African-American News&Issues

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EDUCATION/YOUTH PAGE 11

The Key to Education is Understanding the Knowledge That You Acquire & How it Affects Your Life.

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VOL. 21 ISSUE 19

A Contract to Die For You!

~Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher

Child Activist

See Page 10 Ralph Cooper (Boston, MA) - United States Air Force; Service from 1960-1963 Vietnam Era Veterans Service Coordinator of Cloudbreak Communities Houston , TX

“For more than 200 years, African-Americans have participated in every conflict in United States history.

They have not only fought bravely the common enemies of the United States but have also had to confront the individual and institutional racism of their countrymen.”

-Retired Lt. Col. Michael Lee Lanning, author, The African-American Soldier: From Crispus Attucks to Colin Powell.

HOUSTON - Who among us would die for a close family member, best friend or that beloved neighbor who’s always looking out for us? How about laying one’s life down for a complete stranger? Well that’s exactly what the brave men and women of our military institutions (past and present) agree to do when they enlist, sign their names on the dotted line and report for duty on our behalf almost every single day in this country.

Dictionaries define a “contract” as: an agreement with specific terms between two or more persons or entities in which there is a promise to do something in return for a valuable benefit known as “consideration”. Their heartfelt decision to serve for “us” guarantees our ability to live free, all the while chasing “our” American dreams.

“We the People” can rest assured that the courageous men and women behind the uniform will never break their covenants with us, but what do they receive as their “consideration” in return for this high-stakes (and arguably “one-sided”) contract we’ve managed to secure? A significant number of service members believe that joining the armed forces is akin to being initiated into an elite fraternity or like being welcomed into an unbreakable family unit that always looks after its own, offering a wealth of benefits to its members. So for those, there is no hesitation or delay in their formal execution of “The Contract” and the granting of their consents to “The People”.

Continue Reading on P [4]

IYANNI PRADIA

Harris County Mental Health Court

See Page 2

In Honor of Memorial Day African-American News & Issues Salutes You!

African

2

American News&Issues

Politics & Law

UNDERSTANDING THE LAW: FELONY MENTAL HEALTH COURT

I

n light of the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, I wanted to write on a legal topic geared towards our fallen soldiers. The first topic that came to mind was how society often fails to acknowledge mental health issues of soldiers fortunate enough to return home from war. Often times, soldiers return from war with either undiagnosed mental illness or diagnosed mental illness coupled with improper treatment or no treatment. If you have a loved one that has been diagnosed with

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

Production/Editor

Tayler Copeland

Production Asst.

Kimberly Hatter

Content Editor

James Jones III, Ph.D

Contributing Writer

Mark Spivey

Contributing Writer

Chelsea Davis-Bibb

Contributing Writer

Sandra Davis

Distribution

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.

mental illness or that you suspect may have an undiagnosed mental illness and they have been charged with a felony, felony mental health court may be an alternative to incarceration.

What is Felony Mental Health Court?

Felony Mental Health Court is a court created in Harris County, Texas in 2012 to help individuals that have been charged with a felony that also suffer from mental illness. Instead of facing the threat of incarceration, you are transferred into felony mental health court where you are placed in an intensive community supervision program that focuses on specialized treatment tailored to the defendant’s needs.

Criteria for Felony Mental Health Court: • Diagnosed Mental Illness: In order to be considered for felony mental health court you must be diagnosed with a mental illness (Schizophrenia/ Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder).

• Competency: In addition to being diagnosed with a mental illness, the defendant must still be considered legally competent by the court. They will have to undergo a competency evaluation for the court to make that determination.

• Connection between Crime and Mental Illness: The crime the defendant is charged with must have some relation to the diagnosed mental illness.

• Felony Charge: The defendant must be charged with

a felony to be eligible to get into this program. Any offenses involving assault or possession of a firearm will be considered on a case by case basis.

Ineligibility for Mental Health Court: Under certain circumstances, some defendants are not eligible to be placed in Felony Mental Health Court even though they have been diagnosed with a mental illness. The defendant is not eligible for Felony Mental Health Court if: 1) The defendant has a past or current charge of a sex offense; or 2) If the defendant has been convicted of more than one DWI; or 3) If the defendant’s primary diagnosis is a substance abuse disorder; or 4) If the defendant is currently on parole.

