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VOL. 21 ISSUE 35

African-American News and Issues Newspaper

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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE OPENS SEPT. 24

“WE MUST NEVER FORGET SLAVERY, LYNCHING, JIM CROW LAWS, THE DISRESPECT OF THE BLACK RACE & PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA.” ~Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher~

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Education/Youth Blast From the Past or Future Trend?

HOUSTON - Will setting up more special race-based “housing colonies” on college campuses start an avalanche of racial division and generational separatism across America? Education leaders at California State University of Los Angeles have jumped aboard that train agreeing to the demands of Black student groups at the school to establish separate dorm housing for Blacks. Could this latest appeal led by Black college student groups create a new form of segregation that could spill over into Dallas, Houston, Austin and across Texas. Increased protests and demands by these groups for “Black housing colonies” on college campuses with Black-only accommodations could also spread to campuses at the University of Houston, Rice University, Sam Houston State University, Texas A&M, University of Texas and other major Texas colleges and universities increasing tensions between races already strained because of the ripple effects of “Black Lives Matter” movement, “The National Anthem” issue and two divisive presidential campaigns.

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TO CONTINUE READING VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM STORY BY: DARWIN CAMPBELL,


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American News&Issues

Editorial and Opinion

WHY IS AMAZON STILL SELLING AGATHA CHRISTIE’S “TEN LITTLE NIGGERS?” Earl Ofari Hutchinson Author & Political Analyst

L

et’s get one thing out of the way. When I ask Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos: Why Amazon is still listing on its site for sale Agatha Christie’s classic crime who done it, with its original racially offensive name, Ten Little Niggers, it’s not yet another PC screech for censor-

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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.

ship of a beloved crime classic. In fact, I resolutely opposed the demand a few years back to get rid of Mark Twain’s timeless classic, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn because it uses the word nigger countless times and one of its principal characters is “Nigger Jim.” I said then it was much ado about nothing because Twain was not a racist. The goal in the book was to show the ugliness an evilness of slavery and to do that he had to use the rawest racist language of his day. That Huck Finn reflected not only the times but was a beautiful poetic, literary gem that readers young and old could learn from and admire for its historic and artistic content and quality. And, in any case, to pull it from libraries and curriculum was censorship in its rawest and ugliest form. Christie’s Ten Little Niggers, and Amazon’s sale of it, though, is a horse of a totally different color. The “n word” is not buried in the novel for added literary effect. It’s the cover title in bold letters. In some editions in case the intent is missed there’s a picture of an upper crust white couple with a look of fear and revulsion staring at a semi-naked Black boy on a pedestal. In others there’s a circle of Sambo caricatured Blacks dancing around in a circle. Christie based the title on a racist poem with this ditty:

Ten little nigger boys went out to dine; One choked his little self and then there were Nine... Two little nigger boys sitting in the sun; One got frizzled up and then there was One. One little nigger boy left all alone; He went out and hanged himself and then there were None

The title was clearly meant to shock and pander to the prevailing racist sentiment of the day. It had absolutely no relation to the story line of the novel. Christie’s unabashed racist views read like a what’s what of racial stereotypes, vilification, and condescension in her mystery novels when there’s even the faintest mention of a Black, and other non-White characters. She seemed to have a special fascination with their hair, eyes, or other physical characters which she found odd, different, and always disgusting. Now there’s Amazon. Amazon clearly states that it takes a close look at the appropriateness of items sold on its site that may “offend cultural differences and sensitivities.” It has pulled, or flagged, several items from racially offensive DVDs to the Confederate Flag from its site. To call for Amazon to pull Ten Little Niggers then is hardly a case of censorship, but purely a call for the world’s largest online buying and selling commercial product site to cease profiting off the sale of a horrid racially demeaning title. It’s also a case of a company doing what legions of other companies have done that have had to come square with the fact they were selling and thereby profiting off of a racially or sexually or environmentally degrading product, and that’s pull it. In doing that they have simply done more than pay lip service to their oft time stated pledge to be a good corporate citizen. The removal of Ten Little Niggers from Amazon would in no way prevent buyers and collectors of the work with the offensive title of buying it. There’s a plethora of on line book sellers, and sites that sell the book, and they’re readily accessible to one and all. Twain could not have conveyed the sentiment of the evil of slavery and racial bigotry that’s a part of America’s shameful racial legacy by sugar coating the language, and guarding his vocabulary against racial epithets. In doing that Huck Finn with all of its racial crudities provided then and now insight into a time and place in America that should not be forgotten. Nothing of the sort can be said of Christie’s Ten Little Niggers. To continue reading online visit Source: Huffingtonpost.com

TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 19 - 25, 2016

Law & Politics Krystin Collins Attorney at Law Becoming a homeowner can be one of the most important milestones in one’s adult life. Owning a home also comes with major financial responsibilities. Homeowners must pay their mortgage every month to retain ownership of their home and avoid the risk of foreclosure. Foreclosure is a process that is instituted by a mortgagor to take possession of a property where a homeowner has failed to make their scheduled mortgage payments. Homeowners that want to retain possession of their homes must understand the foreclosure process and how important it is to be proactive and not wait until a foreclosure action has been instituted. Communicate with the Mortgage Servicer – When a homeowner misses a payment, they are usually afforded a grace period before any late fees and penalties accrue. If a homeowner misses several payments, the mortgage servicer will either sends notice through the mail, call the homeowner directly to inform them of their missed payments, or both. Do not ignore these letters and phone calls, communicate with your mortgage servicer and attempt to work out an agreement or payment arrangement. Notice of Default and Intent to Accelerate – The next step before a mortgagor forecloses on a home is to send the homeowner a Notice of Default and Intent to Accelerate demand letter. This letter informs the homeowner that their loan is in default, the amount to cure the default, the amount of time afforded to the homeowner to cure the default, and that failing to cure the default within a specified time could result in foreclosure. This letter is a signal that foreclosure is around the corner. The best course of action is to pay the reinstatement amount in full.

