®
Vol. 19 Issue 4
Greater Houston/Southeast Texas
February 17-23, 2014 | FREE
State Senator John Whitmire
Visions Inspired by a Day at the Ranch
“Youth Learn Values & Key Principles About Land and Animals” WALLER COUNTY- Preparing men of color for life and leadership are keys to raising the next generation of Black and Hispanic leaders. BoyScout Troop 1906, Cub Scout 338 of Prairie View and three youth in the Aldine ISD Future Farmers of America members at Eisenhower High School got a taste of success with some hands on experience spending a day at the RS Deer & Cattle Ranch. Both the scout troop and pack has been rated one of the best in the United States. Aldine FFA students competed very well with their animal entries and competed to raise money for scholarships. The event was hosted by RS Deer &
Cattle Ranch. The youth were given a tour of the ranch via hayride and shared some valuable lessons in animal care, Black History, leadership and business. For 18-year old Gabriel Joubert, the lessons he learned about running a ranch kept him focused on his goals of someday owning a farm. Joubert, who is in FFA and has been raising animals for several years, recently raised a steer that was a healthy 1,133 pounds that was sold at Aldine's 55th Annual FFA Show. "Doing this takes a lot of patience and love," Joubert, who comes from Acres Home area said. "I really learned a lot about many ways to use land. It gave me a real look into the business and what I want
to do with my future." His steer started out at about 500-lbs and he spent countless hours and long days walking, feeding his steer and caring for each animal. He also raised a goat and pig and sold his animals at the show. Demarcus Spearman, 17, is no stranger to farms and farming. He took his 600-lb calf and raised it to be a 1,335-lb steer - 2nd largest in class at the Aldine show. "This was a great experience for me and gives me something to work toward," he said. "I already have set goals to work on taking a small ranch and using the land and animals to control my own destiny." The tour consisted of learning the ins and outs of raising and caring for cattle
and deer and some of the industry and marketing demands and business and recreation opportunities available for those choosing a career in land management and agriculture. For 12-year old Callista Duncan, the trip to the ranch was not only fun, but also proved to be a lesson in life. She not only developed an appreciation for the animals, but learned that deer antlers tell a story about a deer’s value, but also gives insight into his family and leadership status in the herd. "I think that is so neat," she said. "It makes me appreciate deer and cow a whole lot more now than before." Duncan said another thing that was impressive to See RANCH pg. 4
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Politics
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Candidates Share Visions For African-American Community
2014 Primary Democratic Elections Candidates
Candidates stepped up for the final Spotlighting the event was one of campaign push before early voting the hottest contested races is in State begins hoping to get their point across Senate District 15 where incumbent and convince voters they are the best State Senator John Whitmire is people to represent the people. facing challenger Attorney Damian About 70 people attended the La Croix. The two men sparred on political forum sponsored by The tough questions about justice reforms Acres Home Chamber for Business needed in the African-American comand Economic Development Inc. and munity and shared different insights African-American News&Issues at and solutions for the current issues. the Beulah Ann Shepherd building at Some of the hot topics included the 6112 Wheatley Street, Houston. expulsion, suspension and criminalizaThe purpose of the forum was for tion of African-American children by candidates to meet voters of Acres the school system. Home and the surrounding area and “Criminalizing youth behavior not only discuss the issues, but also is wrong and we will stop that,” truly give voters a sense of the plan Whitmire said. “I hear your concerns, and vision each candidate has specifiI am here to serve you. Austin hears cally to improve services to Africanyour voice because the seat in which I American constituents. It also was an sit belongs to you – “The People.” opportunity to share priorities of the Whitmire represents the 15th community and how each candidate Senatorial District comprised of North would be an “active working voice” Houston and parts of Harris County. to help change the condition AfricanHe was elected to the Texas Senate American face dealing with criminal in 1982 after serving 10 years in the justice, family court and other judicial Texas House of Representatives. With issues and improving services at the over 30 years of service in the Texas Business Card for Paper_Layout 1 2/13/14 4:4 courthouse. Senate, Senator Whitmire ranks first in seniority and is the “Dean of the Texas Senate.” In 42 years, Whitmire said he continues to be dedicated to working on criminal justice issues and making sure Acres Home and Houston area get its fair portion of projects and funding out of Texas $190 billion dollar state budget. 979-921-9908 LaCroix called for change, 28820 FM 1736 Road Hempstead, TX 77445-7204 contending his goal is to go to Austin to shake things up on education and Cajun Project 222 community issues. “I can relate and my opponent Trophy Hunting: Whitetail - Axis - Blackbuck cannot. I am from the community,” Archery • Camping • Camp Fire he said. “We are thankful for the Civil Canoeing • Family & Church Reunions Rights generation that gives me an Fishing • Guided Nature Hike Hay Rides • Hiking • Horseshoes opportunity to run for office. However, Kayaking • Nature Photography now is the time for a new generation of Pedal Boats • Picnics • Sand Volleyball leadership to take the reigns.” website: www.rsdeerranch.com He challenged Whitmire stressing email: malonson@rsdeerranch.com TX-2