If you have a loved one that is charged with a felony and they have a diagnosed mental illness or you suspect he/she suffers from mental illness, inform their attorney immediately so that the proper evaluations and testing can be performed.

Attorney Krystin Collins is a native of the Acres Homes Community. She is a graduate of Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has been a licensed attorney since 2009. Her primary practice areas are criminal defense, civil litigation, personal injury, estate planning, and divorce. She may be contacted at 713775-0332 or krystin.collins@gmail.com.

HELPING TO FIGHT HUNGER Gene Locke

Krystin Collins Attorney at Law

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

A

Harris County Commisioner Precinct 1

fter taking office in January, I’ve met with several Precinct One constituents to discuss their concerns – roads, bridges, illegal dumping, seniors’ programs, youth services and flooding, among others.

Not to marginalize those issues, but a conversation I had with one constituent stopped me dead in my tracks. It was on the subject of hunger, in particular how the lack of food affects so many in my urban precinct.

Of course, I knew about the food deserts, areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. No food at all, however, was something of deep concern. Of course we all read about that in Third World and war-torn countries. But in our back yards?

I just couldn’t stand idly by because the hunger problem in Harris County has a devastating impact on people, especially families with young children and our senior citizens. In Precinct One, 1 in 5 people do not have enough food to eat and will often go to school or to bed hungry.

With this information in mind, I started the Precinct One Hunger Task Force, which was formally announced on May 28 to coincide with World Hunger Day. It will be ongoing to make a difference in disadvantaged citizens’ lives. The Task Force will work on solving some of the underlying issues that create food insecurity and hunger, which may include a lack of resources, job opportunities and education.

My initial idea to put food in hungry stomachs was to initiate a mass food drive with religious groups and businesses. Then, using Precinct One resources, we would distribute the food to needy pantries throughout the precinct.

After talking with representatives from two food distribution groups, I immediately realized that the problems are more complex than just the supply of food.

We have to address problems such as outreach, family income, transportation, healthy options and access.

Therefore, the task force is in the beginning stage to address those issues. The group is comprised of five members of my staff as well as representatives from Houston Food Bank, Target Hunger and Kids Meals – all of which have agreed to partner with us in developing a strategic plan for food insecurity in Precinct One. Discussions will include short- and long-term strategies, distribution shortfalls/ gaps, and available support resources. ----- Follow us online Business Card for Paper 14_Layout 1 12/11/14 @ aframnews.com!

979-921-9908 28820 FM 1736 Road Hempstead, TX 77445 Waller County

Breeder of Trophy Whitetail Deer, High End Beef-Type Registered Brahmans and Herefords Cattle.

Trophy Hunting Whitetails, Axis and Blackbuck Nature Tours and Photography

www.rsdeerranch.com malonson@rsdeerranch.com

Read us online @www.aframnews.com The #1 100% Black-owned Worldwide Digital News Source TX-2

African

2

American News&Issues

Politics & Law

UNDERSTANDING THE LAW: FELONY MENTAL HEALTH COURT

I

n light of the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, I wanted to write on a legal topic geared towards our fallen soldiers. The first topic that came to mind was how society often fails to acknowledge mental health issues of soldiers fortunate enough to return home from war. Often times, soldiers return from war with either undiagnosed mental illness or diagnosed mental illness coupled with improper treatment or no treatment. If you have a loved one that has been diagnosed with

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

Production/Editor

Tayler Copeland

Production Asst.

Kimberly Hatter

Content Editor

James Jones III, Ph.D

Contributing Writer

Mark Spivey

Contributing Writer

Chelsea Davis-Bibb

Contributing Writer

Sandra Davis

Distribution

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.

mental illness or that you suspect may have an undiagnosed mental illness and they have been charged with a felony, felony mental health court may be an alternative to incarceration.

What is Felony Mental Health Court?

Felony Mental Health Court is a court created in Harris County, Texas in 2012 to help individuals that have been charged with a felony that also suffer from mental illness. Instead of facing the threat of incarceration, you are transferred into felony mental health court where you are placed in an intensive community supervision program that focuses on specialized treatment tailored to the defendant’s needs.

