Vol 27 Issue 51

African-American News&Issues

“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”

The YoungesT Judge in Texas

By: Crystal LaShan

Knowledge, accountability, and trust will be the cornerstones of Judge Katherine “Kat” Thomas’s tenure at the 184th Criminal District Court. Thomas is committed to public service and restoring trust in our system. After earning a degree from Spelman College and an internship with President Barack Obama, she graduated from Howard Law and came back home to Houston. Thomas has made her career fighting to help others, and she’s working to make our communities safe.

With a dare from a mentor, Thomas was given 24 hours to decide to run for judge. She was told, “Why Not You?” You have the credentials,

drive, passion, desire, and knowledge to be a Judge. Why allow your age to be a barrier to achieving this goal?” So, without allowing doubt to consume her, Thomas told her mentor, “I am going for it.”

Once Thomas made up her mind, it was full speed ahead. Mobilizing family, friends, classmates, and volunteers to create a ground game that spanned all of Harris County to make people aware of who she is and what she stands for. She made a concerted effort to attend a diverse list of events representing all people from all walks of life and traveling throughout the county to Judge cont. on pg. 3

Tsu and Brookhaven naTional laBoraTorY

By: Afram News

It is always good to invest in our youth, especially when it comes to education. Our youth is our future and investing in them is the best investment that we can make. Technology has advanced and education has evolved in just the last few years and when you combine the two, there is a lot that can be accomplished.

Texas Southern University and Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA)—which manages Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy—have signed an agreement to advance research and innovation in the field of science, technology, and engineering research. “Brookhaven National Laboratory is one of the leading research institutions in America,” said TSU vice president for research and innovation Dr. Michelle Penn-Marshall.  “We are excited about the opportunity to establish collaborations between TSU and BNL, which will lead to innovative and transformative research projects that will benefit both institutions and the world.

Texas Southern University is committed to being an excellent partner, while providing the best opportunities for our students to learn and prepare for the careers of tomorrow and our faculty to have access to state-of-the-art research facilities.”

For more visit aframnews.com

Judge katherine “kat” Thomas

President/Chief

Contributing Writers

The Overflow

EDITORIAL

Is It Worth It?

mentioned that by “today’s standards,” he would have never been allowed to play in the game. He also became addicted to painkillers to cope with the pain he experienced. This is just one example of many players that have dealt and are currently dealing with injuries from the game of football. From sprains and bruises to concussions, every time a football player steps on the field, they are taking a risk with the physical and mental well being of their health.

A Revival of God Consciousness

Useless Power

Football has known to be America’s sport, but it can be a very dangerous sport and many players can get hurt from a variety of injuries. No matter how young or old you are, your body can only take so much. One example of this is Earl Campbell, who was a running back for the Houston Oilers. He was a phenomenal player who achieved so much during his time and even after his playing days were over. Though he had great success, the game of football left him with many medical challenges thereafter.

Campbell was diagnosed with a spinal condition, which could have left him paralyzed. It was also

I have a young son, who is too young for athletics right now, but I know one day he will want to play sports. Of course I plan to be supportive, but I will be nervous if he decides to play football. I know that with any sport you can get injured, but with football, getting hit all the time, can be damaging long term. For those who have played football whether professionally, for school, or just for fun, is it worth it? Is it worth the potential side effects that can greatly impact your quality of life?

I am not a football player, but I do know that we only get one life, and even though life can be dangerous just from walking outside, one hit in the game of football can change everything. My prayers go out to Hamlin and his family. May he recover soon and be able to live a full life.

Individuals perish for lack of knowledge. What you don’t know will kill you. This is precisely why we should never forget God’s mercy and grace because, “Thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the Lord thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nation which the Lord destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish;

because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the Lord your God” (Deuteronomy 8: 18-20). This sounds like the GOP as well as many others who are operating in the flesh, and outside of the will God. The Grand Ole Party (GOP) use power to create confusion to do nothing. America, nothing from nothing leaves nothing, because in a democracy everything must be done decently and in order if progress is to be achieved. The GOP refuses to face its 21st Century sins, and evil undemocratic attitudes as a major political party in a multi-cultural democratic society. The GOP will not ask these universal questions of themselves: how do we live in peace and harmony in a democratic society?

