BEFORE I LAY IT DOWN PAGE 2
WE MUST UNDERSTAND ~ ROY DOUGLAS MALONSON PAGE 3
MARKETPLACE PAGE 6
Your Money & Your Vote ARE THE MOST
POWERFUL THINGS YOU HAVE;
The #1 100% Black-Owned Worldwide Digital News Source JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015 | FREE
WAKE UP BLACKS! POWER CONCEDES NOTHING WITHOUT A DEMAND
PRAIRIE VIEW - I have long ago given up the naïve belief that if Whites who believe that police brutality is an urban legend, could witness rogue officers’ behavior toward African-Americans they would change their view; I abandoned such thoughts March 3, 1991, when Los Angeles Police Department officers brutally beat Rodney King, Bryant Allen, and Freddie Helms, the two passengers in King’s vehicle who are never mentioned when the horrific attack is discussed, in a horrific beating that would have made slave masters of yesteryear blush. My faith in White’s being able to sympathize with Black suffering died the moment that Whites, after viewing the tape I might add, illogically laid the blame for the incident at the feet of Mr. King and his compatriots. I then realized that not even visual proof would satisfy Whites’ ‘burden of proof’. In the 90’s it was Rodney King, today it is Sandra Bland. The recently released dash camera footage provides an up-close view of a ‘typical’ experience for Black drivers when they come in contact with an overzealous out-of-control officer whose sole goal is making the detainee bow to their authority. For those like ‘Sandy’ who refuse to oblige the officer, the consequences can be deadly. Because so many have glossed over this fact, I feel compelled to forthrightly state that Sandra Bland did not cause the officer’s unprofessional behavior. There is an additional layer that must be examined in regards to Black women, that being, outspoken Black women such as Sandra Bland are castigated and maligned by officers’ at an intensity that often exceeds the treatment of AfricanAmerican men. I consider myself very fortunate to not only know the character of Sandra Bland, but also know others who possess a kindred spirit. TO CONTINUE READING ABOUT PRAIRIE VIEW COMMUNITY ~ SEE PG. 10
VOL. 20 ISSUE 27
AFRAMNEWS.COM
BE CAREFUL WHO YOU GIVE THEM TO. ~Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher~
Captain Paul Matthews
CHIEF DOCENT
OF
T H E B U F F A L O S O L D I E R N AT I O N A L M U S E U M
HOUSTON - Carter G. Woodson once suggested that, “We should emphasize not Negro History, but the Negro in history.” Hence Captain Paul J. Matthews, the curator and founder of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum has built an empire which exhibits, this exact thought. The museum is the only one of its kind in the country. A great deal of time, volition, patience, expenditure and labor; all played a part in developing the nationally recognized gallery. Matthews was born in 1945. Growing up as a child and teenager in the 1960’s dispensation, he was reared in a segregated community. He attended Lincoln High School and graduated from Prairie View A &M University, in January of 1968. It was there that he first learned of the buffalo soldier, as a cadet in the ROTC. After reading only two paragraphs in a military book, he immediately became intrigued about; “ these Black men in blue uniforms, considering the times”. TO CONTINUE READING ‘MATTHEWS’ SEE PG. 4
African
2
Edit rial & Opini n
American News&Issues
Manhood, Race & Culture By Dr. James Thomas Jones III Ph.D., M.A., M.A., M.A.
The great W.E.B. Du Bois wrote in The Souls of Black Folk that “the problem of the twentieth-century will be the color line.” Although Du Bois was proven to be correct by the prejudice, discrimination, and racism that this nation poured out upon its non-white populations throughout the 20th Century, one could argue that Du Bois’ statement needs to be expanded to include the new millennium as well. In America, the ‘color line’ has not receded from its headline status. The latest manifestation of racial matters among the American people surrounds the greatest female tennis player to
Serena Williams: The Greatest There Has Ever Been ever exist, Serena Williams. Now I am certain that many believe that racial matters have no place in the sports arena, unfortunately, the history of American sports conflicts with your position. There is an extended tradition of racial matters being included in the sports arena. One only needs to examine the legacy of individuals such as: Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, Jesse Owens, Arthur Ashe, and now Venus & Serena Williams. As with most things, African-American women are judged extremely harshly because they consistently betray this nation’s understanding of ‘What a Woman Ought to be and Ought to do.’ Quite possibly, no single female athlete represents this issue at this particular moment than Serena Williams. Strong, classy, committed to remain above the fray, and operat-
ing with enough of a connection to African-American culture to display a mean ‘crip walk’ after a recent victory, to the shock and delight of not only her sister Venus, but also Black America, Serena is one of our greatest examples of Black womanhood. Activist Pie Benny relates that the genesis of this issue of whites hating Serena flows from the fact that American society is overwhelmingly patriarchal. “The American social structure is most definitely not used to seeing strong women, let alone a Black woman, taking a prominent position as Serena has. Whites in general, men in particular, fail to realize that we are in the 21st century.” Although one would expect that during an elitist sport such as Tennis that even the most ardent racist white would refrain from boorish behavior while Serena was dismantling an
opponent that was lesser --- skilled, cerebral, and physically. However, such has not been the case as Serena, and her family, have related repeated occurrences of racist behavior from fellow competitors and even fans. One such fan recently directed the following order at Serena from his seat in the stands, “Hit it into the net like any good nigger would.” Whites whose hatred of Serena has increased with her on court success should have their blood pressure checked as it has to be approaching a dangerous stroke level as she has accomplished the following feats. • 20 Grand Slam singles Titles • 13 Grand Slam Titles • 4 Olympic Gold Medals Only player, male or female, who completed a career Golden Grand Slam in both Singles and Doubles. It is obvious that angry whites who
Texas • July 27 - August 2, 2015 have trotted out and pinned their hopes on a host of “Great White Hopes”, realize that they will not be able to defeat Serena on the court and have therefore expressed their intentions via the ridiculing and maligning of her appearance. The alluded to behavior should be an affront to every American as they are bound to negatively impact not only Serena, but also AfricanAmerican women of all ages, hues, and sizes. Activist and Educator Dr. DeAunderia Bowens takes particular issue with this matter for obvious reasons. “My body is similar to Serena, it is in our genetics.” Dr. Bowens goes further and celebrates Serena’s appearance by relating “To be her size and be attractive as a woman in a dress, it actually boosts the self-image of Black girls.” Through it all, Serena has remained unbowed by the criticism. Continue Reading Online Online @ Aframnews.com
“If Serena Williams is a man, then I’m a woman. Just change my name to “Delicious”… Before I Lay it Down... By “Coach” Mark Spivey Read us online! w ww. a f r a m n e w s .c o m
Roy Douglas Malonson Chairman Shirley Ann Malonson
President/C.E.O.
Chandra Jarmon
Production/Editor
Rebecca S. Jones
Copy Editor
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.
TX-2
Sara Baartman is not a name familiar to many folk; even more unfamiliar is her “stage name” of Hottentot Venus. But for five years from 1810-1815, this black woman was displayed throughout Europe as some “freak” of nature due to her large behind and “unusual-looking” female genitalia. Born in South Africa, “Saartjie”, her real name, was the admiration of dirty old white men who poked, prodded, and peered at her as if she was from some other planet outside of the Milky Way. Her masters made tons of money off her until all of the excitement of what she looked like eventually got old and worn down, no pun intended. She died at the ripe old age of 25, poor and desolate. They listed her death as some type of “inflammatory illness”. Humm, huh…
The beauty of a black woman’s body has been the intimate attraction/ affection of men (and women) for years. The only difference between Sara Baartman and other women who like flaunting their posteriors is the absence of “masters” who force women to do so against their wills, prostitution withstanding. Miss Baartman would not even be an oddity compared to what we see being displayed on social media these days or better yet, in the porn industry. Either way, people are going to look or take notice. Especially, ya’ll freaky bastards. Now, as yo resident literary theologian of sorts, it is my duty to point out items that don’t seem to make sense in a world full of ignant ass folk who are hell bent on pissing off people whom they envy AND admire. Case in
point: I’d like to talk about the person who had the gall to say that Serena Williams looks like and has the body of a man. Therefore, let me place a disclaimer in this Spiveytorial: I don’t like using profanity, but I do cuss from time to time. I still love Jesus, though, and I ask y’all to pray for me. But, these Mayor Frank Jackson bastards done pissed us off… Back in tha day, I used to be (and still am) a Janet Jackson fan. When she came out in that video “Anytime, Anyplace,” I became as moist as Cletus Klump’s grandmother. Little “Penny” is STILL fine! Never in my life have I read, heard, or seen anybody refer to her as looking like a “man”. I’m nasty, so I call her “Miss Jackson”, but I’m sorry to say that
$100 H-E-B Gift Card Weekly Give Away! Sign up for African-American News&Issues Electronic Newsletter Today for your Chance to Win!!!