Partial payments could still result in a foreclosure. Intent to Accelerate – The demand letter will also inform the homeowner that if they fail to pay the amount to cure the default the mortgagor will exercise their right to accelerate the loan and proceed with a foreclosure. When a mortgagor exercises their right to accelerate, they demand that the entire balance of the loan be repaid if the borrower defaults on the loan. Notice of Sale and Posting for Foreclosure – If a homeowner fails to cure the default within the time specified in the Notice of Default and Intent to Accelerate; a second letter is sent to the homeowner informing them that their home is being foreclosed on and will be sold at public auction. This is the last chance for the homeowner to save their home. They must pay the full balance on the loan or their home will be scheduled for sale. To continue reading online visit Source: Huffingtonpost.com Attorney Krystin Collins is a native of the Acres Homes Community. She is a graduate of Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has been a licensed attorney since 2009. Her primary practice areas include criminal, civil, family, probate, estate planning, and personal injury. She may be contacted at Business Card Paper 14_Layout 1 12/11/14 713-775-0332 or for krystin.collins@gmail.com.

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TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 19 - 25, 2016

Editorial and Opinion

“Tell us, John Swarthmore. How do you REALLY feel about PVAMU?” Before I Lay it Down... By “Coach” Mark Spivey, M.Ed

“I’ll tell you something else: The Aggies are going to kick the ever living shit out of that other A&M from Prairie View on the football field this Saturday.” -John Swarthmore, Texas A&M Class of 1965 Trash-talking has always been an integral part of the game when teams at all levels of competition face each other. It doesn’t matter what type of business venture or athletic event the participants partake in; trash-talking has developed into a genre of its own. I can’t exactly pinpoint where it all began, but I can assume it goes back to prehistoric man and his homeboys. As soon as Homo sapiens discovered that another species of man (the Neanderthals) existed on this planet, talking shit evolved from grunts and moans to lyrically tuned insults and literary fisticuffs. Crawling around on all fours in the caves of the Caucasus Mountains in Northwest Europe was a motley crew of “Flintstones” who had not quite evolved into Homo erectus, the scientific term for early humans who stood upright and walked on two feet. They weren’t invited to any of the trash-talking festivities because they had not yet become “human”. They were still considered hominids or “animals”. Over a period of time, trash-talking incorporated “guidelines”. Some were official, others unofficial. It wasn’t cool to talk trash about other people’s mommas, children, and pastors. Nor was it common practice to criticize the government or the president. I guess our founding fathers knew what they were doing when they slipped that “freedom of speech” thingy into the Constitution knowing that in other countries you could end up dead, castrated, or have your tongued ripped out of yo mouth. Thank God we don’t have to worry about that now. Many people are guilty of crossing those

lines… A few days before Prairie View A&M University and Texas A&M University met in a historic football game, a 1965 graduate of TAMU decided he would take a trash-talking swipe at our football team AND our award winning “Marching Storm” Band. Here is what he said: “I’ll tell you something else: The Aggies are going to kick the ever living shit out of that other A&M from Prairie View on the football field this Saturday.” What I’m worried about is this godless music that we may be forced to listen to at halftime. Sit down? Hell, I’m gonna leave the county and return for the 4th quarter. Musically speaking, pop-music died right after The Ballad of the Green Berets was released. Right then and there. That’s as edgy as any band needs to get.” You know what we don’t need on a football field? Dancing. Period. I don’t care if you have these so-called drummajors hootin and a hollerin up a storm, drawing attention to themselves like they’re even playing an instrument. For God’s sake, the band just stands and jiggles their bodies to the music behind them like they’re having some kind of seizure. First time I saw it, I almost called the paramedics. It’s like their so-called band doesn’t understand precision. It’s like music to them is evolving. I don’t believe in evolution in any sense of the word, so what these people are doing is blasphemy, pure and simple. Marching isn’t some fieldparty, it’s war. Don’t get me started on cheerleaders.” When I first read this, I said to myself that this had to be satire. Why would a 1965 graduate of the oldest institution of higher learning in Texas diss the second oldest institution of higher learning in Texas days before they would meet on the football field for the first time EVER in the 140 year history of both universities? I understand trash talk. I understand talking shit. What I don’t understand, however, is how a seventy year old man can fix his lips to come after a HBCU, its football team, and its band. Continue reading “Before I lay it down” online @ www.aframnews.com

African

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“Freedom is never given. It is won.” We cannot expect them to stop treating us as second class citizens until and unless we stop believing that we are second class citizens and until we stop behaving as second class citizens. - A Philip Randolph

AIN’T THAT A REAL MOTHER FOR YA? Part 3 (Black Leadership in the Community) Kerry Washington once said, “The breakdown of the Black community, in order to maintain slavery, began with the breakdown of the Black family. Men and women were not legally allowed to get married because you couldn’t have that kind of love. It might get in the way of the economics of slavery. Your children could be taken from you and literally sold down the river.” It is a sad reality but this is true. However, I believe that even though in times past our White counterparts ruled the Black race with an iron fist; there still remain grave ills that some of our Black leaders impose on the community as well. As it is, our Black leaders are selling our communities out! Everybody wants to be king and queen but nobody wants to work together and that’s been part of the history of our community. It’s very simple to me people need to learn to respect those who do what’s best for the community. And the thing is there are many people that are working in, with and for the community that do not have a title. This is another problem within our community. So many people are caught up on titles, when titles have absolutely nothing to do with a position unless you are truly upholding the title. But nowadays, so many people are hung up on not doing anything unless there is a title attached and that is just ridiculous. I honestly don’t care what a person does or who they are if they do what’s best for the community then they have my respect. You really don’t have to like a person to work with them as long as everybody is working toward one

common interest everything else should take a back seat. We have a right to demand expectations from the leaders in our community. Because I am seeing how the lack of leadership in the community is affecting the future of the community. Our communities are becoming the communities of others who do not look like us, nor do they have the best interest in mind in regards to our people. Others are coming in and taking over homes and resources that our parents, grandparents and other ancestor work, fought and died to have. We MUST Understand that it is time out for everybody benefitting off of things that we worked for. It is constantly happening over and over again, but it’s like no one is concerned about what is going on right in our own backyards. We have already lost some of our historical communities such as Bordersville, Piney Point, Fourth Ward and day by day we are slowly but surely losing more. The memory of our loved ones who struggled to obtain land, homes businesses and other resources for the betterment of our future will soon become extinct. And we can only blame the lack of appropriate leadership of the community for only so long. Because before too long we will have to accept that the blame falls on us if we continue to support those who do not support us. Now ain’t that a real mother for ya? To that regard, I would just like to echo the words of J.C. Watts. He said, “The establishment wonders why we can’t get more of the Black vote. It’s because it’s not doing the things necessary to establish a deeper relationship with the Black

