FREE • April 23 - 29, 2018
Vol. 23, Issue 14
www.aframnews.com
Groundbreaking Women
Sherman Roberts, President and CEO of City Wide Community Development, pg. 10
Aftermath Ministries 3rd Year Church Anniversary, pg. 9
Photo Credit: Michael Stravato for The New York Times
By Rebecca S.Jones “I think the truth of the matter is, people who end up as ‘first’ don’t actually set out to be first. They set out to do something they love and it just so happens that they are the first to do it.” These words were rendered by the first female African-American national security adviser and U.S. Secretary of Afram News
State, Condoleezza Rice. It was nearly a century ago, when women in America were finally granted the right to vote. Even with that liberty, there were existing stipulations attached that disabled women from being considered as equals amongst their opposing sex. Though many choose to overlook the obvious, the American
Photo Credit: Dr. Goffney’s Facebook photos
woman’s struggle for equality yields a parallel to the journey of the Negro’s struggle in American history. At the 2013 Morehouse’ College Commencement, President Barack Obama referred to the old proverb, “As an African-American you have to work twice as hard as anyone else if you want to get by.” Some may suggest that
it is a matter of opinion; but, considering the historical unbalances that have existed, those odds are doubled regarding African-American women. Hence making the tale of two Texan women, even more significant as it relates to the African-American culture. On April 20, Dr. Ruth
African-American Newsand Issues Newspaper
Continued on Page 4
Afram News
Michael Moore, speaks at AHCBED April’s Networking Luncheon, pg. 6
Opinion by Sir Christopher Ray, pg. 3
2 • African-American News and Issues
WE ENCOURAGE YOUR OPINION
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Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
D
uring a recent drive in Midtown, I noticed that the homeless encampment under U.S. 59 near Caroline and Barble (?) has resurfaced. A few months ago, the city led task force had steam cleaned the area due to the numerous complaints from the homeowners demanding that Mayor Sylvester Turner eradicate this serious eyesore. When is he going to exhibit leadership regarding implementing a permanent plan dealing with the homelessness? His photo-op style of governing is really a slap-in-the-
face to the taxpayers who are subjected to living amongst these filthy conditions. There is no excuse for allowing transients living under bridges regardless of their liberal A.C.L.U. rights. Talk is cheap Mr. Turner when you brag about Houston being a first-class city. It is time to prove it by cleaning up the mess “asap.” Forcing the city into passing legislation banning this deplorable behavior clearly must be a priority item on its forthcoming order of business. - Floyd Andrews
read your truthful news Ibox sheet whenever I find the full at H-E-B.
cessive drinkers – that is what happens when our “best ambassadors” – soldiers – go on duty and present themselves as A******S socially in other countries. We all get branded. Be sensitive to the other cultures! Colin Kaepernick is surely smart and sensitive enough to do something other than get himself knocked silly, injured for life. Tom Brady wants to play until 45 years old? Oh, come on! The NFL did start white and is almost completely BLACK, including QBs. There is no “equality” in the NBA either. Blacks are preferred. I guess Blacks really do not mind physical danger and slavery as long as they get paid for it. - Barbara J. Thomas
I was horrified at Trump’s brainless exhortation about NFL players who do not know why Kaepernick took a knee (which he should not have done). If he had gone into the stadium waving an upside down US flag on a stick, he would have been questioned what was wrong. He then could have responded with his thoughts in the air. All the kneeling and arm-linking was the blind leading the blind. Personally, I do not like the anthem. It is bellicose, bullyish in today’s world. Our national anthem music is wedded to an English drinking song – bar filth!!! Other countries don’t respect bullies and ex-
e are writing to share our enthusiasW tic support for the Aldine
School Board in choosing Dr. LaTonya Goffney as the next Superintendent of AISD. Aldine is fortunate to have a candidate of her caliber and dedication. School Board President Steve Mead, Connie Esparza and Dr. Kim Booker and Patricia Ann Bourgeois, current members of the School Board, have or had children in Aldine High School, but their commitment goes far beyond the their own children’s interests; they along with Paul Shanklin and the entire Board appear to care deeply about education quality for all students, and have advocated passionately for students, families, teachers and administrators, whether negotiating a new teachers’ contract, reexamining the school calendar, addressing new curriculum requirements and changes, maintaining our schools’ educational excellence under a strict fiscal regimen, or selecting a successor for superintendent. At the last school Board meeting, the Board selected Dr. LaTonya Goffney as the finalist for the Superintendent position being vacated by Dr. Wanda Bamber’s retirement. It was not a unanimous decision. Dr. Viola Garcia and Ms. Rose Avalos casting dissenting votes. The “NO” votes did not appear to be based on Dr. Goffney’s qualifications but on certain procedures they felt necessary before a selection was made. Dr.