For more visit aframnews.com

Bobby Mills, Phd

Editor

Dr. Bobby Mills Dr. Chelsea Davis Bibb

Crystal Lashan

Travis McGee

We ARe lookinG foR CommuniTy And BlACk hisToRy WRiTeRs from all over the houston area (Acreage home, independent heights, Third Ward, fifth Ward, missouri City, Piney Point, Carverdale, Bordersville, north forest, and all other Black communities) that can produce stories that address current and historical realities affecting our community. Please send your inquiries to news@aframnews.com.

My prayers go up for Damar Hamlin, the Buffalo Bills player who collapsed on the field during a game on Monday night against the Cincinnati Bengals. This injury brings up the conversation surrounding the health of football players, not only professional players, but from little league players, middle and high school players, and college, and how the game impacts them physically.

Judge cont. address the concerns of all the constituents she would serve. This is how she would unseat her incumbent and the republican who ran against her to become the youngest judge in Texas at a mere 30 years old. This is the leadership we need in the 21st century to truly make a change in the United States of America. We need to encourage, support, and develop young leaders who are fearless, committed to truth and justice, and not afraid to put in the work to achieve their goals. This is the perfect description of Thomas. Her parents, Scott, and Athena Thomas, say that this is how she has always been. “Katherine auditioned for the High School for Performing and Visual Arts without consistently being in plays. She knew that was the school to explore her interest in the arts, and she did what it took to do well in her auditions to be chosen. Katherine came home and told us she wanted to go to Harvard University to do a summer program. We were O.K. with it, but Kat did everything needed to ensure that opportunity came to pass. Kat is driven and knows what she wants. Once she makes up her mind, she goes for it with everything she has.”

Thomas is proud to share that four generations of her family have supported her run for judge. Her grandmother, Judy Earls, 76, and great grandmother, Mattie Young, 95, were excited to vote for their beloved grand and greatgranddaughter to be the youngest judge in Texas. “I come from four generations of hard work, dedication, sacrifice, and love. My great-grandmother is my reason, my motivation, my why. This moment means so much more to me than just a mere election. Coming from a history where many of my ancestors were not allowed to vote, I now have the opportunity not only to vote but to be a voice in the community. With the amazing

support from my family, I have no choice but to succeed.” Thomas believes it is a privilege to vote and to be elected to serve the people of our community. Her great–grandmother, Mrs. Mattie Young, was the first person in their family to earn an advanced degree, and her grandmother, Mrs. Judy Earls, also continued that tradition. They are her motivation to strive for excellence in everything she does. Thomas will continue to work hard not to let her family down and the community she has been elected to serve. Kat’s grandmother was excited to say, “Kat is making history.” That is why Katherine wanted to vote with her 95-yearold greatgrandmother because it was vital for her to share that moment with the matriarch of their family, who made this achievement possible.

Thomas also understands what is at stake. “I have experienced in my own family how people have been disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system. Whether issues with sentencing and bail disparities, it is why I want to bring my voice and lens as a Black Woman from Houston, a Black Woman who comes from sharecroppers and people who couldn’t vote and had to fight for the ability to vote. They conducted sit-ins and fought for their rights, so I should never complain about anything. It is a privilege to continue this legacy for my family.”

With such a determined spirit, dedication, and desire to succeed, it was a privilege to interview Judge Katherine “Kat” Thomas of the 184th Criminal District Court. What inspired you to want to be a Judge?