Don’t miss out on your chance
to win Drawing to be held every
Monday
VISIT: www.aframnews.com & SIGN UP TODAY for African-American News&Issues
WINNERS MUST ATTEND A FREE LUNCHEON TO REDEEM GIFT CARD AND HAVE PHOTO TAKEN FOR NEWSPAPER
Janet has been replaced in my life by a woman who likes to play with balls and rackets. Come here Serena… I must admit that I didn’t care too much about tennis growing up. We didn’t see black people playing it much on television. Althea Gipson, Arthur Ashe, and Zina Garrison represented us well back in the day, having won major tournaments along the way, but tennis wasn’t firmly
Continue reading online 1 12/11/14 Business Card for Paper 14_Layout Source: aframnews.com
979-921-9908 28820 FM 1736 Road Hempstead, TX 77445 Waller County
Breeder of Trophy Whitetail Deer, High End Beef-Type Registered Brahmans and Herefords Cattle. Trophy Hunting Whitetails, Axis and Blackbuck Nature Tours and Photography
www.rsdeerranch.com malonson@rsdeerranch.com
Texas • July 27 - August 2, 2015
Edit rial & Opini n
Where in Hell is Waller County’s Negro Leadership?
Prairie View Mayor Frank Jackson
I have never been one to have my tongue bridled because others may deem what I have to say is inappropriate, so it does not bother me one bit to call these individuals who have grossly failed Waller County’s Black community the cowards that they are!!!!!!! In my opinion, they all need to go!!!!!!!! I have done my best to patiently wait for the Negro leadership of Waller County to speak with an authoritative voice regarding the recent incident involving Prairie View A&M University alumnus Sandra Bland. There is one thing that is absolutely certain, this period of waiting has caused my anger to increase to a level that I thought it never could. To put it simply, I think that I can safely speak for the entire Black community of Waller County in relating that WE ARE PISSED OFF!!!!!!!!! These so-called Negro leaders have yet to say a mumbling word denouncing the actions of the law enforcement officers who brutalized and arrested this young lady who happened to be not only an alumna, but also returning to work for her beloved alma mater. It is time to undress these cowards before the entire community. As the publisher of AfricanAmerican News&Issues, I simply do not understand the lack of leadership. It is time that the Negro leaders, elected by the African-American citizens of Hempstead, Prairie View, and Brookshire, were brought to task for their cowardly actions. However, I would be remiss if I did not point similar condemnation at both the Negro clergy and the Prairie View A&M University Administration, all of whom have grossly proven
incapable of living up to their assigned duties. There is quite possibly no greater offender in regards to failing to display courageous leadership capable of moving the city of Prairie View forward than current Mayor Frank Jackson. In many ways, much of the blame for the present state of Prairie View has to be lain at the feet of Jackson who has inexplicably occupied the Mayor’s position for six terms; during this drawn out tenure, Jackson has to be credited with being consistent. Unfortunately for the citizens of Prairie View, the consistency that I allude to has been a gross ineptitude that has witnessed him achieve absolutely nothing. Jackson, a Prairie View alum himself, has made a very lucrative living off of both the citizens of Prairie View and the Prairie View A&M University as he has worked for the latter for over thirty-years, a
Pastor Ralph Douglas West Church Without Walls
tenure that has in-hindsight ensured that the city remain as backwards as when he assumed his post. Not only has Prairie View’s Mayor been silent on the abduction and death of his fellow alumna, so has his wife, Marian Jackson who serves as the Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3. It appears as if the following Prairie View City Council Members have followed Mayor Jackson’s lead in remaining mute. • Jonathon Randle • Marie Herndon • Herbert Thomas • Paulette Matthews-Barnett We are also waiting for Precinct 3 County Commissioner Jeron Barnett and Precinct 3 Constable Herschel Smith to weigh in on this matter.
African
American News&Issues
3
Please Do Not Forget Our History! Forgetting What Happened to Us Can Destroy Us! - Roy Douglas Malonson Hempstead Mayor Michael S. Wolfe Sr. has shockingly been silent regarding this matter, an occurrence that is all the more troubling as he previously led the removal of the now Sheriff of Waller County, when he served as Hempstead’s Police Chief because of
President Dr. George C. Wright Prairie View A&M
citizens repeated claims of racism. Unfortunately for the Black community of Waller County, Mayor Frank Jackson is not alone in his failure to denounce, or even address the questionable circumstances surrounding the demise of Sandra Bland. Not to be undone by the area’s elected officials, the Negro clergy has likewise chosen to bow before their oppressor instead of following the example of Moses and speaking truth to the oppressive Pharaoh. I have yet to hear a single Negro Pastor make any public remarks regarding the alluded to incident. Pastors with small congregations of only a few all the way to those such as mega-Church Pastor Ralph Douglas West of the Church Without Walls, the ‘official’ church of PVAMU have remained silent regarding this matter. Where are the muchtalked about ministerial alliances? Why have not these men of God put on ‘the full armor of God’ and taken the fight to the racist white power structure that runs Waller County? Or are we to consider all of that ‘church talk’ little more than rhetoric used to work their congregations into a frenzy that opens their purses and wallets wider so that the church offering will be unusually fruitful. Without question the group that has been the most silent, except for a public relations release, has been the
administration of Prairie View A&M University. Not a single administrator has stepped forward to issue any commentary regarding the incident that was captured on film approximately fifty-yards off of their campus involving a young lady who was a Prairie View graduate and also the University’s most recent hire save a public relations statement that reads as follows. The Prairie View A&M University family mourns the death of our alumna, Sandra Bland --- a 2009 graduate of our College of Agriculture. We are all saddened by the alleged circumstances surrounding Ms. Bland’s untimely passing. We, along with administrators form The Texas A&M University System, extend our heartfelt sympathy to Ms. Bland’s family and friends. Dr. George C. Wright -- President, Prairie View A&M University: Ironically, it was the opportunity to serve the Prairie View community that led her to return to the region. The following administrators must be called out for their silence regarding the highly questionable circumstances surrounding her death: • George C. Wright, President • Johannes Thomas-Smith, Provost (Emeritus) • Felicia Nave, Provost • Lauretta Byers, VicePresident of Student Affairs and Institutional Advancement • James Wilson, VicePresident of Academic Affairs • Michael McFrazier,
Michel McFraizer PVAMU VP of Administration
We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman
Vice-President of Administration Each of these individuals should not only be ashamed of their silence, but also have their ability to lead Prairie View A&M University seriously questioned. Considering their silence regarding this horrible incident regarding one of their own, one has to question where does their loyalties lie. Do their loyalties lie with the students they
Felicia Nave PVAMU Provost
have been entrusted to lead down a path to becoming future leaders of Black America or do concerns regarding job security and high salaries trump the obvious issues that Prairie View students are facing today? As stated earlier, WE ARE PISSED OFF!!!!!!! And we will remain in this state until these aforementioned groups --- elected officials, Negro clergy, and the so-called leadership of Prairie View A&M University --- are either removed from posts that they apparently do not deserve or they realize the error in their ways and begin displaying a strong Black leadership, therefore leaving behind their cowardly Negro ways. WE ARE CLOSELY MONITORING YOU AND ONCE AGAIN WE ARE PISSED OFF AT ALL OF YOU NEGROES!!!!!!!!!! TX-3
4
African
American News&Issues
Mrs. Barbara “Bobbie” and Captain Paul “PJ” Matthews Barbara, played a key role in the opening of the museum. Captain Matthews expresses everywhere he goes; she made the famous statement that everybody talks about, “It’s time to get all of this stuff out of here!”
