African-American News&Issues

MAY 22 - 28, 2017 | FREE

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African-American News and Issues Newspaper

VOL. 22 ISSUE 18

AframNews

Health

Kimberly Cares

Greater Houston Area

UNBALANCED POWER

HOUSTON – “I worked in school… I wasn’t one of those kids who had the luxury of partying during Spring Break. Every vacation that we had, I was trying to work and figure out how I could pick up more hours at the job.

I worked multiple jobs at the same time.”

SEE PAGE 4

Voices Grow Louder Calling for Trump Impeachment

Tracking Foster Care to Juvenile Justice Pipeline

These words were delivered by Kimberly Barrow, during a recent interview with African-American News&Issues.

Through genuine hard work and a motivated desire to excel, Kimberly has become a family nurse practitioner. Since relocating to the Houston area, the ambitious 32-year-old has fulfilled her dream of creating her own private practice, Kimberly Cares, LLC. Read on to learn more about how this fascinating soul has embarked on a journey to, inspire other medical providers to ban together and utilize their resources to offer affordable health care to our communities and others.

About Kimberly Barrow, MSN, APRN, NP-C: Kimberly Barrow hails from Jacksonville, Florida. She was reared with four siblings by her mother, Michelle Legier. Growing up, Kimberly recalls that it was a financial struggle for them. However, she maintains that her mother worked hard to support and educate her and her siblings. Early on, Kimberly developed a passion for helping others and knew that she wanted to work in the field of Nursing.

Senator Royce West & State Representative Jarvis Johnson - See pg. 9

CONT. READING

ON

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American News&Issues

The Black Whisperer Darwin Campbell, Senior Journalist

Recently, University of Texas Black Beauty Queen Rachael Malonson stated her case speaking from her heart on being Black.

In the story, “Yes, I am ‘Black enough’ to be Miss Black University of Texas” that appeared in Daily Dot, May 12, 2017, Malonson makes it clear that the criticisms she received about her skin color were off color, mean and unwarranted.

Roy Douglas Malonson Chairman Shirley Ann Malonson President/C.E.O. Chandra Jarmon

Production/Editor

Kimberly Taylor

Production Asst.

Darwin Campbell

Senior Journalist

Chelsea Davis-Bibb

Journalist

Rebecca S. Jones

Contributing Writer

Mark Spivey

Contributing Writer

Lorenzo Tolbert

Contributing Writer

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, 9am - 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.

African-American News&Issues assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material, unless accompanied by a self-address stamped envelope.

Letter to the Editor

W

e welcome all original responses from our readers to content found in the African-American News&Issues.

Letters to the Publisher may be sent via e-mail to news@aframnews.com. Please keep all letters under 300 words. Be sure to include the author’s name, area of residence. All letters and articles may be verified before they are published. All letters are subjected to editing or being cut for spacing purposes. Thank you in advance for your submission.

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Editorial & Opinion

Texas • May 22 - 28, 2017

Being A Black Queen Doesn’t Crown You Majesty of “Blackness” The Confusion of Being Biracial vs Being Black

In the article, she uses her own words and takes a stand by attempting to speak to her critics.

However, her arguments though heartfelt, fall far short of defining what it means to be Black enough.

The newly crowned winner takes a stand against the hate and plans to use what happened to her promising to use her new celebrity role as a platform to speak truth to power on the issues of being biracial in America.

In one of her comments she states reasons for coming out of the color cocoon.

“Long before I was crowned Miss Black University of Texas, I’ve worried about people thinking I’m not black enough. Some of it was warranted, some of it was in my own head. When you’re a light-skinned half-black, halfwhite woman, you are often asked, in subtle and overt ways, to prove yourself.

The fear even crossed my mind before I made the commitment to sign up for the pageant, which was a decision already out of my comfort zone. I tend to struggle with a fear of failure and it often keeps me from going after things I really want—from applying for competitive jobs to studying abroad. I worried I wouldn’t be talented enough or likable enough to succeed in the pageant. But I chose to ignore my concerns and pursue the opportunity. My hope was to be part of—and promote— an inclusive environment for all shades of black women.”

What Malonson has to understand first is that defining Black cannot be defended by a Black Beauty pageant. Her focus appears to be more on self than on connecting herself to Blackness. “...Growing up, I was constantly questioned about who I was racially. Many people thought I was Hispanic, others thought I was adopted, and then

some would just blatantly ask me “What are you?” When I would tell people that I was mixed, black and white, it was almost never a good-enough answer. I was often asked to show a picture of my parents to prove that I was indeed what I already told them. And one of the worst yet most common responses that I got was that I was joking, that they wanted to know my “real” race.” “...Once I entered high school, I began to feel more secure in my identity as a biracial woman. (not a Black woman) As people continued questioning me based on the way I looked, I started to see it as an opportunity to explain that black comes in all different shades and hair textures. I finally felt confident in who I was because I realized that I am a walking example that the black community is not built on a single story. People continue to question my identity and others still try to exclude me, but it will not allow me to deny myself as a biracial woman who is black and white...”

As her Blackness was tested and questioned at periodic intervals in her life, the question is what did Malonson do to explore and get in touch with her own Black history and the Black history of her people? It appears great opportunities to understand and find her true Blackness and be at peace with it long before the beauty pageant victory.

Being Black is an experience that happens day in and day out in a series of occurrences and events called life. Understanding what it means to be Black starts with knowing your history.

It appears all her life she has been in a type of “color bubble” and did not have enough of a real Black life experience or the kind of exposure needed to understand the challenges, plights and uphill battles African-Americans face today and faced in years past, ie,

lynchings, racism, voting rights, business opportunities, discrimination, unemployment and much more.

“Though many might think pageant training is just about posing and picking out outfits, I was working up to three hours a day for five days a week to master a variety of categories, while juggling 18 hours of school, 10 hours at my internship (here at the Daily Dot), and leading the UT chapter of National Association of Black Journalists as its vice president.

I had to prepare a transparent introductory monologue, which included the obstacles I face as a biracial woman. I had to work on my talent (singing) and my platform (the need to increase diversity in the media newsrooms), and I had to heavily study the news (because there would be political questions to answer, like “In your opinion, how can the nation maximize the number of women we have in corporate executive office positions?”)... But after a lot of hard work, laughter, and tears—and a lack of sleep—I was honored to be crowned 2017’s Miss Black University of Texas on my school’s auditorium stage. As 2016’s Miss Black University of Texas, Khady Diack, placed the tiara on my head and sash around my dress, I felt that I was breaking past a barrier within my identity.

I finally felt that people saw me as “black enough.”

Three months of hard work, determination, and ultimately validation were quickly erased by the same questioning I’d faced my whole life.”

What does it mean to be Black enough?

Blackness is not determined by putting on a crown and being declared “beautiful”. That trivializes Blackness around a pageant, limits true Blackness and corrals Black history and locks it in an entertainment vacuum.

