Vol 28 Issue 3

Black on Black crime

I grew up during segregated times in the Black community and we had everything we needed. Being segregated allowed us to be a true Black community where we had our own schools, our own grocery stores, our own doctors, clinics, and so much more. It was a time where Black people were willing to help and support each other because we had to.

And when it came to law enforcement, we even had Black officers patrolling our com-

munities. There were no White police officers in our neighborhoods. The Black officers were responsible for keeping us in line and arresting us if needed be. The Black officers were not allowed to arrest any White people and were not allowed to ride in patrol cars. Whether we liked it or not, that’s just the way it was. This scenario seems very familiar with the events that occurred in Memphis, where the five Black police officers beat Crime cont. on pg. 3

Emmett Jay Scott was a pillar in the Black community and held different positions in his lifetime. He served as an author, a government official and envoy, a journalist, and a founding newspaper editor. A native-born Houstonian, and a son of former slaves, he attended school at Wiley College in 1887 and left school to explore a career in journalism and began working at the Houston Post in 1891. It was in 1894 where he started his own weekly newspaper called the Houston Freeman. He was a close adviser to Booker T. Washington and was elected as the secretary of the Tuskegee Institute in 1912. Scott was also part of the “Tuskegee Machine,” which consisted of people who would spread Washington’s views and had a strong influence over the Black press, schools, and churches. After the death of Washington, Scott served as a special assistant to the U.S secretary of war, where he oversaw Negro Affairs at the start of World War 1. He became a bridge between Black soldiers and the War department during a time where “race relations in the military” was a topic of controversy. He also worked at Howard University where he held various positions as a secretary, business manager or treasurer.

For more visit aframnews.com

By: Roy Douglas Malonson

EmmEtt Jay Scott

Demetrius Haley

Emmitt Martin III

Justin Smith

Desmond Mills Jr.

Tadarrius Bean

“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”

Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D. - Editor

The Overflow

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

EDITORIAL a revival of God consciousness

News:

We Real Cool

Office: (713) 692-1892 Wednesday

At heart, I am a writer. I always have been, and I always will be. Every year we celebrate Black History Month, and we pay tribute to the culture and individuals that have come before us. One person I would like to celebrate is Gwendolyn Brooks, who is one of my favorite writers. She was a great poet and was the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize, which is a great honor. She was also a “poetry consultant” to the Library of Congress, the first African American to hold that position. She wrote many poems and some of her work reflected the Civil Rights Movement. One of my favorite poems by Brooks is called “We Real Cool.” The poem isn’t long, but it has a powerful theme that revolves around rebellion, authority, taking risk, and living life to the fullest. The poem is about a group

of rebellious teenagers who skip school, stay out late, get in trouble, and live fast. The poem was written in 1959 during the Civil Rights Movement, an important time for Blacks when rights and freedom were at stake. What I love about the poem is the structure, the rhyme scheme, the length, and what it represents. It isn’t a long poem, but what it represents is so powerful. During the Civil Rights movement, Black people had to rebel to make and demand change. Like the rebellious teenagers, Black people during the Civil Rights Movement had to defy authority, rules, and ridiculous laws that stripped them from the rights they deserved.

They knew it came at a cost, but that cost was worth it. The poem ends with “We die soon.” Even though the rebellious teenagers knew death could come for them because of the lifestyle they were living, they were okay with death because of what they could gain. Black people during the Civil Rights Movement knew their involvement could be fatal, but they knew the risk was worth it, and they were willing to try.

Bobby Mills, Phd

Black History: Pain And Chains

America, “The challenge is not the distance Blacks have come, but the distance Blacks have to go.” Black history begins with a positive “Who Am I Experience?” All history is salvation history, because when Jesus went to the Cross on Calvary for our sins, all humanity regardless of skin-color were redeemed.

God has redeemed us, and He has given us dominion over the earth; not each other, even though

we have not been good stewards. More profoundly we have not loved and served each other in Jesus’s name; The Golden Rule, not he who has the gold rules. Thus, God did not bring Blacks this far to leave them to the wilds of the devil, and the devil’s imps. Hence, through their struggle for dignity, Blacks are paying an enormous price to live in the Will of God, so much so, until Blacks have turned inward upon themselves, and each other: Black on Black crime.