Garcia cited items such as a background check and Ms. Avalos appeared to have wanted to go a site visit. Neither had complaints about whether or not she was or could be the right Superintendent. Their complaints were odd given tDr. Goffney is a sitting Superintendent in Lufkin, Texas. Superintendent Goffney has transformed the office into one where students truly do come first. Under her leadership, administrators, teachers and support staff are consistently encouraged and supported. Her administration’s tenor and tone is unwaveringly positive, and she has worked tirelessly visiting schools across the district encouraging educators and providing an optimistic, supportive air. With her professional origins as a classroom teacher, Dr. Goffney understands the “boots on the ground” challenges facing K-12 educators. Therefore, she brings a practical knowledge base and keen pedagogical understanding. AISD will be a tough step up because it has never had a Superintendent that has not come from inside the existing system and has never had a Black person in that position. Dr. Goffney has been an excellent Superintendent and political breath of fresh air. I urge support for her so that she can have continued success here. - Watchman in the AISD Board room
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
o as I say and Not as D I do has been a crutch and the downfall of the
Black community since we’ve been allowed to govern and raise our own families after slavery. Who governs the elders’ behavior when “not as I do” isn’t necessarily lining up to what they say? Quite ignorant of us to believe our youth aren’t intelligent enough to understand what is right from wrong. We’ve been raised on a society of youth watching their elders perpetrate less than noble behavior while chastising the young for exhibiting the same behavior in lesser or greater forms. We tend to forget as intelligent Black people that not too long ago, we were forced to be entertainers and court jesters for those who had our ancestors enslaved. We are showing the results of that conditioning through our behavior. We would put on performances and show feats of unbelievable talent and genetic skill for free merely for the sake of those in power. Fast forward to 2018 and it appears that the only way to be revered within the Black community is to be some form of entertainment for the public media or the pulpit, and that is a problem. Now granted, it’s understandable that our current economic system in place has afforded great wealth to those willing to be an object of laugh-
African-American News and Issues • 3
Who Governs the Elders? By Sir Christopher Wayne
ter; but, at what expense to the moral condition of our people? Have we become so repressed spiritually, that economic gain has become more important than righteousness itself? Too easily we forget that the superstars and icons we look up to and allow our youth to idolize are old enough to be parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents. Jay Z, Tiffany Haddish, Whitney Houston on down to Snoop Dogg all perpetuate the very same life lesson that we are taught in Black churches and homes all across the south. From showcasing the enjoyment of drugs, careless living and gang life, we still expect our youth to somehow display Christian behavior despite the examples before them. “Do as I say and Not as I Do” would make more sense if we as adults, our elders and those we consider fonts of knowledge and wisdom, shine more light on the living lessons they teach. It makes having to say anything obsolete when the example is set accordingly. Maybe then we will rise as Black people to the state of nobility … Kings and Queens. - AANI
Our Educators Matter
ccording to her own perspective, Oprah A Winfrey, the wealthiest
billionaire from the African-American community made reference to a thought that is very true in nature. She said, “For every one of us that succeeds, it’s because there’s somebody there to show you the way out. The light doesn’t always necessarily have to be in your family; for me it was teachers and school.” Certainly a woman of her caliber is worthy to share advice in regards to success and the channels of which one goes through to attain it. I don’t care who you are, or where you come from there is one thing that is for sure; none of us have gotten where we are by ourselves. We are products of those who raised, trained and taught us. Therefore, the types of influences that are present in our lives at an early age are instrumental in developing our character. The same rules apply to future generations, which rest in the lives of young African-American males and females. WE MUST Understand the significant role not only our parents and loved ones play in building lives, but our educators as well. In some instances, there are children who will never receive the proper love and guidance at home. As it is, schools are living proof the educational system has become the
only training ground for some students. This is why the selection of leaders to represent the public school system and higher learning institutions are so relevant. Just as the agenda and motives of elected officials who aspire to serve in public office are vital for residents to consider, likewise is the selection of superintendents and presidents of our educational facilities. I must admit that I am proud Prairie View sought Dr. Ruth Simmons for the position of President. I am also equally excited about what has recently taken placed within the Aldine Independent School District, with the naming of Dr. Latonya Goffney as Superintendent. Considering the experience of both women, they have put in the time to serve the educational system and are highly qualified individuals for the assigned tasks. I will always have a special interest in Aldine, because it is literally in our backyard. Therefore, I have always made it a point to be concerned with the district’s affairs. Initially, I had a problem that in the history of Aldine whenever a selection for a superintendent came up, the deputy superintendent has been known to fill the position. Somehow, we missed the boat with my good friend, Dr. Archie Blanson some years ago, because when it was his time to step into the position, somehow, the structure that had be-
We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
come a part of Aldine’s history was overlooked. Nevertheless, I am proud that history is finally taking place within the district in the form of receiving its first African-American superintendent. I always say that there is, ‘Something about this Blackness that is seriously misunderstood’. But, the truth is, when it comes to matters such as this, race should not have a say. In terms of educating and leading our young minds, the most qualified person should prevail. Hence I am elated that in this case, those qualifications were taken into consideration and the best person for the job was selected; who just happens to be a historical Black woman. I would like to echo the words of the late Nelson Mandela. He expressed that, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” We must keep this thought in mind and ensure that our children know the value of education. Furthermore, we must also ensure that we are surrounded by leaders and educators who promote this very idea. So, not only does education matter, but even more so, our educators matter. - AANI
4 • African-American News and Issues
Continued from Page 1
J. Simmons was inaugurated as the first female president of Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU). Three days prior, Dr. LaTonya Goffney was named the lone finalist as the Superintendent of Schools for Aldine ISD (AISD), establishing her as the first African-American female to fulfill the position. Terms such as intelligent, accomplished and historic are not merely sufficient to define the characteristics of these two trailblazers. Prior to their current elections, both women had already cemented a
plot in the history line of African-American firsts’.