Being Black means meshing your whole being and experience

Rachael Malonson

into identifying with our rich and historic Black past for better and worse.

Standing and being a spokesman means accepting the risks of standing up and standing out.

It means being willing to take the public criticisms and bullets for the cause.

History Medgar Evers, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X and James Earl Chaney are brave examples of Blackness for their roles as fearless, unselfish outspoken and firm on their Blackness and the fight for the people.

Malcolm X was an AfricanAmerican Muslim minister and human rights activist. To his admirers he was a courageous advocate for the rights of Blacks, a man who indicted White America in the harshest terms for its crimes against Black Americans; detractors accused him of preaching racism and violence. He has been called one of the greatest and most influential African Americans in history.

Evers (1925-1963) was an African-American civil rights activist whose murder drew national attention. Evers was subjected to threats as the most visible civil rights leader in the state, and he was shot to death in June 1963 when a gunmen killed him in the driveway of his home.

Continue reading online @ www.aframnews.com

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017

Editorial & Opinion

TO THOSE WHO WANT TRUMP IMPEACHED: DO YOU WANT PENCE? Earl Ofari Hutchinson

T

Author & Political Analyst

here has never been a single moment before, during and now, especially after, the election of Trump, that the call for his impeachment hasn’t been loudly screamed. The impeachment talk thermometer now blazes hotter with the allegations that Trump badgered former FBI Director James Comey to scrap the Trump-Russia ties investigation (only to summarily fire him), and to lay off investigating former national security advisor, Mike Flynn; he has obstructed justice at every turn.

This charge is almost certainly the charge that would have been brought against Nixon in the Watergate saga, and was brought against Clinton in the House impeachment charges against him. It can’t be broached yet with Trump.

One, because there’s no smoking gun proof - a document, memo, tape, something - that can nail Trump on the charge. Two, the GOP-controlled Congress, barring smoking gun proof, would never bring an impeachment count against him.

Despite the endless chatter about impeachment, and the obsessive yearning by millions to get the guy out of the White House, it’s a good thing that Trump isn’t likely to go anywhere for now.

You’d get Mike Pence.

There are terrifying reasons why this would be a catastrophe of epic proportions.

Pence is practically the made-inheaven poster boy for turning the clock back a half century or more. His primitive record on gay rights, civil rights, civil liberties and education is wellknown. His anti position on same-sex marriage, public school reform, union protections, hate crime laws, corporate checks, equitable corporate taxing and separation of church and state during his stint as Indiana governor are equally well-known.

Every major liberal and progressive activist group on these issues has consistently given him straight Fs on their report cards for elected officials. While every conservative and ultra-conservative group has given him straight As on their legislative report card. A President Pence would move quickly, adeptly and expertly at trying to ram legislation and initiatives through Congress and via executive order fiat to gut or eliminate every one of these protections.

The key word here is expertly. He knows the legislative process through and through. He is part and parcel of the GOP establishment. GOP senators and congresspersons are comfortable with him. He would smile affably, make no bombastic, outrageous statements or tweets, and work quietly and businesslike behind the scenes to implement his agenda.

His quiet, businesslike manner, was on full display when he cast the deciding vote as VP and President of the Senate on the confirmation of the hotly disputed Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, and the vote to defund Planned Parenthood. He did it without fanfare, despite attacks from the Democrats and the handful of Republicans who opposed her. There were no tweets. This paid double dividends for him, Trump, the GOP and ultra-conservatives. He got DeVos in, and the defunding of Planned Parenthood, and he did it without drawing any real media or public fire for his vote.

Continue reading online @ http://www.huffingtonpost.com

American News&Issues

WELCOME TO AMERICA!

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., once said,

“

African

Discrimination is a hellhound that gnaws at Negroes in every waking moment of their lives to remind them that the lie of their inferiority is accepted as truth in the society dominating them.”

I couldn’t agree with the late Civil Rights leader more.

The thing that bothers me most about the baffling effects of racial discrimination is, when it is imposed and demonstrated on members that belong to the same race. I felt compelled to address this issue because of all of the stuff in the air about skin color as it relates to the Black community. My very first perception of this issue remains as it always has.

“Welcome to A erica”!

Hell, this ain’t nothing new; we Africans living in America have been discriminating and talking about the complexion of each other’s skin, for years.

In fact, when I was a boy growing up in Acres Homes there were many people that were nicknamed simply because of the color of their skin. As far as that is concerned, I remember being called, “Yellowbelly” numerous times, myself.

And nicknames such as: “Red” and “Black” are amongst some of the more common nicknames still used and heard of today. And God forbid if you too dark a person… they call you, “Blue”, “Smut” or something similar then.

To that regard, even in schools pageants and competitions, the light-skinned child or student used to always be the one picked or chosen for King and Queen of this and that.

I have heard on many occasions of how parents, would favor the lightest skinned child out of the entire family of children. This mentality has even been displayed in churches. There was a time when the Black church was segregated according to the light-skinned and dark-skinned, as well. I stated these things to show that all of this race and skin talk and controversy did not just come to be.

Although that does not mean that it makes it right. It also does not mean that we have to continue to conform to the ways of old. I have constantly been preaching the same messages about race relations, hoping that we as a people will wake up and understand. But it just appears that far too many members of our community are not getting the message.

In my opinion it ought to be a sin and shame when everybody can recognize the uniqueness of our skin tone and shade rather than us.

Matter of fact the first time I ever heard the saying, “The Blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice,” it came from a White man. But, I believe that Marcus Garvey said it best when he stated that the, “Black skin is not a badge of shame, but rather a glorious symbol of national greatness.”

We have far too many Black people walking around resenting the color of their skin, for no good reason.

Furthermore, I will never understand why there is a need to play the “picking color” game, when we have all of the best colors within our own race. The skin that we were born with, many of our counterparts have spent and are spending thousands of dollars to achieve. So while we have Black folk trying to be White; there are White folks walking around with suntan lotion and sitting under tanning machines trying to be brown.

So it is time for our people to wake

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We MUST Understand

By Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman

up and embrace the color of their skin.

We MUST Understand that a person’s color has absolutely nothing to do with their character.

I have met some of the best people in the world that have been just as dark as a tire; and I have met some of the worst people in the world, who were Whiter than light and vice versa. So my point is, color does not make a person. The thought and misconception that continues to plague our communities about race relations, further gives power to the Willie Lynch syndrome. And with as many issues that we Africans living in America already face on an enormous scale, the last thing that we should be doing is criticizing each other’s skin tone. We have enough to confront with in regards to trying to ban together to move Black America forward, as it is. Therefore, it is beyond me why we would continue to create even more of a division within our race, when there is a desperate need for unity.

So while we are constantly taunting and teasing each other about not being “Black” enough or discriminating on the basis of whose skin is the most fairest; we are vastly losing what little inheritance we do have left within this country. I have been on a warpath trying to warn our people that we are steadily losing our communities, churches, schools, landmarks and many other vital resources that our forefathers fought and died for us to have. But then again… on that note, all I can state is, “Welcome to America”! Because they want y’all to stay distracted with meddling and teasing each other and the whole time, they are getting stronger, wiser and working to fortify their own races.