Criteria for Felony Mental Health Court: • Diagnosed Mental Illness: In order to be considered for felony mental health court you must be diagnosed with a mental illness (Schizophrenia/ Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder).

• Competency: In addition to being diagnosed with a mental illness, the defendant must still be considered legally competent by the court. They will have to undergo a competency evaluation for the court to make that determination.

• Connection between Crime and Mental Illness: The crime the defendant is charged with must have some relation to the diagnosed mental illness.

• Felony Charge: The defendant must be charged with

a felony to be eligible to get into this program. Any offenses involving assault or possession of a firearm will be considered on a case by case basis.

Ineligibility for Mental Health Court: Under certain circumstances, some defendants are not eligible to be placed in Felony Mental Health Court even though they have been diagnosed with a mental illness. The defendant is not eligible for Felony Mental Health Court if: 1) The defendant has a past or current charge of a sex offense; or 2) If the defendant has been convicted of more than one DWI; or 3) If the defendant’s primary diagnosis is a substance abuse disorder; or 4) If the defendant is currently on parole.

If you have a loved one that is charged with a felony and they have a diagnosed mental illness or you suspect he/she suffers from mental illness, inform their attorney immediately so that the proper evaluations and testing can be performed.

Attorney Krystin Collins is a native of the Acres Homes Community. She is a graduate of Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has been a licensed attorney since 2009. Her primary practice areas are criminal defense, civil litigation, personal injury, estate planning, and divorce. She may be contacted at 713775-0332 or krystin.collins@gmail.com.

HELPING TO FIGHT HUNGER Gene Locke

Krystin Collins Attorney at Law

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

A

Harris County Commisioner Precinct 1

fter taking office in January, I’ve met with several Precinct One constituents to discuss their concerns – roads, bridges, illegal dumping, seniors’ programs, youth services and flooding, among others.

Not to marginalize those issues, but a conversation I had with one constituent stopped me dead in my tracks. It was on the subject of hunger, in particular how the lack of food affects so many in my urban precinct.

Of course, I knew about the food deserts, areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. No food at all, however, was something of deep concern. Of course we all read about that in Third World and war-torn countries. But in our back yards?

I just couldn’t stand idly by because the hunger problem in Harris County has a devastating impact on people, especially families with young children and our senior citizens. In Precinct One, 1 in 5 people do not have enough food to eat and will often go to school or to bed hungry.

With this information in mind, I started the Precinct One Hunger Task Force, which was formally announced on May 28 to coincide with World Hunger Day. It will be ongoing to make a difference in disadvantaged citizens’ lives. The Task Force will work on solving some of the underlying issues that create food insecurity and hunger, which may include a lack of resources, job opportunities and education.

My initial idea to put food in hungry stomachs was to initiate a mass food drive with religious groups and businesses. Then, using Precinct One resources, we would distribute the food to needy pantries throughout the precinct.

After talking with representatives from two food distribution groups, I immediately realized that the problems are more complex than just the supply of food.

We have to address problems such as outreach, family income, transportation, healthy options and access.

Therefore, the task force is in the beginning stage to address those issues. The group is comprised of five members of my staff as well as representatives from Houston Food Bank, Target Hunger and Kids Meals – all of which have agreed to partner with us in developing a strategic plan for food insecurity in Precinct One. Discussions will include short- and long-term strategies, distribution shortfalls/ gaps, and available support resources. ----- Follow us online Business Card for Paper 14_Layout 1 12/11/14 @ aframnews.com!

979-921-9908 28820 FM 1736 Road Hempstead, TX 77445 Waller County

Breeder of Trophy Whitetail Deer, High End Beef-Type Registered Brahmans and Herefords Cattle.

Trophy Hunting Whitetails, Axis and Blackbuck Nature Tours and Photography

www.rsdeerranch.com malonson@rsdeerranch.com

Read us online @www.aframnews.com The #1 100% Black-owned Worldwide Digital News Source TX-2

4

African

American News&Issues

CONTRACT FROM PG. 1

Membership Has its Privileges and Responsibilities The United States Army considers its enlisted soldiers to be the most important part of the Army structure.