Meet Dr. Latonya Goffney
Latonya McGowen Goffney hails from the Deep East Texas of Coldspring. After graduating from high school, she enrolled at Sam Houston State University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in History and English. She continued to advance her studies at Sam Houston, ultimately obtaining a Master of Education degree in Administration and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership. In the inception of her
Dr. Goffney showing school spirit with the Lufkin Panthers at Abe Martin Stadium. Photo Credit: Dr. LaTonya McGowen Goffney
Superintendent Goffney’s enthusiasm shows in her involvement with students at Brandon Elementary. Photo Credit: Sydney White
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
career, she began as a Language Arts educator in Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD. Over time, she soared through the ranks by becoming, assistant principal and principal in Coldspring-Oakhurst. She later served as the Superintendent within the district for five years. Impacting Education through Committed Service In 2013, she became the Superintendent of Lufkin ISD, servicing over 8,000 students. Lufkin ISD recently issued a statement regarding the phenomenal strides that Dr. Goffney has made while serving as superintendent within the district. “Under Dr. Goffney’s leadership, the Lufkin Education Foundation was established, as was the Leadership Academy for aspiring leaders in the district. She created partnerships with Stephen F. Austin State University to create a STEM academy for high school students and Angelina College for an Early College High School. The district has been financially sound, even giving raises to teachers and staff for the past four years of her tenure.” To add to an already remarkable portfolio, Dr. Goffney received the Distinguished Administrator of the Year Award by the faculty of Sam Houston State University’s College of Education for her service and dedication in 2013. Furthermore, she
was named as one of the 2012-13 Class of Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) International Emerging Leaders. The award is designated to acknowledge and commend high-performing facilitators globally.
Making Historical Strides
Last year, Dr. Goffney made history in the State of Texas. She was named the Texas Association of School Board’s (TASB) and Texas Association of School Administrator’s (TASA), Superintendent of the Year for the state of Texas and the Region VII Superintendent of the Year. She received the award at the TASB/ TASA convention in Dallas. Out of five finalists, she emerged victoriously. According to TASA, the selection committee noted her, “focus on transparency, removing barriers and sharing best practices for continuous improvement in the district.” Her entitlement to the honor solidified her as the first African-American woman to win the award since its establishment in 1984. Aldine ISD is anxiously anticipating a new era of leadership with Dr. Goffney. With nearly two decades of experience in the field of education members are expectant that she has the skills and know-how to continue to lead the district in the right direction. According to the district’s website, Aldine ISD Board of Trustees President Steve
Mead expressed his sentiments regarding the selection of the new superintendent. “Dr. Goffney brings a wealth of educational experience having served as a superintendent in two different districts for a total of 10 years. We look forward to working with her, along with our administrative team. We believe Dr. Goffney will have a positive influence on our students and staff and will be a vocal advocate for the important role public education plays in the State of Texas.”
Meet Dr. Ruth Simmons: Paving Ground
Ruth J. Simmons is a native of Grapeland, a small town in East Texas. Her parents, Franny and Isaac Stubblefield were sharecroppers who raised twelve children, with her being the youngest. She grew up and was educated in a segregated community. At the age of seven, her family relocated to Houston. During her childhood, she became fascinated with reading books and developed a genuine desire to excel in education. After graduating with honors from her high school in 1963, she earned a scholarship which enabled her to attend Dillard University. Four years later, she achieved her Bachelor of Arts in French. Thereafter, she matriculated at Harvard University, where she accomplished
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
African-American News and Issues • 5
her Masters in 1970 and Ph.D. in 1973 in Romance Languages and Literatures.