- END

TX-3

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African

HOUSTON - Americans are waiting with baited breath for the next episode of “As the White House Turns”.

Like “Scandal”, it is sure to leave faithful watchers on the edge waiting to see what is next for President Donald J. Trump.

In the latest turn, Houston Congressman Al Green Called for the

Impeachment of President Trump “Our mantra should be “I. T. N. – Impeach Trump Now,” he said. “A bedrock premise upon which respect for, and obedience to, our societal norms is “No one is above the law. President Trump is not above the law.”

According to Green and other Democrats, Trump has overstepped his constitutional boundaries and has allegedly entered dangerous territory in attempts to quell swirls, rumors and controversy surrounding his presidency over alleged investigations and relationships with the Russian officials.

“The president is acting more like a ruler than a president (of the people),” Green said.

“You can’t govern America using distractions and Tweets.”

According to the seasoned Congressman, Trump has a misunderstanding about the duties and the power of the office of President of the United States.

Stoking that flame of controversy and calls for impeachment is the latest firing of former FBI Director James Comey.

According to Green, some of the alleged acts committed by the President that, when combined, merit his being charged (impeached) for obstructing a lawful investigation include: • The President fired the F.B.I. Director overseeing a lawful investigation of the President’s campaign ties to Russian influence in the President’s 2016 Election.

• The President acknowledged he considered the investigation when he fired the F.B.I. Director.

• The President made the F.B.I. Director the subject of a threatening tweet – “James Comey better hope that there are no ‘tapes’ of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press.”

“President Trump has committed an act for which he should be charged by the U.S. House of Representatives,” Green said. “He has committed an impeachable act and must be charged. To do otherwise would cause

TX- 4

Cover Story

American News&Issues

IMPEACHMENT FROM PAGE 1

some Americans to lose respect for, and obedience to, our societal norms.”

IMPEACHMENT The charging of the President, is known constitutionally as impeachment.

Impeachment, of the President, by the House of Representatives is not a finding of guilt.

The House of Representatives cannot find the President guilty of anything. Only the U.S. Senate can do this after a trial.

THE PROCESS Impreachment is a process that is used to charge, try, and remove public officials for misconduct while in office. It is a fundamental constitutional power belonging to Congress.

The constitution provides it as a safeguard against corruption can be initiated against federal officeholders from the lowest cabinet member, all the way up to the president and the chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Besides providing the authority for impeachment, the U.S. Constitution details the methods to be used. It is a two-stage process begins in the House of Representatives with a public inquiry into allegations. It culminates, if necessary, with a trial in the Senate.

At both the federal and state levels, impeachment is rare: From the passage of the Constitution to the mid-1990s, only 50 impeachment proceedings were initiated, and only a third of these went as far as a trial in the Senate.

HISTORY The roots of impeachment date to ancient Athens. Its place in the U.S. Constitution was secured by the influence of English Common Law on the Framers of the Constitution.

Originally, any English subject, politician, or ruler could institute impeachment charges in Parliament. By the fourteenth century, this power became the exclusive domain of the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

In 1776, the American colonies included much of the English tradition in state constitutions, but the delegates of the Constitutional Convention hotly debated how best to embody it in the federal Constitution. Their most contentious question was over the offenses that should be considered impeachable.

PAST CHALLENGE TO IMPEACHMENT In 1989, federal judge Alcee Hastings was removed from the bench by a Senate vote, becoming the first judge in U.S. history to be

TTexas exas •• August May 2212-18, - 28, 2017 2013

impeached after being acquitted in a criminal trial. Hastings vigorously proclaimed his innocence, challenged the proceedings in court, and alleged that racism drove the proceedings.

An appointee of President Jimmy Carter, Hastings joined the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida as its first African American judge in 1979. In 1981, federal prosecutors indicted him on conspiracy to accept a bribe from a Federal Bureau of Investigation agent posing as a defendant in a case before him. They charged Attorney William A. Borders, president of the National Bar Association, with offering the agent a lenient sentence from Hastings in exchange for $150,000. Borders was convicted in 1982.

Hastings was acquitted in February 1983.

Hastings’s troubles soon deepened. In April 1983, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit set in motion a three-year investigation into charges that Hastings had manufactured evidence for his defense. The probe concluded that he was guilty, and in March 1987, the Judicial Conference of the United States recommended impeachment.

The House of Representatives agreed. On August 3, 1988, the full House voted 413–3 to send the case to the Senate with seventeen Articles of Impeachment, including false testimony, fabrication of false records, and improper disclosure of confidential law enforcement information.

In August 1989, the Senate panel heard twenty-four days of testimony. On October 20, the panel convicted Hastings on eight of the impeachment articles and removed him from office. Hastings left the bench continuing to profess his innocence, attacking the Senate’s handling of evidence, and maintained that he was the victim of racism.

Former President William Jefferson Clinton’s impeachment trial was the 15th in U.S. history, and the second of a president.

Andrew Johnson, the other president to be impeached by the House of Representatives, was acquitted by the Senate in 1868 in a vote that mostly followed party lines. Especially in light of prior impeachments, seven of which ended with the removal of federal judges, Clinton’s case will affect the future use of impeachment, the process of impeachment, and the definition of “high Crimes and Misdemeanors.”

Historian Benjamin Ginsberg observed, “The history of American politics over the last few decades is that the victims of a political attack denounce it as an illegitimate

CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN

endeavor—but within a few years adopt it themselves. It’s like an arms race.”

Clinton’s experience, like Johnson’s, shows that impeachment can be a strong tool of political warfare.

House Republicans pursued Clinton by disregarding polls that said two-thirds of the nation opposed impeachment.

The vote in the House then fell mostly along party lines.

THE POLITICS OF IMPEACHMENT Republicans and Democrats alike might hesitate to pursue another unpopular impeachment with so much at risk. However, that risk is worth taking for political parties sparring for the heart of the American people.

The fight for justice and transparency is the top priority for leaders and officials trying to stay relevant in changing political environments and issues.

Recently, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee released a statement in response to the explanations being provided by Trump Administration officials surrounding the President’s disclosure of highly sensitive information to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russian ambassador to the U.S. Sergey Kislyak during an Oval Office meeting.

“President Trump has repeatedly rejected, ignored and diminished the intelligence community and become America’s Leaker in Chief. His actions are both irresponsible and dangerous and require that Congress take seriously its oversight responsibilities to protect the American people.,” she added.

IMPEACHMENT FROM PAGE 6

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017

Community

Make a Splash Nationwide Tour

Read us online! www. aframnews. com

5

funding from the USA Swimming Foundation for the past seven years.

The foundation also presented HCAP with a $1,590 check, which is in addition to the $50,000 grant the program has received this year.

