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December 24-30, 2008 ™ Vol. 13 Issue 47

TEXAS’ Widest Circulated and Read Newspaper with a Black Perspective

Merry Christmas!!! From: The AAN&I Staff www.aframnews.com

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African-American

LIVING LEGENDS

Houston’s Bill White Makes Senate Run CARMEN WATKINS

African-American News&Issues

Ernest & Jewell McGowen: Cultural Arts Community Leaders Ernest and Jewell McGowen have been part of the northeast Houston for over 50 years. Their passion for the arts started when they were both students at Prairie View A&M College. Ernest sang with the PV Collegiate band and orchestra, and Jewell was a member of the Drama Department where she performed in several stage productions. Ernest Sr. has been a public servant for many years—serving as a postman, pastor and a politician. As a Houston City Councilman he authored and/or sponsored legislation that created the South African Divestment Ordinance; Minority & Women Business Enterprise Ordinance (MWBE); the establishment of Martin Luther King’s birthday as a celebrated city holiday; securing parity of pay for policemen and firemen; increased wages for sanitation workers, public school janitors and other lower level city and school district employees; and most importantly the organizing of the Northeast Cultural Arts Council. His wife of 60 years, Jewell, is a retired school teacher and guidance counselor. She is also deeply passionate about exposing youths to the arts, and she believes when children are exposed to the arts during their formative years, they develop creative interests which become incentives to stay in school and provide tools with which to develop their talents and career potentials. Over 2000 youths have gone on to become professional dancers, choreographers, gymnasts, vocal musicians, actors and actresses. Others are in the process of “becoming” and have chosen to study in magnet schools and join choral clubs, bands, orchestras, Theatre, and school dance teams. This dynamic duo have four children, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. We salute them for their lifetime commitment to public service as this week’s “Living Legends.”

Quote of the Week:

“The Black family of the future will foster our liberation, enhance our selfesteem, and shape our ideas and goals.” -Dorothy Height

mittee and transferring $1 million into it from her federal account. If she goes ahead as planned and steps down before the term ends, Gov. Rick Perry would appoint a replacement to the seat until an election is held.

Mayor says Texas needs a new voice in Washington’s decisions HOUSTON- Mayor Bill White in a two-minute video launched from his new campaign Web site, brought to an end the speculation surrounding his next political move. Some thought the road could lead to a bid for the governor’s spot, but that was not to be. According to White, the country is facing unprecedented economic challenges, high unemployment along with an economy that is in bad shape and a national energy policy that is short of affordable energy, secure energy and clean energy. “I know those things, and I think I could help,” he said of the national energy plan that will anchor his campaign platform. White will no doubt spend time on the campaign

trail highlighting his experience in emergency management and preparedness since Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Ike. There will also be other areas that should ring familiar with would-be voters like him adding more jobs than any other mayor in the United States in five years and his previous national service, while serving as deputy secretary in the U.S. Department of Energy under President Clinton and his business saavy while serving as CEO of the Wedge Group. According to the press release announcing the bid, White said, “Working for my neighbors as mayor has been a great honor. Texas needs a new voice in decisions that will be made in Washington, and my business experience and administrative expertise will ensure utilizing fiscally responsible means to get our economy moving.” He will seek the

Houston Mayor Bill White wants to translate his success as the leader of the fourth largest city in the U.S. to helping the state of Texas as Senator. seat soon to be vacated by Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison. She will not seek re-election and is not expected to complete her current term which ends in 2012. Instead Hutchison said in a recent news release that she’s setting up a gubernatorial exploratory com-

Where is The Black Family? Stacie Ray

Contributing Writer

I always hear people talking about how the system cheated them out of money, family, and in most cases freedom. Yet, I often wonder just how much of the cheating the system is actually doing. Considering the fact that we are not battling the same Jim Crow Laws of a more prehistoric era (some would describe as the good old days), is it the system that has us between the barrel of a gun and the blade of a knife? There is no doubt African-Americans have been through a lot in America. However, it seems as though the lessons we have learned are forgotten or minimal at most. In 1619, the first Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia to assume their new status in life as prop-

Some people say this idealistic picture of the Black family is practically non-existence and call for a return to the values of old.

The Field will Soon be Crowded Just as White announced his candidacy for the position, so did another well-known Texan, Michael Williams, a former prosecutor who served in the Departments of Education, Justice and Treasury. He began his work at the Railroad Commission in 1999 after he was appointed to fill a vacant seat by then-Gov. George W. Bush. Williams was elected the following year to the unexpired term. He was re-elected to a full six-year term in 2002 and again this year. It is expected that others will soon join in the race, including former state comptroller John Sharp, a Democrat, and Republicans, Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones and GOP fundraiser Roger Williams. erty, thus beginning the AfricanAmerican’s long history of exploitation in America. Since the Africans were considered slaves, they were totally at the mercy of their masters, answering to every beck, call, whisper, and whim. Of course with labor being so cheap, slavery soon became marketable. A good strong buck could be auctioned off to the highest bidder for field work or breeding (in those days we never conceived children, we bred them like dogs, cats, cows, and horses). With so much breeding, buying and selling the Black “family” was almost nonexistent. To counter act the isolation of not having a family or home, Blacks bonded together in what is known today as extended families. It was the norm for older women and men to take in young children as their own after they were sold away from their mothers. Many men lost their lives protecting; the few loved ones they were allowed See FAMILY page 3

Saving Auto Industry Requires Concessions by All Parties NATION U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison This fall, our financial crisis reached a flashpoint that threatened the sustainability of our credit markets and the economic security of every American family and business. On October 1, after two weeks of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations, the Senate took the unprecedented step of passing legislation intended to stabilize our imperiled economy and shore up our credit markets. While some opposed the rescue, I heard from many small business owners that they were unable to get credit for payroll and inventory purchases. The frozen credit market threatened Americans’ ability to get car loans, mortgages, or financial aid for school. I believed it was respon-

sible to infuse the financial markets with liquidity to avoid further crises, so I helped shape the legislation with a priority of keeping people in their homes and jobs and protecting the taxpayer (the interest paid on the loans and warrants would reduce national debt). As I travel through Texas, I have been very disappointed to see that more credit is not flowing through our markets. I am frustrated at the mismanagement of the relief funding and at the constant fluctuation of the Treasury Department’s strategy. Many of my Senate colleagues have expressed the same view. Our economy is in a recession. Unemployment has reached a 15 year high. Our nation’s “Big Three” car manufacturers, General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford are suffering and, without some fundamental changes to the way they do business, face bankruptcy. The Big Three’s executives testified before Congress that GM and Chrysler were weeks away from running out

of operating cash. Ford faces similar, though less imminent, financial challenges. Although lawmakers have differing views on the best solution to this crisis, we agree that these companies are critical to the U.S. economy. They sell more than half of all the cars and trucks in America, and they directly employ more than 250,000 men and women across the country. Furthermore, up to 3 million more Americans work at dealerships, suppliers, and other places in the supply chain. In Arlington, 5,000 Texans work at the GM plant, which pumps over $300 million into the local economy annually. On December 11, Congress went into session to debate legislation to provide GM, Chrysler, and Ford short-term loans to prevent imminent collapse and protect jobs. My colleague, Senator Bob Corker, put forward a reasonable proposal that would require that the United Auto Workers (UAW) labor union

Kay Bailey Hutchison will not seek re-election, but instead, has her sights on the governor’s office. reduce wage and benefit packages to be competitive with other U.S. plants making cars and trucks for Toyota, Nissan, and Volkswagen by the end of 2009. Late night negotiations between Republican and Democratic lawmakers and UAW See AUTO INDUSTRY page 3 TX-1

2 • African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008 Si 19 nce 94

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Don’t get caught by FEMA’s Deadline Roy Douglas Malonson

