunity to be one of the first to introduce, “Bounce music”, to the Astro City. Nevertheless, he stills accredits those early years of watching great entertainers perform, which transitioned into an interest in promoting. He said, “I enjoyed seeing those huge concerts and festivals, everybody was smiling and having
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a good time. I didn’t see no arguing and it was just a love-fest to me, and that never left my mind.” He continued, “Watching people dancing along with the artists and just enjoying themselves to the fullest; I knew one day that I was going to be in a position to put on events like those, on a wide scale. So, that’s where the music part of it originated.” DESIGNED THROUGH CULTURE Later on in his life, Andrews was selected to act in a play known as, The Harlem Renaissance. He was featured in The Harlem Renaissance, for three years. His role in the performance, spiked his curiosity into the, “Golden Age of Harlem”. Through his infatuation with the Renaissance experience, he commenced on a fiveyear tour to Harlem. Enthralled by the “big-band, music, art and poetic scenes” of the Renaissance, Andrews was inspired to incorporate this cultural design into the festival that he would later introduce to Houston. He said, “I knew that I wanted to bring all of this in the form of a festival, but I didn’t know the name. While I was on Lennox Avenue, the name Black Heritage Fest, came to me and stuck with me.” “So, I wanted to promote all of the beautiful things that people were doing in Houston and give back to my alma mater; that’s how all of this was created,” he added. INFLUENCED BY HEALTH In recent years, Andrews was faced with the burdensome task of losing five family members to breast cancer. More recently, his 43-year-old brother succumbed to a tiresome battle with lung cancer. Heavily impacted by these losses, Andrews maintains that he had to create a platform that would raise awareness and touch lives. Thus, he felt compelled to implement a Health & Wellness forum into the HBHMAF.
All of these varying factors helped to evolve the Houston Black Heritage Music and Arts Festival into what it has become today. Andrews says, “Houston is a world-class city. It’s a melting pot! Black is the essence from which all colors come from. Heritage, honor, pride, dignity and respect, makes me think about people like: Mickey Leland, Barbara Johnson and Mr. Conrad Johnson; who inspired so many people at Kashmere, in the form of music. Music is universal. Sometimes when you’re in a certain mood, all you need to uplift your spirit is to, listen to a certain song and you’re up and running again. Art is a form of self-expression and all these, are where the name is derived from.” Though Andrews has been in Houston for over a couple of decades, he has never forgotten his roots. He believes that it is important to embrace heritage and culture. He shared, “Texas and Louisiana are like brothers and sisters. You have a lot of people from Louisiana that live in Houston now. Just look at what happened during Hurricane Katrina. Houston opened their arms and people came and it was just a love-fest. Even more, recently witnessing the actions demonstrated during Hurricane Harvey, it reminded me of the heart of Houston… People didn’t care what color you were, where you were from, they just gave you a hand. They just went into people’s
Richard Andrews & Kimberly Willis
houses and saved them. So to me, that’s love right there and we want to keep that going during this festival.”
While in Louisiana, Andrews dropped out of college. However, once he realized the importance of education in his career path he re-enrolled at Texas Southern University. As a result, he has earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. He was determined to aspire to a higher level professionally and simultaneously accomplished his academic goals, while engineering the HBHMAF.
Concluding, Andrews says, “African-Americans have a glorious history and are a resilient people. That blood runs in my veins as well and it’s just beautiful to promote that.” He encourages the African-American community to come together and support one another. “We have gone through so much over the years and came out stronger; it takes a village for us to really thrive. So we need to keep on keeping on and be an example to our youth,” he added.
HBHMAF is grateful for the partnership of its sponsors which include: EBONY, Day Edwards Agency, KTSU 90.9, Frenchy’s Chicken, Bud Light, Yelp, The City of Houston, Houston Arts Alliance, AfricanAmerican News&Issues, Houston Style Magazine, KYND 1520, Larry Green Houston City Council District K, Buffalo Soldiers Museum, Compassion and the Principle Partnering Group, LLC, just to list a few.
Additionally, Andrews offered a word of appreciation to, Mr. Darryl King. He says, “King has been a huge supporter of this event, since day one and I can’t thank him enough.” Andrews also acknowledges two of his professors from his alma mater; Dr. Cabil and Dr. Reynolds, who were very instrumental in encouraging him in the formation of the HBHMAF. For more information or details about the HBHMAF visit www.houstonblackheritagefestival.com or contact (832) 651-8135. By: Rebecca S. Jones TX- 5
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African
American News&Issues
Acres Home Chamber for Business & Economic Development. Inc.