Matthews From Pg. 1
The term Buffalo Soldier was derived from the Indians’ thought, of the resemblance of the Black soldiers’ hair and shaggy coat which mirrored the buffalo. From that brief insight into history, he begin to make parallels between the soldiers of the 1860’s and the 1960’s. Matthews was inspired by the courage and bravery of these unselfish men. He understood that, “what they did was not necessarily for themselves, but for those that came behind them”. At a young age, he felt that this was a story that needed to be told and he sought out to do just that. As the years went on, he would commence to collecting: documents, memorabilia, belt buckles, caps and a plethora of other artifacts. Upon earning his degree, he enlisted into the United States Army. While there, he became 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corp. While operating in this capacity, he trained medics in San Antonio at Fort Sam Houston. In his second year in the military, he was stationed in Vietnam for a year. At this time, he became a Battalion Surgeon Assistant. During this role, he treated patients that came in from the Northern provinces TX- 4
in South Vietnam. Afterwards, he dedicated four years to the U.S. Army Reserves, at which point he excelled to the rank of Captain. Amid the era of existent racial barriers, Matthews declared that this factor was not one that served as a detour to him, professionally. Even in the face of growing up separate from the majority race, he revealed that this element did not hinder his ability to contend with other cultures. His first experience in interacting with other cultures, came about after his enlistment into the U.S. Army. However, he expressed that his training in high school and at Prairie View equipped him with the means to effectively compete with all races. During an interview he said, “I often wonder, why we thought that Black schools were inferior; when my performance was above and beyond the vast majority of the other officers in my battalion.” Following Captain Matthews service to the United States Army, he secured employment with Merck & Co., Inc. Merck is a pharmaceutical company that has a rich history in improving health and well-being. He was the Director of Military Sales and is regarded for the proposals that he wrote which created
C ver St ry
the military sales division. This department became a billion dollar industry and Captain Matthews was awarded a watch and stock in the company for his contributions. After retiring from Merck, Captain Matthews began on his path to making his mark in the nation’s history. He used his stock option to fund the budget of the museum for the first two years, resulting in a total of $200,000. Captain Matthews opened the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum on, January 5, 2001. Though the gallery focused on the features of the buffalo soldier; it was created to give a perspective on the AfricanAmerican military experience from 1770 to 2000. The mission of the museum is, “to preserve, promote and perpetuate, the honor and legacy of the brave men and women who fought, bled and died in defense of America.” At the time that he donated his collection to the museum it was in an excess of $2 million. His wife, Barbara “Bobbie” Matthews, is accredited for initiating the formation of this awesome wonder. Captain Matthews jokingly stated her famous words, “It’s time to get some of this stuff out of the house!” From Captain Matthews collections and donations over the years, the museum has more than 5,000 items on display. Simply becoming educated of the selfless men who fought for the nation at the expense of others, proved to be the motivating factor of him devising the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. Captain Matthews explained the unique differences between the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in contrast to others in its field. While many other museums focus on “content”, Buffalo Soldiers seeks to create an ambiance of awe by providing patrons with “context”. He stated, “We give you the things that surround: that picture, that artifact, that document - what made it what it is. What impact did it have on the Black community?” Although the Buffalo Soldiers
National Museum is an exhibit that thrives off of presenting contributions made by the African-American soldier; the inception thereof was based on the ideal of reaching the broader community. Captain Matthews stated, “this is not necessarily a Black museum, but an American history institution.” Thus, he wants to ensure that not only will African-Americans patronage the museum but people in general. “We don’t want our story to just be our story, we want our story to be everybody’s story,” he said. Since the origination of the national museum, it has attracted visitors from all over the world. The “documented footprint” of guests extends from Paris, Texas to Paris France. Just last year, Captain Matthews informed that he rendered a lecture at the American Library in Paris, France. He also received a donation in the form of a $40,000 bronze bust, from a couple in Paris Texas. This coverage makes up the documented footprint associated within the museum’s history. When asked of concerns relative to the Black community, Captain Matthews noted differences between the 1960’s era, versus the present. He shared that during the 1960’s, African-Americans had a focus. “We all had a plan, not just me but the community,” he said. He continued, “Everybody expected children to be educated and it was the community’s mission to ensure the education of those students.” As he reminisced on his youth he stated, “I can recall on my street, Jackson Street. It was a dead end. But, any profession we wanted to see was demonstrated right in the community and we could interact with them.” Captain Matthews informed, “On the corner was an attorney union organizer; next to him was the principal of our high school; next to him was a longshoreman; next to him was a nurse; my father was a tavern owner and my uncle who lived down the street was a licensed plumber.” He further
TexasTexas • July•27 - August 2, 2015 August 12-18, 2013
implied that there are, “individuals who once they reach a certain plateau, exit their community and don’t send anything back”. “I see that as a major problem,” he concluded. In fourteen years the historical gallery has seen much success. It has become a million dollar operation and is still in expansion mode. It was first established in a 3500 square foot building, located at 1814 Southmore St., 77004. In 2008, the current building was purchased and within four years the organization raised enough funds to relocate to the now, 23,000 square foot building in Midtown. With a final completion set between the months of August and September, the museum has been a $4.6 million dollar project. The museum is currently in partnership with Positive Black Males, headed by Dr. Rob. For the last four years, the two have paired to provide a camping trip in West Texas, for inner city youth. Each year in July, students from the Acres Home’ and Fifth Ward communities are afforded the opportunity to spend three nights in the forest. Tentatively, they are planning to begin a girls camping trip which will commence in August or September. The camp is not limited to one school or community in particular, however it is limited to a first come, first serve basis. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is a non-profit 501(c) (3). It is also a proud member of the Houston Museum District, Greater Houston Conventions and Visitors Bureau and the Greater Houston Partnership. To visit this splendid display of African-American culture, stop by 3816 Caroline St., 77004. For more information or details call (713) 942 - 892 0 or visit the website at www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com.
Story & Photo By: Rebecca S. Jones
Bus ness
Texas • July 27 - augusT 2, 2015
Read us online! w w w. aframnew s. com
5
lisa Johnson and gertha giles paul Matthews, Buffalo soldiers
l-r alBert
newsoMe, roBert young and Birda gore
deMetria gaines
lason hines
rayMond thoMpson
randy Bates
HOUSTON - The Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development held its July Monthly Networking luncheon. The luncheon was took place at the Beulah Ann Shepard building located at 6112 Wheatley Rd., 77091. Ministers, attorneys, educators, residents and other esteemed guests gathered to attend. Chairman Roy Douglas Malonson began the event off with his infamous raffle drawing where several guests were awarded various door prizes. Following, each attendee was given the opportunity to introduce themselves, as the microphone was passed around the room. Once everyone had privilege to announce their varying organizations, lunch was served. Afterwards, all were seated and Chairman Malonson gave a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Lason Hines the Director of the AHCBED, who announced that she would be leaving the chamber. Dr. Hines expressed her gratitude to members of the chamber, as well as those who received her so well during her leadership there. Finally, Chairman Malonson proceeded to announce the founder of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Captain Paul J. Matthews. Once, Captain Matthews took the podium he, recognized familiar faces like, Center Point Energy and Randy Bates who he stated have been supporters of the museum. As began, he gave a brief history about the formation of the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. “There are basically three things you need to know about the buffalo soldier,” he said.
l -r
terrell holiday, senator whitMire, edna griggs, roy douglas Malonson and Miles walton
Byron stanley and JaCk Barnett
Firstly, the Buffalo soldiers were formed in 1866 after the Civil War. Secondly, the name of the four units that compiled the Buffalo soldiers were, the 9th and 10th Calvary and the 24th and 25th Infantries. The calvary were the horse soldiers and the infantry were the foot soldiers. Captain Matthews explained, at that time, the army only had ten calvary units and the last two were Black. The same was in respect to the infantry division. Lastly, he shared how the Buffalo soldiers received their name, which was from their hair and ferocious fighting spirit. He then, inducted all that were in attendance into the ranks of becoming a descendant of the Buffalo soldiers. He revealed that there were three ways to become a Buffalo solider, which were by: bloodline, regimental or spiritual. He simply stated that being a Buffalo soldier means that, “you believe in the three basic principles that the soldiers stood for: honor, valor and courage.”