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guest viewpoint Farewell Houston Comets Annise Parker Champions. Winners. Teams that achieve greatness, inspire their fans, and energize their home cities. The Houston Comets gave us four great seasons that helped establish the WNBA (Womens National Basketball Association). They gave Houston more seasons where they played with heart and grit even when they lost. They introduced us to Cynthia Cooper, Tina Thompson, Sheryl Swoopes, Janeth Arcain and Kim Perrot, who died so tragically young. All were legends of the sport in their own ways. Goodbye Comets. May you not rest in peace. May the tragic news of your demise arouse the generous spirit of a new owner(s), the shame of a fickle public and the ire of frustrated fans. You’ll always be champions to us. You shouldn’t end like this. I’ve been a Comet season ticket holder from the beginning. The Comets offered great athletic competition at an affordable price. At games I was surrounded by a sea of jubilant and diverse fans, many of them women and girls, an audience mix unlike that of any other sport. That different fan base also meant a different feel to the arena. Games were almost like family reunions in the stands, with a huge “girl power” vibe. I enjoy most sports, my favorite being baseball, but I believe in putting my money behind women’s sports. I even learned to love, and understand soccer when the US women’s Olympic team won gold. We didn’t have a Houston team, but I followed the short-lived pro women’s soccer league that sprang up in TX-2

the wake of the Olympic run and attended games in other cities. Unfortunately, sports are a business, and no owner can afford to lose money indefinitely. When the WNBA stepped in to take over the team and shop it around for new owners, I made a few calls and had meetings with management representatives. Ten million dollars for a money-losing franchise is a steep hurdle in the best of times, but the current economic conditions made a sale impossible. The Houston Comets and the team’s many fans deserved a better fate. As a college student at Rice, I directly benefited from the new wave of women’s sports created by Title IX, which seemed to promise a level playing field for publicly funded sports in the 1970s. If you look at photos of Rice teams, you may spot the one and only Rice women’s softball team. After one inglorious season, playing with hand-me-down volleyball uniforms and our own equipment, Rice found a way around Title IX rules and disbanded the team. There were no scholarships. We never had a hope of playing beyond college. We played because we loved the sport. There are more opportunities today for girls to find their fields of dreams. But there are still too few for women to play at the elite levels they have worked so hard to attain. It’s a good thing I’ll have other things to do with my free time this summer. Annise Parker is Houston’s second-highest elected city official and serves as the city’s Chief Financial Officer.

If you thought you could wait until after the holidays to file for your disaster relief with FEMA, the clock is ticking. New dates have been posted that may leave many gazing into the abyss after the beginning of the year. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended the deadline to Monday, January 12, 2009 for Texans affected by Hurricane Ike to seek assistance with housing or other needs. The last day originally was Dec. 12, but FEMA extended the deadline to accommodate the state’s request for an additional month for residents to apply for relief. With the holidays ahead, it seems that this would be a great time to take care of your disaster business. Sure you may miss on of the many “made for television” Christmas movies that can be found 24/7 and you could lose one afternoon shopping or baking a couple of extra deserts. But wouldn’t that be better than showing up after the long lines to return all of those “unwanted

gifts” from Christmas? The image is clear—you are at the door, there may be a sign or two remaining, but all of the assistance was gone and now it’s just you and your leaky roof. Despite the rhetoric and the complaints, just make sure you are in the system. It’s easy to do and if you like you can start the process from home. The center disaster center hosted by the African-American Chamber of Commerce is still open at 6112 Wheatley, 9:00a.m.-5:30p.m. (scheduled to close on Christmas Eve.) Stop by and get those last minute questions answered from FEMA, SBA and the host of other providers available. If you are putting it off because of long lines, don’t worry because your neighbors are all so busy with their holiday that they have taken a holiday from “taking care of business” so now it just leaves you. FEMA in one of its latest press releases boasts that;: About 4,500 applicants who have not yet found a long-term hous-

CARMEN’S CORNER This is Where Rubber Meets the Road Carmen Watkins

As we get ready to close the year, it seems odd that many people are hanging in the balance for the holidays. It’s everywhere. Let’s start with the obvious—the over 44,000 hourly U.S workers with Chrysler, many of whom are minority and/ or working class. For the next two weeks, those families will live off of a combination of either vacation pay and/ or unemployment benefits. Now let’s add Ford, GM and the entire “would-be” trickle down small businesses that can and will be affected right now and over the next month or so. With little or no assembly line auto plants in Texas, many may see this as a problem for someone else, but let’s retrace some recent history. Back in the 1980’s when we felt the first ripple of a upside down economy in Texas, when manufacturing plants in the North and the East were hit with huge layoffs and their economy began to fall apart, others from across the country still saw the Lone Star State as the place to be. In fact,

it was one of the last vestiges of an “unchartered territory and ripe with opportunity.” It attracted people from the Northeast and Southwest who came to discover a place where you could still find employment, afford to own your home and live the American dream. Then we marketed this special place and they came by the thousands. By the early 90’s, we saw apartment rates spike, although not as fast as salary increases although there were enticements of the housing market. In places like Fourth Ward, Midtown (Third Ward) and Fifth Ward in Houston, there were lofts and townhomes and new development everywhere along with escalating prices. After completion, it was too pricey for many seniors who built the hope of their future on the area and too pricey for those who actually laid the brick for the development. Prices came that Texans were not use to paying, although people from the North, East and West, saw them as being bargainbasement. And like the trick-

DERIC’s debate

Plaxico’s Pistol Deric Muhammad Plaxico Burress has just quintupled his fame. The star wide receiver of the New York Giants made the front page of almost every media outlet in the country when he accidentally shot himself in a New York nightclub. Burress was hanging out with some teammates and friends when club security allegedly allowed him to bring his pistol into a private entrance. As Burress was moving about the club, his pistol slipped down the pant leg of his shorts. He tried to catch the gun when it accidentally discharged sending a bullet through his thigh. The all-star receiver had shot himself in one of the body parts that made him a champion. He may as well have shot himself in the behind. Burress now faces Manhattan’s

tough gun laws. He’s charged with illegal possession of a firearm and faces a minimum of three and a half years jail time. He has also been suspended from the Giant’s squad. Gun control is a hot-button political issue in this country. The second amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees a citizen’s right to bear arms. While President-elect Barack Obama is an advocate of gun control, he assured lawful gunowners that he had no intention of taking away their guns. After his historic election, guns started flying off the shelves in record numbers fearing that Obama would restrict gun sales after he assumed office in 2009. Many may argue that his pistol was necessary considering many professional athletes have been robbed, extorted

ing solution are living in hotels paid by FEMA. In all, the program has assisted nearly 26,500 individuals and families. So far, 80 percent of the eligible and documented debris left behind by Hurricane Ike for which FEMA is footing the bill has been cleaned up. That’s 18.7 million cubic yards. The federal government has agreed to pay the total cost of this portion of the debris clean-up until April 26, 2009. To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $219 million in Public Assistance funds for debris removal and other public needs. FEMA can assist with a grant that will help pay for temporary housing needs, home repairs and some disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources. Small Business Administration assistance is also available for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations through low interest loans. FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters. If you sustained damage or uninsured losses from Hurricane Ike, register at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or going into a Disaster Recovery Center. le down that small and related industry businesses will see with the automakers’ shut-down, such was the plight of cities like Houston, Dallas and Austin, soon we saw the energy “bust” and the in the case of Austin, the silicone valley failure. I’m not trying to be the bearer of bad news, but our history stands before us, right at this present moment and as the families of auto workers are lamenting and feeling the squeeze and wondering if the temporary “shut down” will become officially eternal, we might want to feel their pain, right now. The Bush administration is forced with a hand that it would rather not play right now. With Republican dissent on a bail-out for the automakers strong, the administration is now actively engage in developing a strategy to help the automakers, after Congress failed to reach a deal on $14 billion in loans for the “big three”—Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors. Stay tuned, this is not a bail-out for the wealthy and the immediate faces may not be as “sexy” or well known. The game and the next move are real although this is not a virtual one or a game of where one put’s on a poker face. The Bush administration will have to play its hand.