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017
Monthly Business Networking Luncheon
BRIAN G. BUSBY, Chief Operating Officer of Houston Independent School District
Brian Busby is the Chief Operating Officer for the Houston Independent School District and is responsible for all Business Operations areas. His career with HISD began two years after graduating from high school when Busby started working at HISD as a custodian. He later worked in the district’s payroll and accounting offices, and most recently served as the district’s Officer of Facilities Services.
is also responsible for a bus fleet of almost 1,000 buses that travel over 15 million miles annually and a food services operation that serves more than 280,000 meals each day. Business Operations includes: facilities maintenance, construction (bond), transportation, nutrition services, business assistance, risk management, insurance, warehousing, and other related business areas.
In this role as COO, Busby provides leadership to a workforce of more than 7,000 employees and administers an annual operating budget of over $260 million. The Business Operations Team oversees construction bond programs totaling more than $3 billion and a real estate portfolio with over 30 million square feet of facility space in more than 600 buildings at more than 300 locations spread out over 300 square miles. The team
A graduate of the University of Phoenix and the University of Houston, Busby received his bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in business administration. He has served as an active member of the Association of Business Professionals, Texas Association of School Business Officials and the Cleaning Industry Association. He is also a member of the Executive MBA national Honor Society.
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Business
Brian G. Busby
Information is Power!
By: William Reed, publisher of “Who’s Who in Black Corporate America” and available for projects via Busxchng@his.com
Where do you tune for “noteworthy information”? The mantra of media maven Catherine Liggins Hughes is “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating and that education is the premise of progress.” Hughes would say that it’s important for the survival of our race and culture survival that Blacks be in control our own narrative. Cathy Hughes is at the highest level of “telling it your way, before some else gets to tell it – and possibly telling it better – their way.” In broadcasting, film and publishing the Hughes family is compiling an enviable record of providing Blacks accurate and uplifting reporting. More Blacks should start relating to Hughes’ brand of programming to Blacks, because of what she does to
enhance our self-image. For over 35 years Hughes has been the leading voice speaking to and about Black America. Ms. Hughes business and personal challenge is to connect and communicate with Black people. The epitome of a Black media enthusiast, Hughes is taking advantage of new video techniques and economics as she and son gobble up the whole distribution framework. Between 2011 and 2015, ad spending for broadcast TV shows to predominately black audiences rose by 255 percent; Urban One is the largest distributor of urban content in the country. Urban One was founded by Cathy Hughes as Radio One in 1980. Over the past 40 years, Liggins Hughes and her son Alfred Liggins III, have climbed the ladder
of success to be to be among the nation’s wealthiest Blacks with a combined worth of $460 million. Hughes and son have emphasized emphasizes black culture. Their new company, Urban One is a $100 million-ayear firm representative of what Black media could and should be. An advocate for Blacks “taking care of business”, Hughes works for, and with Black businesses. Hughes’ properties and platforms are Black-culture oriented. Millions of Blacks know Urban One through Radio One properties and Reach Media, Inc.’s “Tom Joyner Morning Show.” While Blacks retract at the word “urban” but “urban content” actually images positive Black. Continue reading online @ www.aframnews.com
EDITION DATE: September 25, - October 1, 20 DITION DATE: September 18 - 24, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 35) Heading Title: Public Notice TION DATE: September 25 - October 1, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 36) Texas • September 25 - October 1, 2017
What’s Happenin’ Marketplace Heading:
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Notice PUBLIC NOTICE
Houston Community College Request for Proposals (RFP) 3D Metrology Workstation System Project No. 18-02
Contact Information Name: Art Lopez Phone: 713.718.7463 Email: arturo.lopez@hccs.edu Address for Tearsheet/Copies: 3100 Main Street Fleet Operations Supervisor Position Houston, Texas 77002