“We were honored to have the Make a Splash tour stop at our Aquatics Center, and we are grateful to the USA Swimming Foundation for providing grants to HCAP over the last seven years to help us fulfill our mission of teaching children to swim,” Commissioner Ellis said.

HCAP has about 3,000 learn-to-swim program participants annually. The program also teaches children discipline, leadership and teamwork skills.

“Precinct One is proud to invest in our children’s training. This program helps them learn a skill that they can enjoy all their lives – and one that may even save their lives,” Commissioner Ellis said.

Olympic gold medalists Simone Manuel, a Sugar Land native, Cullen Jones and Rowdy Gaines joined Commissioner Ellis, Mayor Turner and others at the news conference. Manuel and Jones also got in the pool with a group of HCAP children and gave them some swimming lessons.

All stressed the need to teach more children to swim, particularly children of color.

Child drownings are the second leading cause of unintentional death for children under 14, and the leading cause of unintentional death for children under age 4.

Olympic gold medalists Simone Manuel and Cullen Jones give swimming instructions to students who participate in the Harris County Aquatics Program’s learn-to-swim classes.

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis welcomed Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, three Olympic gold medalists, the USA Swimming Foundation and several eager young swimmers to Precinct One to talk about the importance of learning to swim.

Recently, the foundation’s Make a Splash campaign made a stop at the Harris County Aquatics Center/John Means Swimming Pool in Precinct One to promote swimming and encourage parents to enroll their children in formal swim classes. The foundation’s goal is to teach 1 million children nationwide how to swim this year.

Precinct One’s Harris County Aquatics Program, HCAP, has been providing free swimming lessons to children throughout the precinct since 1991. The program has received more than $256,000 in grant

Sadly, about 64 percent of African-American children and 45 percent of Hispanic children in the U.S. do not know how to swim. But formal swimming lessons reduce a child’s risk of drowning by 88 percent.

Commissioner Ellis told the crowd that he didn’t have access to swimming lessons when he was young.

He has never learned to swim, but his children did take lessons.

Inspired by the event, Commissioner Ellis promised to learn to swim by the end of the year – and Mayor Turner joined him in that pledge.

Both put their promises to pen by signing pledge cards and attaching them to a “Promise Fence,” that will be on display at Discovery Green.

Dr. Moses & Susan Wilcox Donate $13,500 to Suburban Sugar Land Women

HOUSTON - Dr. Moses and Susan Wilcox cheerfully, willingly, and generously presented an actual big check, $13,500, to Mose and Mable Austin for Suburban Sugar Land Women (SSLW) 2017 Scholarships’ Fund during a reception at their lovely home on the lake. Susan and Moses are committed members and Diamond Partners.

Susan shared, “ We saw a need to raise funds for scholarship’ recipients; we set our goal. We exceeded our goal.”

Moses and Susan.

Moses and Susan incredibly beautiful home with a relaxing ambiance on a calm lake as a back drop.

Mike Garcia, Caricaturist, drew and presented each partner a hilariously funny 12in by 16in signed drawing.

The Wilcox’s initial goal was $10,000 which was reached in two days. The goal was then increased to $12,000 which was obtained in less than a week. The $13,500 goal was reached in less than a month with the help of a few of their supportive scholarships’ partners who donations ranged from $250 to $5,000.

Supportive Scholarship Partners: Maria & Victoria Magnus, Gold Partner; Drs. Olivia & Lynae Hines; Helen Wright, Gold Partners; Dr. Michael Peggs; Sue Ann Ma; Roy & Shelia Chambers: Dr. Samuel Harden; Kenneth & Sharon McQueen; and Vivian Jade Invitations

At the awesome appreciation reception, partners were warmly greeted with hugs by

The marvelous menu was buffet style catered by Ral’s Fine Catering of Houston.

Each scholarship partner received a large, incredibly beautiful, and customed-wrapped gift box.

This sterling scholarship partners appreciation reception and gift’s boxes were generously under- written by Dr. Moses & Susan Wilcox. Susan is the internationally renowned owner of Events by Susan where ordinary events become extraordinary!

Because of the generosity of Dr. Moses & Susan Wilcox, SSLW committed members & Diamond Partners and their special scholarships’ partners, each first – time recipient will be awarded $ 1,500 and each continuing scholarship recipient will be awarded $1,000.

To our FATHER be the glory!

The five first – time scholarship recipients from three schools districts are: Trinity Hawkins, Stafford Municipal School District – Stafford High School; Taylor Howard, Fort Bend Independent School District – Hightower High School;

Mia Johnson, Fort Bend ISD – Ridge Point High School; Soromtochi Onyeahialam, Fort Bend ISD – Ridge Point High School, Madison Owens, Lamar CISD – George Ranch High School.

Scholarships’ Committee: Marvelyn Harris, Chair; Elise Leaks Harmon & June Peggs, Co-Chairs; & Mose & Mable Austin.

100% of officers and programs’ chairs are phenomenal partners.

Continuing scholarships to former recipients are available June 01 – July 15 via www. sslw.org.

June and July education, training, and service opportunities are available. Contact, donishasmith21@yahoo.com.

Read Full article online @ www.aframnews.com

TX- 5

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African

Did You Know?

American News&Issues

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017

Galveston’s Segregated Seawall

African Americans have played a major role in the growth of Texas for hundreds of years under different flags.

However, contained within this one block many great memories were formed.

STORE HOURS:

Ships from around the world came to Galveston, a major seaport town, to trade goods and auction slaves.

According to a census taken in 1848 several hundred slaves resided in Galveston; many worked on the waterfront and in the cotton industry.

People came from all over the world to stay at Gus Allen’s Villa, eat at the Jambalaya Restaurant or dance at the Manhattan Club. Gus Allen, an astute businessman, owned the Jambalaya and Villa locations.

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Galveston was an important city for trading goods and relaying information. It was here the slaves of Texas learned of their freedom on June 19, 1865.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11am - 5pm

Despite the challenges of racism, segregation and threats, it did not stop Black Party Life & Fun in Galveston.

EARLY BLACK RECREATION IN GALVESTON

New!

Availa b Now! le

Segregation extended even to Galveston’s Seawall and beach. However, despite those challenges and obstacles, African American beachfront businesses once clustered along this section of Seawall Boulevard.

Most of the activities for African Americans on the beach front, in the early years, were confined to a one-block area. Menard Park between 27th and 28th streets, remains a center of African American recreational activities.

The Manhattan location was owned by the Screwmen Longshoremen Association. The Manhattan Club property was finally sold to the 7-Eleven Stores.

Today, the McGuire-Dent Recreation Center is located at Menard Park.

GALVESTON FIRSTS Galveston was also the first city in Texas to provide a secondary school and public library for African Americans.

Events such as Juneteenth and pioneers such as politician Norris Wright Cuney, world heavyweight champion Jack Johnson and entertainer Barry White all had ties to the Galveston community.

Though once very-popular, these African-American hotspots and businesses that populated that part of the city are gone today.