Kat: I loved doing community service children’s projects growing up. I had the desire to influence the world around me. I saw deficiencies in our community, and I wanted to fix them. I also suffered from Imposter Syndrome which is when you think you aren’t enough or not qualified. My mentors encouraged me just to do it. They gave me 24 hours to decide and followed up to ask about my decision. I answered YES because I wanted to change the world around me. What made you a better candidate than your opponents?

Kat: I am a native Houstonian. I am a proud double HBCU Graduate of Spelman College and Howard University Law School. I am a Trial Attorney, which gives me direct experience working with the community. I see the disparities that Black and brown people face every day, so I have a unique approach to applying the law. My opponents couldn’t bring to the bench the life experiences and

connection to diverse cultures that are integral to who I am.

What do you want houstonians to know about you?

Kat: You are never too young to start accomplishing your goals. Young people must believe in themselves and be bold enough to do it. It is also important to vote in local elections because those leaders affect your everyday life. Lastly, I genuinely care about our community. I want our young people to know they can be a Judge at 30 years old. Age doesn’t limit your goals. Where you get your education should be a place that nurtures your soul and empowers you. HBCU’s were polarized because people believed students didn’t get a quality education. That is the farthest from the truth. Studies have shown that the most successful Black and brown students studied at HBCU’s because they were able to grow and flourish in those environments. how will you engage with the community once elected?

Kat: I will have a Community Court that partners with existing organizations that have successfully served our communities. I want to deal with real issues that plague our community and offer real solutions that foster restorative justice. I want offenders to get the help they need and move forward successfully, having been given the support they need to be an asset to our society.

Keep your eye out for Judge Katherine “Kat” Thomas. She will truly make a difference for many years in Houston’s Criminal District Court system. Please allow her success to be an inspiration for encouraging other young people interested in public service. It takes a village to create leaders who can make a difference in our communities. They need our financial, moral, and physical support to run for office and win so that they can actually make a difference.

Katherine Thomas and her grandmother Judy Earls

L to R-Scott Thomas, Katherine Thomas, Athena Thomas and Germani Hunt

Katherine Thomas and her great grandmother Mattie Young

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

The GreaT GaTsby Dance Fever evenT

Dance Fever is a monthly Grown & Sexy party that happens every last Friday. The purpose is to highlight and expose the Houston area to different cultural forms of dancing, specifically Kompa, Kizomba and Zouk.

The Great Gatsby theme celebrates the success of a closing year in style, fashion, and aesthetic ambiance.

Every month has its own special theatrical theme. They welcome and encourage every guest to the dance party to dress the part in full costume, attitude, and theatrical splendor.

Gentlemen Noire LLC sponsors the event under its cultural arm, which is purposed to embracing the differences around the world that makes us unique and

great. Life is about making memorable experiences. The Visionaries behind Dance Fever are Sledge Leonidas and Coretta Warner who truly know how to seize the moment and create the ambiance that creates these awesome events. You can learn more information about Dance Fever on Instagram at: @dancefever_experience

L to R-Carey Geffrard, Sledge Leonidas, & Mildred Geffrard

Towana Davilmar & Tamara Fleurissaint

L to R: Violet Cano, Tony Fonseca, & Fontaine Stegall

L to R: DeAngelo Val. Jon Hopkins. Detre Val. Donald Val

By: Crystal LaShan

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Missouri ciTy leaDership celebraTes veTerans For XMas

Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt and Councilwoman Lynn Clouser present the 2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Christmas Meal. All veterans, their families as well as family members of fallen veterans were invited to this joyous Christmas luncheon prepared by the leadership who invited them to fellowship. Special thanks to sponsors Fort Bend County Tejano Democrats and H-E-B. This delicious food was catered by Boogie’s Chicago Style BBQ. What a way to honor our Veterans’ great service to our country. Texas Congressional Representative Ronald Reynolds