Carmen

and in some cases murdered over the past couple of years. Others may contend that he was in no real danger in a nightclub where everyone (except star wide receivers) is searched for weapons before entry. At the end of the day, Plaxico’s pistol did not hurt anyone but himself. It is a picture of the Black community’s general experience with guns. Growing up in the roughand-tumble streets of Fifth Ward, everyone had to learn how to fight. The only other option was to stay in the house with your mama or get a gun. Soon the youngster with the gun became more powerful than the knockout artist. The knockout artist then had to buy a bigger gun to match fire with the weak gunslinger. By the time I was 17, guns were just part of the neighborhood’s culture. Nowadays the Black community is pregnant with guns. But who benefits from this pregnancy? When a Black man or woman purchases a gun in the interest of See PLAXICO page 3

COMMUNITY/POLITICS FAMILY- from Page 1

to have. For centuries, Blacks fought to keep their community and collectiveness they had in Africa. Since then, the Black family, for the most part, has come and gone. It is no different than the Abominable Snowman, only seen and experienced by a rare few. Where is the African-American family? Today African-Americans have regressed to a state no different than our captive ancestors. The only difference for most young people is their fathers were not sold off against their will, but walked out by their own free will. Mothers have fooled themselves and their children into believing that a father is not needed. This is a thought passed down to daughters and preached to sons. We currently live in a time when simply knowing your father is almost equivalent to having one in the home. So where did we go wrong? Scholars in the past have brilliantly created a number of theories to explain this relatively new occurrence: the misogynistic images our young men are being bombarded with, the independent woman mentality, and the drug epidemic can all be the cause of the dissolution of the our families. Yet if there is one resounding answer, it would be poverty. More than half of the African-American population lives in poverty. This should come as no surprise when most households are headed by African-American women, a population that receives some of the lowest wages. All across the nation we see these mothers “doing what they gotta do”, while most Black men slowly disappear into the dark abyss of AIDS, prison, and drugs. Even with all the theories about what went wrong, no one has ever been honest about the simple solution. If our enslaved ancestors had enough sense to see knowledge and wisdom by way of faith in God as the key to freedom and liberation, what is wrong with us? During a time in history when Blacks are devoted to their faith the least, we are doing the worst. What happen to the Black family? The answer can be found at the same spot where we left our faith and devotion to God. PLAXICO- from Page 2

protection who is the expected target? It is the same Black image that is prevalent on targets at every gun range. I contend that well over 90% of the guns that enter the Black community are just like Plaxico’s pistol. They aren’t used to shoot anybody but ourselves. There is a thin line between self-defense and self-

AUTO INDUSTRY- from Page 1

representatives fell apart over the wage issue. The union representatives refused to set a firm date in 2009, when they would agree to concessions to match the industry standards. Indeed, it is this very wage structure that prevents domestic auto manufacturers from competing with foreign-based carmakers with American plants. The UAW has effectively priced U.S. autoworkers out of the market. According to the Wall Street Journal, nationwide, GM’s total hourly labor costs are $81 per worker, including wages and benefits. This amounts to about $1,800 in labor costs per vehicle produced. A Toyota employee in San Antonio, on the other hand, earns an average hourly wage and benefit package roughly half those of GM’s at $35 an hour. The labor costs of a Toyota are $1,000 per vehicle. My goal is for American workers to earn a living wage and for their companies to be competitive, resulting in long-term success for the business and their employees. While American taxpayers are willing and eager to help protect jobs, they should not be asked to subsidize a failed business model —and unfortunately, that’s exactly what the Democrats’ proposed legislation did. That’s why I opposed this bailout. I will continue to work for a constructive solution that will revitalize America’s auto industry and bolster our overall economy. I am reluctant to authorize any further debt for our country that isn’t backed by a plan that has a good chance to succeed. Kay Bailey Hutchison is the senior U.S. Senator from Texas. destruction. Most Black people purchase guns to protect themselves from home invaders, robbers, rapists, carjackers, etc. However, we end up shooting someone over an argument or a domestic dispute. Let’s not add up the years that young brothers and sisters serve in prison just for having a gun on their person or inside their vehicle. It looks like what was once referred to as the “problem solver” has only been a problem revolver in the Black community. I am a staunch proponent of self-defense. I believe that it is a God-given right. But, the worse thing that you can do is put a gun into the hand of a man who does not have the knowledge of himself or his true enemy. It is a recipe for genocide. Let’s face it. Most cases of Black on Black murder involved gunplay. It is a proven fact that wherever there is a absence of access to guns, there are fewer murders. Some small towns in Canada haven’t had a homicide in 7 or 8 years. Yet, we kill each other every day.

R.D. Malonson-Chairman S.A. Malonson-Pres./CEO Marvin D. Cloud-Web Developer Lisa M. Smith- Production Carmen Watkins- Writer Jesse Simon - Photojournalist Mario Salas-Cont. Writer Roger Jackson-Photographer Fred Smith-Advertising/Sales James Johnson-Distribution Allen Carlton-Distribution David Johnson-Distribution E.C. Davis- Intern

The Metropolitan Organization Continues

its Broad-based, Non-Partisan Mission

HOUSTON- The Metropolitan Organization (TMO), 4141 Southwest Freeway, recent Accountability Session (nonpartisan) held at Immaculate Conception Church with Democrat and Republican candidates was a success. An ethnically diverse audience of over 600 people participated. As a result, TMO conducted special training sessions in December. This was an opportunity to learn about community organizing and how your church or organization can get involved. TMO is a broadbased, non-partisan, community organization that has been in the city of Houston for nearly 30 years. In the past two years, TMO has

won expansion of the CHIP program (Children’s Health Insurance Program), coverage for children living in poverty. Locally, TMO won $3 million in federal funds for affordable housing in the Near Northside. Ten homes have been built and occupied by new homeowners. Twenty more homes will be built soon. TMO was also an integral part of getting the Riverside Dialysis clinic opened in the Third Ward. But many TMO’s most compelling victories are the ones that take place in the transformation of leaders in congregations throughout Houston. TMO is an organization of institutions dedicated

to developing power and leadership among citizens to transform democracy. It was formed to give a voice to people who are usually not included in the major decisions affecting their lives. The Metropolitan Organization is always looking for community leaders who are ready to make a difference in this great city. The training sessions were scheduled in the South and North Clusters respectively at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2600 Holman Street and (English and Spanish Tracks at the Assumption Catholic Church, 901 Roseland Drive. For more information, call (713)807-1429.

TMO leaders pictured are Rev. John Bowie, pastor, True Light Baptist; Rabbi Mark Miller, Assist. Rabbi Congregation Beth Israel; Dr. Robert McGee, Pastor, Trinity United Methodist, Rev. Richard Hassell, Pastor, Sheeler Memorial; Father Kevin Collins, Pastor, Immaculate Conception and Father Michael Earthman, Pastor, Holy Name Catholic.