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Read us online! www. aframnews. com Contact Information: Name: Mo Sharara Company: CenterPoint Energy NOTICE PUBLIC Phone: 713-207-3082 The City ofFax: Houston (City), through its Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD), will submit Email: its Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Program Year mohammed.sharara@centerpointenergy.com 2016 (July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2017), to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Address for Tearsheets: (HUD), no later OctoberStreet 27, 2017. The CAPER is an annual report that describes the use of the 1111than Louisiana following Entitlement Grants: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Houston, TX 77002
te and Sealed sizeproposals of will Ad to run in AAN&I’s Greater Houston edition. Partnerships Program (HOME) Grant, Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and Housing Opportunities be received in for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Grant. Procurement Operations (3100 Main DITION DATE: September 18 24, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 35) Street, Room No. 11B01, Houston, AD toCOST The public has fifteen (15) days comment on this item. The fifteen-day comment period extends Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local Fact Sheet from Wednesday, September 20, 2017 to Thursday, October 5, 2017. The draft Program Year 2016 TION DATE: September 25 October 1, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 36) time) on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Summary: The Fleet Operations Supervisor is responsible CAPER will be available for review at the following locations: Total Cost to run Ad for one week:
Documents can be obtained at: • Online at www.houstontx.gov/housing AD COST the company’s service area. $882.00 Rate and size of Ad . toequipment run within in AAN&I’s Houston edition. • Main Public Library – 500 McKinney Street, 77002 Marketplace Heading: • HCDD Office – 601 Sawyer Street, Suite 400, 77007 PUBLICSept NOTICE Notice may be obtained ON DATE: 25 -• October 1, 2017, 2017 (Vol. 22(Copies Issue 36)at this location, upon request) Cost toPublic run ad for 2 weeks Commuting privilege in company vehicle for the safety and reliability of CenterPoint Energy’s fleet
Na Co De Ph Fa Em Ad 601 Ho
www.hccs.edu/procurement
Information about the Fleet Operations Supervisor Position
Houston Community College Request for Proposals (RFP) Strategic Planning Services Project No. 18-01
Sealed proposals will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11B01, Houston, Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Documents can be obtained at:
$260.64 Competitive pay Public comments may be submitted by email to: Fatima Wajahat at Fatima.Wajahat@houstontx.gov; Contact Information Employee benefit package or by mail to: HCDD ATTN: Fatima Wajahat, 601 Sawyer Street, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77007. A Name: Marilyn M. Vega • 401K summary of comments received will be included in the final CAPER and will be posted to the HCDD 713.718.7410 • PaidPhone: sick leave website, upon submission to HUD. • PaidEmail: vacationmarilyn.vega@hccs.edu Heading Title:For specific questions or concerns about fair housing or landlord/tenant relations, please contact Royce Annual bonus Address for Tearsheet/Copies: Public Notice Sells at 832.394.6240. For more information about HCDD and its programs, please access HCDD’s Educational assistance website at www.houstontx.gov/housing. 3100 Main Street Opportunities for advancement Houston, Texas 77002 Contact Information: Monday thru Friday work schedule FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY MONDAY Work life option (9/80 work schedule) OCTOBER 13-15 OCTOBER 16, 2017 Sharon K. Ognowski Company provided cell phone Name: and laptop St. Monica Catholic Booker T. Washington - FRIDAY AD COST Company: Lone Star CollegeTHURSDAY System Manage multiple fleet maintenance facilities Church Building Global Partnerships OCTOBER 12 - 13, 2017 Manage union employees Phone: (832)813-6211 Annual Bazaar Booker T Washington/ BUTLER WISEMAN Occasional travels Fax: 832.813.6513 8421 West Zimbabwe Project Fundraiser Cost toEmail: run Sharon.K.Ognowski@lonestar.edu ad for 2 weeks Internal training available Dance Houston’s
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Please sign for approval and fax back to (713) 692-1183 by 12 NOON Wednesday for OCT next Monday’s publication.
PUBLIC NOTICEWednesday the week before Monday by 12 NOON Notice to Proposers Sealed electronic proposals will be received by Lone Star College for: • CSP #544 – Community Building (HARC Area) Renovation. Electronic bids due by 11:00 a.m., Thursday, 10/26/2017. Mandatory Pre Proposal and Site Visit, Tuesday, 10/10/2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Lone Star College, 5000 Research Forest Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381. Contact: sharon.k.ognowski@lonestar.edu Must Register to Bid: http://wwwappsdstc.lonestar.edu/istar/supplier.htm . If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact donna.e.cottrell@ lonestar.edu or 832-813-6275.
Address for Tearsheets: “Swing Baby, Swing!” $240.48 Signature 5000 Research Forest Drive MILLER THEATRE The Woodlands, Texas 77381-4356 6000 Hermann Park Dr.
