African American News & Issues 33 Sept. 2 - 8

FREE • September 2 - 8, 2018

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Vol. 23, Issue 33

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

- President Barack Obama

An Honorable Man

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2 • African-American News & Issues

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

EDITORIAL & OPINION The Standard View

Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman/Publisher Shirley Ann Malonson, President/CEO/Publisher Rebecca S. Jones, Senior Writer Fred Smith: Sales General: news@aframnews.com Ads: sales@aframnews.com Website: aframnews.com Artwork: prod@aframnews.com

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By Billy “Hollywood” Groves

Time for a Change

A

s we approach the very important mid-term elections there is a troubling subject in most Americans memories, the direction and course our nation is headed in under the President. The realization is it’s, “Time for a Change”.

The first step of the “Time for a Change” movement is removing Trump from the White House, which will allow us to address some of our nation’s serious problems. We can impeach this man if we vote in large numbers to take over the governmental positions that have the power to do this and thus we will be able to enforce “the will of the people” in November 2018.

Once we are in power, we will have the ability to change our defective judicial system, which has put more people in prison than any other nation.

The vast majority of those incarcerated people controlled by our inept judicial system are Black, Brown and poor White people.

The system seems to have been built in a way to take advantage of the above-mentioned people and any other person who is financially struggling. The exploitation of certain groups of American citizens must be changed.

We the People can make that change by removing these dysfunctional racist, greedy people who don’t respect anything but money and power. I often hear many people in America from all political parties; speak admirably and positively about our youth. They all seem to agree

the young people are our future.

Subsequently, if they truly believe this, then they must realize the things, which we are doing in front of them, which are not good for our country, must be changed. There’s an old saying, “A wise man will change, but a fool never will”. We can’t afford to present ourselves as a nation of fools, because we have such a strong global image to protect.

I have often written and spoken about the fact that despite our world power and position, we are still just five-percent of the world’s population. Making the right decision to make changes at certain powerful positions in our democracy is definitely important for our long time survival, which will eventually be controlled by the people who are youth of today.

If America’s image is viewed as “evil and racist”, through the eyes of the people of other nations, this soiled image of being an isolationist racist environmental society will threaten the peace and future of our nation.

The judicial flaws can be fixed by removing racist judges, district attorneys, law enforcement officers and other unruly people from our systems. We are at a point where we have to become more creative and reconstructive towards helping people in the “danger zone” of America.

While we see the problems every day, we must do the right things toward addressing them and bringing unity to America.

It’s very important for us to write about and discuss these problems but it is most important that we take the bold moves needed to make these changes happen. I believe in America! It is the only nation I have lived in and I am fully convinced we can change what’s happening with her that isn’t right.

Continue reading online www.aframnews.com

A Formal Introduction

By Tyler Doggett

Formally Introducing: Mentality

F

ormality has never particularly been “necessary” to me. But, I understand the validity and impact of it when it addresses certain matters like mentality. Over the course of centuries, the Black mentality has evolved. Our culture’s new found popularity is in the forefront of American branding next to Democracy and Guns.

Yet, through all of our growth, perseverance and understanding of where we stand amongst other Americans within the eyes of our oppressors, it seems that our ideologies have remained stagnate.

Although the shackles are no longer around our ankles, we refuse to take the keys and free our minds from the same bondage.

Some people blame post-traumatic slave syndrome on why we as a people cannot psychologically progress.

Theoretically, Dr. Joy Degruy suggest that the adaptive survival behaviors in African-American communities throughout the United States is a condition that exists as a consequence of multi-generational oppression of Africans and their descendants consequently, resulting from centuries of chattel slavery would definitely explain our sociological gap between generations of Blacks.

It’s like when your parents just tell you to do whatever the officer says when getting pulled over instead of addressing injustice in the face of the subjugator, even though evidence has been shown that you still

have an increased probability of losing your life either way. Or, when you’re speaking to a new coworker and your good grammar and proper diction is translated not to an educational background, but to an environmental analysis of how privileged you were raised.

Others, say the problem stems even deeper than that; blaming calculated lessons of oppression from things such as the Willie Lynch letter on the “Makings of a Slave” for our mentality.

This also is a very formidable argument seeing how the letter talks about “Breaking the mind”, through a series of decisive method of not only controlling slaves on the plantation but subjugating our entire race for years to come; many practices that are still being utilized today.

In other words, self-divisional methods within our community such as the Light-skin/Dark-skin comparison, crabs in a bucket mentality, isolation and worship of Black women and the rise of the Black elitist all came from a preplanned instruction manual on how to control you before YOU were even conceived, (if you don’t believe me, read it and be shocked on how relevant all of his methods are being used today.)

But, within both of these theories, only one thing remains constant; our inevitable self-destruction. Neither of these implications are strategic attacks directly to our communities; instead, both are carefully thought out, manipulative settings that alters our mentalities to either go against ourselves or render the desire for MORE obsolete. And they are flawlessly working.

As a community, we need to not only understand we are our greatest enemy in these times of racial oppression.