Photo- Provost

Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee Applauds FEMA for extending the registration deadline for Hurricane Ike victims

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee worked with Governor Rick Perry in extending the registration date for FEMA recovery aid. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the state of Texas honored Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee’s request to extend the December 12, 2008 deadline for Hurricane Ike victims to register their benefits. “I am thankful that Texas Governor Rick Perry and FEMA Administrator R. David Paulison

have heeded my calls to extend the deadline for residents for FEMA benefits. As we move forward with recovery efforts, it is clear that the impact of this storm has been widespread and many people are still in need of assistance,” stated Congresswoman Jackson Lee. FEMA has extended the deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered dameges from Hurricane Ike to register for state and federal disaster assistance until Saturday, Janu-

ary 10, 2009. Congresswoman Jackson Lee added, “With a slumping economy threating the recovery efforts of hurricane victims, many residents fear that they are at risk of losing their jobs and will have no means to rebuild their lives again, this extention is another step forward toward ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens such as the elderly, low income populations and families are alloted as much time as possible to register for unemployment benefits.”

We want to hear from you

For an upcoming edition, African-American News&Issues is asking readers to tell us 1.) What does being a minority in America means to you? 2.) What does having our first Black President, Barack Obama mean to you? We invite you to participate in this historical edition by sharing your commentary in your own words (a maximum of 250) for consideration in our historical issue. Submissions are being accepted now. Please e-mail us your story to news@aframnews.com. Please include your name, address and phone number for verification and clarification purposes.

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African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008 • 3

Although the pistol that Plaxico Burress packed did not hurt anyone but himself, it was the perfect picture of the Black community’s experience with guns. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad taught his followers to put away all weapons. He said that his people should not carry as much as pin knife. When I first joined the Nation of Islam, I viewed this as a challenge.

We welcome your original responses to content found in the African-American News&Issues. Letters to the editor about local issues But, I must say that since I made the decision to obey those instructions, my life has been more peaceful than ever. Getting rid of guns forced me to use intelligence to solve conflicts. Who knows whose life has been saved in the process?

in this paper’s coverage area may be sent by e-mail to the address news@aframnews.com. Letters to the editor about national issues must be focused on issues that effect our readership. They must include the author’s The most important aspect of this formula is that once you put down the gun you must depend on God for your protection. While it may sound absurd to some, trust me it works. If God is not able to protect you, then you absolutely

name, area of residence and telephone number for verification only. All letters and articles will be verified before they are published in the African-American News&Issues. All correspondence will be edited for length, grammar and accuracy. can’t be protected, anyway. Pick up God and get rid of guns. The Black community does not know what to do with them. Deric Muhammad, a Houston-based community activist who has a blog at www.askbroderic. blogspot.com. TX-3

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Citywide Chemical, founded in 1977, is the largest minority-owned chemical company in the southwest. They pride themselves on being customer-oriented offering same day, free delivering, free installation of dispensers and free training on all equipment, rented or bought.

ELECTRICAL Aus-Tex Electric 1525 Wilburforce Houston 77091 (713)682-5809

FINANCIAL IRS PROBLEMS & Income Tax Preparation Do not talk to the IRS without Representation!!! Let me handle your IRS Issue and Problems. Generally you will never have to speak with or meet with the IRS if I am your representative.

Rodrick Dow, PC

INSURANCE GEORGE W. LUNNON, JR. Agent

Auto - Life Home - Health Business

Ph:281-447-3448 Fax:281-447-8822 11005 North Fwy#A Houston, TX 77037

www.georgelunnon.com A sign of a good insurance agent that will care about you is one that cares about the community. George W. Lunnon, Jr. is that kind of agent. Among his activities, he is active in Greenspoint Mng. District, Greenspoint Chamber, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, and is a charter member & President of 100 Black Men.

Rate and ad edition. 713-862-4332 Ask for Rodrick This is the price and thesize Ad ithtoof run in to run in AAN&I’s Houston/Galveston You can get asize 4-line of ad for warm appreciation of only $17.50 per week. W our association during the Publication November 28- December 4, 2007 AAN&I’s Greater Houston Marketplace FUNERAL HOMES past year we extendDate: our very For more information,call

Media Partnership

Purchase an ad in our publication for 26 weeks or more, and we will do a profile on your business for our paper. We will help publicise your events, activities, etc. Contact AAN&I’s staff at (713) 692-1892 for more information.

APARTMENTS Tidwell Estates Aparments 2303 West Tidwell Houston 77091 (713)688-5125

(713)692-1892

AUTOMOTIVE Acres Homes Automotive 6960 T.C. Jester (@ Little York)

Tune Ups -A/C Work

Brakes - Tires-Front End Work

Batteries - Alignments State Inspection

SHELL RAPID LUBE Oil Change- $19.99 (713) 956-2500

AUTO REPAIR

Curtis Adams 5203 N. Shephard Houston 77091 Square Biz Greek Shop (832)207-6796 4800 W. 34th Suite C-11 Houston 77092 Floyd’s Premier (713)683-1855 2201 W. LittleInformation: York Contact Houston 77091 Name: (713)688-7325 Mr. Elias Michalopoulo You looked here......

APPAREL

6960 T.C. Jester Blvd. and so will yourAddress:BARBER/BEAUTY CUSTOMERS!Houston, Texas 77091 Acres Homes Barber College 2306 Ferguson Way Please call Phone Number: 281-701-3790 Houston 77088 (713) 692-1892 Fax: 281-597-9990 for more information. (281)931-5591 Elliott Community Shop 13030 Woodforest Suite G Houston 77075 (713)455-2321 Hair Design by Antoinette 163 Greens Rd. Houston 77060 (281)875-4993 Individual Styles 11635 Homestead Houston 77016 (281)639-2334

best wishes for a happy holiday season.

CHILDCARE

LL&S &S Small World Academy Small World Academy

“Learning to Compete”

• LICENSED 1.5” Ad for 52 weeks BY THE STATE • NEWBORN- 13 Years Come in or Call for more information $780.00 • LEARNING ENVIROMENT 713-692-1195 • QUALITY Total Cost for 52 weeks: CHILD CARE • TRANSPORTATION 6130 Wheatley Street Houston, Texas 77091 $780.00 • DROP-INS WELCOME REGULAR STORE HOURS:

Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m to 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We accept: American Express, MasterCard, Discover, Visa, ATM/Debit, Cash, Checks and Lay-A-Way

100% Black Owned We Appreciate Our Customers

24- Hour DAY CARE SERVICE

(713) L&S 697-7879

401 West Donovan Houston, 77091 (Between N. Shepard & Yale)

The Learning Garden 6672 Antoine Houston 77091 (713) 682-0601

CIVIL RIGHTS ORG.

BUSINESS ORG.

National Black United Front Houston Chapter

Chairman Kofi Taharka Houston Chapter

Meetings Monday @ 7:00pm 2428 Southmore Houston, 77004

www.nbufhouston.org

COMPUTER SERV. HOUSTON MINORITY BUSINESS COUNCIL

Hands on Business Services Computer Repair $60 281-975-9649 rlbcandw@yahoo.com

Please approve the ad and fax to 713-692-1183 byRiverway, Noon Wednesday. Three Suite 555 Houston, Texas 77056 Ad must be paid in full byProfessional 12 NOON Wednesday or the ad will notCREDIT run. REPAIR Hair Designers of TX

TEXAS

WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM

4 • African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008

This 1” ad could be yours for only $100 for 4 weeks! Call 713-692-1892 for more information! NEED A WILL? QUESTIONS ON PROBATE? FOR FREE INFORMATION Contact Attorney Oswald J. Scott, Sr.