the need for quality education starts at an early age and may be the key to lifting people out of poverty and keeping our kids out of the criminal justice system. He is stressing a 21st Century education stressing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as a central part of our educational system. Attorney Kim Ogg, is running in the Democratic primary for Harris County District Attorney attended the forum and addressed head on the need for safer neighborhoods and to cure the ills of a failed criminal justice system. She noted that the current district attorney is not committed to fair and equal justice for all. “A fair justice system for all is what I am running for,” she said. “African Americans, Hispanics and the mentally ill are overrepresented in the system and I will change that. I will target the real criminals – those who are violent, in gangs that commit serious crimes on our streets.” Ogg is running on the platform of making justice work for all citizens of Harris County. She is former prosecutor, anti-gang investigator and crime prevention leader. After serving as the city's anti-gang task force director in 1994, she became the executive director of Crime Stoppers of Houston in 1999. She left the organization in 2006 to pursue a private legal practice and has been representing crime victims and police officers and served as a defense attorney. Her opponent Attorney Lloyd Wayne Oliver failed to show up for the forum. Other important races involve judges and courts. These races are important because they could determine the direction of criminal justice, platforms, issues and how cases are looked at involving those who appear in those courts. Other candidates who answered
Texas • December 9-15, Texas ••February 17-23,2013 2014 Texas August 12-18, 2013
the call to come to the community include races for District Judge, 113th Judicial District where Lori C. Gray is pitted against Steven Kirkland. Gray brought a passionate message of the being from the community and understanding what citizens need and raised a new awareness of the need for courts to better serve the public. She stressed improving public service as the number one priority. Kirkland asked voters to look at his long record of service to the homeless and civil rights and his dedication to bringing electronic improvements to the court and moving it into the 21st Century. In District Judge, 246th Judicial District where Sandra Peake is taking on Julia Maldonado. Peake made a case for improving service to the public by stressing the need for judges to start court on time and not waste taxpayers time who come to take care of court business. She said she favors afternoon dockets and is against making political appointments based on favors. Maldonado was not present at the forum. In Judge 280th Judicial District where Allecia Lindsey Pottinger and Barbara Stadler are squaring off. Pottinger made it clear that she would be a different kind of judge who understands domestic violence and work to break the cycle with a full accountability to the law for those who abuse others. “I am passionate about this,” she said. “I will serve the people and protect those victimized by abusers.” Stadler was a no show at the forum. Family District Judge, 308th Judicial District where Jim Evans and Bruce Steffler are running. Evans made it clear that he understands all backgrounds having lived and worked in the poor areas of the Mississippi Delta region with African-American children and with his background as an adopted father and a “Gay” father. “I understand fairness and have no reason to target any one group,” he said. “I will be a good and compassionate judge for all groups of people.” Steffler did not attend, but his campaign was represented by his son who asked politely for voters to support his father. Judge, County Criminal Court at Law No. 10 with John Connolly and
George Barnstone are vying for a spot Connolly made it clear that his opponent has no experience and that his work in the courts will include working to cut down on the AfricanAmericans in orange suits whose cases are backed up and many are left in jail without an attorney to take their cases. “This must stop,” he said. “I will work to get people released for lesser offenses where they don't need to be in jail.” Barnstone failed to make an appearance at the forum. In the County Clerk's race Gayle Young Mitchell and Ann Harris Bennett are running. Mitchell was clear to make her case to bring better organization to the office and to keep the public informed and educated about changes in the office. “We want people to know how to use the office right,” she said. “I have the experience to make it user friendly to all citizens.” Bennett did not attend citing a previous engagement. State Representative Sylvester Turner offered encouraging remarks for voters to go to the polls and elect people who will “go to work” for the community. He also expressed concerns about getting more young people to attend forums and get involved with the democratic process. Early voting starts Tuesday and the primary election is March 4. By: Darwin Campbell, AfricanAmerican News&Issues Photo Credit: Roger Jackson
R.D. Malonson S.A. Malonson Darwin Campbell Chandra Jarmon Bria Taylor-Johns Rebecca S. Jones
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General: news@aframnews.com Ads: sales@aframnews.com Website: www.aframnews.com African-American News&Issues is published by African-American News & Issues, Inc., 6130 Wheatley Street, Houston, Texas 77091, (713) 692-1892. Our office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:15am - 5pm. The entire contents of the paper are copyrighted by African-American News & Issues, Inc. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. African-American News&Issues is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the publisher.