tyrone gaines, sands stiefer and lakeith Brown
STORY & PHOTO BY: REBECCA S. JONES TO CONTINUE READING MOORE VISIT WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM TX- 5
n-American News&Issues • Texas • February 10-16, 2010• 7
6
Marketplace
Read us online! wCHURCH w w. a fr a m n e wADS s. c o m
ACCOUNTANTS
BAPTIST CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE
ELECTRONIC
8 AM and 11 AM BIBLE STUDIES
Member AICPA
MICHAEL LOVE, CPA
Email: mlovecpa@yahoo.com www.michaellovecpa.net 713-666-2900 Office 713-666-2932 Fax 2626 South LoopW, #420 Houston,TX 77054
ALUMNI
B.T. Washington Houston ISD Alumni
281-723-1656
G.W. Carver School Alumni of Aldine ISD
713-806-9889
BEAUTY SHOP
er school enrichment programs are ofNATURAL 0-5:45 daily. Reese will be KREATIONS unaffected by
Melanie Malonson
Photo: Aldine ISD 281-898-4716 11718 SOUTH WILCREST elimination. Other schools would HOUSTON, 77099 be Smith, Stovall, HarrisTXand Hill, all based on the same criteria. A d v e r t i s e o nStuline dents of magnet a f r aprograms m n e wthat s . chad om been eliminated would return to their homeBLACK campus and given first CHAMBER priority for available slots in other magnet programs, with the exception of 4th grade students, who will be given the option of continuing at Houston Academy. Staff will be placed into 713-692-7161 vacant positions on 6112 WHEATLEY ST other campuses. HOUSTON, TX 77091 The order would have given the magnet program a protected status CHEMICAL and funds from the government would have been provided for their operation. Also, several events and Citywideor Chemical items were reduced eliminat& festival Commercial ed, such asJanitorial the magnet and PestThe Control Company technology fair. proposed cuts 3521 Jensen St. Houston, TX 77026 were approved by district trustor 4809 ees at the January 25713/227-4808 school board Janitorial Supplies meeting before a packed house of Sales-Service-Supplies Wholesale-Retail incensed parents and We student. But repair buffers, Bamberg warns the cuts may still vacuum, shampooers and allthe otherneeds machines. not be enough to meet Charles SAME DAY FREE DELIVERY Dawson of the nation’s 12th largest district. US METRO Dawson Chemical Administrators say they still need Chemical & Janitorial Supply Company & Janitorial Supply Company 6010 Irvington -Hou.,TX 77009 4308 Kelley • Hou., TX 77026the budget. $18 million to St.balance 713/697-7137 “The only713/633-9019 way we’re going to get additional revenue at this point CHURCH is to look to the community,” said Cliffdale Bamberg, alluding to the need for increased property Baptisttax revenue, which couldChurch be as much as 13 cents per $100 value property. (281)of 447-8850 Ed.- Last week’s story, 854 ENTERPRISE ST provided Pastor inaccurateHOUSTON, demographics AISD. Fred Sanders TX 77088 for The correct numbers are 68.2 perHOU-627 percent Africancent Hispanic, American, 2.2 percent White.
Wednesday 7:30PM Leonard N. Barksdale, Pastor Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church 4300 Noble Street, Houston TX 77020 Ph: 713/675-5111 • Fx: 713/675-1522
Website: www.fwmbc.org
Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church A d v ewill r t iendeavor s e otonprovide l i n ea members love;swe willostand astrong f r foundation a m n eofw .c m on Biblical Truths; and we will equip one another to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our community and in our world.
Galilee M.B.C
CHURCH OF (713)CHRIST 697-1758
6616 D.S. BAILEY LN
Rev. Edwin A.CHURCH OF CHRIST FIDELITY Davisr, Pastor HOUSTON, TX 77091 “The Church That Cares”
Guiding Sunday
Light Inspirational Baptist Church
Morning Bible Class 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Evening Bible Class (713) 699-4448 5:00 p.m. 6719 COHN ST Rev.Evening JosephWorship 6:00 p.m. Baker, Pasor HOUSTON, TX 77091 Chorus Group Rehearsal 7:30 p.m.
House of Wednesday MINISTER: Mid-Week Bible Class Prayer Theaster Maloy, Sr. 7:00 p.m. M.B.C. OFFICE: 713/674-5131
(281) 773-2750 140 Fidelity Rd. Houston Tx 77029 3521 DESOTO ST Rev. Lloyd
Pastor HOUSTON, TXCHURCH 77091 Giles, FIFTH WARD OF CHRIST
SUNDAY FLOWERS & GIFTS 8:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m. Bible Class 11:15 a.m. Worship Black Kollectibles 6:00 p.m. Worship MONDAY& Flowers 10:00 a.m. SHOP 713-692-1100 FLOWER Gary Smith Ladies Bible Class
Shirley Ann’s
GIFT SHOP
Minister 713-692-1195
WEDNESDAY 6130Bible WHEATLEY 7:30 p.m. Class for all ST
HOUSTON, TX 77091
Website
www.fthwardcoc.org FUNERAL HOME “GIVING, GROWING, & GAINING” 4308 Stonewall St. Hou. Tx 77020
Boyd713-672-2654 Funeral In addition Home to their other activities, the 281-445-0971
Fifth Ward COC also holds a Bible Class for non-members on Thursday nights 7411 at 7:30 PM. For moreST. information on the WHEATLEY various special events or activities you really should visit HOUSTON, TX 77088 their website, it is very well done, informative and worth a visit even if you have another church home.
Johnson Funeral Home CHURCH OF GOD 713-747-9604 IN CHRIST
5730 CALHOUN RD.
DUNCAN MEMORIAL HOUSTON, TX 77021
CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Sr. Pastor Elder Greg Edwards (713) 674-5466
FUNERAL HOME
HELP WANTED
Paradise
Shirley Ann’s
Funeral Home, Inc
281-445-1201
Black Kollectibles & Flowers
10401 WEST MONTGOMERY HOUSTON, TX 77088
NOW HIRING
2015 MEDIA KIT EMAIL SALES@AFRAMNEWS.COM
PART TIME Must have valid Drivers License Computer & Excellent People Skills Experience is a Plus
FOR A COPY
ONLINE ADVERTISMENT AVAILABLE NOW! HAY FOR SALE
HORSE QUALITY
LARGE ROUND HAY BALES Call 979-921-9908 (8am-4pm)
HELP WANTED
COMMUNITY WRITERS
Searching for for community news chasers. Follow what goes on in your community and report on it Call 713-692-1892 For more information
Greenspoint Carverdale Inwood Acres Home Hidden Valley Alief Homestead Trinity Garden Sunnyside Fifth Ward Sharpstown Braeswood Place Fondren Westbury Kashmere Clinton Park Fourth Ward Third Ward South Park South Acres Crestmont Park Northshore Independence Heights Fort Bend
Adver tise online aframnews.com
$10/hr
Call 713-692-1100
Let Your Business Ad Be Seen Here HUNTING
RS DEER & CATTLE RANCH Whitetail, Axis, & Blackbuck Deer Hunt All Year Round
www.rsdeerranch.com
979-921-9908
PHOTOGRAPHY CREATIVE COLOURS BY RJ
713-734-1442
4925 Richfield Lane Houston, Tx 77048
SHOE REPAIR MIGHTY FINE SHOE REPAIR Men & Ladies - Boots & Shoes Shined, Waxed, Glazed, Dyed & Repaired
281-448-9255 mfshoes@aol.com
Major Credit Cards ACCEPTED 1400 South Victory Houston, TX 77088
THIS SHOULD BE YOUR AD!