713/227-8060

texasprobateandwills.com Not certified by theTexas Board of Legal Specialization

SYLVESTER TURNER Attorney At Law

10767 Eastex Freeway Houston 77093 (713)691-0868 Rogers Barbershop 2113 West Little York Houston 77091 (713)680-8827

Spoil & Pamper Me Day Spa & Salon Date

Signature

Thursday, January 15, 2009 12:00 PM

We offer: Complete Healthy Hair Care for All Type Hair Free Hair Analysis Precision Cuts, Relaxers, Styles, Perms Texturizers, Hair Extentions Hair Protein Infusions

Luncheon Ticket Prices

(Mon. Appointments Only)

Masseur & Reflexologist on Staff

(713) 650-3688/office (713) 650-0308/fax bbarnes@barnesturner.com www.barnesturner.com

Attention !!! Get this 1.5” ad for $390.00 for 13 weeks! For more information, call AAN&I staff at (713) 692-1892. TX-4

Business Networking Luncheon and the 4th Annual Career Opportunity Expo 2009

The Unique Salon for “The Phenomenal Woman”

Hours:

Attorneys At Law 440 Louisiana Street 1880 Lyric Centre' Houston, Texas 77022

Come join the “LUNCH BUNCH”

Trustworthy & honest. Registered and bonded. Call: (713)780-0332 www.crlc1.com

BORRIS L. MILES Boyd Funeral Home 7411 Wheatley St. Insurance Agency Houston Texas 77088 Heading Title: (281)445-0971 Child Care

Carl Barnes Funeral Homes, Inc

America can depend on Farmers

746 West 22nd Street Contact Information Houston, TexasMr. 77008 Name: Robert Leday 713.869.4529 Company: L&S Small World Academy

Phone: 338-4766 or (713) 249-9337 "Committed to the(832) Future"

MABRIE Memorial Mortuary

5000 Almeda Rd. Houston Texas 77004 713-942-7673

Morgan Harris Funeral Home 8011 West Montgomery Houston Texas 77088 (281)820-2391 Kashmere Funeral Home 5908 Lavender Houston Texas 77026 (713)633-3809 O.W. Wiley Mortuary, Inc. 1290 Pinemont Dr. Houston, Texas 77018 (713)681-7475

HEARING AIDS

Borris L. Miles

Supporting The Community

Auto • Home • Life Disability • Annuity Commercial Health Insurance

Bus. 713-355-8331 Fax: 713-355-8318 Pgr. 713-406-1088 5302 Almeda Rd. Hou. TX 77004 email:bmiles@bmilesinsurance.com

MEDICAL

Hearing Aids of Houston Sandi Coe, M.A., CCC-A CLINICAL AUDIOLOGIST REGISTERED DISPENSER OF HEARING AIDS

(713) 692-EARS(3277) FAX (713) 697-9410

PARKWAY TOWERS 150 W. PARKER ROAD, SUITE 506 HOUSTON, TX. 77076

at the African Please signAmerican for approval and fax back to Me n713-692-1183 t i o n t h i s AD Chamber of Commerce Ge t $ 5 0 t o $ 5 0 0 o ff of Greater Houston’s Playnot Date for for Business by 12 NOON Friday before forClass Wednesday publication or the ad will run. SAVE THE DATE !!!!

Tues-Fri 10am-7pm Sat 7am-4pm

Barnes & Turner

713-271-7805 | www.hmbc.org

Certified Public Accountant

16630 Imperial Valley #242 Houston, Texas 77060 281-447-5252 Hiring Hairstylists & Nail Techs

(commission or booth rental) Ask for Natasha or Jacquie

Teran Barber Shop 661 Rose Houston 77015 (713)671-0011 Tracy’s Beautiful Braids and Beyond

8222 Antoine Dr. Suite 101 Houston 77088 (832)888-3906

“I’m not a politician. I only want to help relieve the suffering in communities, and I want to help people see their community in each other.” - Russell Simmons

Presale: $25.00 At the Door: $40.00 RSVP by January 13, 2009 You can register & pay online.

The Luncheon and Expo will be held at: Hyatt Regency Hotel

1200 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 For more information, please call (713) 692-7003 Email: webmaster@aaccgh.org Website: www.aaccgh.org

Writing Basics and More

SAN ANTONIOBrush Date up on the basics of business writing—good grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Learn how to create effective letters, memos and email. The first class will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2009, from 10:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m., at the San Antonio Chamber’s SBRC, 1100 NW Loop 410, Ste 109. The cost is $30. Payment for all three is $80 if paid in advance. Other classes will be held on February 3, 2009 and March 3, 2009. For more information, please call (210)863-2250.

HELP WANTED

Adults comes to Houston

HOUSTON- Play Date is an alternative to the everyday club scene. It was developed to bring interesting diverse groups of people together to interact on a social setting based on playing games that we all played in our teenaged years such as dominoes, different card games, Scrabble, UNO, Chess, Checkers, Chutes and Ladders, Simon, Hungry Hungry Hippos, Connect Four, Monopoly and many more. Play Date gives you the opportunity to simply allow yourself to have fun and interact with those who have Heading the same goal. Guests vary Title: Education in age, ethnicity, profession, and social background, yet the games provide an avenue for strangers to become Contact acquainted without the usu- Informat Name:Timothy Williams al awkwardness associated Company: North with meeting someone new.Houston H Phone: 713-686-6900 Play Date-Houston will Fax:Restaurant Bar be at Picazo for tearsheets: & Grill, Address 1421 Preston St., 1126 December West Tidwell27, on Saturday, Houston, 2008, from 8 p.m.Texas to 277091 a.m. Cover charge will be $10. Come and have fun. For more information, please call Ad Cost: (713) 283-2469.

Rate and size of Ad to run in AAN&I’s Part Time Office Houston/Galveston Cleaning Person neededmarketplace. on in the Northwest Houston EDITION DATE: November 12, 2008-May 6, 2009 area. Must be reliable. Please call 713-692-1100 for more information

EDUCATION This 1.5” ad could be your for just $150 for 4 weeks! Please call AAN&I at (713) 692-1178 for more information!

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Now Hiring & Enrolling for Fall 2008!

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Attorney Timothy L. Williams, Executive Director

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1126 West Tidwell, Houston, TX 77091

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Creative Colours By RJ Outdoor PortraitsCommercial Weddings Fashion-Advertising

713/734-1442 4925 Richfield Lane

Houston, TX 77048

Roger Jackson, Photographer

Get this 1” ad for for 4 weeks for only $100! Call (713) 692-1892

RADIO MIN. ROBERT MUHAMMAD

Connect the Dots 10:00- 11.30 a.m. Wed

KPFT 90.1 FM

REAL ESTATE HUD/RESALE AND NEW HOME SALES. Call Your Hometown

Realtor Now! Frances Campbell 281-414-2211

Need an Appraisal? www.WeTCB.com

713-882-8262

Lloyd George Enterprises “Fair Market Value” Appraiser@WeTCB.com

RESTAURANTS Josie’s Place 7473 N. Shepherd Dr. Houston 77091 (713) 695-7711

African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008 • 5

Work-Based Learning Program Gears Up For Summer 2009 Youth Employment

AUSTIN- The Work-Based Learning Program/Summer Youth Employment (WBLP/SYE) is a joint venture of the City of Austin and Travis County Health & Human Services Departments that targets youth between the ages of 14 and 18 (14 and 22 for youth with disabilities) who reside in the City of Austin and/or Travis County, and attend school in Austin and/or Travis County. Youth are recruited and referred through a number of avenues such as faith-based, non-profit, and communitybased organizations. Other referrals are made though advertisement, public service announcements, schools and the community-at-large. The Work-Based Learning Program/Summer Youth Employment provides the opportunity for young people to develop competence and confidence as well as workplace skills in a “real-world of work” environment. Youth will be exposed to career awareness and exploration while developing their career plans and a commitment to lifelong learning. The program expands young people’s choices in life by preparing them with necessary workforce skills needed to succeed as citizens and productive employees. Youth have the opportunity to learn academic subjects by seeing knowledge applied in the “real world of work” and learn job-specific skills while being offered interaction with positive, successful adult role models who provide guidance in setting and achieving goals. A key prerequisite of WBLP/SYE includes Job-Readiness Training. They will gain the experience of applying for a job and earning a paycheck in a nurturing environment with adult support and supervision. Youth have the opportunity to work an average of 96 hours in one of two sessions during the summer. Each youth employee is provided with a broad range of projects in work settings within the City of Austin and Travis County, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. Parents can register youth for Job Readiness Training beginning January 5, 2009 by calling (512)854‑4590.