Source: Galveston Historical Foundation

IMPEACHMENT FROM PAGE 4 “TALK TO ME” TOTE 17 X 17”

It appeared that as a result of America’s leadership using impeachment as a political tool, House majorities will now use this to impeach a political opponent, even without substantial public support.

Green said that Trumps case involves combined acts of intimidation and obstruction.

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“That is why I continue to call for the creation of an independent bipartisan commission to investigate President Trump’s ties to Russia and for the appointment of a special counsel to investigate the Trump campaign’s ties to the Russian agents and entities that interfered in our presidential election.

Congress must seek justice and follow the facts no matter where they lead.”

“If the President is not above the law, he should be charged, by way of impeachment, by the U.S. House of Representatives,” he said. “Whether he is guilty is a separate action for the U.S. Senate to decide. I have said on previous occasions, and do now say again, the President should be impeached.”

Officials have stop short of calling this another Watergate Scandal like the one that brought down former President Richard Nixon, but indicate the

eerie comparisons.

“I also say that this can happen with a Republicancontrolled House and Senate if the public weighs in by demanding that the Republican President be charged by way of impeachment,” he said. “The American people needs and deserve closure on this issue.”

Most say “Trump-Gate” will find its own way into the history books.

Story By: Darwin Campbell The FreeDictionary.com

by Farlex contributed to this story.

te and size of Ad to run in AAN&I’s Greater Houston edition.

EDITION DATE: May 22 - 28, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 18) EDITION DATE: May 29 - June 4, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 19) T • M 22-28, 2017 EXAS

What’s Happenin’

AY

PUBLIC NOTICE Houston Community College Invitation for Bid (IFB) Sale of approximately .72 acres of land (Delano) Project No. 17-43

Marketplace Heading:

SATURDAY Notice 10Public 27 SATURDAY Saving Families Deric Muhammad

Worldwide Smart’n Up Black Contact Information Teen Summit Male SummitName: JenniferI3Chiu Cullen Baptist Church Greenhouse Int’l Church Phone: 713.718.5138 13233 Cullen Blvd.

200 W Greens Rd Email: Hua.Chiu@hccs.edu Houston, TX 77047 Houston, TX 77067 Address for Tearsheet/Copies: 12 noon - 4pm From 1pm to 5pm 3100 Main Street For more info contact: For more info contact: Houston, Texas(281) 77002241-9202 blackmalesummit2017.

Read us online! www. aframnews. com

Jul 31 - Aug 3 MONDAY - THURSDAY

Aldine ISD Steam Summer Camp Drew Academy 1910 W. Little York Houston , TX 77091 From 8:30am - 1pm For more info contact: (281) 985-6559

te and Sealed sizebidsof will beAd receivedto in run in AAN&I’s Greater Houston edition.

Procurement Operations (3100 Main EDITION DATE: Street, Room No. 11B01, Houston, May 22 - 28, 2017 (Vol. 22 Issue 18) Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

EDITION DATE: May 29 -eventbrite.com June 4, 2017 savingfamiliesworldwide.com (Vol. 22 Issue 19) oboatner@aldineisd.org Documents can be obtained at:

www.hccs.edu/procurement.

PUBLIC NOTICE Houston Community College Invitation for Bid (IFB) Sale of approximately 23.402 acres of land (WESTHEIMER) Project No. 17-45 Sealed bids will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11B01, Houston, Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

1

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THURSDAY

COST 10ADSATURDAY Battle for the Deal

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Cost toGRB run Convention ad for 1 week Public Notice Ctr Acres Home Chamber $136.80 Hall C for Bus. and Eco. Dev.

Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 AD COST by 12 NOON Wednesday week before Monday www.hccs.edu/procurement .

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TUESDAY Director Patrick Walsh, P.E. Cost to run ad for 1 week Windsor Houston Director of the COH Planning $136.80 Skilled Nursing Facility and Development Department Networking Breakfast 6112 Wheatley St 6920 TC Jester TOTAL NET COST for Blvd.

2 weeks: Houston, TX 77091 Houston, Beginning at 11am $273.60TX 77091 From 9:30am to 10:am For more info contact: For more info contact: (713) 692-7161 (281-224-0280 info@acreshomecenter.org

MONDAY - SUNDAY Ensemble Theatre Front Porch Society 3535 Main Street Houston, TX77002 **Times Vary** SUNDAY For more info contact: First Baptist Church Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 (832) 623-2323 SATURDAY - SUNDAY of Lincoln City www.ensembletheatre.com by 12 NOON Wednesday FPSF theDate week before Monday FBC Praise Dancers Eleanor Tinsley Parl 844 Fortune St. 500 Allen Prkwy Houston, TX 77088 THURSDAY - SATURDAY Houston, TX 77002 Beginning at 11am Miller Outdoor Theatre O#112784 Beginning at 11am For more info contact: Dancin’ in the Streets For more info contact: (832) 892-5078 Motown & More Revue fpsf.com 6000 Hermann Park Dr FRIDAY Houston, TX 77030 Texas Black Expo Begininng at 8:15pm 14th Annual Corp SIGN UP NOW! For more info contact: Awards Luncheon (713) 699-3043

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May 25 - May 28

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FRIDAY Church Without Walls Veterans Job Fair 5725 Queenston Blvd Houston, TX 77084 From 10am to 3pm For more info contact: (832) 651-6471

CARRIERS NEEDED

Keynote Speaker Edwin Bosso Founder & CEO of Myrtle DateLLC Consulting Group

GRB Convention Ctr 1001 Avenida De Las Americas Houston, TX 77010 Beginning at 12noon For more info contact: texasblackexpo.com

Jul 24 - Jul 27 MONDAY - THURSDAY

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• • • • •

Power Hour

(Business Networking) Hosted by

ENTS PRES Established in 1994, Shirley Ann's Black Kollectibles and Flower Shop is a thriving small Black owned business in the Acres Home community. Shirley Ann's Black Kollectibles has a variety of African American collectibles from calendars to figurines.

The Flower Shop also has an array of arrangements and flowers for all occasions.

Please take advantage of the opportunity to visit the shop during this event on May 25th!

Be ready to talk about your business and bring plenty of business cards!

HOST POWER HOUR Do you want the opportunity to show case your business?

We would love for you to Host Power Hour. The Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development, Inc. would love to help co-host your business!

The AHCBED staff will be co-hosting this occasion with each member to help make it a success.

RSVP for POWER HOUR

To ensure that we are serving our guests please RSVP at the soonest opportunity.

Please RSVP by by calling (713) 692-7161 or email info@acreshomecenter.org Date: Thursday, May 25, 2017 Time: 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Location: 6112 Wheatley Street (Beulah Ann Shepard Building) Houston, Texas 77091 HOU - 7

8

African

Health

American News&Issues

KIMBERLY CARES PAGE 1

Hence she initiated her nursing path at the age of 18, by enrolling at Florida State University, after graduating high school.