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Texas • February 17-23, 2014
Edit rial & Opini n
Minimum Wage vs. Maximum Greed Rev. Al Sharpton President, National Action Network
If anyone believes even for a brief moment that corporations are in the business of hiring more people, he/she just might be temporarily delusional. Let’s be honest and keep it real: businesses are consistently looking to grow their profits. And there’s nothing wrong with that, we live in a capitalist society after all. But the problem arises when workers keeping those businesses running cannot even afford to keep the lights on in their own homes. When CEOs and those in charge argue that they do not want to raise the minimum wage so that they can hire more workers, nothing could be further from the truth or more insulting. It appears that we’re locked in a battle of minimum wage vs. maximum greed. The Economic Policy Institute released an eye-opening report in 2012 which indicated (among other things) that even in periods of recession and high unemployment, minimum wage increases do not cause job losses. The report, like others, also highlights the fact that raising the minimum wage is a job creation tool because low-income families who make those wages almost immediately spend that money on basic needs and goods. Corporations on the other hand, are likely to hold on to that money and not spend it, and therefore do not help grow the local economy. If raising the minimum wage is a win-win situation for workers, families, job growth and the economy, why in the world would we hesitate to do it? If we can deregulate banking, provide tax breaks for big busi-
nesses and other incentives, than we can push for worker’s rights. The inequality gap in the nation is simply out of control. We have more and more people working two or three jobs just to make ends meet (and in many cases, still unable to do so), while we have millionaires and billionaires sitting in their penthouses and luxury homes looking down upon the rest. There is nothing wrong with amassing wealth and being successful, more power to you. But it cannot be done on the backs of those who do the tough daily work for such little pay. There should be absolutely no reason why an individual that is working full-time still has to collect food stamps in order to survive. It is unconscionable and just sickening. According to a piece written by Gene Sperling and Alan Krueger last year, women make up 60 percent of those who would benefit from a minimum wage increase. As more and more women are the main breadwinners and the head of households across the country, how can we not fight for their right to provide for themselves and their children? If a child goes to school hungry, do we really expect that child to be able to pay attention and get a good education? In a nation as powerful and advanced as ours, we are leaving far too many behind -- especially in the next generation. If you ask Americans, most of them are in favor of increasing the minimum wage, and many states have already led the way. Maybe if corporations and those in charge of them were honest about their reasons for not raising the minimum wage, we could at least have a real dialogue. But let us quit playing ourselves: employers are not fighting this struggle so that they can hire more people. They want to maximize profits, bottom line.
American News&Issues
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“We MUST never forget slavery, lynching, Jim Crow Laws, the disrespect of the Black race and the first Black president.”
Black Folk Use the Power of “The Force” and VOTE
T
he right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. - 15th Amendment to U.S. Constitution. If voting is powerful privilege given to us, why do so many African-Americans fail to go the polls? I believe it is because we do not understand our history when it comes to casting our ballots. We MUST Understand the sacrifice, blood, sweat and tears that allows us to have a voice today in a Democracy that not too long ago legislated Blacks to the sidelines and second-class citizenship. The 15th Amendment protects the rights of every American to vote in elections and to elect their leaders. Specifically, it confirms the right to vote and lists conditions that are illegal to deny another person the right to vote. Any American cannot be denied the right to vote, based on race, color or being a former slave. It not only was important for voting but it also allowed African Americans to be elected into public office. In Texas, early voting starts this week and the primary is just around the corner on March 4. Important political races will determine future leadership, policy and the balance of power in State House in Austin and the Congress of the United States. Texas will have a new Governor, Attorney General and elect a Senator. Where will you be in that mix and what role do you plan to play in shaping politics and policies in the future? We MUST Understand why voting is important going back and allowing our history to speak.
Amendment 15 was the final Civil War Amendment. Its purpose was to ensure that states, or communities, were not denying people the right to vote simply based on their race. Before the 15th amendment and the Civil War, AfricanAmericans, even those who were not slaves, could not vote. The right to vote only applied to White men. When Blacks were given the right to vote, they went to the polls and flexed political power during the Reconstruction era from 1866 to 1880. Former slaves flexed their new found Black power and it shook the foundations of Democracy in America. From the least to the greatest voting made a difference. For example, Thomas Peterson became the first African-American to vote in the United States. He voted for a member of his local school board on February 4, 1870, the day after ratification of the 15th Amendment. In Natchez, Mississippi, Hiram Revels became the first former slave to be in the U.S. Congress. For over a decade, there were more African-Americans holding public office between 1865 and 1880 than at any other point in American history. We MUST Understand that White southerners did not want this new found spirit in Black men to thrive so they took steps to shut it down using poll taxes, Black Codes, Jim Crow Laws, lynching and intimidation by the Ku Klux Klan. Many Blacks died as a result from terrorist activities and violence associated with discouraging Blacks from ballot boxes. Today, the new enemies at the polls are the new Voter Photo ID laws and creative suppression tactics and laws that currently pre-
- Roy Douglas Malonson
We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