Continue reading online www.aframnews.com

African-American News & Issues • 3

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

EDITORIAL & OPINION

We MUST Understand

By Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher

King Kong Ain’t Got Nothing on Me!

I

’m reminded of “Alonzo” the character played by Denzel Washington in the movie, “Training Day”. Alonzo was a cold-hearted, calculated Detective who knew how to play both sides against the middle. His arrogance and conceited demeanor demanded the respect and attention of criminals and officials, insomuch, he felt he was untouchable. Much like the present Commander-in-Chief.

I must admit, these days there aren’t too many things Donald Trump can do or say to amaze me. Which is why his latest act of selfishness and incosideracy did not stun me in the least bit.

It is one thing to be disrespected amongst those who do not look like you, but, most people have a certain level of expectation of receiving respect from those who are apart of the same race and culture.

Yet, one thing we know about the current president is this, if he has a dislike against a certain individual or entity, he doesn’t care about skin tone or empathy.

Trump’s character traits suggests, “This MY White House and I do what the hell I want to; it’s MY flag and I raise or lower it as I see fit; America is MY domain and I deal how I wanna. Yeah, I’m ruthless, inhumane and cut-throat and if you don’t like it - leave my nation and stay tuned to Twitter if you really wanna know how I feel about ya!”

So, in Trump’s latest incident of blatant disrespect, we find the late Senator John McCain

at the forefront. After McCain passed away, the flags were lowered to half-staff at the White House.

However, they were immediately raised back to full staff within a couple of days. Apparently, Trump allotted for the minimum time period in accordance with the law in respect to a member of Congress’ passing.

Once word hit the streets the flags were back at full staff, the White House was bombarded with calls, petitions and requests of respect for the bereavement of the late Senator.

The American Legion’s, De-

flag be half-staffed through his interment.”

I’m not sure which person’s or organization’s request weighed in the most heavy on Trump; but, by the same evening of the day he chose to raise the flags, he lowered them back down.

Despite his ultimate gesture, I believe he will be remembered by his initial command.

It is no secret to anyone who keeps up with the news, that Trump and McCain have never been best friends. But, choosing to throw your wait around during a mourning period for the American people is not the time

rican-American population of the National Football League (NFL) for taking a knee in unison in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movemement.

Instead of acknowledging their stance for help for a people who are becoming extinct in the name of, “serving and protecting”; he choose to label their peaceful demonstration as an act of treason of some sort.

While overlooking the seriously deeply-rooted issue which exists, he charged each of the “sons of b!tc#es” as being unpatriotic and disrespecting the American flag. But, nearly a

XXXXXXXXXXX nise Rohan issued a statement in regards to the president’s decision. In doing so, she recalled Trump lowering the flags in the deaths of former First Lady Barbara Bush and Rev. Billy Graham.

She hailed McCain as, “an American hero”. She further noted the following. “On behalf of The American Legion’s two million wartime veterans, I strongly urge you to make an appropriate presidential proclamation noting Senator McCain’s death and legacy of service to our nation, and that our nation’s

to carry out petty grievances.

Previously, Trump had already made his discontent for McCain known, when he disregarded him as a war hero, because he was captured. Even when McCain was fighting for his life, Trump was still poking fun and criticizing him, as if he hadn’t done enough already.

From past experiences, America can conclude that the term, “Hypocrite” does not even come close to describing Trump insensitive disposition.

Before millions, he criticized Colin Kaepernick and the Af-

year later, America is seeing how much love, adoration and respect he has for a man who was literally willing to lay down his life for his country. Not to mention a man who has served in public office for years, as well.

While on the subject, I think it is important for our readers to understand there were no certain flag policies or procedures in place prior to March 1, 1954.

It was on this day that former President Dwight Eisenhower declared a proclamation which spelled out the guidelines for

lowering the flag in respect to mourning.

According to the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, the following statements are acceptable instances in times of lowering the flag.

“An easy way to remember when to fly the United States flag at half-staff is to consider when the whole nation is in mourning.

These periods of mourning are proclaimed either by the president of the United States, for national remembrance, or the governor of a state or territory, for local remembrance, in the event of a death of a member or former member of the federal, state or territorial government or judiciary.”

Of couse, the department lists other appropriate instances in which the flag may be lowered or flown at half-staff. Hence, I believe if anybody lived an American life who was worthy of being respected by the flag in death, certainly John McCain did. I believe in giving respect and honor to where it is due.

And as far as I’m concerned John McCain really lived a life, planted seeds and personally made a genuine impression on me, just by being himself.

Additionally, I have to respect a man who has the ability to see past a person’s Color and acknowledge the true content of their character. America is a witness to this factor, courtesy of the mainstream media who broadcasted McCain as he stood up for righteousness during a time he could have capitalized off of his position as a presidential candidate against his opponent, President Barack Obama. So as far as I’m concerned, John McCain was a decent man and a great American.