We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman

community. Most Black people don’t think alike. Most Black people just vote alike.” Now, ain’t that a real mother for ya? It is because of this factor that I have always said that we as a race of people have two of the most powerful tools that a person can have. “Our money” and “Our vote” are those most powerful forces and it would behoove us to be careful who we give them to. And that is stated with no respect of persons. Because even though we have many Black leaders in office now in this city and onward, not every leader is doing the right thing for the benefit of the Black community. In such cases, I encourage our readers to make note and pay attention. Because election time will certainly come again and we should not make the same mistakes by continuously giving our vote to those people in office who do one thing and say another. The reason why I am placing emphasis on this is because the only one who suffers from this is our community. Hence, when our communities suffer, we suffer. We MUST Understand that it is imperative to hold our leaders accountable. There is an old saying that says, “Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me.” Therefore, we cannot continue to give people chance after chance to tell us one thing as long as they are soliciting our votes and do another thing once they are placed in office.

Read More We MUST Understand online Today! TX-3


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African

American News&Issues

Story by: Darwin Campbell

Feature Story

Museum Opens With 12 Inaugural Exhibitions

Washington, D.C. - When the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) museum was established in 2003, it had not a single artifact, no site in Washington, D.C., no architect and a handful of staff. On Sept. 24, the visions and dreams will become reality as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) will open its doors with celebrations and a dedication ceremony with President Barack Obama. Among other dignitaries attending will be Rep. John Lewis, President and Mrs. George W. Bush, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton and Lonnie Bunch, founding director of the museum. Following the Presidents speech, there will be celebratory fanfare and a citywide bell ringing. The architecturally striking museum has a prime location on the National Mall at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 14th Street, across from the Washington Monument. “This joyous day was born out of a century of fitful and frustrated efforts to commemorate African American history in the nation’s capital,” said Bunch. “Now at last the National Museum of African American History and Culture is open for every American and the world to better understand the African American journey and how it shaped America. Today’s historic dedication honors the dreams of many generations and thousands of people who have worked so hard and sacrificed so much to make this dream a reality. If we’ve done our job right, I trust the museum will be place for all Americans to ponder, reflect, learn, rejoice, collaborate and, ultimately, draw sustenance and inspiration from the lessons of history to make America better.” When it opens this month, The museum will have 12 inaugural exhibitions grouped around three main themes: history, community and culture and include an exhibit about the museum’s evolution called “A Century in the Making.” The 400,000-square-foot museum also houses an education and technology center on the second floor, the Sweet Home Café, a museum store, the Oprah Winfrey Theater, a welcome center and orientation theater, and a contemplative court. TX- 4

The museum will also have on display more than 3,000 artifacts ranging from pieces of a slave ship to Carl Lewis’ Olympic medals, employ a staff of 200, and boast a fundraising program that has topped $315 million in private funds.

Local Connection

On displaying his Olympic Medals at the museum, Lewis told FOX 26 Sports, in Houston.“To me it isn’t that I’m giving the medals away. It’s that I’m sharing them.”...“The thing is I’m not going to be on this earth forever,” Lewis said. “I just thought ‘wow in a hundred years from now my grandkids and great grandkids could say that’s your great granddaddy,’ or someone will be able to talk about the legacy because they could see those medals and they mean so much to people.” Lewis is an is an assistant track coach at University of Houston in 1979, where he does not accept a salary. He won a total of 10 Olympic medals, nine gold. He also has 10 medals, eight gold, from the World Championships. According to the report, Lewis revealed he is not only providing Olympic medals and World Championship medals, but also over 160 other items.

Dedication Ceremony

The museum’s official dedication will take place at 10 a.m. on an outdoor stage facing the Washington Monument grounds. The public is encouraged to bring blankets as there will be no seating on the Monument grounds, but the ceremony can be viewed on strategically placed Jumbotrons around the site. The program will also combine brief speeches with musical performances and readings by well-known actors.

Grand-Opening Celebration

A free, three-day festival commemorating the new museum begins at noon Friday, Sept. 23, on the Washington Monument grounds between 15th and 17th streets along Constitution Avenue. “Freedom Sounds: A Community Celebration” will feature music, performances, oral histories, storytelling and workshops. Evening concerts featuring well-known performers will be presented on two large, tented stages and include Living Colour, Public Enemy, The Roots, Experience Unlimited (EU), singer Meshell Ndegeocello and a special guest to be announced. Food concessions will be available. Five sponsors— Bank of America, Kaiser, Prudential, Target and Toyota—provided funding for the grand opening.

Inaugural Exhibitions

“A Century in the Making”—This exhibit provides an overview of the century-long struggle to open the museum.

Texas •Texas September 1912-18, - 25, 2016 • August 2013

History Galleries

“Slavery and Freedom”—The centerpiece of the museum, this exhibition explores the complex story of slavery and freedom. “Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: Era of Segregation 1876–1968”—Takes visitors from the end of Reconstruction through the civil rights movement of the 1960s. “A Changing America: 1968 and Beyond”—Illustrates the impact of African Americans on life in the U.S., from the death of Martin Luther King Jr. to the second election of President Barack Obama.