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Super Bingo Friday, 7 pm. Houston, TX 77030 Tickets $15 Presale/$20 at door. BEGINNING AT 6:30PM Bazaar open Saturday 10 am SATURDAY Date AD COST FOR MORE INFO VISIT to 8pm and Sunday 12 pm to Center for Consumer www.milleroutdoortheatre.com 7 pm. Zydeco performances by Law at U of H Nooney & the Zydeco Floaters Total Cost run Ad for one week: People’s LawtoSchool and Ruben Moreno & The NO CHARGE - FREE $160.56P.O. Number P.O. Number for this Zydeco Ad Re-Evolution. Bake Off Uof H - Law Center 4455 Contest, Car and Bike Show, University Dr Silent Auction, kids activities Houston, TX 77004 THURSDAY - FRIDAY and food and fun for the whole From 9:30am - 12:30pm OCTOBER 12 - 13, 2017 family. Vendor booths available. Register at Signature BUTLER WISEMAN www.www.peopleslawyer.net *Free parking. TWEF’s 13th Annual Intern’l *Complimentary shuttle. Financial & Leadership Summit Admission tickets and info JW Marriot SATURDAY available at 8333 Sweetwater Ln Damascus MBC stmonicabazaar.eventbrite.com Houston, TX 77037 Damascus Praise Dancers & www.stmonicahouston.com. BEGINNING AT 6:30PM Mimes Ministires FOR MORE INFO VISIT Call 713-818-2048 or 43122 Center St www.twef.org 713-851-1658.
Black Heritage Festival
Discovery Green 1500 McKinney Houston, TX 77002 Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 From 4-10pm For more info by 12 NOON Wednesday thecontact: week before Monday (832) 651-8135 Date SATURDAY
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SEPT
WEDNESDAY Renee Jefferson Women in Bloom Gtr Zion MBC 1620 Dolly Wright Houston, TX 77088 Doors Open at 6:45pm For more info visit:
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The Education & Charities Foundation of Houston
Please sign forRdapproval and back to 713 Montgomery 119 E.fax 39TH Houston, TX 77088. Houston, TXweek 77018 before M by 12 NOON Wednesday the
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SAT Practice Tes at NO CHARGE - FREE Uof H - Student Center South Room 4455 University Dr Houston, TX 77004 From 8am - 1pm Register at
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Interested in Advertising? Email sales@aframnews.com! reneejeffersonsmith.com Date Davis Partners with Kroger on Post-Harvey Recovery Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Jerry Beginning at 4pm For more info contact 832-494-5498 http://www.ecfohsat.eventbrite.com Signature
Supplies 700 Back to School Kits for Students in Need HOUSTON - Vice Mayor Pro-Tem (VMPT) Jerry Davis announced donations from Kroger, Riley-McLean Land, the families of River Oaks Baptist School, the National Dental Association, and theDate McConnell Group. These donations are being used to re-outfit District B students as they head back to school in one of the most affected parts of the city, in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
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BEGINNING AT 6:30PM FOR MORE INFO VISIT www.aframnews.com or Call 713-696-6600 FRIDAY - SATURDAY OCTOBER 20 - 21, 2017 NAT’L BLACK UNITED FRONT (NBUF) 20th Annual Sankofa: Caravan to the Ancestors GALVESTON BEACH FOR MORE INFO DateVISIT
sankofacaravan2017.eventbrite.com
or call 832-671-1830
SATURDAY OCTOBER 28, 2017 FALLBROOK CHURCH National Book Festival 12512 WALTERS RD Houston, TX 77014 BEGINNING AT 1PM FOR MORE INFO CALL 281-444-4265
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HOU - 7
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African
American News&Issues
Community
Post-Harvey Weekly Information Updates
Texas Announces Food Assistance for Harris County AUSTIN – Texas Health and Human Services announced today that it will roll out disaster food relief for victims of Hurricane Harvey to residents in Harris County starting Friday, Sept. 22.
Texas has been rolling out D-SNAP in a phased approach and is expanding to Harris County in coordination with local officials. Harris County sites will run through Oct. 5. “We’ve been working closely with local officials to fine tune sites that work for people who are trying to put their lives back together after this terrible storm. We want this to be as smooth as possible for them,” said Texas Executive Commissioner Charles Smith. “Houston was hit hard. We’re so pleased to be able to roll D-SNAP out to the people of Harris County.” Texas will offer D-SNAP at three sites in Harris County. This is in addition to the 18 counties previously announced. More counties will be announced soon. The Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as D-SNAP, provides short-term food benefits for eligible families recovering from a disaster. For information on D-SNAP sites, go to www.hhs. texas.gov/d-snap to find days, hours of operation and detailed
instructions. Applications are being taken based on a rolling alphabetical order. People will need to apply on certain days depending on the first letter of their last name.