vent convicted felons from voting who have served and completed their prison sentences - many of whom are African-American males. Black folk like to complain and protest, but we don't vote. That needs to change and it needs to change now to make our streets and neighborhoods better places. Politicians are more interested in making money for themselves, then helping you, your children, or the elderly and you the voter hold the keys to stopping them by electing people who will truly work for you. Civil Rights Activist Fannie Lou Hamer said it best. "Whether you have a Ph.D., or no D, we're in this bag together. And whether you're from Morehouse or No-house, we're still in this bag together..." She understood Black history and the power of the voice and the vote. She was determined to get every "Negro" in the state of Mississippi registered and voting. However, her efforts were not without pain. On one occasion she was beaten and remembered words of White men who said. "You nigger bitch, we're gonna make you wish you were dead... Every day of my life I pay with the misery of that beating." Your vote is your voice and serves notice to every elected official to do the right thing or else. When more of us turnout and vote in every election, they will begin to understand that the Black community means business. We MUST Understand that Your vote counts and comes at the hands of a lot of sacrifice. TX-3
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African
Cover Story
American News&Issues
Youth, parents, and scout pack leaders tour lodge facility at RS Deer & Cattle Ranch
Texas • August 17-23, 12-18, 2014 2013 Texas • February
Members of Boy Scout Troop 1906 & Cub Pack 388 of Prairie View, Texas
Eisenhower HS of Aldine ISD FFA members Demarcus Spearman, Trenton Allen, & Gabriel Joubert along with family attended tour of RS Deer & Cattle Ranch FFA students and scouts visit a deer blind on a trail at RS Deer & Cattle Ranch
Scout learns proper climbing technique on a deer stand RANCH from pg. 1
her was the way the hosts treated everybody and how they showed the value of hard work. “I learned you can be successful no matter where you come from,” she said. “You can do great things and you don’t have to give up on life or yourself.” Cub Scout Darren Skeen, 11, thought deer lived only in the wilderness and was amazed that so many could live together in one place on the ranch. “I had never been to a ranch and I saw up close life on a ranch and I really enjoyed being here,” he said. “It makes me think about ways I can raise animals and make money too.” Cub Scout Jason Perry, also 11, said at first he did not know what to expect, but warmed up once he realized how much fun it is being around the animals. TX- 4
“I appreciate them taking time with us,” he said. “I learned a lot about what it takes to care for animals.” FFA student Trenton Allen, 18, said developing relationships with animals helps him understand patience and how to treat people. He raised and cared for eight turkeys and sold six at Aldine show. “It really teaches me to take being responsible seriously,” he said. “It also let me know my options in life and if I never stop imagining what I can do, I can and will achieve great things.” Another important fact youth mentioned that was interesting was learning the history about how many Blacks who owned land and farms before the great migration period in American History. The great migration caused many Blacks to leave the South, their lands and agriculture fields to pursue jobs in the industrial North. “I see the power of owning land here today,” he said. “If you own your own dirt,
you control your destiny.” Scout Troop 1906 Scoutmaster Cameron Estwick said the day at the ranch helps reinforce the building of character and leadership and teaches accountability to his scouts, which are predominantly African-American and Hispanic. His group has six members, some who are advancing and working towards becoming Eagle Scouts. The group has been formed since 2010. “We appreciate this labor of love to our kids and for exposing them top positive skills and talents,” he said. “I can tell the kids were listening and we know that seeds were planted that will cause our children to be inspired by it.” For Pack Cub Master Marian E. Jackson, helping the children learn, grow and achieve is her highest goals working with youth. She believes it does take a village to raise youth. She nurtures about 20 from her group. The Cub Scout pack was started in 2007 and was started after one at Prairie View A&M faltered.
“I feel a duty and obligation to work hard to help raise and direct young Black men and men of color,” she said. “We want them exposed to positive everyday learning experiences because we feel that will help us raise up educated men who will be inspired to grow up to be great leaders.” Jackson, who also serves as Justice of the Peace in Waller County Precinct 3, said too many young men are growing up without direction and support and that trend is what she wants to change. “There is a real need in this community,” she said. “That is why we bring in people from all walks of life and give them and opportunity to learn, grow and practice positive skills.” She is also flanked by Tim Perkins and Assistant Scoutmaster Brian Chapman who also work with Jackson and Estwick. Parents who spent a day on the ranch not only were impressed with what it takes to run an active ranch, but also that AfricanAmericans were doing it.
“I am a country girl and I am glad to see this and what is being done here,” said Sonia Perry, mother of a Cub Scout.”I think it is great and will have a positive affect because it shows our kids that it is okay to enjoy and appreciate land and also to think outside the norms of the box.” Cover Story & Photos By: Darwin Campbell, African-American News&Issues
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Forbes Magazine released its rankings of Austin is the fastest-growing city in Texas and the nation, according to Forbes Magazine report. Houston is third in the state (10th overall) behind Dallas (2nd overall) and San Antonio (20th overall) comes in at fourth-place. Strong population growth in 2013 and unemployment under 6% –well under the national rate of 6.7%–helped all four cities make the top 20, although last year the cities did even better, with Austin, Houston, and Dallas sweeping the top three slots. Given its business-friendly regulatory environment, lack of state income tax for corporations or people, and highly educated labor market, it is not surprising that Texas cities continue to grow, the report said. With the 48,000-student University of Texas churning out engineers and computer scientists, the five-county area has a robust workforce–38% college-educated individuals. “We’ve had 307 companies move here in the last 9 Date years,” says Dave Porter, Senior Vice President, Economic Development at the Austin Chamber. “And about 100 of those come from California.”