“They carry out orders and complete missions. As a Soldier, you will be challenged to accomplish tasks that will put your abilities to the test, and you will discover talents that you never dreamed you had.” And interestingly per the “quick facts” cited on www. goarmy.com, approximately 10 percent of the 400,000 Blacks who served in World War I were assigned to combat units.

The United States Marine Corp (USMC) boldly declares that “By becoming one of us, your title will be your membership into an everlasting brotherhood of warriors - those who will stand by you in battle will never leave your side.” Additionally the USMC assures us all that, “No Marine passes through our gates without gaining leadership traits that can be called upon throughout a lifetime.”

The United States Air Force offers its Airmen a sense of community and they state, “Air Force bases are basically self-contained cities with everything you need to live and raise your family.” And under the Airmen’s Creed, Airmen give their word to “defend my Country with my Life” and … and if necessary pay the ultimate price for their country and their countrymen.”

Not just anyone can enter into the ultimate agreement with the American people, and before “our” soldiers can enjoy the perks and benefits of their choice to serve with honor, courage and integrity, they must first “qualify” to enlist by meeting specific entrance requirements and admission standards of their chosen branch of the military.

Once all bars to entry have been met or exceeded, the “chosen ones” then pledge their allegiance, solemnly swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and trust that we civilians will uphold our end of the bargain to support them and to use our voices and votes in order to preserve and protect our collective liberties.

Young men and women eagerly trade-in their small towns and big cities alike, for what they all hope is a round-trip ticket around the world and an opportunity to travel the globe TX- 4

in defense of some unknown “others” like each one of us. Transitioning from recruitment to enlistment, soldiers committed to leaving their own families, friends and communities, in exchange for securing this nation’s homeland and safeguarding our freedoms. For some of them, this is their first time to leave home and explore exotic places and foreign territories which before might have been unimaginable.

Our self-less veterans affix their signatures in the appropriate places and agree to the most rigorous physical and mental conditioning which the majority of us will only experience by reading a war story or watching some blockbuster action flick from the comforts of our own living rooms or during opening weekend at an air-conditioned movie theatre. Their views of the “action” are up-close and personal from the world’s wide-open ranges and front lines, and “Basic Training” is merely a beginning for them and not their final destination.

What kind of person agrees to die for a stranger, you ask? People exactly like the staff members and residents of Cloud Break Communities … that’s who.

A few of these amazing veterans include the following:

Anthony Osborne (Houston, TX) US Navy – Active Service from 1976 to 1982 “I wish I would have stayed in the military because that was the best time of my life. I got to see the world and was around different cultures.” This was the sentiment shared by Anthony Osborne as he reflected on his military service in the United States Navy from 1976 to 1982. Mr. Osborne outlined how things began to change when he returned home and said, “I became overwhelmed with my life because I had a new wife and kids, but it didn’t work out because I wasn’t ready

Cover Story

for that.” As a result of transitioning back to the “civilian life”, Osborne began getting into trouble and eventually struggled with substance abuse issues.

Fortunately, he has beaten the odds and remains sober and optimistic, and Osborne lives each day as a productive member of society and proud resident of CloudBreak Communities.

Always willing to lend a helping hand, he looks forward to assisting other veterans and having an opportunity to mentor young black men in the future.

TexasTexas • May 30 - June 5, 2016 • August 12-18, 2013

edge, he has remained sober, received numerous awards and recognition, and can be found motivating fellow veterans, peer-counseling and coaching anyone who will listen and who is willing to make that change.

Darryl Washington (St. Louis, MO) US Marine Corp (“Semper Fi”) – Active Service from 1964 to 1971; Vietnam War Veteran

Lonnie Manuel, Jr. (Beaumont, TX) US Army – Active Service from 1973 to 1976; Tour in Fulda, Germany (11th ACR) “You can preach this thing, you can teach this thing, you can share, share and share, and you can want another person to recover, but it ain’t gonna work until they receive the fact that they have got to want it for themselves”, proclaims Lonnie Manual during a heart-to-heart dialogue with AANI and Ralph Cooper (Veterans Services Coordinator for CloudBreak Communities). He went on to tell us, “The light got to come on, that you’ve had enough. Life is about choices!