TEXAS • JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015
Black Business Highlight
A Better Bail Bond
HOUSTON - AfricanAmerican News & Issues presents, A Better Bail Bond as our business highlight of the week. Rodney Hampton, a native Houstonian, is the owner of the bail bond company that residents call in incidents of incarceration, arrest and many other instances of encountering the judicial system. Rodney Hampton, a graduate of Kashmere High School and University of Georgia was drafted into the National Football League. He played with New York Giants from 1990 - 1997. It was with the Giants that he and his teammates emerged as champions in Super Bowl XXV. He retired from the NFL, being noted as the Giant’s, “most consistent offensive weapon”. He had an impeccable record upon leaving the Giants in 1997, due to an injury. Upon retiring from the NFL, Hampton became the owner of A Better Bail Bond. A Better Bail Bond was established in Northeast Houston and catered to clients throughout the Greater Houston area. After much success from local residents, the company was able to open up an additional four locations. It is a second generation bail bond company, which is family owned and operated. The company was formed at an attempt to, “educate clients about surviving in the judicial system”. A Better Bail Bond subscribes to a belief that when, “Business is earned, and returns when the job is done well”. Therefore, it has developed a reputation of having, “a long history of providing fast, affordable and discrete bail bond service in Houston and throughout Texas.” It strives to render, “fast, discrete and caring service with the clients needs top of
Rodney Hampton,
Owner of A Better Bail Bond
mind.” A Better Bail Bond has the ability to offer: the willingness to deliver residents with bonds, courtesy reminder calls to ensure that defendants do not miss court dates, affordable rates, convenient deferred payment plans and bonding agents who are knowledgeable and will provide the best customer service experience in town relative to bonding needs. For the convenience of residents A Better Bail Bond is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Although, A Better Bail Bond is located in Houston, it has a coverage area that extends anywhere across the state of Texas as well as the entire nation. For the assistance of local residents these offices are located at 10024 Homestead Rd. - Northeast (713) 633-7800; 5317 Malmedy - Southeast (713) 733-8400; 1416 Washington Ave. - Downtown (713) 2248400; 4240 Highway 6 North Katy/ Cypress (713) 554-7413; 12708 North Freeway Suite B. - Greenspoint (713) 635-8401.
By Rebecca S. Jones
TEXAS • JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015
JULY
July 27 - July 30
Monday - Thursday Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas 100th Annual Session 7817 Calhoun Rd Houston, TX 77033 Times Vary For more info contact (713) 733-9170 Monday Dwight A. Boykins & Lauren Anderson Conversation and Q&A w/ Misty Copeland The Kingdom Builders’ Ctr 6011 W. Orem Dr Houston, TX 77085 From 4pm - 6pm For more info contact (832) 393-3001
27
chelbi.mims@houstontx.gov
27
Monday Mt Hebron MBC Musical **SPECIAL GUEST** MICHELL JOHNSON MAJOR DR. F.D. SAMPSON 7817 Calhoun Rd Houston, TX 77033 Beginning at 7pm For more info contact (713) 733-9170
29
Wednesday Upper Room The Release 11140 Greenbay St, Houston, TX 77024 From 7:00pm - 8:30pm For more info contact (713) 354-4408
cwashington@chapelwood.org
29
Wednesday Space Ctr Houston Train Like an Astronaut 1601 Nasa Pkwy Houston, TX 77058 From 10am - 3pm For more info contact
30
spacecenter.org
Thursday Iprayz Gospel Party & Showcase 1112 Southmore Blvd Houston, TX 77004 Beginning at 6pm For more info contact (800) 319-9231
31
Friday House of Deréon Houston International Jazz Festival 2204 Crawford St Houston, TX 77002 From 5:00pm - 2:00am For more info contact (713) 772-5175 Friday KCOH 1230 AM Dial Tune in to The Power Brokers Show From 8am - 9am
6
1 Saturday Houston Texas
Black Heritage 1500 McKinney Houston, TX 77010 Beginning at 10am For more info contact: (713) 854-4141
houstonblackheritagefestival.com
SUBSCRIBE
1
Saturday Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Digital Computer Class 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161 Saturday National Medical Malpractice Advocacy Assoc On the Bridge for Justice Buffalo Bayou Beginning at 6pm For more info contact: (832) 488-5765 Monday Sunnyside Community End Hunger Sunnyside Food Truck 5150 Reed Rd Houston, TX 77033 Beginning at 9am For more info contact: (832) 374-5585
1
3
Publish and Promote your Events through African-American News&Issues in print & online!
Thursday
African
SUPPORT THOSE WHOM SUPPORT YOU!
15
31
AUGUST
What’s Happenin’
CYNTHIA CLAY BRIGGS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF HOUSTON, INC
Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Networking Luncheon 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161 info@acreshomecenter.org
8
Saturday New Beginnings for Women of Houston 2015 Kids Fotness & Fun Fest 7603 Antoine Dr Houston, TX 77088 From 10am - 1pm For more info contact: (281) 414-8416 Saturday Black August 2015 The Movement 2417 Riverside Dr Houston, TX 77004 From 2pm - 7pm For more info contact: (469) 219-4478 Saturday Willie French Jr. 80th Birthday Celebration 8421 W. Montgomery Rd Houston, TX 77088 From 2pm - 5pm For more info contact: (713) 417-8845
Saturday City of Houston & Mayor Anise Parker Back 2 School Supply U of H Main Campus Registration Deadline July 31, 2015 www.houstontx.gov/btsf
16
Sunday First Baptist of Lincoln City BC FBC Praise Dancers 844 Fortune St Houston, TX 77088 Beginning at 11:30am For more info contact: (832)892-5078
American News&Issues
17
Monday Counsil Member Dwight Boykins Swingin’ For Seniors Golf Tournament 2155 N MacGregor Way Houston, TX 77030 Beginning at 8am For more info contact: (832) 393-3001 seniorassistancefund.com
Aug 17 - Aug 20
Monday - Thursday National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. 68th NAREB Convention 4 Riverway Houston, TX 77056 Times Vary For more info contact (713) 871·8181
7
20
Thursday Gulf Coast of Texas African-American Family Support Conference 9401 Knight Rd Houston, TX 77045 From 9:30am - 3:30pm For more info contact: (281) 272-2206 info@gcaafsc.net
aframnews.com
27
Thursday Super Neighborhood #6 Houston 2015 Mayoral Candidate Forum 1620 Dolly Wright St Houston, TX 77088 From 7pm - 9pm For more info contact: (281) 900-5707 (281) 447-6095
Great News!
African-American News&Issues now offers E-Blast to over 20,000 business professionals and community subcribers for a very low price.Let us promote your next event! For more information contact (713) 692-1892 or visit www.aframnews.com
8
Bus Drivers needed
8
THIS SHOULD BE YOUR EVENT S E N D I N Q U I R I E S TO
NEWS@AFRAMNEWS.COM
15 Saturday The Upper Room
Prayer Ministry Prayer Breakfast 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161
We’re Going Places. Help us get there.