Resources for college remain plentiful despite national financial crisis

DALLAS- Even in the best of times, college students are notoriously strapped for cash. Faced with some of the most trying economic circumstances in recent memory, these times are certainly no exception. The good news, however, for students and parents who must absorb the considerable cost of college, is that financial aid resources for higher learning are as plentiful as ever. The limited number of financial aid options that were offered years ago has been drastically expanded, well beyond the scope of what most college students and their parents realize. Federally-funded loans, which generally carry extremely modest interest rates, are often a viable option—if not a wise long-term investment. A multitude of grants, scholarships and work-study options are also available to qualified students at virtually all institutions of higher learning. The reality is that despite the current national financial crisis, those who seek higher learning should not be deterred for financial reasons. Those who forego college for financial reasons often do so not because there is an absence of available funds, but because they are unaware of how to access the plethora of financial assistance programs at their disposal. None of these realities are lost

on Joseph Sanchez, Financial Aid Director at Mountain View College in Dallas, Texas. Sanchez continually stresses to students that college is almost always within their economic means if they will simply take advantage of what is offered. “Because of the wealth of financial aid options available these days, I recommend that all students apply for financial assistance even if they think they are not eligible, and even if they don’t think they need it,” Sanchez said. Another compelling reason for all students to apply for financial aid, especially considering the current economic climate, is that their financial situation may change in the future. Even if a student does not currently need or qualify for financial aid, obtaining assistance in the future will be much less stressful if they apply upon or before their initial entry into college. Some students are discouraged from seeking financial assistance simply because of the paperwork involved, and the time it takes to apply. While the processes for financial aid application require some degree of effort on the part of students and their parents, professional assistance throughout the process is readily available. Two-year community and junior colleges have seen sharp enrollment increases in recent years, in part because of lower tuition rates that

pete”

E STATE Years OMENT CARE TION COME

ERVICE

an 1 & Yale)

make college more accessible to students of all income levels. The understanding that two years of transferable core classes can be obtained at community and junior colleges before transferring to more expensive four-year institutions, is seemingly hitting home with parents and students alike. Texas college students may look for assistance at www.collegefortexans.com or www.fafsa.ed.gov and students

may also want to discuss options with their academic advisor or guidance counselor. By seeking assistance from a financial aid advisor, and with a little extra effort, students generally discover that economic obstacles to higher education can be easily overcome. For more information about Mountain View College, please call (214) 860-8868 or (214) 860-8826.

Tommy Calvert Jr. Takes On Community Radio Effort

&I’s Houston/Galveston edition. African-American News & Issues Lacy’s Restaurant SAN ANTONIOTommy CalMesa Dr er 28-9606 December 4, vert 2007 Jr., CEO of Calvert InternationHouston, TX 77078

ademy demy

More grants are now made available to assist students in completing college.

MARIO SALAS

al, is taking on the loss of Black Radio head on. Calvert is spearheading a Leonard’s Famous Burgers fund drive to raise thousands of dol1913 W. Little York Rd.Heading Title: lars to create and sustain a comHouston 77091 Child Care munity radio station in San Anto(713) 686-3555 nio. San Antonio Community Radio, Sartins Seafood of Nassau Bay Incorporated (SACR) is a non-prof18023 Upper Bay Road it organization, 501(c)(3), committed Houston 77028 to providing positive, high quality, (281) 333-4040 Contact Information innovative, diverse educational and Name: Mr. Robert Leday “info-taining” local radio programCompany: L&S Small World SCHOOL/CLASSES ming for Academy San Antonio, Texas. Born Phone: (832) 338-4766 or the (713) 249-9337 from loss of the city’s only AfriNew Direction Job Service can-American targeted secular com8222 Antoine #112 munity stations, KSJL and KAPE, Houston 77088 (281)447-0663 SACR is seeking to improve the quality of radio programming through On Point Music & Dance creating a community radio station 8222 Antoine Dr. Suite #250 in San Antonio. Houston 77088 This community radio station will (281)447-3517 operate to improve the economic and social good that Black and comYOUTH SPORTS munity radio have traditionally fosL & S Youth Sports tered by motivating citizens to participate in democracy and work toward Basketball League positive change in their communiBoys & Girls ty. SACR is proposing to educate the Ages 9 thru 18 community, and serve as a vehicle for For more information call creating more minority broadcasters (832) 338-4766 or through its educational fellowships, (713)249-9337 volunteer programs, and internships. According to Calvert, “Doing this will ENROLL NOW !! improve the quality of news coverage All games will be played at and discussion of minority issues in Harvest Time Community the mass media.” Center- 17770 Imperial Valley Calvert and others have been busy behind the scenes and in front of the (713) 631-3962

Tommy Calvert Jr. is taking on the loss of Black Radio head on. issues to bring back radio as a vehicle to address the needs of the Black community and the community at large. SACR hopes to create situations in which students who begin working at the station may enter local institutions of higher education because of their exposure to the fields of journalism, broadcasting, non-profit operations, and other business conducted at the proposed station. SACR hopes to be a catalyst for motivating community citizens to actively participate in creating and sustaining economic development and growth to revitalize the communities that are under-served and ignored by the private and public sectors within San Antonio and surrounding areas. This will help develop a broader understanding of how governmental policies affect their lives. The sta-

tion will also provide broadcast time for other non-profit organizations to educate the greater South Texas community about the importance of philanthropic enterprises. Together, SACR will connect the local community with positive urban contemporary, news, and other underserved community radio programming. The station’s capacity will support transmission of pre-recorded and live local music and talk shows. In addition, the organization seeks to bring nationally syndicated programing such as the Tom Joyner Morning Show for 24 hours over hybrid digital (HD) radio frequency 91.7-2 FM, and digital streaming on its Web site (www.restoreourvoice. org.) Calvert is urging the community to kick off economic support for the effort by donating to make community radio a reality. Calvert said, “The station will provide programming for a diverse audience of citizens seeking inclusive presentations on the radio. Historically under-served communities in broadcasting include African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, International, Middle Eastern, Central & South American, Caribbean, African, Women, Native American, local artists, international news lovers, progressive talk, nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, and urban contemporary listeners.” SACR is planning to work with area colleges and associations of minority broadcasters to provide fellowships. SACR will attempt to to bridge the “HD-Radio Digital Divide”

by promoting HD Radio in our community. SACR will empower historically underserved communities through the radio station by offering programs that broadcast the discussion of community events, music of different cultures, issues, news, broadcast of governmental meetings, and news programming. SACR will ensure that the upcoming HD radio conversion will not leave minority, low income, and other communities without service during weather or other emergencies. SACR is developing fund raising activities throughout the city and is pushing to raise some $30,000 to $50,000 in donations within the next four months. Calvert, of Calvert International has taken on the role of consultant of station development and will be applying for the position of Station President pending board approval. He has indicated that “SACR will educate and serve as a vehicle for creating more minority broadcasters through its educational fellowships, volunteer programs, and internships. Doing this will improve the quality of news coverage and discussion of minority issues in the mass media. SACR is a catalyst for motivating community citizens to actively participate in creating and sustaining economic development and growth to revitalize the communities that are under-served and ignored by the private and public sectors within San Antonio and surrounding areas.” TX-5

Fidelity BC 9735 Nedwald St. Houston 77029 (713) 671-0095

CHURCH ADS and LISTINGS

BAPTIST

Olivet MBC 3115 Lyons Ave. Houston 77020 (713) 224-1515

Greater Progressive MBC 840 Ringold Houston 77088 (281) 445-8603

Blessed Hope MBC 3741 Colvin Houston 77013 (713) 673-6309

Ebenezer MBC 1814 Jensen Houston 77026 (713) 222-0838

8 AM and 11 AM

Website: www.fwmbc.org

Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church members will endeavor to provide a strong foundation of love; we will stand on Biblical Truths; and we will equip one another to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our community and in our world.