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What’s Happenin’ in 2014
Texas • February 17-23, 2014
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Tuesday Aldine ISD FASFA Wrkshp Eisenhower High School 7922 Antoine Dr Houston, TX 77088 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact: (281) 985-6408 Wednesday Aldine ISD FASFA Workshop Aldine Staff Dev. Ctr 2330 S. Victory Dr Houston, TX 77088 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact: (281) 985-6408
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Thursday Aldine ISD FASFA Workshop Nimitz High School 2005 West W Thorne Drive Houston, TX 77073 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact: (281) 985-6408
Friday New Beginnings Christian Ctr Black Heritage Musical 6700 Antoine Dr Houston, TX 77091 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact: (713) 476-0011 Saturday Houston Museum African-American Culture “Troop 491: The Adventures of the Muddy Lions” 4807 Caroline St Houston, TX 77004 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact: (713) 526-1015 Saturday RAP Coalition of Gtr Houston Relatives as Parents Conference 4950 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77007 From 8:30am - 3pm For more info contact: (713) 460-0781
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Thursday Carver Magnet H.S. College Night 2100 S. Victory Dr. Houston, TX 77088 From 6:30pm -8pm For more info contact: (281) 878-8580 Aaubrey@aldine.k12.tx.us
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Friday HCCS Black History Gala 1600 Lamar St. Houston, TX 77010 Beginning at 6pm For more info contact: (713) 718-5242 1213_FAST_Ad_2x2.pdf 1 6/21/2013 www.hccs.edu
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Dinner & Fundfraiser 6209 W. Montgomery Rd Houston, TX 77091 From 3pm - 6pm For more info contact: (832) 465-9355 Sunday Mt. Corinth MBC Black History Celebration “Dr. Tamara L. Brown” 290 & 7th St Hempstead, TX 77093 Beginning at 11am For more info contact: (936) 499-4062 Tuesday Our Mother of Mercy Parish Civil Rights Classes 4000 Sumpter St Houston, TX 77020 From 7pm - 8pm For more info contact: (281) 704-6655
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UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND STUDIOCANAL PRESENT A SILVER PICTURES PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH ANTON CAPITAL ENTERTAINMENT S.C.A. AND LOVEFILM A JAUME COLLET-SERRA FILM LIAM NEESON “NON-STOP” JULIANNE MOORE SCOOT MCNAIRY MICHELLE DOCKERY NATE PARKER JASON BUTLER HARNER EXECUTIVE STEVE RICHARDS RON HALPERN OLIVIER COURSON HERBERT W. GAINS JEFF WADLOW AND ANSON MOUNT MUSICBY JOHN OTTMAN PRODUCERS STORY SCREENPLAY PRODUCED BY JOHN W. RICHARDSON & CHRIS ROACH AND RYAN ENGLE BY JOEL SILVER ANDREW RONA ALEX HEINEMAN BY JOHN W. RICHARDSON & CHRIS ROACH DIRECTED A UNIVERSAL RELEASE BY JAUME COLLET-SERRA THIS FILM CONTAINS DEPICTIONS OF TOBACCO CONSUMPTION
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STARTS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
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Educati n/Y uth
Annual State of District Breakfast
Texas • February 17-23, 2014
Seagoville MS Counselors “Turning Up the Heat”
(l-r) Norma Wright, Gail Bell, and Dr. Charna Jackson
HOUSTON- Recently, Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. Wanda Bamberg delivered her annual State of the District address to approximately 400 business and community members during a breakfast at the Sheraton North Houston Hotel. A number of elected officials, business and community partners as well as parents and students joined Aldine ISD Trustees and district personnel at the event. Before Dr. Bamberg delivered her address, which centered on a look back at the 2012-13 school year and ahead to the challenges the district will face in the future, the audience was treated to an outstanding performance by a number of performing arts students from across the district. The students performed “Together We Can in Aldine,” which provided the students with the opportunity to show off their signing, dancing, and musical skills, as well as their visual arts skills. The performance at the breakfast was a shorter version of the production the students performed at the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA)/Texas Association School Boards (TASB) in Dallas in September, where they received rave reviews, as they did at the State of the District Breakfast. The audience gave the performers a standing ovation for their outstandTX-8
ing performance. Following the performance, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Archie Blanson introduced a number of elected officials, educational leaders, business partners and community partners before introducing Dr. Bamberg. Prior to delivering her remarks, Dr. Bamberg saluted the student performers. “You saw some of the Nation’s Best today,” she said. Dr. Bamberg shared with the audience that the district’s vision is the same as it has been for years, “To Produce the Nation’s Best!” She also shared demographic information with the audience. The district currently has an enrollment of 67,381 students, up 3% from last school year. She also shared the demographic makeup of the district, which is 70.8% Hispanic, 25.1% African American, 2.0% White, 1.3% Asian, 0.1% Native American, 0.1% Native Hawaiian/ Other Pacific Islander and 0.7% Two or more. Dr. Bamberg also shared with the audience that last school year the state transitioned from the TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) accountability test to the more rigorous STAAR (State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness). “STAAR is a good thing,” she said. “It is a very content rich and
demanding test.” She shared testing scores in math, science, social studies and end of course exams. She said there is work to be done, but that the district would “redouble our efforts” in dealing with the new accountability system. She also touched on academic achievement attained by Aldine ISD students. Last school year, 441 AISD seniors were awarded 1,026 scholarships totaling $15.9. Dr. Bamberg also touched on the first year of the Aldine Education Foundation. The Foundation got off to a solid start and awarded 139 scholarships and six teacher grants in its first year. During the 2012-2013 school year, the district continued to emphasize safety as it added security cameras throughout the district, limited access to campuses, installed metal detectors at intermediate schools, middle schools and high schools, increased staff duty, instituted a dress code, placed campus based officers at all middle schools and high schools and added front door monitors at all district schools. She also reported that the district is in sound financial shape and has a strong fund balance in excess of $250 million. Dr. Bamberg also reported that the district has grown to more than
DALLAS- The counselors at Seagoville MS felt an immediate connection to Dallas ISD’s Core Beliefs, but one in particular sparked their creativity. The tenet that “staff members must have a commitment to children and a commitment to the pursuit of excellence,” led to their motto this year. They are “Turning up the Heat” to motivate the entire staff to ignite the flame of learning. For Norma Wright, Gail Bell and Dr. Charna Jackson, teamwork makes the difference. They step in for each other, and frequently work collaboratively to ensure they are approaching a situation in the best way. “We have a natural connection,” said Wright. Dr. Jackson agreed, emphasizing, “We play off one another’s strengths and weaknesses. We try to help each other whenever we can.” The team works to create a family environment where the student is the focal point. But
they also work to involve and empower parents. “We’re relationship driven, and that makes a difference. We work to keep that connection with the students, and they feel it,” said Bell. They credit their principal, Tracie Washington, with aligning the staff to put students first. But their enthusiasm is clearly the key to their success. “This is not a job – it’s my calling,” said Wright, prompting Jackson to add “we’re passionate with a purpose.” Their commitment and passion are contagious, as they “Turn up the Heat” and impact everyone at Seagoville MS. Norma Wright, Gail Bell, and Dr. Charna Jackson assume the roles of “preacher, mama, maid, and nurse,” to nearly 1,100 sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students at Seagoville Middle School. The district is proud to recognize a counseling staff second to none during this, National School Counseling Week.