Consequently, too many Blacks are losing sight of the real spiritual issues of life. “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore”

(Psalms 16: 11). Families are broken

President/Chief Editor

Contributing Writers

Dr. Bobby Mills

Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was pulled over on Jan. 7 for reckless driving, according to police. He later died three days later from the injuries.

We can’t address crime outside of our race, until we address crime within our race. This goes for police officers or just your everyday citizen. If a White officer or individual kills a Black guy, it is wrong, and if a Black officer or individual kills a Black man, it is wrong.

If you have watched the video of Tyre Nichols, it is disturbing. It is sad to see that another Black man died by the hands of police. What does this mean? It means that just because these officers were Black, it doesn’t mean we need to be silent. In Memphis, and in other states across the nation, people are protesting and expressing their concerns and frustrations. For those protesting in Memphis, they shut down the I-55 bridge over the Mississippi River and chanted, “no justice, no peace…and justice for Tyre.” It is also time for organizations to step up just like they did when White officers killed a Black man. Where is the Urban League, the NAACP, the ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and many other organizations. We have witnessed too many Black men get killed to the point of it becoming part of our everyday life. Enough is

enough. Now is not the time to be silent. Now is the time to act and fight back against injustice. We cannot continue to sit around and wait for action to be taken. We must demand it and seek it. The officers who were charged for Tyre Nichol’s death “were part of an elite unit known as Scorpion that was set up to crack down on high-crime neighborhoods.” This unit was formed in 2021 and has now been disbanded. When reflecting on high-crime neighborhoods, statistics will show that they are referring to Black

information is being withheld? It seems as if the narrative is being controlled and we are not getting the full story.

When these incidents occur, one may start thinking about their own local law enforcement and how they plan to address the issues that continue to arise. Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department (HPD) said, “The Memphis Police Chief has fired those five officers involved and they have been charged with second-degree murder. Please know their actions do not reflect the great work the men and women

had to wear temporary ones. The rules were stringent back then and if you violated them, you were disqualified right away. He also discussed how not a lot of people are wanting to be police officers because of the anti-police climate we are in with police officers being killed and targeted.

When Captain Davis first started the police force with HPD in 1977, he was the 68th Black officer to be added to the force out of 3,000 officers, and there was a certain culture within the police department that revolved around respect and looking out for each other. He discussed how a lot of the newer police officers are younger and have a different view today in how they are handling and approaching different situations.

neighborhoods. Why is it that only Black officers can patrol these types of neighborhoods? And why couldn’t five trained officers gain control over one individual? In addition, there have been some news reports that have said a sixth officer was involved who was White. Why hasn’t his face been flashed across news channels like the other five Black officers? Why are we just now learning about the sixth White officer? What other

do every day in our profession.” Chief Finner also asked those who want to “exercise their right to demonstrate” to do so responsibly.

When speaking with Dr. Edwin A. Davis, a Captain with Precinct One’s Constable’s Office and who was a police officer with HPD for 30 years, a Major for Harris County Sheriff’s office for seven and a half years, and who holds 48 years of experience in law enforcement, discussed his perspective on the issue. He first discussed the issue of the police shortage that is currently taking place and how the expectations and qualifications to be an officer have changed. He reflected on how when he applied for the police department, they did an extensive background check. “They investigated me, went through my elementary school records, talked to people from the church and in the community,” he said. He even mentioned how there were stricter rules back then like officers not being allowed to enter the police force with tattoos unless they were under cover and

So, what can the community do to bring change within our community? We need to continue to speak up and hold our police officers and city officials accountable.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III, Desmond Mills Jr., and Justin Smith should be held responsible and deserve whatever charge and sentence they get.

When looking at the video of Nichols I was taken back to prior deaths that have occurred. One incident in particular was Rodney Green, a Black 49-year-old in Louisiana who was involved in a high-speed police chase, and it was noted that “he died on impact” but later it was reported that he struggled and spent his last moments being “kicked, dragged, on his stomach by the leg shackles.” We will also never forget the tragic death of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and so many others. We as a community must address the issues within our own race and not be afraid to call others out. We must speak the truth and stand up for what is right. This starts with learning our history, preserving it, and teaching future generations behind us.

Tyre Nichols, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ronald Greene

Xavier Houston alumni mardi Gras Gala

By: Crystal LaShan

The spirit of Nawlins

Folks and the Xavier Alumni Crew was in full effect! Their annual Mardi Gras Gala was beautifully decorated, the prizes for the raffle were grand, and the second line was poppin’. DJ Def Jam Blaster was rolling out the hits too and was excited and filled the dance floor. The Houston area Xavier Alumni truly know how to invoke that hometown New

Orleans flair!