Harris County Sites • Greenspoint Mall 12300 North Freeway, Houston • Southwest Multi-Service Center 6400 High Star Drive, Houston • Pasadena Convention Center 7902 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena Alphabetical Rollout Details DATE LAST NAME Sept. 22, 27 A- C Sept. 23, 28 D-H Sept. 24, 29 I-M Sept. 25, 30 N-R Sept. 26, Oct. 1 S-Z Oct. 2-5 Anyone D-SNAP is available to eligible people who are residents of one of the counties with a federal disaster declaration and weren’t receiving benefits through regular SNAP at the time of the disaster. Recipients will be given a Lone Star Card that will be loaded within three days with funds to purchase food from most grocery stores. Residents of the affected counties may be eligible if they suffered damage to their home or business, loss of income or disaster-related expenses. Disaster-related expenses can include home repairs, temporary shelter or evacuation expenses. Households must bring
identification when applying for D-SNAP. Common types of verification include a driver’s license or other governmentissued photo identification.
Eligible households will receive two months of benefits when their cards load. The benefit amount is equivalent to the maximum amount normally issued to a SNAP household of their size, within three days of applying. If families have been displaced from one of the counties with an active D-SNAP program and cannot travel back to their home county, they can go to any local HHS benefits office across the state to apply for D-SNAP during the dates designated for their counties. People who purposely provide wrong information to receive disaster benefits may be denied benefits, and legal action may be taken against them. More Information People with questions about D-SNAP, including those who have special needs, should dial 2-1-1 and select option 6. For other storm-related services, including shelters, dial 2-1-1 and select option 5. For questions about TANF, Medicaid or CHIP, dial 2-1-1 and select option 2. To check benefit amounts, recipients can visit YourTexasBenefits.com(link is external) or call the Lone Star Help Desk at 800-777-7EBT (800-777-7328).
Before Hurricane Harvey victims can begin the long road to restoring their homes, each homeowner must answer an important question: how will I pay for emergency repairs? According to Hearth, homeowners will face high out TX - 8
Mayor Names Chief Recovery Officer
HOUSTON-- Mayor Sylvester Turner today appointed former Shell Oil Co. Chairman and President Marvin E. Odum to the new position of chief recovery officer for Houston as the city uses the Hurricane Harvey floods as an opportunity to make more improvements.
The mayor said he will look to Odum to recommend bold moves that position Houston to prosper further and be ready for the next storm. “I’m asking Marvin to get us out of our comfort zone,” the mayor said. Odum, who will serve without salary from the city, has been a global leader in the oil and gas and power generation industries and has extensive experience in large-scale crisis management. “With all the resources we have in Houston for ingenuity, problem-solving and public-private partnership, it’s a natural step for me to reach outside City Hall to a business leader eager to assist us with our recovery from unprecedented flooding,” Mayor Turner said. “And Marvin E. Odum is the right person for the job, in light all of his accomplishments in dealing through the energy industry with governments far and wide; with business adversity such as the huge hit that Hurricane Katrina put on the oil and gas sector; and with his extensive ties to many Houston individuals and groups.” Odum will work on the mayor’s behalf with governments at all levels, private and non-profit organizations, interest groups and individuals, as well the mayor’s staff and city department heads, on a two-fold mission: Ensure a rapid, quality recovery from Hurricane Harvey and position the city to be less vulnerable to the next recordbreaking storm. “You should look to us for what I call worldclass coordination,” Odum said. Fact: Insurance won’t cover many costs: •
Home Repairs?
How Can Hurricane Harvey victims pay for theirs? of pocket costs.
The situation is especially daunting for the many Texans who are already grappling with challenging financial realities. 71% of Texans have less than $1,000 in savings and with an average household debt of
$40,780, many Texans cannot easily take on more debt. Nearly 1/3 of Texas homeowners worry about not having enough money to finance simple home maintenance projects, to say nothing of a major home repair.
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1 , 2017
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Most homeowners insurance policies exclude flood damage. Only those with federally subsidized flood insurance will be covered for flood-related repairs. 80% of victims don’t have flood insurance. And those who do will realize these policies have exclusions, such as most property located in a basement. Even when homeowners insurance does cover losses, consumers will
He and the mayor put no time limit on his service. But Odum, who led Shell’s business recovery after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, said he realizes that “speed counts.”