www.DriveHISD.org HISD is looking for Bus Drivers to become a part of our transportation team. We offer: • • • • • • • • •
$250 sign-on bonus $900 attendance incentive Free training Competitive hourly wages starting at $15.40 (guaranteed minimum of 5 hours per day) Health, dental, vision and other benefit options Teacher Retirement System participation 403(b) retirement plan option Special trip pay options Referral incentive bonuses
To become an HISD Bus Driver, apply online at www.DriveHISD.org or call 713.613.3073. “All applicants are subject to verification of work experience, certification, references, drug testing and criminal history check. It is the policy of the Houston Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, handicap or disability, ancestry, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or political affiliation in its educational or employment schedules and activities.” Equal Opportunity Employer
HOU-7
8
African
American News&Issues
VERMON CARL LACY, SR. APRIL 18, 1940 - MAY 21, 2015 On April 18, 1940, a baby boy was born to Roy Lee and Earlene Lacy. They named him Vermon Earl. His early childhood years were spent in the small communities of New Willard and Marston, Texas. Vermon attended Dunbar Elementary in Livingston. Growing up he was given the nickname. “Little Brother” by his big sister Versie. He was always a very industrious person and he had high expectations and dreams for his future. Vermon always strived to be the very best he could be. The Lacy family later moved to Houston. Vermon attended schools in the Houston Independent School District, including: E.O. Smith Junior High School and Phillis Wheatley Senior High School, graduating in 1958. He was a very studious young man that took educa-
ORA NELL RICHARDSON AUGUST 25, 1937 - JUNE 5, 2015
Ora Nell Richardson took her first breath to O.B. and Mammie Marshall in Houston on August 25, 1937. She was the eldest of two children: her brother, O.B. Marshall, Jr. preceded her in death. Ora Nell was a faithful member of Jones Chapel TX-8
In Loving Memory
tion very seriously. He loved to run track and was a dedicated members of the Reserved Officers Training Corp (R.O.T.C.) for three years. After graduating high school, he attended Business School and worked for Big Bonus Distribution Center. Vermon confessed a belief in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Emmanuel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Wade. He later became a member of St. Luke Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Donald Byrd. Vermon met and married the love of his life, Evelyn Jean Eldridge on August 10, 1963. To this blessed union was born a son, Vermon Earl, Jr. and a daughter, Andrea Sheree. His family was his life and he worked hard to ensure security and happiness for each of them. In 1965, Vermon was employed by Uncle Ben’s Rice Company where he worked until he retired after 35 years of service in 1998. Vermon and his family united with Fontaine Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor John H. Brown in 1971. He served faithfully on the Deacon Board, the Finance Committee and he was also a member of the Brotherhood Ministry. In his community he was a respected member of the Armstrong Civic Committee. Their home was a haven to all because he never met a stranger. He saw to it that everyone
was welcome. He was admired by everyone that knew him and graciously received the respect he was given for the dignity and grace he exhibited. For many years, he supported his wife’s dream of owning and operating a restaurant by opening Lacy’s Restaurant and Catering which served many throughout Houston and neighboring communities. On Thursday, May 21, God called Vermon to eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Lee, sister Valda Lewis and grandson, Tony Gradney. In God’s care, he leaves to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted wife, Evelyn; son, Vermon Earl, Jr., daughter Andrea Sheree; mother Mrs. Earlene Scott; grandsons, Damian Lacy, Vermon Earl Lacy, III and Jalen Bolden; great grandson, Kemet Asar; brother, Elder Obie Lacy (Barbara); sisters, Versie Foreman, OBelia Pratt, and Blanche Elaine Lewis (Jessie); brothers-in-law, Rev. Henry Eldridge (Eva), Ester Lee Eldridge, Willie Amos Eldridge (Barbara) and Seth Thomas Eldridge (Emma); sisters-in-law, Annie Ruth West, Margaret Eldridge, Equilla Eldridge and Barbara Lacy; Goddaughters, Deborah Taylor Bell, Alacia Taylor, and Phyllis Hall and a host of nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
AME Church for over 75 years. She accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age. She attended Eighth Avenue Elementary School, Francis Harper Junion High School and graduated Valedictorian from Phillis Wheatley High School in 1955. She received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Hampton University and a Master of Education from Prairie View A&M University. She spent a short time in the Air Force where she met and married Timothy Lockett, who preceded her in death. To that union her one and only bundle of joy, Natania Danielle Lockett was born. She later met and married Boley Richardson, who also preceded her in death. Ora Nell left a lasting impression on every life she touched. She was a dedicated educator at many schools in the Houston Independent
School District (HISD. For 35 years, she spent her tenure as a Home Economics teacher which brought her so much joy. “Ms. Lockett” as many of her students called her, was not only a devoted teacher but a motherly mentor and friend who brought so much delight into their lives. Ora Nell received numerous awards and recognitions for her many years of service. She also dedicated her time and commitment to her community where she became a block director of her neighborhood, Shepherd Park Terrace. Ora Nell Richardson leaves her legacy to her daughter, Netania Lockett Buckner (Walter Keith); granddaughters, Taylor and Raven; great nieces, Donitra and Donielle; a special cousin, Aliene Boone and many beloved family and friends.
Jeannie Marks Walker was born on February 27, 1938 in Jennings, Louisiana to Don Loius Marks and Mary Lewis Marks both whom preceded her in death. Jean as she was affectionately known by her family and friends, was the middle daughter out of six children in her family; one boy and five girls. Don Marks, Jr. (deceased), Nettie Marks-Chandler (deceased), Roni Marks-Anderson, Shirley Marks-Cutis and Susie Marks-Singleton-Mines. The family resided in Jennings, Louisiana throughout their childhood life. Jeannie attended elementary and high school in Jennings, Louisiana. Soon after graduating from high school she visited Houston, met the love of her life, Aaron “Jack” Walker, Jr. of El Campo and married. The couple resided in Houston, and were married for 32 years. To this union there was one child, Mignonne DeVita Walker. Jeannie attended Texas State for Negroes, now called Texas Southern University. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in English and a Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling. Jeannie was a long time member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church on Rosedale before uniting with Trinity United Methodist Church where she worshipped until her transition. Jeannie served zealously in her beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incoporated Houston Alumni Chapter where she served on various committees and as President. Four of her most life enjoyable experiences were traveling to Africa, Europe serving as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Houston Alumni President and participating in The Disciples One, Two, and Three Bible Study. Her favorite motto was, “KISS”, Keeping It Simple and Sweet. Jeannie’s entire professional career was with Houston ISD. She taught English at Crispus Attucks Junior High School, Booker T. Washington High School, and Jesse H. Jones High School. During the summer months she would work with Upward Bound at Texas Southern University and Rice University Film and Technology Program. She retired as a Guidance Counselor at Jesse H. Jones High
TEXAS • JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015
JEANNIE MARKS WALKER FEBRUARY 27, 1938 APRIL 30, 2015 School with 40 years of service with Houston ISD. After retirement from the school district Jeannie continued to work as a student teacher assessor at Texas Southern University and also worked at the Harris County Appraisal District. Jeannie, a child of Our Heavenly Father, entered into eternal and peaceful rest on April 30, 2015, after a lengthy debilitating illness. A beautiful and blessed life has come to its final call. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, friend, and colleague to many. She was preceded in death by her husband, Aaron Jack Walker, Jr. A blessing and a gift to all who knew her, she will certainly be missed. Jeannie leaves behind to cherish her memory a daughter, Mignonne DeVita Walker-Robinson, two grandchildren, Jearon Kyle Robinson and Jesicka Myhree Robinson, one great grandchild, Alaysia Leeanne Robinson, three sisters Roni Marks-Anderson, Shirley Marks-Rochelle, Jerry Chandler, Eric Singleton, Don, III, Darrell, Dale, Dean and David Marks, three nieces Yvette Anderson-Randolph, Patrice CurtisRivers-Hunter and Eric Singelton, four great nieces Sarah Chandler, Ashley Randolph-Lusk, Brianne Rivers and Shameka Rochelle, nine great nephews, Malcolm and Cam Singleton, Clay and Jake Chandler, DeVon and Ryan Rivers, Jason Matthew Rochelle, and Stephon Rochelle, Jr., and a host of other relatives and friends all of whom loved her.