Laying Ground
Upon completing her studies, she initiated a professional career in education serving in numerous capacities at prestigious institutions around the nation. Firstly, she secured a position as an assistant professor of French at the University of New Orleans; she was later promoted to Assistant Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Following, she took a giant leap from the South to serve as Acting Director of International Programs and Visiting Associate Professor of Pan- African Studies at California State University in Northridge. From there, she became the Assistant Dean of the Graduate School and later the Associate Dean of the Graduate School at the University of Southern California.
Breaking Ground
Afterwards, she worked as Associate Dean of the Faculty at Princeton University, where later in her career she became the Vice Provost. Prior to serving as Vice Provost at Princeton, she became the Provost at Spellman College. By the mid-90’s, Dr. Simmons had created an impressive reputation amongst higher learning institutions throughout the country. Therefore, it was no surprise to many who were familiar with her resume, when
Dr. Ruth Simmons at Brown University’s 239th commencement. Photo Credit: Adam Robbins
Dr. Ruth Simmons visits with Prairie View A&M University’s radio KPVU staff members.
she made history by becoming the first African-American President of Smith College. Smith College is a private women’s liberal arts college in Northampton, Massachusetts and the largest of its kind. Her biography boasts of the many instrumental academic initiatives she established during her stint there. One of those initiatives is noted as the engineering program which was the first at an American women’s college. In 2001, Dr. Simmons flushed African-American history once again by becoming the first African-American President of an Ivy League University. Through that entitlement, she was named the 18th President of Brown University. During her tenure, there she contributed significantly towards enhancing the status of the distinguished university, insomuch that a building at the school was dedicated to her honor. After retiring from her
helped me move from an insular environment to a bigger stage when I went to graduate school. My aspirations for Prairie View are to essentially make sure the university is continuing to do the same thing for students today that it did for my brother — and Dillard did for me. And that is to offer the advantage of a strong education that will prepare students for the careers they want, in a social and cultural context that helps them develop the confidence to perform after graduation.” Over the years, Dr. Simmons has been the recipient of a slew of accolades, honors and acknowledgments. A few of those include: a Fulbright Fellowship to France, the 2001 President’s Award from the United Negro College Fund, the 2002 Fulbright Lifetime Achievement Medal, the 2004 Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Medal, the Foreign Policy Association Medal and the Centenni-
role as president in 2012, she became President Emerita of Brown University. Five years after her retirement, Prairie View A&M University contacted the esteemed heroine with an offer. From that proposition, she began serving as interim president of the university and officially accepted the position in October 2017. Marguerite Joutz recently conducted an interview with Dr. Simmons on the subject. In her article entitled, Ruth Simmons on Cultivating the Next Generation of College Students, she documented the president’s response regarding hopeful accomplishments at the HBCU. “I grew up in a segregated neighborhood in Grapeland, Tex., with very little experience with the world. The transition that Dillard enabled for me was extremely valuable. As an undergraduate, I began to grow a sense of confidence that
al Medal from Harvard University, just to list a few. She is a member of: the National Academy of Arts and Sciences, the American Philosophical Society and the Council on Foreign Relations. She also serves on the boards of FCAU, NV, and Square, as well as several non-profit boards, including the Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture; the Holdsworth Center; Rice University; and the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Amongst honorary degrees that she has received are: the Brown faculty’s highest honor: the Susan Colver Rosenberger Medal and in 2012, the president of France named her a ‘chevalier’ of the French Legion of Honor. - AANI $45-$100 (per story) WRITERS WANTED Must be knowledgable of the African-American Communities For more info call or send resume to sales@ aframnews.com
6 • African-American News and Issues
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
Acres Homes Chamber Networking Luncheon
Chairman Warren Fitzgerald Muhammad and Anthony Stewart present one of the chamber’s newest members with a membership certificate.