- AANI

4 • African-American News & Issues

Continued from Page 1

By Rebecca S. Jones

The late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy. The true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige, and even his life for the welfare of others. In dangerous valleys and hazardous pathways, he will lift some bruised and beaten brother to a higher and more noble life.”

The Ultimate Measure

of a Man

Oftentimes, many of us jump to conclusions and forget all about our primary school teachers, who first taught us to not “judge a book by its cover”. We tend to overlook the similarities we share with others, while embracing the fundamental

COVER STORY

for us who look like us. Yet, many times we overlook the truth that there are and have been decent and honorable individuals who do not share our skin-tone; but, have taken our burden of hardship as their own.

Therefore, African-American News & Issues has chosen to pay homage to a man who took no thought in “risking his position, his prestige and even his life for the welfare of others”, in the person of the late Senator John S. McCain.

The Honorable John S. McCain, III

Some would say John Sidney McCain, III was born with a naval spoon in his mouth. It is no accident he would become one of the greatest war heroes of this era. He was birthed in Panama Canal Zone at the Coco Solo Naval Station. His father, John S. McCain, Jr.

xxxxxxxxx differences thereof. Reflecting back on the sentiments expressed by Dr. King, a “true neighbor” comes in many different forms, fashions and yes, even Colors.

Over the years, our culture has taken pride in reverencing those who have fought

was a high-ranking Navy admiral and his grandfather, John S. McCain, Sr. was a four-star admiral in the United States Navy. Needless to state, McCain was reared on naval bases around the nation and overseas.

After graduating from

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

xxxxxxx Episcopal High School in 1954, he enrolled in the United States Naval Academy where he graduated in 1958.

Two years thereafter, he graduated from flight school.

During this time, the Vietnam War was underway, a mission McCain voluntarily signed up for. While in Vietnam, he flew carrier-based attack planes as part of his combat against the rivals. Amid flying his aircraft, his jet was shot down in the summer of 1967. Though he escaped with his life, over 130 people lost theirs, because of the incident. By fall of that same year, McCain found himself captive in enemy territory during his 23rd air mission.

His plane was once again shot down in North Vietnam, causing him serious injuries, including broken arms and a leg. For nearly six years, he remained a prisoner of war in Hoa Loa Prison and over half of that time was completed in solitary confinement.

As a prisoner, McCain was brutally tortured, but he did not break. Even when his

oppressors offered him an early release, due to gather-

ing intelligence of his family’s service and dedication in the U.S. Navy, he declined. Sacrificing himself, McClain remained loyal to the military code of conduct and stayed in captivity until March 14, 1973. For his heroism, he earned the Silver and Bronze Stars, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. Undoubtedly, McCain experienced a wealth of injuries and physical limitations, however, he could not resist his burning desire to serve the country. Thus, he attempted to return to flight duty after less than a year of rehabilitative therapy. Due to the severe extent of the inju-

xxxxxx

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

ries he sustained as a POW, his volition was not enough to suffice his physical impairments. Hence, he was honorably discharged.

True Leadership Begins with Servitude

Upon his release from the U.S. Navy, McCain pursued a career in politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives on November 2, 1982 and then again, the next term, servicing the State of Arizona. With only four years’ experience as an official politician, McCain then won a seat in the U.S. Senate. In his early tenure in Congress he adopted the nickname of being a “Maverick”. He was known throughout his party (Republican), as one who challenged its orthodoxy.

After being investigated by the FBI and the Senate Ethics Committee in conjunction with being one of the “Keating Five”, McCain emerged victoriously and was cleared of charges. He was accused of interfering with federal regulators in the case of Charles H. Keating, Jr., who

COVER STORY

was charged and convicted for fraud. Nevertheless, the Senator continued in his office.

During the 2000 presidential race, the Senator threw his hat in the ring as a candidate. He became front-runner to then-Governor George W. Bush. After winning several states, Bush dominated in the primaries. Ultimately, McCain suspended his campaign and endorsed Bush, who eventually won the seat of presidency. Even though he bowed out of the race gracefully, he remained extremely vocal in the major governing affairs of the country.

A Defining Moment

Once former President Bush completed both terms in office, McCain decided to run for the office again. He emerged as the Republican nominee, with Sarah Palin of Alaska as his running mate. It was during the 2008 presidential race against then-Senator Barack Obama of Illinois, that McCain left a remarkable place in history in the lives of African-Americans around the country. De-

Senator John McCain with former-President George W. Bush.

African-American News & Issues • 5

xxxxxxxxxxxxx spite the typical politicking behavior, McCain stood up in defense of his opponent, at a time when it would have been more beneficial for him to jump on the bandwagon with naysayers.

At a campaign rally, McCain rebuked one of his own supporters. A woman in the audience shared her opinion of distrust in Obama. She said, “I have read about him, and he’s not, he’s not — he’s an Arab.” McCain immediately corrected her.

He responded by saying, “No ma’am, he is a decent family man, citizen, that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that’s what this campaign is all about.”

Perhaps, the most fascinating factor as it related to his statement, was that at that time he was trailing Obama in the polls. Therefore, his act of decency spoke volumes, because he could have chosen to assassinate Obama’s character, instead he stood up for right even against his own supporter.