Community Galleries

“Power of Place”—Explores the idea of place and region as a crucial component of the African American experience. “Making a Way Out of No Way”—The stories in this gallery show the ways in which African Americans created possibilities in a world that denied them opportunities. “Sports Gallery”—Looks at the contributions of athletes on and off the field. “Military History Gallery”—Conveys a sense of appreciation and respect for the military service of African Americans from the American Revolution to the current war on terrorism.

Culture Galleries

“Musical Crossroads”—Tells the story of African American music from the arrival of the first Africans to today’s hip-hop. “Cultural Expressions”—An introduction to the concept of African American and African diaspora culture. “Visual Arts Gallery”—Illustrates the critical role that African American artists played in shaping the history of American art. “Taking the Stage”—Explores the history of African Americans in theater, film and television.

Visiting the Museum

The museum is free, but timed passes will be required for the foreseeable future. Hours for the grand-opening weekend will be Saturday, 1–8 p.m., and Sunday, 7 a.m.–midnight. The free, timed passes are available online at www.nmaahc. si.edu and through ETIX Customer Support Center, 919-653-0443 or 800-514-3849. Starting Monday, Sept. 26, the museum will begin distributing a limited number of same-day passes beginning at 9:15 a.m. All visitors will go through security screening and bag checks at the entrances. Detailed information on visiting, including hours, special programs, directions, public transportation, parking and tours, will be regularly updated at www.nmaahc.si.edu.


TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 19 - 25, 2016

Texas HBCU Corner

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TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY TSU Homecoming Headquarters: www.tsu.edu

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Join the TSU Homecoming Parade by calling 713-313-7793 or online at http://www.txsohomecoming.com/applications.htm Heart of a Tiger campaign seeks gifts for deserving students Texas Southern University students are back on campus for the 2016 Fall semester! Please support our eager, deserving young people with a gift to TSU and its Heart of a Tiger fall campaign. Help our Tigers ROAR through your generous support of their college careers. Our ask is simple: help us to help them reach their goals. Your investment of any amount bolsters the mission and vision of Texas Southern University and will have a monumental impact today and for years to come. We are inviting you to participate in this Fall campaign and help us continue to support stellar TSU students. Please send a generous gift to our Heart of a Tiger appeal. You can make a difference in the life of a TSU student – take a moment and GIVE today at www.tsu.edu or you may send your donation to Texas Southern University - Office of Development, Hannah Hall 206, Houston, TX 77004.

To enroll at TSU visit www.tsu.edu/admissions; Join the alumni association at www.tsu.edu/alumni; For information about TSU’s online degree programs, visit www.tsu.edu/onlinelearning; Support Texas Southern University at www.tsu.edu/giving. TX- 5 TSU_AANI090716.indd 1

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Competitive Sealed Proposal Notice for Evan Edward Worthing High School Project Number: 16-09-05 Houston Independent School District The Houston Independent School District will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals from contractors for work at Evan Edward Worthing High School. The work includes, but is not limited to, demolition, site improvement, and new construction for the main campus. Part A and Part B and all other required proposal information, except sub-contractor firm information and M/WBE required documents, are due no later than Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at 4400 West 18th Street, Office of Board Services #1C, Houston, TX 77092. The proposals will be opened and the amounts read aloud. Evan Edward Worthing High School is located at 9215 Scott Street, Houston, TX 77052. The Request for Competitive Sealed Proposal (RFCSP), which includes plans and specifications, will be available beginning Monday, September 19, 2016 and may be obtained from Thomas Printworks, 4235 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77027, and T: 713.621.0022 upon refundable deposit of $150.00 for each set of plans and specifications. Documents in portable document format (pdf) are also available from Thomas Printworks on disk for a deposit of $50.00. Deposit checks should be made payable to HISD. Any questions regarding documents are to be addressed to Molina Walker Almaguer Architect, Inc. 6161 Savoy Dr., Ste. 1212, Houston, TX 77036. Contact Person: Noe Almaguer, Email: NAlmaguer@molinawalker.com; T: 713.782.8188; F: 713.482.2314. The Competitive Sealed Proposal process will be utilized as authorized in Senate Bill 1093, Legislative Session 83-2013, Ch. 2269, Subchapter D, of Texas Government Code. The Competitive Sealed Proposal process enables HISD to select contractors on the basis of price and qualifications/methodology. Sub-contractor firm information and M/WBE forms, schedules and statements, as required by Section AB of the RFCSP and in accordance with the Office of Business Assistance, will be received at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, October 19, 2016 (1 day after proposal information) in the Board Services Office #1C, 4400 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77092. PROPOSALS SUBMITTED WITHOUT M/WBE FORMS PROPERLY COMPLETED WILL BE CONSIDERED NON RESPONSIVE. A pre-proposal conference will be held at Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at Evan Edward Worthing High School (Auditorium), 9215 Scott Street, Houston, TX 77052 at 10:00 AM. For additional information regarding this project, please contact Raymond Hooks, rhooks@houstonisd.org. Drawings and Specifications for the RFCSP may be reviewed at the following Houston locations: Associated General Contractors / www.agchouston.org HISD Construction Services Office (Bond), 3200 Center, Houston, TX 77007, (713) 556-9250 McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge / www.construction.com Virtual Builders Exchange, 7035 West Tidwell, Suite #J112, Houston, TX. 77092

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EDITION DATE: September 12 - 18, 2016 (Vol. 21 Issue 34) EDITION DATE: September 19 - 25, 2016 (Vol. 21 Issue 35) TEXAS • SEPTEMBER 19 - 25, 2016

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Public Notice SUNDAY SATURDAY Lady Emma Primas All Star Elite Contact Information Gospel Celebration Fall Festival Chiu First Shiloh MBC 6648 Antoine DrName: Jennifer Phone: 713.718.5138 4420 Lyons Ave Houston, TX 77091 Houston, TX 77020 Fax: From 10am to 2pm From 4pm to 6pm Email: Hua.Chiu@hccs.edu For more info contact: For more info contact: Tearsheet/Copies: (832) 892 - 5078Address for ednagriggs@sbcglobal.net 3100 Main Street Houston, Texas 77002 THURSDAY FRIDAY