Director of the Ensemble Theater Janette Cosley and Mary Fontenot
(Houston Community College – Northeast) President Destry Dokes and Donnell Cooper
AHCBED Anthony Stewart, Michael Moore (Stuffed Baked Potato Factory) and Chairman Warren Fitzgerald Muhammad
Chairman Warren Fitzgerald Muhammad and Rodney Sullivan (Purple Pickle Factory)
(Lone Star Community College System) Denzel Goodman, Kimberly Moore-Crenshaw and Chanel Provost
Recently, the Acres Home Chamber for Business & Economic (AHCBED) hosted a networking luncheon. Attending were residents, business owners, educators, pastors, ministers and members. New Chairman Warren Fitzgerald Muhammad oversaw the event. Several door prizes were awarded, introductions given and lunch catered by owner Mr. Michael Moore’s Stuff Baked Potato Factory, who also served as speaker of the day. Moore shared the encouraging and inspiring details which resulted in his success. Afterwards, he was presented with his certificate as a newly inducted member of the chamber. He was also presented with a bronze President Barack Obama statue as a token of appreciation. Mr. Roy Douglas Malonson then made expressions and Superintendent Carl Davis of New Life Tabernacle offered the final prayer. AHCBED is located at 6112 Wheatley Rd., 77091. For more information and/or details about upcoming events, or to become a member of the chamber contact, Mr. Anthony Stewart at (713) 692-7161. The speaker for May’s luncheon will be Linda Head who oversees the Office of Workforce Education and Corporate Partnerships at Lone Star College System (LSC), serving as Associate Vice Chancellor.
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
Sis. Margie Nell (Wilson) Phillips Margie Nell (Wilson) Phillips was born August 12, 1933 to the late Deacon Taylor and Sister Sim Willie Wilson in Cuney, Texas. She accepted CHRIST as her savior and was baptized at an early age at the Rising Star Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Texas. Margie received her formal education in the Jacksonville School System and matriculated to Texas Southern University, obtaining her degree in Dietary Studies. Margie supported her family as a career employee of the Houston Independent School District, retiring in 2000 as a Dietary Area Manager. Margie met and married Sam Phillips of Gonzales, Texas and remained steadfastly committed to her vows until his death, May 17, 1999. Three sons were produced out of this union: Ronald (Abbie), Carlos (Alanda Yevette) and Donald Ray. Margie was a faithful member of the True Light Missionary Baptist Church, under the late Reverend Edward L. Lott and the current pastor Reverend Craig S. Taylor, Sr. She served GOD faithfully at
True Light for more than fifty-five years. She was an outspoken advocate for the youth and served many years as the Director of Youth Ministries, forever touching many lives. She also served faithfully on the Usher Board, Education committee and as a devoted Sunday School Teacher within the Youth Department. In her private life she loved to travel and was an AWESOME cook. Sunday afternoon dinner was the way to end and begin a week, surrounded by family and friends. She is pre-deceased by her parents, husband, sister (Victoria Story) and brother (Vernon Wilson). Margie leaves in GOD’s care her sons, Ronald, Carlos, and Donald Ray. Adopted son Edgar Sheppard, Brother Derwood Wilson of Tacoma, Washington, Step Brothers: Robert Wilson of Jacksonville, Texas; Marvin Wilson of Dallas, Texas, and Step sister: Debra McClellan of Jacksonville, Texas. Daughters in Law: Abbie and Alanda Yevette who she regarded more as daughters than in-laws. She lavishly doted on her 5 grandchildren, Carlos II; Roiton; Nicole (Lee); Nicholas and Daniel; and her 5 great grandchildren: Jailyn Jasmine; Jordyn Locke; Randle McCalester; Montrell Arvie-Phillips; Carlos Phillips III. She left a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, church family and friends. Margie truly lived an independent and fruitful life!
African-American News and Issues • 7
Ms. Ruth Campbell Stewart
With great regret we announce the passing of Ms. Ruth Campbell Stewart. She was born October 20, 1916 in Savannah, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother . She is survived by her sister, Saramae Richardson, niece, Yvonne Richardson James, great-nieces Sara James and Paige James and nephew James Stewart, Jr. She has cousins and many life-long friends. Her family, former students and friends will gather Saturday, April 21, 2018 to celebrate her life. While she was a member of Salem Lutheran Church, the Funeral service will be celebrated on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 1:00 pm in the sanctuary of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. The eulogist will be the founding pastor emeritus, Dr. William A Lawson. The viewing will be from 12:00 noon, an hour before the funeral service-which will begin promptly at 1:00 pm. After the service, the mo-
torcade will pass by the Stewart-Rollins Music Building, for a salute by the Ocean of Soul Marching Band, as well as other music students. The public is welcome to be part of the salute. The Interment, will be at Houston Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 2426 Cullen, Pearland, TX 77581. On March 1954, Ms Stewart arrived to teach voice and become the director of the Women’s Glee Club at Texas State University for Negroes (later to become Texas Southern University). During her 29-year tenure at Texas Southern University she co-produced several operas, including “Cavalleria Rusticana,” “Madama Buterfly,” “La Boheme,” “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” “The King and I,” “Requiem” (Verdi), and “Messiah” (Handel). Ms Stewart entered Columbia University the fall of 1943, studying voice with the late Dr. Robert Wilson. She also enrolled in applied piano sight singing, theory and the History of Music. In May 1949 she auditioned and won a pivotal role in the premier production of “Troubled Island” by William Grant Hill, presented at City Opera, New York City. In 1951 she was awarded the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to study at St. Cecelia Conservatory Rome Italy with Maestro