Though he did not win the presidential election, Mc-

Cain still contributed and aided the former President whenever called upon. Furthermore, his level of respect for the former President was evident through his dying request of, former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama serving as eulogists at his funeral.

A Legacy of Honor

It is no secret Senator McCain was dedicated and committed to the service of this country, for he was pre-exposed to it through genetic inheritance. Just as his grandfather served the coun-

try until death, meeting his demise just a day after his return from serving in World War II; McCain was faithful to America even unto death himself.

Last year, the Senator was diagnosed with brain cancer.

Amidst treatment and therapy, he arrived on the U.S. Senate floor to vote against repealing the Affordable Care Act. There are scores and numerous instances where he has been a positive influence and leading Continue reading online www.aframnews.com

Senator John McCain and former-President Barack Obama.

6 • African-American News & Issues

OUR STORY

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

Commemoration of Oliver Brown

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Rev. Oliver Brown The importance of civil rights in daily American life, and the power of ordinary people to make extraordinary changes were the themes as Drury University and the Springfield community marked the 100th birthday of the late Rev. Oliver Brown.

Brown is best known as the namesake of the landmark 1954 U.S. Supreme Court decision ending legal racial segregation in American schools. He joined an assembly of parents who would ultimately become plaintiffs for the Topeka NAACP legal challenge to segregated public schools. The case eventually was named for him: Oliver L. Brown et. al. vs. The Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, et. al.

He moved his wife, Leola, and three daughters to Springfield in 1959 to pastor Benton Avenue A.M.E. Church. Drury University now owns the church building and planned Sunday’s celebration as a way of honoring the church, its congregation, and the Rev. Brown and his family.

Cheryl Brown Henderson, the youngest of Brown’s three daughters, was a guest of honor and speaker at the event. She told the crowd of more than 250 assembled at Central High School – where her older sister, Linda graduated in 1961 – that her parents were ordinary peo-

ple who were simply seeking to ensure a greater opportunity for the next generation. “No one could have told them what was about to happen – a simple knock on the door,� she said, referencing the invitation to join the NAACP lawsuit.

She couched her family’s story in clear terms for the students in the audience: “If you don’t write your story, young people, someone else will.� In a powerful appeal to continue the work of the civil rights movement and to be civically engaged, she told them: “It’s your turn to add your voices.�

Drury President Dr. Tim Cloyd, himself the son of a Methodist minister, praised Brown and his wife Leola for “standing up.�

They joined the suit, he noted, not because their children were receiving a poor education at an all-Black school, but, because of the color of their skin “they were being told where they had to go to school and what they had to do. It was a question of justice and decency.�

Cloyd also acknowledged that in many ways our nation has not yet lived up to the ideals laid out in the Brown decision. “We have a long way to go

to reach a place where we can all join hands together, look into each other’s eyes and see ourselves, and be united by our common hopes for our families and our children,� he said. “We have a long way to go to affirm each other in our common humanity and dignity –no matter the color of our skin, our creed, our faith, our sex or our socio-economic class.�

Additional speakers included Georgia Burton, a longtime Benton Avenue Church member, and former City Councilman Denny Whayne, who worked with Brown on civil rights issues locally. Reflecting on what Missouri’s third largest city was like during the Civil Rights Era, Whayne said Brown “was instrumental in turning on a lot of light bulbs here in Springfield.�

Brown Henderson thanked Drury and the Springfield community for the commemoration.

She said events and celebrations like these are important reminders that rights are not necessarily guaranteed in perpetuity.

Democracy, she said, is not a spectator sport. “Democracy is messy,� she said. “And that means that when we are called upon, we take a stand.�

- AANI

Cheryl Brown Henderson speaking at the 100th Birthday Commemoration of Rev. Oliver Brown (Her father).

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

EDUCATION

New Dean at PV’s College of Engineering

Dr. Pamela Obiomon Last week, Dr. Pamela Holland Obiomon began serving as dean of the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering. Prior to her appointment, she served as a professor and department head of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Prairie View A&M University.

Dr. Obiomon brings to her new role more than 25 years of experience teaching in higher education. She earned a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington, an M.S. in Engineering from Prairie View A&M University and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University. Before

coming to PVAMU, she taught courses at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York, and she worked in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

She joined the faculty at Prairie View A&M University in 2003. Her research interests lie in the areas of integrated microsystems for environmental sensing powered by energy scavenging, smart systems using field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and the design of FPGA-based controllers for autonomous vehicles.

She published over 52 papers in refereed journals, international and national conferences, and colloquia as an author or co-author; she was awarded over $14 million in research funds as a PI and Co-PI; and she developed the Field-Programmable Gate Array Synthesis Laboratory at PVAMU. In addition, she supervised and served on some 21 master’s and Ph.D. committees and hold memberships in IEEE, IEEE Women in Engineering, and Eta Kappa Nu. - AANI

Aldine ISD names Deputy Superintendent

Dr. Selina Chapa Dr. Selina Chapa was recently named Deputy Superintendent of the district at a board meeting.