You either choose to live or choose to die.”

Lonnie recalls being told by one of his mentors [Mr. Moore] that “some of us got to die for others to live.” So he never forgets his successes and military service in the United States Army from 1973 to 1976, nor does he ignore his past misfortunes, substance abuse battles and other personal struggles that he overcame. Each day he considers the “dangers” and makes a deliberate choice to stay on the right path and avoid potential triggers that might trip him up. He firmly believes, “there is no guarantee that if I go back out there that I’ll have another chance to come back here [CloudBreak Communities].” And with that knowl-

Charles Lockman (Pittsburg, PA) US Army – Active Service from 1977 to 1983; Stationed in Germany

Jackie Robinson (Nacogdoches, TX) US Air Force – Active Service from 1975 to 1985

Mirian Cummings (New Orleans, LA) US Air Force – Active Service from 1983 to 1989; Staff Sergeant

Staff Member at CloudBreak Communities; Relocated to Houston after Hurricane Katrina

WHAT IS THE PERSONAL COST FOR THEIR SERVICE? Like many Americans, military personnel are not immune to the pitfalls of alcohol and drug abuse. These substances pose a significant threat to their life, liberty and happiness, and can lead to fatal threatening consequences up to and including death … just like an IED, drone strike, hostile fire or ambush by insurgents.

WHAT IS CLOUDBREAK COMMUNITIES (HOUSTON, TEXAS)?

MIDTOWN TERRACE SUITES

CLOUDBREAK HOUSTON, LLC 4640 MAIN STREET, HOUSTON, TX 77002 Originally a Days Inn Hotel, Midtown Terrace Suites opened its door in 2003 and now features 328 beds in 286 units for homeless and formerly homeless veterans. Over the years, the property has housed nearly 3,000 veterans in transitional and long term housing with program and support services from various entities and organizations.

TRAVIS STREET PLAZA APARTMENTS CLOUDBREAK HOUSTON, LLC 4500 TRAVIS STREET, HOUSTON, TX 77002 This four-story residential building over a mixed use ground floor podium deck features 192 studio apartments and over 3,000 square feet of store front facilities. Travis Street broke ground in December 2011, and the facility provides permanent supportive housing targeting lower income veterans who are disabled, recently separated, and/or have experienced homelessness. Residents have access to supportive services, such as benefits counseling, mental health counseling, medical care, job training, and rehabilitation through a medley of service providers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Go to www.cantwellanderson.com or call (713) 533-9205 Written By & Photo Credit: Kimberly M. Hatter, Esq More articles can be found online @ aframnews.com

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

Community

Read us online! www. aframnews. com

5

Rep. Jarvis Johnson Wins Second Election to Succeed the Honorable Sylvester Turner

CHARLENE JOHNSON, REP. JARVIS JOHNSON, NALYAH JOHNSON, JARVIS JOHNSON, JR.

HOUSTON - Rep. Jarvis Johnson won the second and final election, the May 24 primary runoff, to secure his role as the District 139 state representative who will succeed the Honorable Sylvester Turner. After 26 years, Turner stepped down from his state seat to assume role as Houston mayor.

To get to this point, Johnson ran in March 1 primary election, advanced to runoff, won Special Election called to determine interim representative for this year and won the primary election runoff. Since he will be unopposed in November, Johnson winning the special election and runoff means he is District 139’s state representative through 2019.

Johnson won the May 7 Special Election, with 85% of vote, to finish out remainder of Turner’s term as state representative of District 139. Turner swore him in last week, allowing Johnson to serve through December and immediately, fully assume former Rep. Sylvester Turner’s seniority status and his roles that include Vice-Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

Some questioned Rep. Johnson’s motives to run in a special election for a role deemed as a seat warmer position.

“Well I’m ready to go warm that seat up,” Johnson

said laughing. “In all seriousness, I believe at no point should our district go without a voice in Austin.”

“I ran in the special election to finish out Sylvester’s term because I knew our District needed representation and leadership now,” added Rep Johnson.