Maria Pediconi. She was voted Regional Governor of the National Association of Teachers of Singing “NATS” including Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, for two years. After her first term, she was voted to continue to lead the organization by acclamation. She also organized with the help of the late Clifford Smith, a Men’s Group – called “The Men of Houston, consisting of 28 men from all walks of life, with one goal in mind – to sing. During a seven-year tenure, the group gave many concerts, performed on many programs and on television. Ms. Stewart has many students who have had successful careers in teaching and performing. Among those who have achieved success are Faye Robinson, internationally acclaimed soprano; Gloria Harrison-Quinlan, soprano; the late Lionel Stubblefield, tenor, and April Sloan-Hubert, Houston’s premier soprano. Ruth Stewart retired on May 31, 1983. The modern facility, which now houses the Music Department, has been designated as the Rollins-Stewart Music Building in honor of her tenure. , Special thanks to McCoy & Harrison Funeral Home, 4918 MLK, Houston, TX 77021, 713.659.7618
8 • African-American News and Issues
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
Health Tips for African-Americans
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
You don’t have to give up all of your favorite foods or start training for a big race to improve your health. Over time, small changes to your eating, drinking and physical activity habits may help you control your weight, feel better and improve your health. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has formatted a fact sheet that provides ideas and suggestions for the benefit of African-American health consciousness. This fact sheet will give you ideas on how to make better food and beverage choices and add physical activity to your life. When you make these changes, you may also become a health champion to help your family, friends, and others in your community do the same. Am I overweight? More than three in four African-American adults are overweight or obese. The body mass index
(BMI) is the tool used most often to find a person’s weight status. This tool may help you find out if your weight could raise your chances of developing health problems. Another way to find out if you carry too much weight is to measure your waist. You may be more likely to have weight-related health problems if your waist is above a certain size. For women, the size is above 35 inches. For men, the size is above 40 inches. Ask your doctor if you should be concerned about your weight. Your doctor may also do tests to see if you have high blood sugar or high cholesterol (a type of fat in your blood), and ask if you have a family history of certain diseases. You may lower your chances for health problems by losing weight. Losing 5 to 10 percent of your body weight may improve your health. If you weigh 200 pounds, that would mean losing 10 to
20 pounds. Slow and steady weight loss of ½ to 2 pounds per week is the safest way to lose weight. To do so, you may need to take in 500 to 750 fewer calories per day. Cutting back on sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and sports drinks is a great way to reduce calories and improve your health.Where do I start? It can be hard to control your weight when you are not sure what to eat and drink, do not know the best ways to be physically active, or have limited time and money. Start by talking to your doctor about ways to improve your eating, drinking, and physical activity habits. Consuming healthier foods and beverages and getting regular physical activity may help you reach and stay at a healthy weight. And write down your own questions before your visit so you are prepared. Refer to the section above for examples of questions to ask your doctor. Practice making good food and beverage choices. Good food and beverage choices give your body the fuel it needs, help you stay full longer, and improve your health. Write down your ideas for changes you could make to eat and drink healthier and a date when you will start. At first, make one change.
Once you have made one change, you can add another. Commit to eating and drinking fewer foods, beverages, and snacks that have solid fats and/or added sugars. Many foods and beverages have empty calories (calories from solid fats and/or added sugars). Calories from solid fats and added sugars are often called empty calories because they have few or no nutrients.Solid fats and added sugars can add a lot of calories to what you eat and drink. A small amount of empty calories is okay, but most people get too many. You can limit empty calories by consuming foods and beverages with empty calories less often or by decreasing the amount you eat or drink. Think of ways you can cut empty-calorie foods and beverages. Write down your ideas about how you will replace empty-calorie foods and beverages with healthier options. Once you have made one change and are used to it, you can make another. How many calories you need to stay healthy depends on your age, genes, sex, height, weight, and how active you are. In general, men need more calories than women do, and younger adults need more calories than adults in midlife and older. Talk
to your doctor about your calorie needs. Sodium (salt) can increase your blood pressure. The Dietary Guidelines advise that African Americans should aim for no more than 1,500 mg a day, including sodium from processed foods. Before buying packaged foods, read the Nutrition Facts label to find out how much sodium, solid fat, and other nutrients are in one serving of the food. The label also tells you how many servings are included in the package. Choose foods and beverages with few or no empty calories. Making better choices, like baking instead of frying chicken, can help you cut down on the added sugars and solid fats you eat or drink. How can I be more physically active? To improve your health, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week (or 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week). This type of activity speeds up your heart rate and breathing. You should be able to speak several words in a row while doing aerobic activities, but you should not be able to have a long chat. - AANI Source: The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
African-American News and Issues • 9
The Year of Building Aftermath Ministries 3rd Year Church Anniversary
Bishop Andrew James speaking from pulpit Main Speaker, Bishop John Baines, Heart of Faith Worship Center
Elder Kenneth Davis and the Heart of Faith Worship Center choir singing songs of praise.