The announcement was made by Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney.

Dr. Chapa previously served as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. She has 32 years of experience in the field of education dedicating 22 of

those years with Aldine ISD. Dr. Chapa began her educational career as third-grade teacher in United ISD. During her 10 years with UISD, she also served as a fourth-grade teacher and as an assistant principal before moving to the Houston area in 1996 when she joined Aldine ISD as an assistant principal at Dunn Elementary School.

From 2003-07 she served as principal of Sammons Elementary School and was named a Director of Human Resources and later Executive Director.

In April of 2015 she was named Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. - AANI

By Senator Borris L. Miles

This year, 53 years after the enactment of the Voting Rights Act, Jim Crow still dares to raise its head in Texas. While we celebrate the gains made in minority representation and self-determination, we cannot ignore the fact that in places such as the Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD), racially-exclusive tactics still bar access to power in decisions affecting thousands of children of color and hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars.

FBISD remains one of the few elected bodies in the state to employ an at-large system of voting. In such a system, voters are denied the ability to choose a representative from their own community and instead are forced to vote from a list of several candidates who ostensibly represent a broader area.

Officials elected under such methods can be less diverse than the community and less accountable to constituents.

By FBISD's own numbers, since 1992 the proportion of its Hispanic population has nearly doubled (now 26.5 percent), its Asian population has more than doubled (now 26 percent), and its White population has dropped by nearly two-thirds (now 16.6 percent).

While more than 83 percent of FBISD students are not White, five (71 percent) of its current board members are White, one (14 percent) member is African-American and one is South Asian.

The tactic of suppressing representation by people of color through at-large voting remains as relevant today as it was in the 1960s. In 1968, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights reported that, "where Negroes are heavily concentrated in particular election districts, their votes can be diluted effec-

African-American News & Issues • 7

XXXXX

tively by converting to at-large elections, in which their votes are outweighed by White votes in adjoining districts.”

Case in point: In 1962, a young African-American attorney in Harris County named Barbara Jordan sought public service for the first time by running for the Texas House of Representatives. She lost. Undaunted, she ran again in 1964.

She lost.

But a momentous 1964 decision by the United States Supreme Court radically changed the political landscape by requiring that state senate districts be single member. In Reynolds v. Sims, Chief Justice Earl Warren wrote in the majority decision that “Legislators represent people, not trees or acres. Legislators are elected by voters, not farms or cities or economic interests.”

In 1966, Barbara Jordan ran in a new Harris County district that was based on the principle of one person-one vote and in which about half the residents were Black and Hispanic.

She won. The rest is history.

Barbara Jordan became the first African-American elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction and the first Southern Black woman elected to the United States House of Representatives. In Congress, she was instrumental in the Nixon Watergate hearings and was a tireless voice for the downtrodden and oppressed until her death in 1996.

Simply put: if it were not for single member districts, Barbara Jordan may have been denied entry to the corridors of power.

Yet, despite the facts, despite the history and despite the morality of the issue, misguided individuals continue to defend the indefensible.

At a meeting in August, a number of supporters of

FBISD's unjust at-large system -- including several African-American pastors organized by a radical right wing demagogue -- appeared at an event billed as a public meeting. But those wishing to speak on behalf of a single member system were not recognized or were shamed and silenced.

Apologists would tell you the FBISD system is a "hybrid" of single member and at-large systems. It's not. Six board members are chosen at-large from two arbitrarily drawn "districts" of three board members each. The seventh member is chosen at-large. As a consequence, communities of interest throughout the fast-growing school district are isolated and disempowered, since current members live in close proximity to one another.

At-large defenders would also tell you that currently three board members represent minority residents and that a change to single member districts would reduce representation. The assumption defies the premise of the Civil Rights Movement and Voting Rights so long as a White board of trustees dominates a multi-racial, multi-ethnic school district.

The impact of faulty representation on the FBISD Board is increasingly apparent. In August, FBISD administrators were caught "fibbing" about a Trump Administration Office of Civil Rights finding that "Black students were six times more likely to get out-of-school suspension than their White peers and four times as likely to get in-school suspension" at district schools.

Greater minority representation on the board would make the administration more accountable, head off discrimination, and better prepare Continue reading online www.aframnews.com

8 • African-American News & Issues

Stroke-Free Zone Health Fair

RELIGION

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

By Earl J. Sorrell, Jr.

Mayor David Allen, city of Prairie View, home of Prairie View A&M University, has set a standard to bring attention to the health and welfare of his administration and the citizens of Prairie View. Mayor Allen took a bold step introducing a Stroke-Free Zone Health Fair to Prairie View after listening to several presentations regarding stress and strokes in the African-American community.

The information he received was given at a World Conference of Mayors meeting in Los Angeles and then again in Atlanta, GA at Morehouse School of Medicine.