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Acres Home Chamber 3100 Main Street Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Texas 77002 Total due: 293.76 for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Houston, Inc. Networking Luncheon Buck Against AD 6112COST Wheatley St Galaback to 713-692-1183 Please sign for approvalBullying and fax Houston, TX 77091 6112 Wheatley St From 11am -12:30pm by 12 NOON Wednesday week beforeNET Monday Houston,the TX 77091 TOTAL COST: $144.00 For more info contact: Beginning at 6:30pm TUNE IN TO (713) 692-7161 For more info contact: KYND RADIO 1520AM info@acreshomecenter.org Run Ad for 2 Weeks (713) 692-7161Total Cost to Every WEDNESDAY RD PAYMENT 5PM - 6PM $288.00 SUNDAY FRIDAY WITH MR. PARIS EALY First Baptist Dr. Pastor Gerald H. AND AFRICAN-AMERICAN FBC Praise Dancers Peavy, Sr. & First Baptist 2% charge fee: 5.76 NEWS&ISSUES 844 Fortune St “Your KYND of Talk - Your KYND Church of Loncoln City Houston, TX 77088 Pastor & Wife 30th of Music - Your KYND of Radio” Total due: 293.76 Beginning at 11:30am Pre-Anniversary Banquet Call-In (832) 230 - 5592 For more info contact: Astonishing Events by www.kyndradio.com (832)892-5078 Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 Dre Banquet Hall download FREE Mobile App THURSDAY 6662 Antoine Dr by 12 NOON Wednesday the week before Monday Acres Home SNC #6 Houston, TX 77091 Community Meeting From 8pmDate - 1am SATURDAY Acres Homes MSC For more info contact: The Upper Room 6719 W Montgomery Rd (832) 892-5078 RD PAYMENT Prayer Ministry Houston, Texas 77091 “All Together In One Place” Beginning at 6:30pm Prayer Breakfast For more info contact: SATURDAY Superneighborhoodcouncil6@gmail.com Crown Plaza Northwest JoinOne tswhite55@yahoo.com 12801 NW Frwy Buck Against READ US ONLINE Houston, TX 77040 Bullying Dance a f r a m news.com Begins at 9:45am Competition SATURDAY For more info contact: TSU Auditorium Norma Sanchez (713) 825 - 2340 3100 Cleburne St Harper SATURDAY Houston, TX 77004 Breast Cancer Walk Date Shrine Culture From 3pm to 7pm Highland Park Center For more info contact: 3316 Desoto Houston African Diaspora (832) 993-9916 Houston, TX 77091 Museum Tour Beginning at 9am 5309 MLK Blvd. For more info contact: Houston, TX 77010 (713) 518-9284 From 4pm - 10pm Send in Events to SUBSCRIBE For more info contact news@aframnews.com 4 weeks in advance! www.aframnews.com (832) 408 - 1071

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OUTSIDE THE HUDDLE

HOUSTON - Tyrone Smith was born and raised in the Third Ward community of Houston, TX. He has strong parents who he believes is the backbone to everything that he is doing, and everything that he has done in life. He has learned a lot from his parents deFunerals * Get Well * Birthdays * Anniversaries * Weddings spite the fact that his mom didn’t finish middle school, Valentine * Easter * Mother’s/Father’s Day * Schools & More and his dad didn’t finish high school. Smith graduated from Willowridge High School, and received a full scholarship after graduation for football to Baylor University. He was the first in his family to attend and graduate from college, and received his Bachelors of Arts degree in Sociology. After graduation, he had the opportunity to play professional football for the San Francisco 49ers. After playing professional football for four years, an injury ended his football career, but it was that injury that became the beginning of something that would touch many lives in the long run. Although football was an important part in his life, he knew that his purpose was somewhere else. He was told that the NFL stood for Not for Long, and he knew that his life was taking another path that would positively impact the lives of many. Over the eight and a half months of rehab that he went through, he recognized how important it was that he had a degree. Smith expressed, “I realized that one of the greatest things in life that I took advantage of was actually going to college and getting my degree. There was power in Come r o my education…there was power in the fact that I was Call lace educated as a young man…and I wouldn’t be denied. I in to P ers or rd O r knew there was so much more to life beyond the game.” u o Y eliver! We D Smith knew that he wanted to do something that would help and change the lives of young people, so he created First and Goal Incorporated so that he could be a ray of hope and inspiration to young people. “I wanted to create an organization that would impact the lives of young people for years to come.” This organization’s mission is to provide the necessary tools, resources, and outlets for youth to be effective in society. Tyrone Smith is now accomplishing one of his dreams of being an author, and will soon be releasing his upcoming book Outside The Huddle. This book is in the form of an autobiographical narrative and speaks about eight practical principles that he has applied in his life dating AVAILABLE IN ALL SIZES back to the fourth grade. Some of these principles include purpose, pitfalls, people, and creating a plan, just to name a few. “Outside the huddle are steps in developing a game plan for life that speaks about my life and my jour713-692-1100 Pick-up or Delivery Available ney, but practical steps that I have taken along the way in Major rds Store Hours Se habla español my journey that can empower and support someone else Tues: 12pm - 5pm dit Ca e r C We A ppr eciate d e t 6130 Wheatley Wed, Thurs, Fri.: 8:30am - 5pm in their own walk and journey based on what they are deAccep Street Our Customer s Houston, Texas 77091 Closed Sat. thru Mon. signed to do or what they desire to do,” expressed Smith.