All funds raised will be headed back to New Orleans as an annual gift to Xavier University from the Houston Alumni chapter. Congratulations Xavier Alumni for your commitment to giving back to your Alma Mater and keeping the New Orleans spirit alive in H-Town.

Bon Temps Roule! Let the Good Times Roll!

mFaH Gordan Parks’ stokely CarmiCHael and BlaCk Power eXHiBit

Empowering and motivating were accurate descriptions of the emotions that were invoked as we experienced the Museum of Fine Arts Houston’s (MFAH) exhibit

– Gordan Parks’ Stokely Carmicheal and Black Power, Alex Bracey and Transformative Culture. I am pleased to share the invitation to a special young professionals evening at the MFAH celebrating the current exhibition, Gordon Parks: Stokely Carmichael and Black

Power.

In 1967, Life magazine published a groundbreaking profile of Black Power activist Stokely Carmichael, with images and reporting by photographer Gordon Parks. In his finely drawn sketch of a charismatic leader, he revealed his advocacy of Black Power and its message of self-determination.

Lisa Volpe, who has curated the exhibition and written the catalog, will lead guests on an exclusive tour.

Alex Bracey and Transformative Culture in collaboration with the Young Professionals hosted a special reception at the MFAH celebrating Gordon Parks: Stokely Carmichael and Black Power. An enlightening and inspiring tour of the exhibition was given by Lisa Volpe, MFAH Curator of Photography.

XU Houston Alumni Chapter Executive Board (L to R): Monique Wakefield (Treasurer), ChristinaAngle Kalonji (Corresponding Secretary), Kandys McKinley-Foster (2nd Vice-President), Teal Holden (President), Angele White (Parliamentarian), Randall McHenry (Historian)

Dr. Hank Malone and Laquita Malone

Xavier Alumni Couple

Mr. & Mrs. Woodard

Danielle Keys-Bess and Xavier Houston Alumni President Teal Holden

Celebrating a very successful reception is the Hostess(L to R) Alex Bracey with her family cheering her on Austin Coleman and Corey Glenn.

L to R-Dr. Arthur W. Bracey, Cole Bracey, and Sydney Olivia Fucci.

Michael Leslie Amilcar and Ingrim Mitchum were enjoying this empowering exhibit.

Winnie Karanja and Danielle Page were delighted to experience Gordan Parks’ genius.

united neGro ColleGe Fund youtH Gala

By: Crystal LaShan

Oh, What a Night! Teens from all of Houston gathered at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Youth Gala looking their very best. Every teen in the ballroom was ready for a glamour-filled night to help raise scholarship funds for the blessed few who will be chosen for the UNCF scholarships awarded on an annual basis. What a great way to include our youth in helping to raise money for the UNCF scholarships. Mentorship is a beautiful thing. Thank you to the mentors, volunteers, and educators for your tireless service and dedication to making the annual UNCF Youth Gala a big success. Our young scholars clean up very well.

Gorgeous teens Jasmine Bashir, Nakai Mukome, Aven Ford & Jocelyn Day were dressed to impress to enjoy the gala.

The UNCF Gala broke their record by hosting 1200 lively teenagers. What a great way to raise scholarship funds for these scholars.

Missouri City-Sugar Land Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Top Teens of America, Inc. Prairie View Chapter

Best friends Hannah Rodgers & Kendal White were having a blast at their first UNCF Youth Gala.

Dedicated Chaperone Mrs. Tawana Caden was showing teen Chloe’ Toussant the ropes at her first gala.

It’s a Family Affair. (L to R) Luke Wallace, MomJudge Toni Wallace, and Logan Wallace were enjoying the UNCF Youth Gala.

Elegantly dressed teen Dorian Carter in her mink shawl.

INcomE TAX

IRS PROBLEMS

•

INcomE TAX

ROLLOVERS

• 401 (k) • 403 (b)

• Pension • Profit Sharing

• Deferred Comp. • IRA

• ESOP • DROP

• Teacher Retirement System (TRS)

• Other Employer Retirement Plans

SHoE rEPAIr

puBlic notice

Notice to Proposers Request for Proposals will be received by Lone Star College for:

• RFP # 847 – AV EquipInstall –Nursing SimLabs. Electronic bids due by 3:00PM, Monday, February 20, 2023.