After listening to the statistics on strokes and stress-related medical condition given

by Mr. Ivan Sims, founder of Stroke Free Zone, a non-profit organization, Mayor Allen focused on the positives of what would be best for his city.

Mayor Allen contacted Mr. Sims who shared additional and necessary information on strokes, stroke screening and its benefits. Some general information shared: 1) 795,000 stroke occurrences in U.S. annually, 2) 450,000 stroke occurrences in U.S. women annually, 3) 610,000 first timers 185,000 re-occurrences annually, 4) Half of all African-American deaths are caused by complication of cardiovascular disease which can be associated with stroke related problems.

“I’ve performed over 60,000 vascular studies during my 38-year career as a non-invasive medical imaging Sonographer” said Mr. Sims.

“My findings over the years have assisted doctors in determining a diagnosis for their patient. Patients or patrons who have diabetes sometimes

- AANI

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

ARTS

15th Annual Black Film Festival Celebration

By Arielle Johnson

Last week, “The Dallas Black Film Festival� celebrated its 15th year of putting the spotlight on Black films of the past and present and honoring new, up and coming filmmakers at the Act of Change Theater in Oak Cliff.

The DBFF was founded in 2003

by Larome Armstrong, who is also the founder of P.W.A.M.P. (People with a Message Production Filmworks & etc.).

Mr. Armstrong, has been a huge fan of Black Cinema ever since Spike Lee rocked Black

number of Black films which are no longer being distributed.

One of the old Black films shown at this year’s film festival was, “The Spook Who Sat By the Door.� This film is a satire of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement and issue of “Black militancy.�

In the film, the main character becomes the intelligence agency’s token back in an elitist spy program, however, he later decides to bring his knowledge back to the Black community as a way of training them to fight the powers that be.

has devised a unique way of awarding the best. Larome pays close attention to attendees as they are coming into the venue, then later selects several people from the audience who are not family or friends of the filmmaker to come up for an award, and they assist him with choosing the winners.

Mr. Armstrong was born and raised in Dallas, although his pursuit of a career in film lead him to settle temporarily in a number of different cities across the country, until he re-

African-American News & Issues • 9

a variety of content. I don’t want to see another PIMP movie,� said Mr. Armstrong. “You rarely see Blacks in any nature scenes. There are a lot of movies waiting to be made, but we have to be willing to take risks.� Maybe a majority of the major studios are not willing to fund a project or idea they have never funded in the past, but “Black Panther� was a new idea which produced ticket sale numbers people never would have imagined.

Mr. Armstrong credits producers like Spike Lee and Jordan Peele with thinking outside of the box. “We can’t allow others to put us in a box; but by sticking with the familiar, we are actually creating more boxes for ourselves when we accept these types of offers,� says Mr. Armstrong.

And although he liked the Flowers for All Occasions

movie, “Girls Trip,� featuring Tiffany Haddish and Jada Pinkett-Smith, he felt as though the roles were degrading to Black women. “I understand it was a comedy, but the jokes they told, sort of turned them into caricatures. They were simply TOO over the top.�

My last questions for Mr. Armstrong was whether or not he believed we would ever have a Black Hollywood in our time. His response was as follows, “I don’t want to see a Black Hollywood. I want to see Blacks create something original. Hollywood’s way of doing business goes against who we are; it’s just not in our nature.�

For more information about the man behind the festival, follow Larome Armstrong at @laromearmstrong on Instagram or follow Dallas Black Film Festival on Facebook.

- AANI

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Larome Armstrong audiences’ world with the release of “She’s Gotta Have It�.

After seeing this film for the first time, Mr. Armstrong has been on a mission to learn as much as he can about Black film, starting with making contact with Spike Lee by exchanging several written letters with him. Spike was a big encourager and influencer. Eventually, Mr. Armstrong’s curiosity forced him in the area of curating a

It is indeed a very powerful film, which should be a part of every Black arsenal of Black classic films. Although this film was released in 1973, it took nearly 40 years for it to be registered in the National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically and aesthetically� relevant. This honor was received in 2012.

The other component of the DBFF involves awarding the filmmakers, for which Larome

cently returned to Dallas four years ago. Mr. Armstrong credits Spike Lee with inspiring him to learn everything he could about filmmaking and film in general, he was already connected to the industry as a person with an interest in acting.

I asked Mr. Armstrong, what specific areas does he believe Black film producers need to focus on? “We need to focus on providing more of

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PUBLIC NOTICES Notice to Proposers Sealed electronic proposals will be received by Lone Star College for: RFP #609 – Labor Market Analysis Software Solution. Electronic bids due by 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, 9/25/2018.

WebEx pre-proposal meeting will be held Wednesday, 9/5/18 @ 10:00 a.m., Contact: sharon.k.ognowski@lonestar. edu or 832-813-6211. Must Register to Bid: http://wwwappsdstc.lonestar.edu/ istar/supplier.htm . If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact michael.loudis@lonestar. edu or 832-813-6532.

Lone Star College Bid Requests: CSP #616 Terminal Unit Replacement at LSC-Cy-Fair LRNC Building.