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He wanted to create a book that would be a simple read that would appeal to audiences even as young as middle school students. “I wanted to create something that would be a tangible resource with anyone that I would come in contact with, and it would actually inspire and challenge them.” In addition to the book, there is a journal piece that allows people to write. He believes that everyone can write, and that everyone has a story. The 56-day journal includes seven different journal entries for each one of the eight practical principals. Smith stated that, “Over the 56 days, you should have a better outlook and perspective of yourself.” Since writing his book, he is now a big advocate of writing things down. He made it known that it’s one thing to have an idea, thought, or concept, but it’s another thing to write it down, and flesh it out. Smith wants people to perceive his book as a book of hope, inspiration, encouragement, and empowerment, and he also believes that everyone can relate to something that is written in his book. Smith further expressed how he is a strong believer in that all individuals have something to offer in the world, but people must love themselves and know that everyone is here for a reason to make a greater difference. “We all have a story, we all are our own independent brand and our failures and mistakes and things we do should be told to help someone else. If more people embrace the fact that we are here for a reason beyond ourselves…and be open, honest, and genuine about their story, in order to help connect and empower someone else.” Tyrone Smith is constantly impacting lives, and he knows that he is living his dream. His book will be released very soon, and you can purchase a book, and learn more about him and his work at http://www.tyronesmith24.com/oth.html. By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, M.Ed.


Texas • September 19 - 25, 2016

Entertainment

THE HOUSTON JERK FESTIVAL STORY & PHOTO CREDIT: CHELSEA DAVIS-BIBB, M.ED.

HOUSTON - Despite the rain that hit Houston over the weekend, the Houston Jerk Fest was in full effect with music, dancers, vendors, and plenty of Caribbean food. The festival was co-produced by DJ GT from 9.79 The Box and Magic 102.1, and the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention. The event was held during the National Suicide Prevention Week in order to bring a greater awareness to the issues that surround suicide. The Houston Jerk Festival was a food and music festival that was centered on a jerk off competition where contestants competed for top prizes and recognition. The festival was created to bring the community together through family, music, and fun. GT wanted people from all different backgrounds to come to this festival, and not only have a good time, but to experience a culturally diverse atmosphere. “When you are culturally diverse… you are just a more well- rounded person,” expressed GT. This event was important for people to attend in order “to gain a broader perspective of each other’s culture.” GT further stated, “I know a lot of people who have never left the city of Houston…I always tell people to get out of your box, and get out and meet new people, and experience new things” People can learn so much from other cultures by keeping an open mind, and this festival was a great way for people to step out of their comfort zone and experience new things. There were a lot of performers that hit the stage for this event including, Mr. Vegas, Romain Virgo, Sacryfyce, QQ & Loyal Flames, U FYAH, and the beautiful Jaye Valentine, just to name a few. Jaye Valentine recently released her EP “Spectrum”, and was really excited and prepared to take the main stage. She expressed a few thoughts about the importance of diversity, and stated, “I think when people appreciate diverse backgrounds and cultures, and it just raises tolerance and acceptance. Diversity makes a healthy culture that we can all live in.” One of the most important parts of this event was to bring

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a greater awareness to suicide during national suicide prevention week. “We want to be able to reach a diverse group of individuals. We also want people to understand that suicide doesn’t affect just one particular group of folks. It consumes every ethnicity, every gender, and every age group,” expressed Wykisha McKinney, who is the board chair of the South East Texas Chapter. According to McKinney, suicide is currently the tenth leading cause of death in the country, and the third leading cause for teens and young adults. Also, one person dies by suicide every thirteen minutes in the country. “Our work is important in that we want to provide outreach and education to prevent suicide but we also provide support to individuals who’ve been impacted by a suicide lost as well.” This organization is currently working with the state capitol to advocate bills and laws to help prevent suicide. Their goal is to reduce the rate of suicide by 20% by 2025. For more information about this organization, you can view their website at https://afsp.org/. If you missed the festival this year, you can definitely catch this event in Houston in 2017.

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Health

Texas • September 19 - 25, 2016

Harris Health breast cancer survivors honored d New U.S. Citizen from Nigeria Redefined by Cancer

Breast Cancer Survivor is No Stranger to Family Tragedy, Perseverance

HOUSTON, 77026 - For 34-year-old Lakeisha Jermany, finding out she had cancer made her mortality top of mind. She had already experienced great loss in her family—the death of her brother and both parents, only a year apart. “I went home and cried for two days,” she recalls. “I prayed, and I talked with my family. I didn’t want to give up. I have a 4-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old daughter by adoption. I decided to fight for them. “I told the doctors, ‘Do whatever you have to do. I’ve got two girls depending on me,’” she adds. “I never wanted the girls to know what I was going through. When my hair fell out, I made an excuse.” Jermany found a lump while doing a breast selfexam and told her doctor at Harris Health System’s Squatty Lyons Health Center. She was referred to the system’s Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital for a mammogram and biopsy, where doctors diagnosed her with stage II cancer in her

right breast. After five months of chemotherapy, she had surgery to remove the tumor. She followed up with six weeks of radiation treatment at Harris Health’s Smith Clinic. She’s now taking medication for five years with a 95-percent assurance of the cancer not returning. The most unwelcome side effect of her treatment was early menopause. She also had to deal with the added complications of anxiety and diabetes. Thankfully, her Harris Health care team coordinated and ensured all treatments worked well together. “The nurses check on me,” she says. Her oncologist “went out of his way to help me manage my diabetes.” Cancer changed her attitude for the better. “I learned to be stronger and be patient,” she says. “I used to be angry, but my sister taught me to be calm. I laugh things off now. My family lets me know everything will be okay. Today, I smile more, and I enjoy life more than ever before.” Jermany has taken on the role of inspirational leader. “I tell women to get checked,” she says. “But more important, if you have cancer, don’t give up. Do whatever you have to do. You can push through it. Stay away from stress. Keep only positive people around you.