9,000 employees. She also spoke of building a bridge to the middle class for Aldine students and to do that, the district will work to ready its students for college readiness, prepare them for the SAT and ACT tests (college entrance exams), and prepare them for the 21st Century workforce. She cited MacArthur High School as one campus that has been doing a solid job of preparing its students for the workforce. Dr. Kristin Craft, principal at MacArthur High School, provided an overview of the school’s EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)
program, which has produced 87 certified paramedics, many of whom are working in Harris or Montgomery County. Dr. Craft told the audience that MacArthur is the only high school in Texas with an in-house EMT program. The one-year program is for seniors only and they must attain 220 hours of classroom instruction, receive 24 hours of internship training at a trauma center and receive 36 hours of internship training on a 911 ambulance. At the completion of the program, students receive dual certification, and are certified as EMTs.
Texas • February 17-23, 2014
Community
Exposure Calls for Unity & Action
HOUSTON- Whether closing schools, shutting a post office, being pushed out of neighborhoods or holding police accountable for shooting down young Black unarmed men, the Black community appears under siege in Houston. “We are not disconnected from any of these battles and they are not coincidences,” said Kofi Taharka, leader of the National Black United Front Houston Chapter. “There is a plan going on here and we need to step up. Black people need to understand that “They” are coming for you in the morning (in one area of the city) and coming for me (in another area) by evening.” Freedom fighters are pulling back the curtain and exposing the motives of politicians, developers and realty groups who want to poor and disadvantaged AfricanAmericans and their communities pushed out of town. “All of us must stand up to protect and preserve the history and individual pride of our neighborhoods,” he said. “We cannot allow them to run us out.” That's what hundreds of African-American parents and community leaders told HISD leaders who showed up at public hearings for school campuses slated for closure. Some of them include Dodson, N.Q. Henderson and Port Houston
elementary schools; Fleming Middle School; and Jones High School. The schools have a large majority of African-Americans children students attending the schools. Others like Houston activist Deric Muhammad and State Rep. Harold Dutton have vowed to fight the plan. “We have no choice except to look at school closures as an attack on our community,” Muhammad said. “It is an assault against our future. We cannot sit idly by and watch the “educational amputation” of our community takes place. HISD Superintendent Terry Grier is a “butcher” bent on closing schools and cutting off opportunities for our children.” Gentrification is a very real issue that is seen in areas of the Third and Fourth Wards and Freedmen's Town. It is spreading at an alarming rate and appears to be one of the reasons to close Southmore Station. Southmore Station, a post office, at 4110 Almeda, sits at the historic site of Houston’s first sit-in demonstration. In 1960, Texas Southern University students marched from their campus to that location to challenge segregated lunch counters at Weingarten Supermarket. “As the gentrification of Black neighborhoods take place, they are seeking to close traditionally Black schools to make way for the white children whose parents are moving back into
inner city,” Muhammad added. “The police will be used to enforce this plan, as well. The hour is critical. We have no choice except to stand our ground.” Closing the sight threatens to erase another key piece of Houston's Black history.Areas predominantly Black now near downtown have been targeted by developers and real estate moguls who want poor Blacks and the elderly out of the way of what they call progress. “It's that prime real estate they want and are trying to get it by any means necessary,” Taharka said. “This is a nonstop effort and we must learn from our history, organize and tell developers and others we will not allow ourselves to be pushed around.” The fight to preserve the history also includes respecting the needs of the elderly and poor who use the facility. Closing it would be a disrespectful and a cold slap in the face for community leaders and freedom fighters working to preserve a legacy rich history and heritage. On another front, freedom fighters are trying to raise awareness on the need for equal and fair justice for all. From Chad Holley beating to the Jordan Baker shooting , the Houston Police Department and Harris County District Attorney continues to be numb to its killings, beating and the locking up of hundreds of Black youth and men at alarming rates. The continued abuses call for actions that will stop the abuses before another Black man goes down and another mother has to bury a son. That's why for the past three years, volunteers from the NBUF and the New Black Panther Party stands each Tuesday 12:00 noon either at the Harris County Courthouse or Houston City Hall to bring attention to abuses and to call for an independent civilian review board with subpoena
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powers, funding and prosecutorial powers to address police brutality and other community issues involving the police. “Things continue to happen in the news and we are there long after the cameras come and go,” he said. “It is a sustained effort on our parts to reach out to others and keep those incidents and issues on the table.” Taharka said the issues are growing by the day and no one should expect them to go away anytime soon. He said he hopes people will wake up and demand changes in direction before things get too far. “If we don't organize and stand up together, there will be no one left (in the evening) when they come for me...” he said.