Marvin E. Odum
U.S. leaders “know how to learn” from the damage wreaked by Katrina, the more recent Hurricane Sandy in the northeast and now Harvey, Odum added. Odum served as a member of the Royal Dutch Shell executive committee, chairman of the Shell Canada Ltd., director of the Americans for Shell Gas & Power of the United Kingdom; board chairman of the Aera Energy board and executive committee member of the American Petroleum Institute. In various leadership roles at Shell, he advanced the company’s diversity goals for employment; and set the company’s strategies for safety, security and environmental issues. He has been a National Urban League Board member since 2015, a World Business Council for Sustainable Development executive committee member since 2012, a Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government dean’s council member since 2005; a Council on Foreign Relations member since 2014, and a University of Texas at Austin Cockrell School of Engineering Advisory Board member since 2008.
face “hurricane deductibles” between 1-10% of a home’s total insured value. A homeowner insured up to $100,000 with a 10% deductible could be faced with a $10,000 bill up front. These insurance limits mean victims of Hurricane Harvey will shoulder massive rebuilding costs on their own. Entrepreneurs Joe Lonsdale and Anthony Ghosn founded Hearth in September 2016. Hearth is located in San
Francisco and backed by prominent Silicon Valley firms such as 8VC and Founder’s Fund. These firms have invested in Blend Labs, SpaceX, Oscar, and Wish. Options for homeowners looking to rebuild • • •
Before beginning any home repairs, consider the following: Prioritize repairs to stagger major expenses Not every repair needs to be done at once. MORE POST HARVEY UPDTES AVAILABLE ONLINE @ AFRAMNEWS.COM BY: DARWIN CAMPBELL
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017
Local & State
Read us online! www. aframnews. com
9
Life Without the Convenience of Running Water homes.
On the outskirts of Texas near El Paso and other border cities, there are groupings of homes which make up colonias. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, the land in these areas were purchased at highly discounted rates with the promise of an infrastructure being built in the near future. There are odd looking makeshift homes built on the land because there was no code enforcement of building structure. Many of the mobile homes have additional rooms made of wooden planks nailed to them. DALLAS - Water is an essential part of our daily lives. The average human body is made up of 50-65% water. Without it, we would die. Therefore, it is extremely important to make sure we get our proper water intake to help the body function properly. Outside of drinking water, it is almost impossible for us to wash dishes, walls, floors, wash our hair and bodies, brush our teeth, wash our clothes, or flush our commodes without it. However, in the state of Texas, prior to Hurricane Harvey, there were approximately 500,000 people living without a water supply to their
But someone may be reading this and saying, that’s what I would expect of the border cities. It makes sense for people to settle as close to where they land on American soil. We tend to think of it as being a Southern Texas problem. However, in the town of Wilmer, which is part of Dallas County, and is only located approximately 10 minutes from the heart of Dallas, Texas, there are about 30 homes near I-45 and Mars which lack running water. Angela Dawson and her family are fairly new to the area of Wilmer, and have only lived there since February of this year. Although many of the families in the area have been living without running water for
20-30 years, with the help of Mrs. Dawson, they are now ready to band together to make some changes to the infrastructure.
Mrs. Dawson tells us, “We have asked the cities of Wilmer and the neighboring city of Ferris to supply our area with water, but they told us they are not able to do so.” When the City of Wilmer was asked to comment on why they are not able to supply water to the area, they put us in touch with city worker Trey McGraw who told us, “It costs about $300,000-400,000 to run water to those houses you are speaking of, and city cannot afford to cover that cost without partnering with a developer. We have to be able to recoup the investment we make to the area. There are some developers thinking of investing in the area now, but nothing has materialized as of yet.”