Superintendent Pastor Archie McGowan, Aftermath Ministries
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Chante Allen, Mistress of Ceremonies Lady Mary Helen Baines, Heart of Faith Worship Center
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Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
City Hall vs the Community Housing Development Organizations
By Arielle Johnson reasonable time and with funds came from HUD
Sherman Roberts, President and CEO of City Wide Community Development Corporation
Yesterday, we had an opportunity to meet Sherman Roberts, President and CEO of City Wide Community Development Corporation. We sat down and asked him, “With all the bad mouthing going on in the press about the CBDOs, what would you like the readers to know about your organization?� His response was simple: “We want them to know our organization’s accomplishments and provide some numbers.� Mr. Roberts assumed his role in 2006, and although they are authorized to create developments in any area of the State of Texas, they have targeted areas in the 75216, 75217 and 75241 areas to make affordable housing available for these communities. There are several sizeable developments and renovation projects they have completed within a
carefully planned budgets during Mr. Robert’s tenure. Blossom Gardens, Lancaster Urban Village and Serenity Place Apartments are all accomplishments City Wide can be proud of. However, for this article, we are going to focus on the Lancaster Urban Village development. The Lancaster Urban Village is a gem in the blighted area of Southern Dallas. Mr. Roberts and his staff did more than build an affordable housing complex. They created a mixed income/ mixed use property with 193 apartments consisting of efďŹ ciencies, 1, 2 and 3-bedrooms, 100 of which are considered affordable. The remaining 93 are market rate and retail spaces. The four retail spaces are leased to the Oak Cliff Sandwich Shop, Papa Johns, Dental OfďŹ ce of Lancaster Family Dentistry and the VA Medical Center, and have committed to 5-10 year leases, providing jobs and increasing the community’s economic wealth. Because it is in such close proximity to the VA Hospital, it has been and is a desirable living area for hospital workers who want to have the experience of walking, instead of driving to work. The majority of the
and TIF Financing. The overall budget was $30,000,000, when in actuality, only $29,645,000 was used. Mr. Roberts stated they avoided, through careful borrowing, having to give back any federal funds, which means they only borrowed exactly what they needed. He also mentioned, although the administration downtown at City Hall may have changed, his records are in order and he can account for all funds provided for proposed and completed projects. It is City Wide’s desire to continue building developments, focusing on the earlier mentioned zip codes. However, everything has come to a standstill. It appears the City of Dallas wants to cater to big developers who are all about the money. Once this happens, the residents will be priced out of the neighborhood, better known as redlining, while developers make the area look like what they want. Newer developments at prices the community cannot afford will be welcomed, while older residents who have lived in the area for decades will be forced to move. The history of the old Dallas stands to be swallowed up by the new. - AANI
Texas • April 23 - 29, 2018
PUBLIC NOTICES Fleming Instrument Repair is bidding on Project Number RFP# 18-01-06, Fine Arts Materials and Services, for Houston Independent School District. We are looking for possible M/ WBE suppliers to provide the following: Complete Instrument Relacquering and Dent Removal If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact our office by phone by April 23, 2018 Notice to Proposers Sealed electronic proposals will be received by Lone Star College for: • RFP#583 – Commercial Leasing and Real Estate Property Management Services. Electronic bids due by 11:00 am, Thursday, 05/24/2018. Mandatory Pre Proposal Meeting and Site Visit, Thursday, 05/03/2018 at 9:00 am at the LSC-University Park Conference Center, Sydney South Room, 20515 State Highway 249, Houston, Texas 77070. Contact: kimberly.a.burnaman@lonestar.edu Must Register to Bid: http://wwwappsdstc.lonestar.edu/ istar/supplier.htm . If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact donna.e.cottrell@ lonestar.edu or 832-813-6275.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28
B. SAVVY, Inc. Launch Experience & Birthday Celebration from 7:00 PM - 11:30 PM Mix and Mingle with the Savviest Publicists bringing Hollywood to Houston! On April 28th at the Aloft Rooftop, our guest will partake in a launch experience like never before, featuring VH1 reality star and recording artist Nikko London!!! Celebrating the business and birthdays of owners Bella Leah and Berry Dynamic. Honoring We Are Writer’s Block for National Poetry Month, guest will indulge in the gift of music and spoken word, visual indulgence of fine art, Special guest appearances and performances! Cash bar available and hors d’oeuvres served along with the luxurious view of downtown.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28 The College of Agriculture and Human Sciences at Prairie View A&M University annual Agricultural Field Day, Saturday, April 28, 2018. Main campus, Carden-Waller Cooperative Extension Building, 1700 E. M. Norris Street and on the Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Demonstration Farm. This year’s theme is Healthy Soil: Healthy You. $15 Registration includes lunch and materials. Visit website at www.pvamu.edu/ AgFieldDay or call (936) 261-AGNR or (936) 2612467. Onsite registration will begin at 7:00 a.m., with the workshops scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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SATURDAY, APRIL 28
Lovin Our Natural Hair Workshop, Presented by Crown-n-Glory at The Dock Bookshop 2:00 -5:00 p.m. 6637 Meadowbrook Dr Fort Worth, TX 76112 817-457-5700 www.thedockbookshop.com Crown-n-Glory will cover the basics to help you build a solid healthy hair care regiment. Also, we’ll discuss some basic steps to maintain the health of your hair as it grows, so you can increase the strength, moisture, length and health of your natural hair.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Power Session & Book Signing with Sharetha Nicole 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. The Dock Bookshop Sharetha explains how to embrace a life change by listening to that inner voice, acknowledging the signs, but most importantly by walking in God’s purpose once it has been defined.