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OBITUARY
Judge John Paul Davis
BEAUMONT- John Paul Davis, a longtime Jefferson County Court atlaw judge passed away at his home. He was 74 years old. Judge Davis’ work in Jefferson County is well known as being the second AfricanAmerican to be elected countywide; the first Black Beaumont municipal judge; the first African American Assistant Criminal District Attorney and the first African-American Judge in Jefferson County.
25th Silver Anniversary Annual Awards Banquet Friday, March 28, 2014 7pm-9pm Beulah Ann Shepard Building
6112 Wheatley Street • Houston, Texas 77091
Theme:
“NOW is the TIME”
Keynote Speaker:
Craig Washington
Phone: (713) 692-7003 or (713) 692-7161 E-mail: info@acreshomecenter.org RSVP by Monday, March 21, 2014 TX-9
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Monthly Networking Luncheon
Texas • February 17-23, 2014
“Hand Up” to Former Felons Could Take Bite Out of Crime
Aldine ISD’s Reece & Bethune Academy’s Staff and Violinist, & State Senator John Whitmire
Houston- Recently the Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development Inc. held its Monthly Business Networking Luncheon, located at 6112 Wheatley Street, 77091. Chairman Roy Douglas Malonson greeted attendees with a series of light hearted one-liners and jabs that got the audience in the mood and ready to enjoy good food and the raffle drawing. The drawing brought even more fun as Malonson poked fun at ministers who were drawing tickets that yielded only winners at their respective tables – causing Malonson to select a group of educators to draw winning numbers. Prior to the blessing of the food, children from Reece Academy and two groups of students from Bethune Academy provided musical treats, using violins – one selection was “Deep in the Heart of Texas” and another old school jazz selection. Reece students are Pre-K and Kindergarten. Bethune violinists were third and fourth-graders. After Pastor Joseph Baker of Guiding Light Inspirational Baptist Church blessed the food, a period of good eating and fellowship followed with many networking and exchanging business cards, stories and life experiences. After the meal, Chairman Malonson noted the importance of knowing the law and gave valuable information about TX-10
police, community issues and how to deal with the police when encountered. Judge Oswald Scott introduced Houston Police Chief Charles McClelland, who was the keynote speaker for the event. Scott spoke of McClelland 36 years in law enforcement and his rise up through the ranks having started in 1977 as a patrol officer. He was born in Center, Texas and today is head of the nations 5th largest police agency and is responsible for 5,400 sworn officers and 1,600 civilian employees. Chief McClelland holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology and a Master of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Houston. He is a know proponent of community-based policing and enhanced crime reduction strategies using technology. McClelland began his speech touting safer streets and glowing positive numbers on reducing crime in Houston, but McClelland expressed great concern about the lack of second change help and opportunities for young adults hitting the streets after serving jail or prison time. “We are not giving people a second chance,” said McClelland. “We need to work together and help these young men and women find gainful employment.” McClelland shared statistics
about how major crimes have gone down, but how many young men between the ages of 30 and 35, many of whom are African-American and Hispanic, are recommitting crimes and returning to jail because they have little means of support, to no education, no job training or programs to help redirect their lives. Many end up back on the streets and step up to more violent crimes and harsher prison sentences. McClelland expressed that his priorities for 2014 are to make a difference on the streets when it comes to illegal guns, gangs and dealing drugs – many of which the younger adults are using to commit crime and are returning to jail because they cannot find a job. According to McClelland, Texas has the second largest prison population in the United States. Harris County averages about 154,000 serving time. Of those, 52,000 are African-American, 49,000 Hispanic, 47,000 are White and 11,000 are women. He called upon government, businesses, education and religious leaders to unite to work to get help for young men and women who are trapped by the negative cycle of having a felony record, being unemployed and unable to provide for themselves. McClelland also called on the community to wake up and get involved to stop the current
cycles of deadly violence plaguing the city. “We should be outraged about the using, selling and AfricanAmericans and Hispanics killing each other,” he said. “It is time to work together. The big question is what are we going to do.” On a lighter note, the chief's reported to citizens on the state on the response rate of his department to citizens. HPD only had 233 complaints out of 1.2 million calls for assistance. “We praise our officers for the change in culture that is making us one of the most professional law enforcement agencies in the country,” he said. “It is the lowest complaint ratio we have ever had and I am pleased that what we are doing is paying off and will continue to payoff.” After the speech, Chairman Malonson thanked Chief McClelland and State Sen. John Whitmire followed adding to the discussion about bad police behaviors. He also told the audience he is working to develop and improve laws that will help better protect citizens and assist those coming out of jail and prison be better prepared with the proper tools needed to find a positive productive place in the workforce. Honors and praises were given to Mr. Roy Douglas and Mrs. Shirley Ann Malonson for their gifts and efforts to help children in their quest for a better education and those needed social services, noting the young
HPD, Chief Charles McClelland
violinist school children who performed at the event. “We must help our children,” Malonson said. “We must also support those who are dedicated to helping our children.” The luncheon was closed in prayer, offering and supplications to Almighty God. It was a success as many left with a better understanding of their tax dollars at work in the police department and education on the problems of the formerly incarcerated and information on how to deal with the police department and handle issues, traffic stops and other complaints that may arise. Despite chilly temperatures, the warm atmosphere, smiles, friendly environment and sitting down and spending a few moments with community neighbors, friends and business people made February Business Luncheon was a great success. For more information about upcoming events or details on becoming a member of the Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development, contact Anthony Stewart at (713) 692-7161 or email info@ acreshomecenter.org. By: Darwin Campbell, AfricanAmerican News&Issues Photo Credit: Roger Jackson
Texas HBCU Corner
Texas • February 17-23, 2014
African
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Support OUR Texas HBCUs! If WE don’t, then who will?