Historical Black Churches are IMPORTANT to our communities!

CATHOLIC

CHURCH OF CHRIST Brookhaven COC 8630 Southview Houston 77051 (713) 733-5664 East Houston COC 7515 E. Houston Houston 77028 (713) 631-7435

Mt. Olive BC 3239 Areba St. Houston 77091 (713)812-9061

4300 Noble Street, Houston TX 77020 Ph: 713/675-5111 • Fx: 713/675-1522

140 Fidelity Rd. Houston Tx 77029

St. Monica Catholic Church 8421 West Montgomery Rd. Houston 77088 (281) 447-5837

Mt. Ararat Community BC BIBLE STUDIES 9313 Lockwood Wednesday 7:30PM Houston 77016 Leonard N. Barksdale, Pastor (713)858-9801

Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church

OFFICE: 713/674-5131

St. Matthew’s MBC 870 Paul Quinn Houston 77091 (713) 695-2288

Mt. Ararat BC 5801 W. Montgomery Houston 77073 (713) 692-9954

SUNDAY SERVICE

Wednesday

MINISTER: Mid-Week Bible Class Theaster Maloy, Sr. 7:00 p.m.

Website

www.fthwardcoc.org “GIVING, GROWING, & GAINING” 4308 Stonewall St. Hou. Tx 77020

713-672-2654

In addition to their other activities, the Fifth Ward COC also holds a Bible Class for non-members on Thursday nights at 7:30 PM. For more information on the various special events or activities you really should visit their website, it is very well done, informative and worth a visit even if you have another church home.

Homestead Rd. COC 7211 Homestead Rd. Houston 77028 (713) 633-1540

New Pleasant Grove MBC 3221 Bain St. Houston 77021 (713) 672-7419

Everyday People with Jesse Simon A Night of Praise with First Christian Fellowship MBC

5 HOUSTON- A special night of praise, worship, fellowship and fundraising was presented by Luke 9:16 Social Services Ministries Inc., for disadvantage youth and Project Angel Tree supplying needed children with Christmas gifts and food during the holidays at the First Christian Fellowship MBC, 3920 New Orleans Street in 5th Ward, where Rev. Q.R. Smith is pastor. Dr. Annie Lee Smith explained “On this night of fellowship it was also a celebration of Deacon James A. Little’s Birthday. On this special night, this generous man was thinking of others, not himself. Deacon Little sponsored a celebration service for the community, the food and all the toys were given by him. All

FIFTH WARD CHURCH OF CHRIST SUNDAY 8:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m. Bible Class 11:15 a.m. Worship 6:00 p.m. Worship MONDAY 10:00 a.m. Gary Smith Ladies Bible Class Minister WEDNESDAY 7:30 p.m. Bible Class for all

LUTHERAN

SHADY ACRES

CHURCH OF CHRIST 730 West 26th St, Houston, TX 77008

Sunday

Morning Bible Class 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Evening Bible Class 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship 6:00 p.m. Chorus Group Rehearsal 7:30 p.m.

Starlight MBC 9202 Willow St. Houston 77088 (281) 447-8788

Green Meadow MBC 777 Green Meadow Lane Houston 77091 (713) 694-7624 Jerusalem MBC 2835 Fidelity Rd. Houston 77029 (713) 674-3794

Cliffdale BC 854 Enterprise Houston 77088 (281) 447-8850

FIDELITY CHURCH OF CHRIST “The Church That Cares”

Progressive MBC 944 Reverend B.J. Lewis Dr. Houston 77088 (281) 447-2342

Greater True Vine MBC 3010 Fontinot Houston 77026 (713) 672-9086

Bible Fellowship BC 10318 Antoine Dr. Houston 77086 (281) 447-0901

CHURCH

WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM

6 • African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008

713/861-6625

Sunday

Early Worship 6 am Minister Frank Melton Jr. Sunday School 9:30 am Regular Worship Res.713/733-0868 10:30 am Off. 713/861-9249 Evening Worship 6 pm FX 713/861-2744 Wednesday Assoc. Minister General Song Practice Glen Burgess, Sr. 7:00 pm Bible Study 7:30 pm Res.713/734-8983

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST DUNCAN MEMORIAL

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Sr. Pastor Elder Greg Edwards (713) 674-5466

2222 Lockwood Dr. Houston, Tx 77020

the children in attendance received a gift and each adult received a gift to give to a child of their choice.” The program was in the hands of the mistresses of the hour, Sis. Brenda Columbus and Dr. Annie Lee Smith. These two ladies kept every thing in line, while praising God. The guest speaker was Bishop Jules W. Smith Jr., pastor of New Beginning Outreach Ministries. Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee sent

Duncan’s Vision Statement: “To train, educate, empower, evangelize, and to insipre the body of Christ by developing GODLY character through the word of GOD (2:Timothy 2:15). Duncan Memorial holds Morning worship on Tuesday mornings at 11 am and Bible Band & Mission from 12-1 p.m. Choir Rehearsals are held every 2nd and 4th Wednesday night. They also have Friday night Bible Study at 7:30p.m.

GALVESTON- Disappointed by the nation’s inadequate response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike, the president of the National Baptist Convention of America, Inc. announced today that the organization is opening a full-service center in the city later this month to help needy residents obtain food, clothing, housing, counseling, daycare and other services key to rebuilding lives. Rev. Stephen J. Thurston, Jr. said the center, a collaborative effort between the Dallas-based National Baptist Convention of America, Inc. (NBAC), The Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas and the Lott

Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention of Washington, D.C., will be located at 3001 Avenue M in Galveston. “We are calling this center the Resurrection Center,” Rev. Thurston explained. “The whole purpose of the Resurrection Center is to help displaced residents rise from the devastation they have experience as a result of Hurricane Ike.” Although Ike, the third most destructive hurricane to make landfall in the U.S., swept through the Galveston area on September 13, Thurston said NBCA had decided days earlier to become a major player in providing relief for families in the Gulf Coast region. The organi-

9 ton, Lillie B. Davis, Tina M. Jones, Debra Sweet, Finessa White, Deloris Ford, Rev. Joseph Jefferson, Harmonica Marvin, Diana Jones, Margie Barfield, and young Marques Daniels. Fifteen churches were represented. Special guest Bobbie Nell Jones share the same birthday with Little. The program was dedicated in the memory of Little’s friend, Brother John Tarver and a special award went to Minister Percy Joseph McAlp-

in for helping with “Project Blessing Angel Tree,” supporting youth with toys and food for the holidays.

Photos:

1. Deacon James Little and Sis. Bobbie Nell Jones 2. Rev. Michael Simmons, Bishop J.W. Smith and Rev. Joseph Jefferson 3. Margie Barfield, Marques Daniels, Dr. Annie Lee Smith, Brenda Columbus and Diana Jones 4. Diana Jones and Lillie

Visit our new and improved website at www.aframnews.com TX-6

Christian Life Community Church 8146 E. Houston Rd. Houston 77028 (713)631-4851 Hope In Christ Church 10310 Antoine Drive Suite A Houston 77086 (832) 882-7925

PENTECOSTAL Holy Temple Jesus Christ No.1 8409 Hoffman St. Houston 77016 (713)631-6685 Wesley UMC 7225 Homestead Houston 77028 (713)633-6849

Support Your Local Churches and Religious Organizations!