Recently, Mrs. Dawson, held a meeting in her warehouse and invited residents to come and meet with a TCEQ (Texas Commission Environmental Quality) representative to discuss the basics of forming a nonprofit corporation which will be responsible for every aspect of supplying water to residents in need. Continue reading @ www.aframnews.com By: Arielle Johnson
Hurricane Harvey and the Grassroots Efforts of East Houston do more to assist this community in recovery efforts. Not only was I dealing with protecting my own family, but also with the possibility of being homeless as water levels rose around my home. The few times that I managed to leave my home during the storm, I used to check in on my neighbors and help some elderly move their cars to higher ground. I also took as many pictures as I could of Mesa road and the surrounding communities for historical purposes, since the news coverage was heavily focused on the communities near Brays Bayou, West Houston, and Kingwood. In our community, the heart-breaking posts that were being shared on social media by grassroots leaders tell the story of desperation from our neighbors, families, and friends, which remind me of scenes from the movie Titanic when the wealthy first class were allowed to evacuate the ship before the underprivileged. There have been a lot of stories published since Hurricane Harvey dropped 52 inches of water in the City of Houston. Closer to home, Northeast Houston’s spotlight has been shining thanks in part to news coverage by the Houston Chronicle, Houston Press, Buzzfeed News, and CNN Anderson Cooper 360. Most of the news has covered the flooded houses and schools, unemployment rates, immigration, poverty, and the shortage of food supplies associated with the floods. However, all those that have called this area home for years, including myself, know that these issues were worsened by the storm and were not a direct result of
the storm. Underreported has been the city’s decision to designate only one shelter for an area population of over 100,000 within a three-mile radius and the fact that it took nearly four days for rescue pleas within this area to be answered by the Red Cross. The death toll within this community was minimal considering the lack of assistance from local, state, and national officials, likely due to an aggressive grassroots effort both on the ground and in social media. When news reports later surfaced that a family of six had drowned in a van near Green River Road, I could not help but to feel guilty for not being able to
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Please Help: My mom and brother are in need of help Please send Immediate Help: My grandmother fell and hit her head at home she needs medical attention PLEASE HELP TO MY MOTHER AND BROTHER. Can someone please help this 90 year old male between Pardee and Lockwood A disabled woman stranded in a van at Crestview. PLEASE HELP!!!! The water is rising on her. Continue reading @ www.aframnews.com By: Juan Antonio Sorto, MPA TX - 9
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TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1 , 2017
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The MSU sophomore general business major and football player died at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in his hometown of Houston. He was 19.
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Hundreds turned out for a candlelight vigil was held remembering Grays positive impact on his coaches, friends and community and a successful life on and off the field Thursday night at the Jesse Rogers Promenade on the MSU campus.
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WICHITA FALLS -Former Fort Bend L.V. Hightower High School standout Robert Grays passed away Tuesday afternoon after suffering a severe neck injury while making a tackle in the fourth quarter of Midwestern State’s 35-13 win over Texas A&M-Kingsville Saturday night.
Many at MSU and in the local community support and also are praying for the family during this very difficult time of loss. “We are saddened by the loss of Robert Grays, one of our own. This is not an easy time for anyone associated with the football program,” MSU coach Bill Maskill said. “He was a tremendous
individual. I really believe he might have been the most popular man on our team. He always had a smile on his face. I never saw him have a bad day.” Prior to Midwestern State, Grays enjoyed a standout prep career at Fort Bend L.V. Hightower High School in Missouri City, Texas. He was a two-time, first-team all-district performer helping the Hurricanes to three league titles. “Robert touched many lives while attending the university, but perhaps he will be remembered best for his smile,” MSU President Suzanne Shipley said. “He was an inspiration on and off the field to those around him, and he will be remembered with love and affection by his friends, classmates, coaches and teammates.” The 5-8, 160-pound cornerback received treatment at United Regional Medical Center before he was transported to Houston on Sunday afternoon. Grays played an integral part in helping the Mustangs to an NCAA Division II playoff appearance and an
8-3 record as a true freshman which included a start in his collegiate debut. He finished the campaign with 24 tackles, while also helping out on special teams as a return specialist. He earned a starting role at right cornerback this season. He matched a career high with seven tackles and broke up two passes in his final game against Texas A&M-Kingsville. He was an uplifting spirit for all of us. He was an exciting, fun loving guy. He’s going to be sorely missed,” Maskill said. “Somehow, someway we’ll find a way to fight through it. Robert would want us to forge ahead.” Grays’ homegoing celebration was Saturday at the Word of Restoration International Church in Rosharon, Texas. “The tragedy has struck at the heart of the community, and has affected us in many ways,” Shipley said. “Today, I encourage you to join with your peers to help one another. Together we are stronger.” Story By: Darwin Campbell Photo by Trey Reed / MSU Athletic Communications
TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2017
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hat if reality as we know it wasn’t what we knew it to be? What if the stories of the past were changed by one small detail? However, that one small detail being one that would change it drastically! What if the slaves that were brought from Africa had been White, the slave masters had been Black, and every event of the past, up until the present, were also in reverse? In this series you will discover that the ethnicities of oppressor and oppressed have been reversed. This had been done in order to open the minds of the readers to …. WHAT IF? This gallery of illustrations has been created to assist the reader on grasping the understanding of why we are promoting that “Black Lives Matter”. Throughout this book you will see illustrations of the Caucasian race placed in the African-American experiences.