Electronic bids due by 11:00 am, Monday, 9/25/2018. Mandatory Pre-Proposal/ Site Visit, Wednesday, 9/12/2018 at 10:00 am at Lone Star College CY-Fair 9191 Barker Cypress Road Cypress, TX 77433-1383. CENT Bldg. RM.153.

Contact: Patricia Dean Patricia.S.Dean@ lonestar.edu, 832-813-6873. Respondents must register to bid: http://wwwappsdstc. lonestar.edu/istar/supplier.htm. If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact Michael.

Loudis@lonestar.edu or 832-813-6532.

Lone Star College Bid Requests: CSP #617 Replacement of Terminal Units at Lone Star College Cy-Fair CENT Bldg. Electronic bids due by 11:00 am, Tuesday, September 25, 2018.

Mandatory Pre-Proposal/Site Visit, Wednesday, 9/12/2018 at 10:00 am at LSC- CY-Fair College, 9191 Barker Cypress Road Cypress, TX 77433-1383.

CENT Bldg. RM 153. Contact:Patricia Dean Patricia.S.Dean@lonestar.edu, 832813-6873. Must register to bid: http:// wwwappsdstc.lonestar.edu/istar/supplier. htm. If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact Michael.Loudis@lonestar.edu or 832-813-6532.

PROCLAMATION I, KEHYEI EL, whose address is 4518 Albatross Drive, Seabrook, Texas 77586, proclaim my Free National Name as MOORISH SCIENCE TEMPLE OF AMERICA according to the rules and usages of such MOORISH SCIENCE TEMPLE OF AMERICA. The Moorish Science Temple of America deriving its power and authority from the Great Koran of Mohammed to propagate the faith and extend the learning and truth of the Great Prophet of Alli in America. To anoint, appoint, and consecrate missionaries of the prophet, and to establish the faith of Mohammed in America.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 AHCBED cordially invites you to attend Monthly Business Networking Luncheon from 11a- 12:30p 6112 Wheatley Street Houston, 77091 SPEAKER: President David Lepori Frost Bank UPDATED TICKET PRICES

African-American News & Issues • 11

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Dallas Black Chamber Center for Excellence presents: Inaugural Benefit Concert and Pre-Show House Party Featuring: Will Downing, Maysa, Calvin Richardson, AHYONZ, Kenya C and Natural Changes Honorary Chairs: Senator Royce West House Party by: DJ Don Juan Toyota Music Factory 316 West Las Colinas Blvd.

Irving, 75039 Doors open at 6pm For more information visit: Ticketmaster.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Montgomery County Bar Association, Houston Northwest Bar Association, The Woodlands Bar Association and the Houston Bar Foundation’s Veterans Legal Initiative is hosting a Free Legal Clinic for Veterans at the Conroe VA Outpatient Cllinic 690 South Loop 336 West Conroe, 77304 From 9am - 12pm For more information visit: www.hba.org..

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Wreckless Entertainment presents: Houston Underground HoodFest Featuring: South Park Coalition and Screwed up Click 850 McKee St. Houston, TX 77002 Doors open at 6pm For more information contact (832) 889 - 8677; or search “Hoodfest” on www.eventbrite.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Israel Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a Health Fair 7805 Darlington Street Houston, TX 77028 From 11am - 2 pm For more information contact (832) 264-4570 Door prizes and refreshments served

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WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 25th Anniversary of the Texas Legislative Study Group Honoring House Study Group Co-Founder Chairman John Whitmire The Townsend 718 Congress Ave. #100 Austin, 78701 Starting at 6pm For more information contat Raul Lopez (512) 787 - 7199 or email raul@texaslsg.org WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 - SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 16 University of Houston presents 2018 Colour of Music Festival featuring Leading Black maestros Kirk Smith and David E. Morrow Moores House of Opera Box Office, 3333 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX For more information visit http://www.colourofmusic. org/

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 AEG presents: Davido Live Concert The Ballroom at Warehouse Live 813 Saint Emanuel St. Houston, 77003 Doors open at 7pm Show starts at 8pm For more information visit: https://www.ticketfly.com/ purchase/event/1736176 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Harris County Young Democrats Meet & Greet Mixer Boheme 307 Fairview Street Houston, TX 77006 From 6p -8p For more information visit http://www.harrisyds.org/ THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13 Houston Ballot presents An Evening of Stars 8:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Miller Outdoor Theatre Go to www.milleroutdoortheatre. com For more info, or call 281.373.3386 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Beyonce and Jay-Z in Concert OTR II NRG Stadium, Reliant Parkway, Houston, TX 77054, 7:30pm – 11:30pm

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 The Washington County Fair Association will hostthe Washington County Fair Sesquicentennial Celebration Brenham, TX For more information contact Anita Long (713) 677 - 9736 or visit http://www.washingtoncofair.com/ SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are looking for voulenteers 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM Westbury Baptist Church 10425 Hillcroft st.