HOUSTON, 77083 - Mabel Ugbanaja from Nigeria lost her husband to cancer and survived aggressive breast cancer that metastasized to her brain, bones and liver. Through it all, the single mother now lives life with excitement. “Cancer redefined me,” she says. “It built my faith and my confidence. Now I know the value of life. I don’t let negativity around me. I make my home a place of peace.” In 2012, four years after emigrating to the U.S. from Nigeria, Ugbanaja felt a sharp pain in her right breast. She

had no time to think about it. She was caring for her 3-year-old daughter and her husband who had pancreatic cancer. She worked as a home health caregiver to support her family. When the pain continued and her nipple inverted, she could no longer deny she needed help. In quick order, she had a mammogram, a mastectomy of her right breast and chemotherapy. During this time, her husband died. Two years later, she was in another relationship, still working and caring for her young family when her eye began to droop, speech slurred, left arm weakened and was having difficulty remembering her clients’ addresses. A persistent and severe headache eventually sent her to the emergency center at

Harris Health System’s Ben Taub Hospital. Test results were shocking. She learned she was four months pregnant, and her breast cancer, which she thought was behind her, had metastasized to her brain, bones and liver. “It was a terrible experience,” she recalls. “I immediately had surgery to remove the tumor, but I had a horrible recovery. I hallucinated. My mind played tricks on me, and I was angry. I was put on 24-hour watch.” Ugbanaja was in the hospital for three months. In addition to the brain surgery, she had surgery toremove a tumor from her spine and mild chemotherapy. Fortunately, staff worked with her to deliver her baby, born by cesarean section, in October 2014. After the birth, she continued chemotherapy

and began radiation. Perhaps, her best medicine came not in the form of a pill, but rather a hospital chaplain’s visit that “subdued all my doubts. By the grace of God, I got myself back,” she says. She continues chemotherapy treatments and recent scans have revealed no more cancer. Ugbanaja celebrates life and all the good that comes her way—things as routine as watching her children sleep and as special as her new U.S. citizenship certificate. As challenging as her stay in the hospital was, she praises the work of doctors, nurses and social workers who even threw her a baby shower. “They were my family for three months and I’m so grateful,” she says.

Settegast Resident Battles Cancer for Herself and Her Granddaughter

HOUSTON, 77028 - Gwendolyn Stewart has battled cancer for more than a decade. Her first bout with the disease was for herself, but the latest fight is for her young live-in granddaughter. Stewart was first diagnosed with cancer in 2005 when she noticed a suspicious lump in her breast. She had a mammogram, biopsy and lumpectomy at Harris Health System’s Ben Taub Hospital and thought she was done with cancer. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the case. In 2013, doctors discovered cancerous cells in the margins of her first surgery. She had another lumpectomy and started six weeks of radiation at Harris Health’s Smith Clinic. Today, she’s taking Tamoxifen and returns to the clinic every six months, and shows no signs of complications. “At first, I was scared to death,” she says. “I thank God I had no side effects. I’m different now. I take my health seriously. I make all my appointments, watch what I eat, maintain a healthy weight and watch my blood pressure and cholesterol.”

However, cancer stays on her mind constantly. “It’s especially true around the time I get my mammograms. ‘Will it come back?’” she says. “The worry never truly goes away. It’s always in the back of my mind. It can affect my attitude.” Stewart has the perfect attitude adjuster—her 4-year-old granddaughter who lives with her. “This beautiful, spirited little girl keeps me active,” she says. “She’s busy until it’s time for bed. I love dressing and taking care of her. She’s my pride and joy.” Stewart uses her experience to encourage women to do regular breast self-exams and be diligent about getting mammograms. “Pay attention to your body,” she warns. “I wasn’t taught to pay attention to my breasts. I knew that lump was there two years before I did anything about it. I’ve met women who are in worse situations than me. I try to encourage them and tell them that God has them.”

These outstanding women will join hundreds of breast cancer survivors Oct. 28, 2016 as Harris Health honors their perseverance and heroic fight a by affiliated partners Harris County Hospital District Foundation, Baylor College of Medicine, The University of Texas M TX-10


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during October Breast Cancer Awareness Month Great-Great-Grandmother Has Much to Live for after Cancer

HOUSTON, 77091 - Mattie Underwood of Acres Homes has been a model patient for getting her annual mammogram exams. She never skipped one. When she had her exam in 2015, the radiologist noticed some suspicious spots in her lymph nodes. Two months later, she had a needle biopsy and was diagnosed with stage I breast cancer in her lymph nodes. Fortunately, an early diagnosis proved to be good news for her. “I never had pain. I never felt bad—never had a bad day,” she says. “I wasn’t worried. I believe in God, and know worrying will do more harm than good. I knew God would give the doctors the knowledge to do what they could.”

Despite Family History of Cancer, Breast Cancer Survivor in High Spirits

HOUSTON, 77057 - Lucille Taylor went to an emergency clinic last November when her right breast became swollen and painful. It was eventually diagnosed as stage IV breast cancer. She quickly scheduled an appointment with an oncologist at Harris Health System’s Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital. She received seven months of chemotherapy through infusion and now continues with pills. She and her doctor are pleased her tumor is shrinking. “The infusion nurses are beautiful, sweet ladies,” she says. “Everyone has been really good to me.” She met the nurses for the first time the day before Thanksgiving. Two days later, she joined the crowds of Black Friday for early Christmas shopping to be around happy people, which set the tone for her treatment. When she started losing her hair, she shaved her head—and liked it. Taylor’s boyfriend says, “From the beginning, she asked me, ‘Keep me busy. Make me stay active.’ I didn’t have to. I never saw her down. We motivate each other.” There hasn’t been a day she hasn’t wanted to get dressed up because “it makes me feel good.”

“I laugh all the time and stay focused and positive,” she says. “People don’t understand how I keep going, but I understand. It’s God.” Taylor isn’t the only person in her family dealing with cancer, her two sisters are currently in remission. One cousin has thyroid cancer, and another has prostate cancer. “We support each other all the time,” she says. A self-professed fighter, Taylor has chemo on Wednesdays and is back at work on Thursdays as a caregiver for mentally-impaired patients. “I’m going to continue to fight and be positive,” she says. “I don’t want anything negative around me. I take care of myself. I have faith and as long as there is hope—there is life. “I plan to see my 12 grandkids and step-daughter graduate. I plan to grow old and become even happier. I also plan for some wealth and travel.” “And I will be beside her every step of the way,” her boyfriend says.