National Baptist Convention Spearheads Drive to help Hurricane Ike Victims

8 certificates of Congressional recognition to Bishop Smith, Rev. Michael Simmons, associate pastor of First Christian Fellowship MBC, Deacon Edmund Jones and Diana Jones, presidents of The Mamie Charity Club, Rev. Q.R. Smith and a special award to Ms. Mary Griffin. Others on the program Rev. Michael Simmons, Charlene Hamilton, Ira Gail Glover, Deacons Arthur Hurd, Ola Mae Hamil-

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

UNITED METHODIST

SUNDAY

Morning Prayer: 9:15 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Church Services: 11 am

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church 1055 W. Tidwell Rd. Houston 77091 (713) 680-1419

Rev. Dr. Stephen J. Thurston zation, he said, was hosting a convention in Houston when Hurricane Gustav reached land in early September. “We began to galvanize our people and ask for money and this effort has just continued,” Thurston said. “After the hurricane came, we developed the partnerships ... We want to put a face on the problem. Lillie Wheat, coordinator of the resource center, said the center is currently working on obtaining coats and sweaters for those who need clothing to keep them warm. This resource center is located inside the WestPoint Missionary Baptist Church at 3003 Avenue M in Galveston. The center is currently open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Church News Hotline! Call (713) 692-1892 for more information!

B.Davis 5. Ronald and Johnnie Guy 6. Ira Gail Glover and daughter Kimbley 7. Lady Delores Ford 8. Billie Taylor and Tina Jones 9. Carrie Anice, Dorothy Moore, Katie Houston, Mellownee Goffney and Netrie Tilley

SPOTLIGHT

YOUTH PAGE

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Our Future in the SP

African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 24-30, 2008 • 7

TLIGHT!

By E.C. Davis Send your youth items and photos to E.C. Davis via email: news@aframnews.com

Merry Christmas to all ... 1

1. HOUSTON- Victoria F. Okopie is a 5-year-old who attends Versa Reece Academy and is a A and B student. Okopie is involved in several activities and currently enrolled in jazz/tap & ballet. She also plays the violin, participates in after school enrichment programs and is a second year Spanish student. Her hobbies include horseback riding, creative art/drawing and has a set goal of one day becoming be an A.K.A. 2. HOUSTON- A Running back is one of the top two glamorous positions in American football, the other being quarterback. Trevon Encalade, a 15-year-old who attends Hastings High School is a gifted running back. Adrian Peterson who plays for the Minnesota Vikings is his favorite NFL player. Encalade plans to study Architecture or Astronomy and become a successful Black business man. 3. NACOGDOCHES- Krystle Fontenot is a student at Stephen F. Austin University majoring in Accounting. Accounting provides the means for organizing, summarizing and interpreting information about economic activities within companies and organizations. Fonetenot will obtain the knowledge that managers, lenders, analysts, and investors use when she obtains her degree. 4. PRAIRIE VIEW- Mark Spivey is a talented quarterback from Prairie View A&M who has been popular this year. His role especially at the college level, is one of the most visible and important roles on the team. The quarterback touches the ball on nearly every offensive play and has a great deal of responsibility both in calling plays and making decisions. Spivey’s hometown is Houston and graduated from Westfield High School. 5. HUNTSVILLE- Britni Martin a Freshman at Sam Houston State University is a gifted athlete that plays basketball and soccer. Martin’s accomplishments include: AllGreater Houston and All-District for Coach Deidre Hinze, averaged 17.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists as a senior, McDonald’s All-America candidate, One of the top scorers in Texas Girls Basketball Association 2008 All-Star game, threetime All-District performer and District “Newcomer of the Year” as a freshman, four-time Academic All-District honoree and National Honor Society member.

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6. NEW MEXICO- Fallon Thomas, is a guard from Alamogordo, N.M majoring in Sociology and Child Development at Houston Baptist University. As a junior, she played in all 25 games, starting 24 and was third on the team with a .456 field goal percentage and grabbed 154 rebounds for secondmost on the team, including 55 offensive boards and led the team with 86 assists, 35 blocks and 91 steals. She started the season with a double-double against Texas A&M-Kingsville and repeated the task on against Tougaloo; poured in a season-high 16 points twice, against Oklahoma City and again at Texas-Permian Basin and reached season-highs of 11 rebounds against Tougaloo and 11 assists at Prairie View A&M. Thomas enjoys having fun and going out. 7. HOUSTON- Raquel Jones is a post guard from Houston who graduated from Madison High School. A student at Houston Baptist University majoring in Biochemistry and chemistry. Jones biggest thrill in athletics is hitting three pointers. 8. HOUSTON- Jelela Simpson, is a forward from Oakland, California majoring in Business Administration and Management at Houston Baptist University. As a junior, Simpson played in 23 games and started with a .448 fieldgoal percentage, good for third on the team and led the team in both rebounds and defensive rebounds averaging a teamhigh with a game of recorded 54 assists and 70 steals. Simpson enjoys talking on the phone, shopping and being around friends and family. Simpson is engaged to marry Mashaw Bennett on May 8, 2009. 9. HOUSTON- Cindee Wright is an honor roll student at Houston Baptist University where she enjoys playing basketball. Wright was an All-Conference selection averaging 18 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, and was named the team MVP in her second season and was 11th in the nation in scoring. She made the Dean’s List in 2006 and 2007. A graduate of Southwood High School where she earned All-State honors in basketball and track and made academics a priority. 10. HOUSTON- Rice University senior Jarett Dillard, who owns the NCAA career record for touchdown receptions and a host of other national, conference and school records for receiving and scoring, was announced as part of

their 65th annual team during a one-hour special that aired nationally on ABC. Dillard is the first Owl to earn the distinction from the writers since Buddy Dial in 1958. In addition to his record for touchdown receptions, Dillard also holds the NCAA career mark for games with a touchdown catch and joined with Chase Clement to set the record for most career touchdown passes by the same passer and receiver. He also became the 13th receiver in NCAA history to record three seasons with at least 1,000 yards receiving. 11. SAN MARCOS- Brent Benson, a guard at Texas State University ranked second among Texas State’s team leaders and 13th among Southland Conference. A Scoring leader with 12.7 points per game and scored the most points in a game with a season-high of 28 points against McNeese State and the 28 points. Benson is majoring in Exercise & Sports Science and minoring in Business. 12. SAN MARCOS- Brandon Bush is a guard from Texas State University majoring in Exercise & Sports Science. He was born on September 20, 1986 in Houston and is the son of William & Carolyn Burleson. Bush’s hobbies include watching scary movies and bowling. Bush is an All-Southland Conference Second Team selection and ranks among the top 11career scoring leaders at Texas State with 1,092 points. 13. ROSENBERG- Laurlese ‘L’ Boyd V, sophomore at Terry High School, Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (LCISD) has always had a love for the game of football and basketball. Torn between the two, he has chosen to excel at both sports in hopes of expanding his playing time for a college team in his home state of Texas. Boyd’s first priority remains his academics and has several advance studies. His ideal career, beyond wearing a professional jersey, is sports broadcasting. 14. PEARLAND- Kyndall Griffin is an aspiring senior at Pearland High School. Kyndall is very focused on his academic Advanced Placement & dual credit classes while working on deadlines for Texas Tech, Texas A&M and LSU Baton Rouge. He also holds a full time job and loves hunting, fishing and playing baseball. Kyndall says he is looking forward to a career in chemical or petroleum engineering, following in his father’s footsteps. TX-7

8 • African-American News&Issues • Texas -December 17-23, 2008

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