Kwanzaa celebraTion

Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz Councilwoman of District D kicked off celebrating the first principle of Kwanzaa at the opening event of Kwanzaa held at the Third Ward Multi Purpose Center hosted by the Greater Houston Area Kwanzaa Planning Committee. The Shrine of the Black Madonna was the location of the Kwanzaa Celebration, Kujichagulia - Self Determination hosted by The Black United Front, Houston Chapter. It was a great night to celebrate our Community Leader, Rev. “Baba

Yawo” Milligan for all of his amazing work in Houston. This culturally inspiring event was hosted by Osunbunmi Gaidi, MC and her son,Obafunso Gaidi, MC. After the awards presentation, everyone continued to enjoy the Vendor Market and Open Mic Talent Show. Trey Legall from the Shape Community Center shared his amazing voice & drumming skills along with Poets, singers, and storytellers. What an awesome cultural experience!

Osunbunmi Gaidi and Obafunso Gadi

Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz Councilwoman of District D celebrating the first principle of Kwanzaa at the opening event of Kwanzaa held at the Third Ward Multi Purpose Center.

Reverend and Mrs. Milligan

By: Crystal LaShan

State Representative Ron Reynolds and Mayor Lackett discuss Veteran concerns.

L to R- Missouri City Councilmember At-Large Position 2 Lynn Clouser, Missouri City resident Brandon Herndon, Missouri City business owner Demond Kenevv C wbrew and Councilmember Floyd Emery.

Left to Right: VFW Post 4010 Commander Danny Montemayor, Pastor David Sincere, Jr., Pastor Willie Davis, Pastor Douglas Wray, Mayor Robin Elackatt, and Councilmember At-Large Position 2 Lynn Clouser

Chief Petty Officer Ruben Martinez, Navy - 20 yrs of Service and Lance Corporal Nick Garcia, Marine Gurnt 0300 - Two years of service, whose motto is “Ready to Fight.”.

Trey Legall

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

gangsTa Boo of Three 6 Mafia dies aT 43

By: NNPA

Trendsetting hip hop star and the only female member of the mega group Three 6 Mafia has reportedly died at the age of 43. Her labelmate DJ Paul confirmed her death on Sun day, Jan. 1.

Born Lola Chant relle Mitchell in Memphis, Ten nessee, Mitchell counted among the female pioneers in the heavily male dominated genre.

In the 1990s, Mitchell teamed with DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, Crunchy Black, Koopsta Knicca and others to form Three 6 Mafia.

She helped the group form an iden tity that resonated throughout the world with records “Mystic Stylez’,” “Chapter 1,” and “Choice.” Mitchell later teamed with artists like OutKast, Eminem, Foxy Brown, and Lil Jon.

After leaving Three 6 Mafia, Mitchell released her first solo album, “Enquiring Minds,” in 1998. The disc reached No. 15 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and number 46 on the Billboard 200, with the hit song “Where Dem Dollas At!?”

In 2001, she released her second album, “Both Worlds *69,” reaching the eighth spot on the R&B/Hip-Hop chart and 29 on the Billboard 200.

Though her third studio album, “Enquiring Minds II: The Soap Opera,” failed to achieve the same success as her previous releases, the record did reach No. 24 on the Independent Albums chart.

In 2015 Mitchell released the mixtape, “Candy, Diamond & Pills,” which catapulted her to the forefront of the underground hip-hop scene.

She then toured with Killer Mike and El-P, playing soldout shows across the United States on their “Run The World Tour.”

Following the tour, Mitchell set the music world on fire with an epic Verzuz battle in which she reunited with Three 6 Mafia to battle Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.

“Rest In Peace To Legendary Female Rapper Gangsta Boo From Memphis Tenn,” Tweeted famed DJ Mister Cee.

“She was one of the female rappers from the South that set the trends for so many others to come after her. This is a huge loss for Memphis.”

Singer K. Michelle also joined a long list of artists, fans, and others to pay tribute.

“You already know what it is,” K. Michelle tweeted. “We forever. Broke my whole heart today sis. I love you.”

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