She attended FSU for a couple of years and decided to complete her Associate of Science degree at Tallahassee Community College.

Afterwards, she returned home and began working in the field of Nursing. While doing so, she enrolled at the University of Central Florida, where she obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. She later earned a Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in Houston.

Shortly after completing her undergraduate studies, Kimberly welcomed a bouncing baby girl. It was during her pregnancy that she noticed, the cost of healthcare was extremely excessive. Furthermore, while working as an employee in the healthcare system, she nearly went lacking of prenatal care. She found that she did not qualify for Pregnancy Medicaid, because of her income. Kimberly felt that this was unfair treatment because she had worked

s Flower for All ons Occasi

and contributed into the system; but was denied coverage when she needed it.

During our interview, Kimberly compared her personal experience to many other residents. She said, “It is unfortunate that there are so many people that go around with these health conditions, that they can’t get care for, because the cost is so excessive.” She continued, “Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, cholesterol: these things are killing our community and it’s really because these conditions are going unmanaged… I feel like the cost is being driven by the providers and pharmaceutical companies.”

Kimberly explains that primary care at a basic level is not expensive. Exam tables, minimal medical supplies and a small quantity of medications are the necessities to provide basic care for a patient. Therefore, she believes that there are no major costs to justify charging patients’ hundreds of dollars, for routine care or a simple office visit. She says it is time out for those providers, “who don’t have the

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TX - 8

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017

patients’ best interest at heart, because they are worried about satisfying volume to recruit revenue.” She strongly feels that it is important to give patients the best quality of care and let them know that you care. “These days, the personal touch is missing and they treat people like cattle (in and out – in and out); and that’s not right”, she said. So she is hoping to inspire up and coming medical professionals to consider the needs and resources of the community.

After personally experiencing the hardship associated with the lack of health insurance coverage, coupled with a decade of experience as a nurse “working in the trenches”; Kimberly felt it was her destiny to engineer Kimberly Cares, LLC. First, she considered all of her years in the Nursing industry and went to a personal professional confidant of hers; to ensure that she wasn’t being “overzealous”.

Accordingly, she contacted an experienced physician who she was comfortable with, who has a private practice and is also an attorney.

She briefed him of her concept and asked of his opinion. He told her, “If you can take care of sick patients in the hospital, then you can take care of well patients in the clinic.”

At the time, Kimberly was working at a clinic by herself, as a family nurse practitioner.

In a small leased space in a grocery store, she and one other medical assistant cared for over 40 patients daily. Objectively, she’d planned to implement her practice within three to five years. However, she soon realized that she was already in the role of serving as a primary provider. Kimberly provided the care, the billing was completed under her number and she was just given a percentage of the profit. Additionally, she was being dictated on when, where and which time she could care for patients. This element hindered her from delivering the level of care that she knew she could. All of these things further inspired Kimberly to follow her life-long dream. Thus, she laid the groundwork to pioneer Kimberly Cares, LLC, turned in her two week’s notice and made haste to transition her dream into a reality.

From that experience she has opened Kimberly Cares, LLC. Kimberly Cares is an extension of her experience, having served at the bedside caring for acutely ill patients in Level 1 trauma centers and other hospitals,

Aubriana & Kimberly Barrow

many of whom were uninsured. She has transformed her expertise of standing side by side with the physicians, patients, family and interdisciplinary team, helping to develop diagnoses and treatment plans; into providing primary care for the underserved and uninsured population of Houston and the surrounding areas at a comfortable price, residents can afford.

A snippet of the services provided by Kimberly Cares, LLC include: Acute (Sick) Visits, ranging in services pertinent to: upper respiratory infections, allergies and sinus, asthma flares, ear infections, ear irrigation, eye infections, urinary symptoms, pregnancy testing, minor cuts, simple abscess drainage, rashes and eczema, Poison Ivy/Oak, minor animal bites, minor abdominal complaints and wart removals. Wellness Visits and Chronic Disease services specialized in the clinic are: Well-Woman exams, family planning, Adult Annual/Wellness exams, Well Child exams, routine immunizations, daycare physical exams, sports physicals, smoking cessation, Diabetes, Hypertension, Hypothyroid, elevated cholesterol, acme and asthma.

Kimberly Cares also provides screenings and other services such as: TB Skin testing, lab services, hearing and vision screenings, Diabetes/Cholesterol Screening, DOT (Truck Driver) physicals, travel immunizations and B12 injections.

To continue reading visit www.aframnews.com By: Rebecca S. Jones

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017 FROM PAGE 1

Texas Round-Up

Texas’ Foster Care to Juvenile Justice Pipeline

AUSTIN - With 144 “aye” votes in the House of Representatives and unanimous support in the Senate, Representative Jarvis Johnson’s House Bill 932, sponsored by Senator Royce West, has been sent to Governor Greg Abbott for the last and final signature.

Recognizing that the abuse and neglect that results in a child’s involvement with Child Protective Services can also lead to involvement with the Juvenile Justice Department, Rep. Johnson filed HB 932; which seeks to track the percentage of youth in the juvenile justice system who have had previous contact with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Upon intake, TJJD will be required to determine the extent of the child’s DFPS involvement. No later than January 31st of each even numbered year, the department will prepare and submit a report summarizing statistical information concerning the total number and percentage of children in the custody of TJJD who have been involved with the foster care system.

In addition, this legislation requires that the local juvenile probation departments collaborate with DFPS to formulate a method by which probation departments can access probationer’s CPS involvement data to ensure effective and trauma-informed rehabilitative efforts are in place.

“The children in CPS deserve our attention and our firm commitment to ensuring they have every opportunity we each want for our own children,” stated Rep. Johnson. “This accountability procedure will allow us to deepen our understanding of the extent of this issue in Texas and begin contemplating what future steps we must take to address it.” Upon signature, HB 932 will go into effect September 1, 2017.

Vet Honored With Street Naming

AUSTIN- The twenty-second oldest person in the United States (and the oldest Texan), celebrated his 111th Birthday with a block party on the street that bears his name The Bastrop native, the city of Austin is celebrating the 72 years he’s spent living on Hamilton Avenue, where he moved after his service ended, by giving the street an honorary name: Richard Overton Avenue. Overton is the oldest living veteran in the United States. He was seven when the assembly line was invented, eleven at the start of World War I. He was 21 when the first television was demonstrated in the United States, a year before Penicillin was discovered.

Overton said the secret to his longevity, naturally was Whiskey and cigars.

Drug Arrests

BEAUMONT - Seven men were arrested Wednesday by the Jefferson County Sheriffs’ Narcotics Task Force after executing a search warrant at Beaumont business.

From the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office... At approximately 11:00 hrs, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force and Jefferson County Swat executed a narcotics search warrant at 3135 Park street Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas. Beaumont police detectives and Beaumont k9 officers also to assist. The Jefferson County Swat Team secured the business and a large group of people who were outside and inside the business. The Jefferson County Narcotics Task Force had received complaints about drug transactions occurring premises of the business.