Houston Tx 77096 to RSVP, email them at southesasttx@afsp.org

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Church Dedication Service 6435 Theall Rd. Houston, 77066 For more information contact (979) 525-7675 Starting at 3pm GUEST SPEAKER Pastor Fred Thomas, III Greater St. Peters MBC Hempstead, TX Music will be provided by Andere Menefee

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 2nd Annual Hunger & Poverty in Houston and Harris County Among African-Americans and Hispanics Forum 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Room 114 Texas Southern University School of Public Affairs 3100 Cleburne Street @ Tierwester Houston, TX 77004 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 MTV presents Wild ‘N Out LIVE 1510 Polk St, Houston, TX 77002 8:00 PM - 11:00 P.M. For more information visit www.houstontoyotacenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 22- 23 Pecan Street Association presents The 38th Annual Fall Pecan Street Festival Sixth Street Austin, TX Sat.: 11am-10pm & Sun 11am-8pm

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Houston Global Trade Conference & Expo Theme: “Bringing the World Together through Trade” Royal Sonesta Hotel 2222 West Loop South Houston For more information visit: https://houstonglobaltrade.eventbrite.com THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 The Texas Association of Business is hosting the Annual Golf Classic Horseshoe Bay Resort 200 Hi Cir N., Horseshoe Bay, 78657 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.thehealthmuseum. org SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Good Vibrations Music & Arts Festival Sunken Garden Theater 3875 N St Mary’s St. San Antonio, 78212 1:00 pm - 11 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 Je’Caryous Johnson & Snoop Dogg presents Redemption of a Dogg Stage Play Hobby Center 800 Bagby Street Houston, TX 77002 For more information contact (800) 745-3000 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 FRISCO ARTS WALK & RUN CREATES FIRST-EVER IMMERSIVE ARTS AND WELLNESS EVENT Hall Park Frisco 6801 Gaylord Parkway Frisco, TX 75034 SATURDAY OCTOBER 6 Texas Teen Book Festival St. Edward’s University 3001 S Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78704 Keynotes: Nic Stone, Neal Shusterman, and Jarrod Shusterman and Special Guests: Mary E. Pearson For more information visit www.texasteenbookfestival.org WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10 World Homeless Day Awards Reception The Ballroom at Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave. Houston, TX 77002 From 5:30p - 7:30p

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10 – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12 10th Anniversary InterNational Prisoner’s Family Conference The Best Opportunity Yet to Close the Empathy Gap Wyndham Garden Hotel 2645 LBJ Freeway Dallas, TX

The 10th annual InterNational Prisoner’s Family Conference offers critical expert information, resources, encouragement & support for all affected by incarceration personally and professionally.

The conference features keynotes; breakout workshops; an exhibit area; prisoners’ fine art display & silent auction; advocacy meetings; ample networking opportunities & much more. Noon meals and break refreshments are included in registration

Visit www.prisonersfamilyconference.org Contact: Carolyn Esparza, LPC, Conference Chair E-mail: info@prisonersfamilyconference.org Phone: (915) 861-7733 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 Houston HBCU At Ease Buffalo Soldier National Musuem 3816 Caroline Street Houston, TX 770042 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11 AT&T Performing Arts and City of Dallas presents The Elevator Project AT&T Performing Arts Center 2403 Flora St. Dallas, TX 75201 7:30 p.m - 2:00 p.m.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 13 20th Anniversary Legacy Awards He Loves me NOT Gospel Stage Play A Mona Moore & Moore Music Productions The Ballroom at Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave. Houston, 77002 Starting at 6pm For more information visit: https://legacyawards.org/ SATURDAY OCTOBER 13 Peter Max: The Retrospective 1960 - 2018 Art Exhibition Frisco Fine Art 7227 Main St., Ste. 400 Frisco, TX 75034 6:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

RSVPs requested at (214) 872-1917

SUNDAY OCTOBER 14 Phenomenal Pearls Educational and Charitable Foundation (PPECF) and the 100 Black Men Houston Metropolitan Chapter announces: 3rd Annual Men Who Cook Culinary Showcase Texas Southern University Student Life Center 3347 Blodgett St. Houston, 77004 For more information visit: https://2018MENWHOCOOK.EVENTBRITE.COM. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14 Invitation to the Dedication of the Dr. Archie L. Blanson Career & Technical Education High School Tours & Reception 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Program 3:00 p.m.

311 West Road Please RSVP by October1 281-985-6202 or LDGray@ AldineISD.org THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 ARTS San Antonio presents The Soweto Gospel Choir Majestic Theatre 224 E Houston Street, San Antonio, 78205 7:30 P.M. For more information visit www.artssa.org WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 OCTOBER FEST Heart of Faith Worship Center Bishop John Baines 5:30p.m 12275 Homestead Rd. Houston, TX 77050 (281) 590-1124 Free food, drinks and plenty fun. The public is welcome to attend.

To pick up our newspaper on the street, go to aframnews. com, then CLICK HERE, “Find a Newspaper Location Near You.”

12 • African-American News & Issues

Texas • September 2 - 8, 2018