Underwood saw a surgeon at Harris Health System’s Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital at the recommendation of her daughter, a hospital employee. Doctors removed the cancerous lymph nodes and administered seven weeks of radiation treatments at the system’s Smith Clinic. The thing she missed most when she was recovering from surgery was “being in the thick of things” among her family. Her family is everything to her and she’s the center of it: seven children, a bevy of grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. “I love the fuss,” she says. “Being surrounded by all of them does me all the good in the world. They keep me going. I’m happiest when I’m cooking for them.” Underwood doesn’t know why she had breast cancer, because no other family member has had it. One of her grandchildren, a triplet, was diagnosed with leukemia at nine months old. He went through a tough time, but recently graduated from pre -kindergarten with his brother and sister. “It seems strength and determination runs in the family,” she says.

Survivor Battles Breast Cancer Twice

Houston, 77071 - Sheila Fant thought she was done with breast cancer a long time ago. She had successfully battled and won. However, last year, a decade after her last bout, she was diagnosed again—this time an aggressive cancer at stage III. “At that time, no one in my family had ever had cancer,” she says of her first breast cancer diagnosis. “Maybe it was work related. For 22 years, I worked in a hazardous waste facility. I wonder if that figured into it.” In 2005, Fant was diagnosed with breast cancer of her right breast and had a lumpectomy and radiation treatment. But early in 2015, when she went to Harris Health System’s Smith Clinic for her routine mammogram, doctors saw something suspicious. She had an ultrasound, then a biopsy. Doctors found cancer, a different kind, this time in her left breast. Because the cancer was fast-growing, Fant was relieved to have a mastectomy at Harris Health’s Ben Taub Hospital and, in quick succession, six months of chemotherapy at Smith Clinic. Side effects of the chemotherapy were difficult. In addition to losing her hair, she suffered nausea and was tired. Worse was the memory loss. “I felt a void in my thoughts,” she says. “I still have it.” Fant has not made sweeping lifestyle changes. She says she’s

always been a healthy eater, except for loving sweets. “I won’t lie—I still eat them, just not as much,” she adds. “I want to exercise, but I don’t have the energy.” And yet, she’s very busy. The oldest of seven children, she’s always been a caregiver. Her mother and sister have dementia and require care. Now her mother has cancer; Fant takes her to radiation treatments. A Jehovah’s Witness, she says she depends on her faith for strength to care for herself and her family. “When you have Jehovah in your life, life isn’t hard to deal with,” she says. “Being spiritual got me through this. No matter the consequences, I had hope. I worried more about my friends and family than about myself.” She’s grateful that cancer is no longer a death sentence. She encourages her acquaintances, “take care of your body. It’s the only one you have.”

Houston takes part of $27 Million Health Equity Initiative to Reduce Breast Cancer Deaths in African-American Community 10-City Initiative Complements Komen’s Decades-Long Service to Medically Underserved

(BPRW) WASHINGTON - The Susan G. Komen breast cancer organization gathered philanthropic, civic, medical and business leaders in Washington today to formally launch a $27 million,10-city initiative to reduce breast cancer death rates among African-American women. “African-American women are almost 40 percent more likely to die of breast cancer than White women in the U.S. and in some cities, that number is as high as 74 percent. That makes this a public health crisis that must be addressed immediately,” said Komen President and CEO Dr. Judith A. Salerno. “We are deeply appreciative of friends and partners who are working with us to do so.” Salerno thanked the Fund II Foundation and its president Robert F. Smith for the $27 million grant that made the Komen African-American Health Equity Initiative possible. “This investment in women’s health will truly save lives,” Salerno said. Smith said at the event today that the breast cancer initiative ties strongly to Fund II’s priorities. “The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King said that the biggest injustice one can find is really in health care,” he said. “The Fund II Foundation is focused on – among a number of pillars – helping to decrease that disparity and level the playing field in health care and treatment for African-American women.” Komen’s African-American Health Equity Initiative initially targets 10 U.S. cities where mortality rates and late-stage diagnosis of AfricanAmerican women are highest. The goal: to reduce the mortality gap by 25 percent within five years of beginning work in each city. To Continue reading online @ aframnews.com

against cancer at its annual Breast Cancer Survivors Luncheon. The event is held in October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and hosted MD Anderson Cancer Center and McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. TX-11


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18 - 20 ct. assorted varieties

• American Children’s Book

That’s up to

$

4.58

free!

buy

Kiolbassa Smoked Sausage Links small pack assorted varieties

assorted titles

Llévatelo GET

GROW YOUNG MINDS, READ 3 TIMES A WEEK

¡gratis! free! with in-store coupons

Para niños bien listos ¡leéles 3 veces a la semana!

• King’s Hawaiian Sweet Hot Dog Buns, 8 pk. • American Children’s Book

That’s up to

$

Make tonight a movie night with Redbox

4.78

free!

buy

H-E-B Fully Cooked Natural Shredded Chicken, 16 oz.

Visit redbox.com to browse & reserve rentals. Para niños bien listos ¡leéles 3 veces a la semana!

©2012 HEB, 12-4148

Prices Good Wednesday, September 21 Thru Tuesday, September 27, 2016 At Your Neighborhood H-E-B Stores.

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. ©2016 HEB, 16-1650 visit www.heb.com

HOU-12

assorted titles

Llévatelo GET

GROW YOUNG MINDS, READ 3 TIMES A WEEK

¡gratis!

free! with in-store coupons

Para niños bien listos ¡leéles 3 veces a la semana!

• H-E-B Specialty Series Salsa, 16 oz.

That’s up to

$

assorted varieties

• American Children’s Book

4.00

free!

GROW YOUNG MINDS, READ 3 TIMES A WEEK

assorted titles

Llévatelo

¡gratis!


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