C mmunity
TEXAS • JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015
Read us online! w w w. aframnew s. com
9
SANDRA BLAND SOLIDARITY RALLYNBUF WOMEN’S AFFAIR STATEMENT AND CALL TO ACTION
HOUSTON - Recently, the National Black United Front (NBUF) took to the streets of Houston, TX at the doorstep of the George Thomas “Mickey” Leland Federal Building (1919 Smith Street) for the Solidarity Rally for Sandra Bland. “We Demand… Answers! We Demand… Answers!” resounded from the crowd of supporters of Sandra Bland and family. Our calls for justice for Sandra Bland include the other high profile cases of police terrorism, brutality and misconduct. The signs held by rally supporters branded the name of Eric Garner, Tamir Rice and others that have been slain by police. NBUF knows that this case, now being investigated by the District Attorney as a murder case, is merely part of the Global White Supremacist/ Racist System. NBUF gathered at the rally, rather a wake, a wake for the release of the video of the State Troopers’ dash camera. As supporters and NBUF neared the end of the three-hour Solidarity Rally, NBUF National Chairperson, Kofi Taharka received news that the daunting
video was released to the public. Now the public is able to see what the mother and sisters of Sandra Bland had already been able to see. After watching the heinous video and hearing the heart-wrenching cries of Sandra Bland NBUF list the following Call to Action: 1. We call for the truth,
the whole truth and nothing but the truth throughout the entire investigation. We call for and will not accept anything less than full
and complete transparency. We, in NBUF, are highly skeptical of the narrative being presented to the public that Sandra Bland committed suicide. 2. We call forward other community leaders to facilitate full conversations and real solutions. We have no faith in the County officials, the Texas Rangers or the Department of Justice to conduct a transparent investigation. In our analysis of their track record, they all have a documented history of failure to administer justice in recent and historical cases. 3. We call for caution and wisdom to the supporters of Sandra Bland to be diligent in analyzing the motives of politicians on the local, state and federal levels. Are they seeking the truth? Or are they seeking to do damage control in the highly volatile racial atmosphere in America? 4. We call for an end to murders of all African people in America and abroad! Sandra Bland’s suspicious death is not an isolated occurrence; rather it is a systemic part of Global White Supremacy/Racism. From Jenna to Sanford to New York, from Ferguson to Charleston, from Baltimore to Waller, from Mississippi to Chicago and all the places in between we, the National Black United Front, stand united for Justice not just after we have murdered but to stop the murders in the first place. Again, on behalf of the National Black United Front, the National Office of Women’s Affairs sends our deepest condolences to the family of Sandra Bland. PHOTOS CREDIT: BURNELL MCCRAY
Black Kollectibles & F lowers le Availab Now!
The Amazon Woman 13” Tall
Major s Card Credit d e Accept Gift Shop: 713-692-1195
Store Hours: Thursday 11:30am - 4pm | Friday & Saturday 11am - 5pm
Funerals * Hospitals * Sympathy * Birthdays * Anniversaries * Weddings Valentine * Women’s Day * Easter * Mother’s/Father’s Day * Schools & More
Onl ine Cat alog Com ing Soo n!
Anthurium Pot Plant
Flowers for All Occasions
713-692-1100
Se habla español We A ppr eciate Our Customer s
We r! Delive
6130 Wheatley Street Houston, Texas 77091
Store Hours
Tues: 12pm - 5pm Wed, Thurs, Fri: 8:30am - 5pm Sat: 8:30am - 12:30pm Closed Sun - Mon TX-9
10
Read us online! w w w.a f r a m n e w s .com
‘Prairie View Community’ From Pg. 1
These phenomenal Black women are best characterized as strong, courageous, focused, disciplined, and willing to ‘speak truth to power’ regardless of the situation. Put simply, they often enter the fray at moments and in ways that the vast majority of Black men would not. Ironically, the same qualities that cause me to swell with admiration for such sisters also serves as the primary catalyst behind their vilification. Their critics, Black and White, never consider that these type of women are borne to lead and determine their own destiny, a worldview that conflicts with the quiet, demure, and reliant upon a man to either define them or pave the path to their liberation form of womanhood that so many have been socialized to expect from African-American women; in fact, women such as Assata Shakur, Angela Davis, and Sandra Bland have seemingly been on the battlefield protecting all they hold near and dear the moment that they developed a particular disdain for political exploitation and social injustice. According to noted Criminologist Allison Cotton, the treatment that this particular officer doled out to Sandra Bland, although inexcusable, is typical. In fact, it is to be expected once we understand the impact that race plays upon how non-Whites are treated in American society. According to Cotton, This is not rocket science or anything, but I think many White folks are still very afraid of a Black woman who doesn’t act meekly when she is being mistreated. I’m reading these articles about how “arrogant” Sandra Bland was and I’m thinking to myself “Why?..... Because she questioned the officer about why he was arresting her? Because she called him a “pussy” and a “punk ass” for beating her up when he had no reason to request that she put out her cigarette?” Well, that kind of behavior should be EXPECTED from some-
one who knows that they haven’t done anything wrong? Shouldn’t it?...I’ve seen White women act that way in grocery stores when the manager doesn’t give them the number of stamps they asked for at the customer service counter. I’ve seen White women act that way when they didn’t get the grade that they expected in a class they took. I’ve seen White women act that way at bars or parties when someone steps on their foot. I’ve seen White women act that way when someone they don’t know touches their butt. I’ve seen White women act that way when a car almost ran them over in the street. I’ve seen White women act that way at civic rallies when they are fighting for equal pay. I’ve seen White women act that way when they’ve been asked to leave a party because they are too drunk. I’ve seen White women act that way....I mean, when have the White women ever ended up dead? THIS is the problem. Nothing else. Just the normalcy of some women who cuss you out for mistreating them! Black women end up arrested and later dead (HANGING IN A JAIL CELL). While White women end up......at home. Cotton is correct in highlighting that we have all seen scandalous behavior by White women that has apparently not reached, in the eyes of law enforcement officers, the point that an arrest such as the one we viewed from the officer’s dash cam video was warranted. Although many attempt to ignore the disparate treatment between Black and White women, the truth of the matter is that African-American women have much less room for outspokenness than their White counterparts. Consequently, we must view the officer’s actions toward Sandra Bland through a prism of prejudicial thought, stereotypical expectations, and institutional racism that the vast majority of Americans hold for emboldened courageous sisters. Using the dash camera as our guide, it is obvious that the officer’s demands, most of them
L cal & State
unconstitutional I might add, placed on Sandy were in a word, trivial. However, in light of Sandy’s arrest, it may be necessary to highlight the things that we cannot do while stopped by a Waller County Officer. • Inquiring why you are being detained. • Smoking in your vehicle. • Displaying your annoyance at the officer’s duties. The above list details Sandra Bland’s ‘offenses’ on the date that she was arrested. The primary problem with these ‘offenses’ is that not a single one of them is illegal; in fact, it was the officer who broke not only department procedures, but also Constitutional Law during his harassment of, attack upon, and arrest of Sandra Bland. In the wake of Sandra Bland’s mother and sisters traveling to Prairie View, Texas, to retrieve their loved one’s earthly remains, the question placed before the Prairie View community is a simple one, ‘WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO NOW?’ It is this very moment that the esteemed abolitionist Frederick Douglass speaks to so clearly from the grave with a universal truth. According to Douglass, If there is no struggle, there is no progress. Those who profess to favor freedom, and yet depreciate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground. They want rain without thunder and lightning. They want the ocean without the awful roar of its many waters. This struggle may be a moral one; or it may be a physical one; or it may be both moral and physical; but it must be a struggle. Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. It is time that the Prairie View A&M Community realized that they must begin plowing the ground and planting seeds for a long overdue crop of political power and economic prosperity ‘by any means necessary’. There is no doubt whatsoever that the
all original responses from Letter to the Editor Weourwelcome 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. TX-10
Texas • July 27 - AUGUST 2, 2015
struggle they face is real. Although Sandy’s transition can be rationalized as ‘it was just her time’, such rationale falls flat on its face when looking at other manifestations of White tyrannical reign occurring within the overwhelmingly Black city. For example, it would not take you very long to find students’ who have been harassed, ticketed, arrested, and held hostage by White Waller County authorities until they were able to raise bond/bail. Such events according to a former Waller County Justice of the Peace are little more than a means of raising funds for White Waller County officials and authorities. The alluded to funds that could be comfortably called a “ransom” never make their way back to Prairie View. In many ways it appears that a tyrannical White population is operating an extremely efficient, yet ages old, game of politico economic exploitation. Most disturbing is the reality that the White Waller County establishment should not be a formidable opponent to the Prairie View community. From an outsider’s perspective, it appears that the only reason that Waller County is able to continue its immoral practices is attributable to Prairie View A&M University students and alumni repeatedly failing to engage local White authority in the two arenas that it is weakest, politics and economics. Put simply, without the economic contribution of Prairie View A&M University, the county would struggle mightily, if not outright collapse, in regards to finances. The reason that this challenge has not been issued rests at the feet of the city of Prairie View’s elected leaders, the administration of Prairie View A&M University, local clergy, and the school’s students and alumni. If the aforementioned entities would take the mantra that “War is nothing but politics with bloodshed, and politics is nothing but war without bloodshed” to heart, the sorry situation of politico economic exploitation in Waller County could be eradicated within a relatively short period of time. Although many have attempted to draw parallels between Ferguson, Missouri, and Prairie View, Texas, I find such comparison flawed for one reason; that being, the presence of an educated class emanating from and found upon the Prairie View A&M University campus.