SUNDAY, APRIL 29
The 4th annual United We Stand Festival Texas A & M University’s Reed Auditorium, College Station, Texas The United We Stand Festival is coming to Texas A & M University’s Reed Auditorium to raise funds for Hurricane Harvey Relief. The event will feature national musicians, performers, speakers & politicians, and all proceeds will go to benefit those still in need. The tickets for the event are free. Only 500 seats are available. A reservation for the free event is suggested, with a limit of 10 tickets per applicant. http://www. unitedwestandfest. com/presell-page
THURSDAY, MAY 3
Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development, Inc. Cordially invites you to attend the Monthly Business Networking Luncheon 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. 6112 Wheatley Street (Beulah Ann Shepard Building) Houston, Texas 77091 Guest Speaker Linda Head, Associate Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Corporate Partnerships UPDATED TICKET PRICES Member Price $30.00 Non Member Price $45.00 For more information contact 713-692-7161
SATURDAY, MAY 5
A Day of Empowerment St. Philip’s College is the site of the seventh Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence conference in the Heritage Room of the Campus Center building, 1801 Martin Luther King Drive in the Denver Heights neighborhood. The day consists of scholarship presentations, a panel presentation, breakout sessions and a keynote address from a guest speaker. . Online registration is required to attend the sessions on minority male empowerment and positive self-image for students of all ages. For assistance, contact Dr. Debbie Hamilton at dhamilton@alamo.edu.
SATURDAY, MAY 5
NIGHT WOMEN BOOK CLUB 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Looking for a book club to join? You are invited to join Night Women Book Club focusing on fiction new releases, classics and favorites Upcoming Book Discussions: May 5 - The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
SATURDAY, MAY 5
10th Anniversary Celebration Dinner 5 a.m. -7 p.m. at The Dock You are cordially invited to special evening commemorating The Dock Bookshop 10 Years of Business & Service. The evening will include Dinner, Live Entertainment, Special Guests and more. Cost $10 per person. Children 12 and under $5. Attire: Dashiki/ African Attire
SATURDAY, MAY 5
Women Cultivating Greatness Luncheon Celebrating Women of Excellence A luncheon celebrating the great achievements of local non-profit organizations Syan Rhodes, Channel 2 News, Mistress of Ceremonies 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. The Power Center 12401 S. Post Oak Road Houston, TX 77045 To reserve your seat or make a donation, visit us at www.womencultivatinggreatness.com
MONDAY, MAY 14
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Location: BlackHorse Country Club, 12205 Fry Rd., Cypress, TX 77433/VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa, 12951 Barker Cypress Rd., Cypress, TX 77429 The annual scholarship fundraiser supports the MBE Executive Scholarship program. The proceeds from the event allows HMSDC, its MBE Development Partners and Sponsors to award scholarships, promote and conduct educational and developmental programs to further the professional acumen of MBEs.
SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Mayor Sylvester Turner’s 7th Annual Acres Homes Juneteenth Parade 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Contact Kynetta Moore, 832-393-0825 or email Kynetta. Moore@houstontx.gov www. HoustonSpecialEvents. org
FRIDAY, AUGUST 31SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
The Black Academy of Arts and Letters presents Riverfront Jazz Festival Friday, August 31Sunday, September 2, 2018 (Labor Day Weekend), Texas Horse Park 811 Pemberton Hill, Dallas, TX 75217 For tickets and more information visit: www.tbaalriverfrontjazzfestival.org
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