“What If”
African
Mr. Grey was handcuffed, dragged, and thrown in the back of a police patty wagon, Mr. grey was not stabilized by any means in the back of the vehicle. Therefore, Mr. Grey was left to be bounced and tossed around during the 45 minutes that he was driven around in police custody. This jarring only exacerbated the trauma that Mr. Grey had suffered at the hands of the arresting officers. Later Mr. Grey was found dead in police custody. The six officers involved with the handling of MR. Grey were charged, and acquitted. No one would be held accountable of how little White Lives Matter that ignited a riot in Baltimore. Baltimore Riot for Freddie Grey
To my brothers and sisters who may be offended by my whitening our history and our historical figures (e.g. Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, The Black Panther Party, Colin Kaepernick, etc.) to validate a point, please forgive me. However, in order to display our complete struggle, it is essential that I illuminate our iconic leaders’ defiance in the mist of our struggle. For that is the only way one will understand why it was imperative for them to embrace a position of slugging it out against an oppressive system.
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WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL HAPPEN NEXT WEEK?
“WHAT IF?” DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS WEEKLY HISTORY SERIES A few of the young men, seeing how this officer was manhandling the young lady, attempted to get him to stop his abuse. However, the officer, full of rage, pulled his service weapon and began chasing the three young men. Of course, this horrific incident caused an uproar in the White community. The parents of the young lady, along with most of the other adults in the community, requested that this unprofessional officer be fired for his conduct. However, the officer was never charged with any wrongdoing, he was allowed to resign so that he could keep his retirement benefits.
Also, I expect for these illustrations to bring clarity to all of you who fight against understanding our stance against injustice.
Chapter 15 Freddie Grey’s Mysterious Death
Although this case was clearly unjustifiable assault on a minor, this officer faced no type of punishment. The entire incident just underscores the lack of respect for people of these teen’s color.
Tune in next week for Chapter 17 The Baltimore youth fuming with indignation, and absolutely fed up with seeing fatality after fatality at the hands of police offices. Then seeing police officers by and large get away with murder like they have a license to kill. These young people decided that they had to take action in order to get eh attention of the nation, and to show the police what they were feeling inside. They wanted the nation and the police to realize that White Lives Matter. Chapter 16 McKinney, Texas Police Officer (Goes Wild at Pool June 5, 2015. McKinney, Texas. A group of teens were at a pool party. For some reason, the police were called.
April 12, 2015. Baltimore, Maryland. Twenty-five years old Freddie Grey was brutalized by two Baltimore police officers. When Baltimore police officers pulled on to the block where Freddie Grey and his associates were hanging out, the entire group of young men took off running. Of course, the officers gave pursuit. By the end of the chase Freddie Grey had been brutalized. On a video recording, it appeared that Mr. Grey had suffered some type of spinal injury. The video shows that Mr. Grey could not stand up, let alone walk.
When the patrolmen arrived, one of the officers took a look at these white adolescents and became extremely reckless and hostile. When these young people started verbalizing how they felt about the blatant disrespect that this officer was showing them, the officer singled out an adolescent female and very aggressively apprehended her.
Bio Carlos Walker, 35, a budding artist was born and raised in Halifax, CO., Va. To Hilton and Inell Walker, who has 6 children. Mr. Walker being the sixth. Carlos has been drawing since the early age of eight. He was encouraged to continue to do so in school by Mrs. Fitzgerald his high school art teacher and now by his family and Washika Arnold his future spouse. Not envisioning a future in art, Mr. Walker chose to put this talents to the side and sell drugs. Which landed him in prison at the age of 24, when most young men and women are just starting to live life and start their careers. For him, little did he know GOD had a blessing in store and his career would just be getting started to become an artist/ activist and book writer. While incarcerated he put together 3 exhibits and a single piece, plus he has written a book based on his artwork entitled “What If”. One of his projects is a 48-piece illustrated entitled “Walk A Mile In Our Shoes And You Will Understand From Whence We Came”, Illustrations called “Endangered Species”, a 3-piece illustration entitled “The Greatest”, and a single called “Hunting Season”. His greatest work of art is arguably “Walk A Mile In Our Shoes”, because what it portrays is the Black EXPERIENCE in a different way. In creating this exhibit, he seeks to show a mirror effect to Caucasians of what the Black EXPERIENCE looks like. Mr. Walker’s pictures have been created with the sole intent to invoke a thought in all who refuse to understand the plight that Blacks have had to endure in their experience from slavery up until now. His work can be viewed on Instagram….@walkers_gallery. TX - 11
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