Narcotics detectives began investigating the complaint. Over time, they were able to collect evidence to confirm that hydro marijuana and other controlled substances were being sold by the owner Troy Anthony Mouton and other persons who were frequently at the business. Seven males were arrested in the raid.

• Owner: Troy A. Mouton- Poss. Of Marijuana • Steven Mouton B/M, 07-02-78 , Poss C/S penalty group 3, (Xanax), also was a featured on Crime stoppers and found to have a Parole Warrant.

• Vonneil M. Louis B/M, 02/05/99, Poss Marijuana, UCW- firearm.

• Gregory L. Coleman B/M, 08/22/88, Poss of Marijuana • Cameran Brazil B/M, 01/28/88, Warrant • Roger Mouton, B/M, 06/11/74 Jeff Co warrant for DWI • Robert L. Collins, B/M, 10-26-87, Warrant Marijuana, Xanax and a loaded pistol were collected by the Jefferson County narcotics detectives.

Submit your news to news@aframnews.com

Read us online! www. aframnews. com

9

Beloved Community Activist Killed

DALLAS- Arthur Doyle Riggins moved in with his godson to help him get his life together.

Derick Lamont Brown, 36, was a troubled man with a lengthy criminal history and ties to the New Black Panther Party. Riggins, better known by his nickname “Karioki,” was respected in his community for his wisdom and ability to solve problems. But he couldn’t fix his godson. On Monday, Brown shot the 66-year-old, a neighbor and a Dallas firefighter-paramedic before turning the gun on himself inside his East Dallas house. The neighbor survived, and the paramedic was critically wounded. A police robot found Riggins and Brown dead inside the house they shared on Reynolds Avenue. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Riggins was also well-known among community activists. He was described as a spiritual man who had deep ties to his West African heritage. He had organized Dallas’ Malcolm X and Harambee festivals over the years and was known as a priest within the community. “Harambee is a Swahili term,” said Tammy Simpson, who knew Riggins for 30 years since meeting him as a teen. “It’s for coming together, pulling together, uniting. You can’t do that with violence. “He stood for community service, unity, love, family.” Riggins grew up in Fort Worth but moved to Dallas in his late 20s to escape gang violence there. In Dallas, Riggins joined the Rastafarian community and adopted the nickname “Karioki.” He had eight biological children but treated other youths in the community as his own, too. They called him “Baba” as a sign of respect and endearment.

Dallas Morning News Contributed to this story

Wells Fargo Donates $20,000 to Help Texas Tornado Victims

DALLAS - In response to a tornado that devastated six Texas counties, Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC) today announced a $20,000 donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

The donation will help victims of the several tornadoes that affected more than 5,000 homes and businesses in Van Zandt, Rains, Henderson, Smith, Hopkins and Wood counties.

“Wells Fargo is committed to helping our neighbors and communities who have been affected by the recent severe storms,” said John T. Gavin, region president, Dallas-Fort Worth. “Our thoughts are with everyone in the affected areas during this challenging time. The American Red Cross is once again on the front lines assisting people in need and we are pleased that this contribution will support recovery and rebuilding efforts.”

“We are proud to serve communities across North Texas on a daily basis and can’t serve our lifechanging mission without the generosity of our partners,” said Keith Rhodes, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross North Texas region. “We thank Wells Fargo for their commitment to helping our neighbors in East Texas and those affected by disaster.”

Diversity Topic Highlight Community Forum

TYLER - In a wide-ranging discussion that covered topics such as trust between residents and law enforcement, diversity and immigration, local officials and community leaders shared how Tyler can move forward together in spite of people’s differences. “We thought this was a wonderful opportunity to bring together a very unique panel no matter what sector of the community they represent,” moderator and attorney Nick Pesina said. Tyler Police Chief Jimmy Toler said the department’s whole goal is “to do everything we can to preserve the peace in the city of Tyler.” Developing that trust, though, is only going to happen as officers have the opportunity to show people why they can be trusted, he said. “Until I have the opportunity to show you how we can help you, you’re really not going to understand,” he said. They are there to hold people accountable when someone does something improper to a person in the community, he said.

About 30 people attended the Strength in Unity Community Panel Discussion on Thursday at Tyler Junior College. Eleven people served as panelists. In addressing the idea of building trust, Jeff Williams, with the Tyler Together Race Relations Forum, said trust only comes through time and consistency in people’s practice and character and it requires continuous dialogue over time. “We have too many people who put stakes in the ground and they don’t just want to put a stake in the ground, they want to cement it in,” he said. “… I encourage you to take the time to meet someone and to get to know someone who’s not like you. You know, if all your friends and all of your associates look like you and do the same thing you do today, then you’ve stagnated yourself from growing.”

The event was made possible through a grant from the Texas Young Lawyers Association.

TX - 9

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Read us online! w w w.a f r a m n e w s .c om

Youth/Education

Strife in Life: Adult Education Graduation Snapshot with Anslem Alexander

When approximately 80 adult learners don red robes received recognition at Harris County Department of Education’s Adult Education graduation ceremony that took place May 20, Anslem Alexander was proudly be among them.

For Alexander, a native of Trinidad and Tobago (an island nation in the Caribbean), the event was an emotional culmination of a year-long endeavor to earn his GED. Given that his educational goals had to compete with working full-time and being a father, Alexander has not always had an easy time focusing on his studies.

“It’s hard to work, go to school, and then you have to study at night,” Alexander, a Baytown resident who immigrated to the U.S. three years ago, said. “You just can’t go to school, go back home and go to bed.”

educated person.’”

Still, Alexander didn’t view whether to pursue his GED as a tough choice.

Alexander credits his HCDE Adult Education teachers for helping him along the way, repeating that they were “very helpful, very encouraging.”

“I decided to get my GED because I am an electrician, but since being in the U.S. I’ve had problems getting a job,” he said. “Some of the jobs I really wanted I didn’t get it because they said you have to have a diploma or GED.” In addition to expanding his professional opportunities, Alexander said his elevated educational status comes with a new level of dignity.

“In life, one of the things I always wanted to be was an educated person,” he said. “Having a GED, you can tell yourself, ‘Hey, I am an

“I felt like a million bucks,” Alexander said, when he learned that he had completed the requirements for the degree.

Earning her GED was a crucial step for Eggleton, who is trying to make life better for her three children. In May 2016, Eggleton’s youngest child was diagnosed with meningitis and they spent two months in the hospital. Eggleton wasn’t financially stable at the time and didn’t know where to turn for help. Her three children were taken from her, and this pushed Eggleton to make a change.

“Education is the key to open doors in this life,” Alexander said, admitting that he’s had to hold back some tears of joy since receiving the news that he’s graduating in May.

Mbaeri moved to the United States in 2006 from Nigeria and has since worked hard to make a living for his children, ages 16-23.

“Ultimately, I’m grateful for the push because I get to be a better mom,” said Eggleton. “Getting TX - 10

my GED proves that I can complete something positive. I know I’m going to make my kids proud of me.”