• WebEx pre-proposal meeting: Wednesday, February 8, 2023 @ 2:00PM; call-in number 1-408-7926300, Meeting #2620 021 1324

• Contact: pamela.johnson@lonestar. edu or (832)813-6782.

• 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 MC-vendors@ lonestar.edu.

puBlic notice

Competitive Sealed Proposal Notice for Worthing High School Track & Field Renovations

Project Number: 23-01-05

Houston Independent School District

The Houston Independent School District will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals from contractors for work at Worthing High School. The work includes, but is not limited to, the demo and replacement of a new athletic running track and field events. Installation of a softball and baseball field, detention pond, irrigation improvements, security lighting, electrical connection(s), concrete pad(s), hose bib and miscellaneous site work. Part A and Part B and all other required proposal information, except sub-contractor firm information and M/ WBE required documents, are due no later than Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 2:00 PM CST. at 4400 West 18th Street, Office of Board Services #1C, Houston, TX 77092. The proposals will be opened, and the amounts read aloud. Worthing High School is located at 9215 Scott Street, Houston, TX 77051

The Request for Competitive Sealed Proposal (RFCSP), which includes plans and specifications, will be available beginning Saturday, February 4, 2023, and are on file at: HISD Solicitation bid website: https://www.houstonisd.org/ Page/179264.

There is NO charge to view or download documents. Any questions regarding documents are to be addressed to Michelle Chevalier, mchevali@houstonisd.org.

The Competitive Sealed Proposal process will be utilized as authorized in Senate Bill 1093, Legislative Session 83-2013, Ch. 2269, Subchapter D, of Texas Government Code. The Competitive Sealed Proposal process enables HISD to select contractors on the basis of price and qualifications/methodology.

Sub-contractor firm information and M/WBE forms, schedules, and statements, as required by Section AB of the RFCSP and in accordance with the Office of Business Assistance, will be received at 12:00 NOON CST, Wednesday, March 8, 2023, in the Board Services Office #1C, 4400 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77092. PROPOSALS SUBMITTED WITHOUT M/ WBE FORMS PROPERLY COMPLETED WILL BE CONSIDERED NONRESPONSIVE.

A pre-proposal conference will be held at Worthing High School at 10:00 AM CST, Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 9215 Scott Street, Houston, Texas, 77051. For additional information regarding this project, please contact Michelle Chevalier, mchevali@houstonisd.org.

Drawings and Specifications for the RFCSP may be reviewed at the following Houston locations: Associated General Contractors / www.agchouston.org HISD Construction Services Office (Bond), 3200 Center, Houston, TX 77007, (713) 556-9250

McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge / www.construction.com Virtual Builders Exchange, 7035 West Tidwell, Suite #J112, Houston, TX. 77092

in American society, because too many families are attempting to function as economic units rather than spiritual units. Until Blacks fix their spiritual dysfunctional family problem, they will always have a societal problem. However, through God Blacks can become overcomers and problem solvers, not problem creators. Moreover, until Black churches cease and reframe from teaching, and preaching the prosperity Gospel, naming, and claiming, Blacks will continue to be without proper spiritual leadership guidance in their churches and families. Divided we fall but together we prosper in the Lord. Then and only can we truly understand who GOD is, and who we should be, Children of God. No individual should ever place chains on their own mind because God created all of us as free-will

human beings. God’s will should be our will, because all other wills belong to the devil and his Imps. Spiritually free your mind in the will of God, and all other body parts will follow. Mothers teach your daughters in the way of the Lord. Fathers train your sons in the way of the Lord. Then and

only then will we have a history that we can be proud of because it reflects the history of God working for our soul salvation. “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and

thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof” (Matthew 6: 33-34).

his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take

For Blacks to have a Godly history, and become all they can become individually, and collectively in the will of God, they must correct their dietary habits. Dietary Laws are written in the Bible for a spiritual reason because you are what you eat. Hence, Blacks do not have a biological obesity problem, only a dietary problem. The historical record is replete with the outstanding historical contributions of Blacks to the socioeconomic success of American society despite all of the inhumane obstacles. This is God’s record concerning dysfunctional families, which in turn, engenders dysfunctional communities and societies, because the question is: “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation” (Hebrews 2: 3). Then and only then can Black history become God’s history. Amen!