OKAT Program Offers Valuable Agriculture Experience
Students from DeSoto ISD get acquainted with the Alpine goats used in the One Kid at a Time program. ~ Photo: Courtesy of the PVAMU College of Agriculture and Human Sciences
Thanks to a partnership with the PVAMU College of Agriculture and Human Sciences, students from DeSoto Independent School District had the opportunity to participate in the
recent Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo. CAHS and DeSoto ISD have joined forces to create the One Kid at a Time (OKAT) program. The
initiative provides participants with a kid goat from the University and will track findings on goat husbandry and management while students plot future careers in sustainable agriculture. Although the partnership is geared toward life sciences, 9,000 students and community members will benefit from the sustainable agriculture initiatives for enrollees in family & consumer sciences, agriculture and science classes. “There are a lot of good things about this venture,” said CAHS Dean Alton B. Johnson. “Encouragement, ‘touchy-feely’ lessons, goat and livestock entertainment, learning about 4-H clubs, and fostering positive futures are by-products of this initiative.” According to Dr. David Harris, superintendent of DeSoto ISD, the program will spur interest in the field.
2014 HBCU All-Stars The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (WHIHBCU) recently announced its first class of HBCU All-Stars, recognizing 75 undergraduate, graduate and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership and civic engagement. Currently enrolled at 62 HBCUs, the All-Stars were selected from 445 students who submitted completed applications that included a transcript, resume, essay and recommendation. The HBCU All-Stars will serve as ambassadors of the White House Initiative by providing outreach and communication with their fellow students about the value of education and the Initiative as a networking resource. “Engaging with the next generation of leaders who will graduate from HBCUs and go on to make meaningful contributions to society is crucial to the success of our community, our country and our global competitiveness,” said George Cooper, executive director of the WHIHBCUs. “It
is a privilege to announce these 75 students who have demonstrated a commitment to both their own academic achievement and making a difference in their communities, and we look forward to working with them as partners in advancing President Obama’s college completion goal.” Over the course of the next year -through social media and their relationships with community-based organizations -the All-Stars will share promising and proven practices that support opportunities for all young people to achieve their educational and career potential. In addition, the 45 female and 30 male All-Stars will participate in regional events and web chats with Ivory Toldson, deputy director of the WHIHBCUs, other Initiative staff and professionals from a wide range of disciplines. They will also have opportunities to engage with other scholars to showcase individual and collective talent across the HBCU community. More information about the activities of the 75 HBCU All-Stars will
be provided in the coming months as they carry out their role as ambassadors of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Below is a list of the 2014 HBCU All-Stars in alphabetical order by the state and city they are from, the school they attend and the school’s location: TEXAS Houston- Antoine Southern attends Oakwood University, Huntsville, AL. Dallas- Priscilla Barbour attends Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX. Cedar Hill- Glenn Johnson attends Texas College, Tyler, TX. Houston- Jarrauri Curry attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX. Houston- Candace Jones attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX. Garland- Jade Crutch attends Xavier University, New Orleans, LA.
“Agriculture in DeSoto had gone to sleep,” Harris said, but thanks to the use of Alpine goats to teach lessons, the partners are training a new generation of professionals. While the students are receiving hands on experience in Agriculture, they are also learning much more. “Life skills such as responsibility, leadership, commitment and a greater awareness and appreciation for agriculture are also learned,” said Dr. Alfred Parks, professor in the College
of Agriculture and Human Sciences. Along with Parks, OKAT is administered by Dr. Joice Jeffries, program specialist, 4-H and Youth Development (lead investigator), Scott Horner, research specialist (co-principal investigator), Dr. Gbenga Ojumu, adjunct assistant professor (co-principal investigator), Dr. Kellye Thompson, program specialist, Dr. Rukeia DrawHood, program leader, 4-H and Youth Development and Dr. Gary Newton, research scientist. Sin 19 ce 94
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