Eggleton found the support system she needed at Memorial Assistance Ministries through HCDE’s Adult Education program and completed the program in just three months.

“Rosie Coleman is the best teacher I’ve ever had,” said Eggleton. “She pressed me to keep going. She is the support system I always wanted and needed.”

Eggleton is optimistic about her future and plans to continue school in June to become a dental hygienist.

“Getting my GED is not the end of what I can do, it’s the beginning of what I’m going to do.”

can be like you guys.”

At age 56, single father of five Mathrew Mbaeri set out to find a new career path last year and enrolled in GED classes as part of his master plan.

Strife in Life: Adult Education Graduation Snapshot with Infant Eagleton

At just 27 years old, 2017 GED graduate Infant Eggleton has faced more hardships than most.

Through her determination and positivity, and support from teacher Rosie Coleman, she walked the stage and received her GED on May 20 with approximately 79 other adult learners.

Strife in Life: Adult Education Graduation Snapshot with Matthew Mbaeri

As far as next steps go, Alexander has already enrolled at Lee College in Baytown to start courses in the fall. He will be pursuing his dream of becoming an electrical engineer.

“Tears came, they just didn’t fall,” he said, laughing.

About Harris County Department of Education: HCDE helps school districts in the state’s largest county meet the needs of uniquely challenged learners, directly serving students at their schools or one of four HCDEoperated campuses across the county.

Learn about these services and more at www.hcde-texas.org.

Texas • May 22 - 28, 2017

Through God’s grace and with lots of studying, Mbaeri said he passed all parts of his rigorous test after completing his GED class. Soon he will enroll in a workforce class at HCDE so that he may study to become certified in construction. After that, he wants to focus on becoming a civil engineer.

“The point is, education has no age limit,” he said. “Even if you are 70 or 80.”

Returning to school 20 years after dropping out is not easy, he said, but it’s definitely doable with help from good teachers.

The Alief resident decided that finally, it was time to make time for his own future.

This year his oldest graduates from college, and he is one proud papa. He admits to feeling a bit wiser himself.

“My kids said Dad, how can you go back to school?” he said, laughing at the memory of his new beginnings.

Mbaeri answered pointedly: “So I

“Go back to school and take care of yourself,” he said. “Education is power—and knowledge.”

George Nyakwol won a gold medal in the triple jump at the Class 6A State Track and Field

George Nyakwol completed his high school athletic career in grand fashion by winning a gold medal in the triple jump at the Class 6A State Track and Field Meet held May 11-13 at Mike A. Myers Stadium at the University of Texas.

Nyakwol not only won gold, but also set a new school record that stood for 22 years with his leap of 50-feet, 2.25-inches on his final jump. The old record was 49-feet, 1.5-inches.

Nyakwol, a two-sport star at

Eisenhower High School, Aldine ISD in football and track, told the Vype website, he was most proud of his accomplishment.

“When I hit that 50, I felt so much triumph,” Nyakwol told Vype. “I feel so accomplished now. It’s like a dream come true.”

In addition to starring in track, Nyakwol was a threeyear starter at cornerback for the Eisenhower football team and earned a scholarship to Rice University. He is also an outstanding student, ranking in the top 10 of his senior class.

TEXAS • MAY 22 - 28, 2017

Acres Home Chamber for Business & Economic Development. Inc.

June Luncheon Speaker

African

American News&Issues

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April Networking Luncheon 2

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1. Ruby Bennett 2. Pamela Jones 3. Judith Comeaux, Betty Small Rose, Rachel Amos 4. Ruby Mosley, Terrell Holiday, Jewel Houston, 5. Johnnie Tatum 6. Pastor Leroy Henderson, 7. Maria Perez, Jamie Jadlowski 8. Elijah Robinson 9. Oscar Hines KYND 1520 10. Bennie Ogletree 11. Daysi & Mauricio Marin 12. Marilyn Martin, Clifford Johnson, Photo Credit: Kim Taylor See pg 7 for event details Channel Provost 13. Claude Cummings

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H-Town Black Konnect

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Patrick Walsh, P.E., is the Director of the City of Houston’s Planning and Development Department. Walsh brings 19 years of experience in community development, planning, engineering, and municipal infrastructure management to the position. He was appointed Interim Director by former Mayor Annise Parker in November 2013 and confirmed by the Mayor and Council on March 12, 2014.

As Director, Walsh is Houston’s top planning and development official. The position includes oversight of the City’s primary property subdivision regulatory functions and neighborhood character preservation programs, including historic preservation. Walsh also leads much of the Houston’s transportation and other long-range community planning efforts, including the City’s Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan, the Bicycle Master Plan, and the Houston Complete Streets and Transportation Plan. The position includes oversight of many of the City’s geographic mapping efforts. Director Walsh serves as a non-voting member of the City’s Planning Commission and the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission.

Prior to working for the City of Houston, Walsh served as the Director of Transportation and Long-Range Planning for the City of Sugar Land. In this role, he led Sugar Land’s long-range planning efforts, completing updates to the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Comprehensive Mobility Plan, and Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. He also served as Sugar Land’s Assistant City Engineer and Interim City Engineer, with a significant focus on planning, subdividing, design, and construction of community development projects. Walsh’s experience extends to a number of other areas including capital projects, freight rail planning and coordination, state and federal transportation funding, and TxDOT highway expansions. He previously worked for MWH, Inc., as an environmental engineering consultant.

Mr. Walsh received a Bachelors of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a Masters of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin.

Walsh is a native Houstonian.

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free! ¡gratis! with in-store coupon 7.5 - 10 oz. assorted varieties

Llévatelo GET

¡gratis! free! with in-store coupon

Totino’s Pizza Sticks 10 ct., or Stuffed Nachos

52 ct. assorted varieties

Llévatelo GET

¡gratis!

free! with in-store coupon

King’s Hawaiian Rolls, 12 pk. assorted varieties

That’s up to

2.98

buy

Oscar Mayer Baked, Smoked or Honey Ham, or Beef Bologna, 16 oz.

assorted varieties

HOU - 12

with in-store coupon

free!

free!

Some items may not be available in all stores. Items not valid at Central Market. Due to the popularity of our Extra Low Prices Every Day, we reserve the right to limit quantities. Limit Rights Reserved. We Accept Lone Star Card, WIC And Manufacturers’ Coupons. ©2017 HEB, 17-3180 visit www.heb.com

free!

Hormel Compleats

$

Prices Good Wednesday, May 24 Thru Tuesday, May 30, 2017 At Your Neighborhood H-E-B Stores.

GET

free!

$

16 oz., assorted varieties

with in-store coupons

DiGiorno Pizza That’s up to

That’s up to

• H-E-B Thick N’ Chunky Salsa

FREE

That’s up to

$

4.73

free!

Llévatelo GET

¡gratis!

free! with in-store coupon

Kraft American Singles 12 oz.

Llévatelo

¡gratis!