Brian Ecinia State Trooper that arrested Sandra Bland
In September of 1903, the Black Nationalist Titan William Edward Burghardt Du Bois published an essay titled The Talented Tenth. In this essay, Du Bois highlighted that the African-American race would be saved by its educated class of professors, businessmen, doctors, and lawyers. They were “the talented tenth” who would liberate the race. It is reasonable to expect the aforementioned groups of elected officials, college administrators, and alumni to feel compelled to aid those that are coming behind them by guiding them towards political engagement and economic collectivism. Skirting this responsibility is akin to a treasonous betrayal of those that came before you and those who will come after. It is time that the ‘Talented Tenth’ meaning the Black educated elite, elected officials, college administrators, professors, alumni, and students connected to Prairie View A&M University unify against the tyrannical actions of Waller County’s less educated White ‘old boy’ system. Trust me when I say that if these Black entities join together, ‘heaven knows’ what they will achieve. It will be the actions of today that those succeeding generations of Prairie View residents and students will either admire contemporary Black leaders for or castigate them as fools who refused to abandon petty non-sense rivalries in order to destroy an oppressive Waller County community that is actively seeking means to extend their reign. It is time for the Prairie View community Continue Reading Online @ Aframnews.com By: Dan Freeman
Texas • July 27 - August 2, 2015
Educati n/Y uth
African
American News&Issues
11
Former Texas Southern University Leader Gains HCDE Assistant Superintendent Post
Kimberly McLeod, Ed.D., has been named the new assistant superintendent for education and enrichment at Harris County Department of Education. She will lead programs in adult education, alternative teacher and principal certification, grants development, research and evaluation, and educator professional development. McLeod is the former executive director of academic instruction and dean of Texas Southern University’s Northwest Campus. At TSU she also served as executive director of the Teaching and Learning Excellence Center and professor for the college of education for the past 12 years. Her rich history in the field of education includes nine years as a public school teacher, counselor and administrator. She also owned an early childhood learning center. McLeod holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, a master’s degree in guidance and counseling and a master’s
degree in educational administration from Texas Southern University. She earned her doctorate degree in counselor education from the University of Houston. Her leadership record includes serving as past president of the Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators and as regional president for the Southwest Alliance of Black School Educators. She is currently the president-elect of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators. The longtime Texas resident is a senior fellow with the American Leadership Forum. She was awarded the YMCA Minority Achiever Award and received the College of Education Teacher of the Year Award for Texas Southern University. In addition, she was inducted into the Judson Independent School District Hall of Honor. As a research-driven educator, she presents at national and international forums and has authored 12 textbooks and workbooks used in early childhood, public
HBCU Corner
leadership, the institution has experienced growth in student enrollment and academic programs; and he has created a more energetic collegiate learning environment to support the educational process. He maintains effective and appropriate relationships with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students. Recently, Dr. Newman has also forged international relationships with China and Africa to grow international student enrollment. Through his efforts, Jarvis Christian College has become a college without borders. The Board is honored to have Dr. Newman serve in this capacity for an additional five-year term.
Jarvis Christian College President Dr. Lester C. Newman
HAWKINS - The Chairman of the Jarvis Christian College Board of Trustees, Mr. Torry L. Edwards, states, "The Board unanimously approved a five-year employment contract for Dr. Lester C. Newman, sitting president for the past three years, on Tuesday, July 14, 2015." The contract is effective July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2020." Dr. Newman has transformed Jarvis Christian College into an educational oasis. With his
Jarvis Christian College is the sole historically Black liberal arts, baccalaureate degreegranting institution affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Located in Hawkins, Texas, the mission of the college is to prepare students intellectually, through academic programs that promote excellence in teaching and learning; socially, through student-centered support programs that encourage positive and constructive communication among peers, faculty, and staff; spiritually, through programs that stimulate spiritual growth and worship; and personally, through interaction that fosters self-development and maturity. The mission further seeks to prepare students for professional and graduate studies, productive careers, and to function effectively in a global and technological society.
school and higher education communities. The Spring resident is the mother of three boys who attend public schools and calls parenting “an honor and a privilege.” McLeod says she is a great believer in public schools and their potential to create unimaginable possibilities in thelives of all learners. “My goal as a leader is to build on the legacy and strength of HCDE and to serve as a catalyst for innovation that is relevant to the 25 school districts we serve,” she said. About Harris County Department of Education: HCDE provides education services to the general public and 25 school districts throughout Harris County and beyond. Services include adult education, programs to promote safe schools, afterschool programs, Head Start, therapy services, professional development for educators, alternative certification for principals and teachers, and special
Kimberly McLeod
schools. We offer purchasing procurement, grant development, program research and evaluation, records management, and school finance support. Since 1889, our services continue to evolve to meet the needs of our education public. Visit us at www.hcde-texas.org .
Earn a degree. Not debt. College classes, at a fraction of the cost of a university, are starting soon. Register now. LoneStar.edu/Register LSC-North Harris
2700 W.W. Thorne Drive • 281.618.5400
LSC-Greenspoint Center
250 N. Sam Houston Parkway E. • 281.260.3500
LSC-Victory Center
4141 Victory Drive • 281.810.5602
TX-11
African
12
American News&Issues
Texas • July 27 - August 2, 2015
Read us online! www.a f r a m n e ws .c om ®
®
Get up to
meal deal!
save more than
6
$ 99 in
BUY
X FREE
items! with in-store coupons
63
with in-store coupons
buy
H-E-B Soft Drinks
12 pk., 12 oz. cans assorted varieties
two (2) Honeysuckle That’s up to $ White Fresh 1.98 free! Ground Turkey 93% lean, 16 oz.
5
buy H-E-B Cafe Olé® Single Cup Coffee 12 ct. box assorted varieties
That’s up to
3.96
$
free!
• H-E-B Organics® Mustard, 9 oz.
buy
assorted varieties
• McCormick Grill Mates Hamburger Seasoning 2.75 oz.
• 7•Up TEN, 2 L btl. assorted varieties
• H-E-B Bake Shop Hamburger Buns
Hill Country Fare Drink Mix Canister makes 8 quarts assorted varieties
®
That’s up to
1.00
$
free! Marie’s Coleslaw Dressing 12 oz.
8 ct., assorted varieties
• H-E-B Sweet Potato Fries, 20 oz.
That’s up to
free!
16 oz.
HOU-12
with in-store coupon
H-E-B Cheese Crunch, Balls or Puffs 9 - 9.75 oz. assorted varieties
GET Llévatelo
free! ¡gratis! with in-store coupon
H-E-B Oats and Honey Crunchy Granola Bars Value Pack 17.8 oz.
Llévatelo GET
¡gratis! free! with in-store coupon
18 oz. assorted varieties
Llévatelo GET
¡gratis! free! with in-store coupon
Marie’s Coleslaw BBQ Dressing 12 oz.
3.52
Monterey Whole White Mushrooms
Some items may not be available in all stores. Items not valid at Central Market. Due to the popularity of our Extra Low Prices Every Day, we reserve the right to limit quantities. Limit Rights Reserved. We Accept Lone Star Card, WIC And Manufacturers’ Coupons. ©2015 HEB, 15-1238 visit www.heb.com
free!
$
buy
Prices Good Wednesday, July 29 Thru Tuesday, August 4, 2015 At Your Neighborhood H-E-B Stores.
GET
Crockett Country Texas Style BBQ Sauce
buy
(TEN varieties only)
FREE
13 in 5 items!
$
Llévatelo GET
¡gratis!
free! with in-store coupon
Dole Clamshell Salad That’s up to
3.17
$
free!
4.5 - 5 oz. assorted varieties
Llévatelo
¡gratis!