Prior to swearing in Rep. Johnson to serve through December, Turner noted years of partnership between him and Johnson as reason for support.

“Jarvis has the experience, desire and understanding to get things done in The Texas House of Representatives,” said now Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner who served as District 139 representative for 26 years. “When Jarvis was a City Councilmember, we worked together to improve economic development and many issues in District 139. Jarvis stood with me as we took on school issues. I worked with Jarvis as he worked to improve our veterans’ lives through housing and employment.”

Jarvis Johnson was 18 when Turner first entered office. At 18, the Fifth Ward native, Johnson, was a founding member of the Mickey Leland Youth Task Forces (MLYTF). It was then that he decided to live by, “when you want a

ZERNIA GAINES, ALIDA VILLALONGO, AYANNA FLETCHER, JOHN BRANCH

change, lead it, go against the grain and involve the right people to help you execute it.” This is what he says fuels his passion to serve in public office.

Johnson, north Houston native, entrepreneur, and former north side Houston City Council Member, has led his life learning from example and leading by example. His mother was a former community organizer for State Rep. and U.S. Rep. Mickey Leland and his father is a local radio reporter. His parents helped to make him the man he is by instilling family values and love for the community.

Johnson stood on those principles in politics on the local level. Now the homegrown representative is set to stand on those principles in Austin.

“With strong, dedicated and experienced leadership, I stand ready to fight for our district’s most pressing issues: criminal justice reform, expansion of Medicaid and Medicare, school funding for our children and economic development for more jobs,” said Rep. Johnson.

SHAR-DAY & TAMMIE CAMPBELL

MARKUS GLENN

TANYA DEBOSE, DINETA FRAZIER, CATHERINE DORSEY

Lone Star College-Victory Center Star Student of the Month Why did this future business executive choose Lone Star College-Victory Center? For Cartrice O’Neal, the answer was simple: LSC-Victory Center is conveniently located in Acres Homes, allowing her to easily balance family and college life - a smart move for anyone who wants to succeed.

So, when it was time to think about higher education, Cartrice knew she wanted to go to college, but being near her family was equally important. “I’m very close with my mom and sister and they have always supported me to go further in my studies. With LSC-Victory Center being located just five minutes from my home and offering the classes I wanted, I knew this was the right choice for me.”

Cartrice, who continuously excels in her studies, was recently inducted into the college’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She is poised for growth in honors, service and leadership.

What does the future hold for Cartrice?

“I am hoping to attend the University of Houston after earning my associate degree here,” she said. “LSC-Victory Center has given me the skills, confidence and education to advance academically and professionally. I’m ready to achieve the next level of success!”

TO CONTINUE READING VISIT US ONLINE @ AFRAMNEWS.COM

Start Close. Go Far.

LSC-Victory Center Star Student Cartrice O’Neal

CartriceO'Neal_Advertorial_AANI_4.88x5.indd 1

For more information about LSC-Victory Center, call 281.810.5602 or visit: LoneStar.edu/victory-center TX5/25/16 8:38 AM5

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Email: mlovecpa@yahoo.com www.michaellovecpa.net 713-666-2900 Office 713-666-2932 Fax 2626 South LoopW, #420 Houston,TX 77054

CHURCH Cliffdale Baptist Church (281) 447-8850

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FUNERAL HOME

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First to Fight and Serve: Mr. Naro Mak

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Texas • May 30 - June 5, 2016

(l-r) Janie Guerra, Nohemi Cazares, Naro Mak, Federico Tzoc Xiloj, Kimmeng Lay

HOUSTON - There’s more to Naro Mak than being the friendly face and General Manager for Hartz Krispy Chicken on Pinemont located in the greater Acres Home community (1215 Pinemont Dr., Houston, TX 77018). He is also a loving husband and father, successful businessman, stand-up comedian and proud United States Marine Corp veteran.

Mr. Mak and his family emigrated to the United States from Cambodia during the late 1980’s to escape the “killing fields” and state-sponsored genocide, where more than a million people were killed from 1975 to 1979 by the communist regime under totalitarian dictator Pol Pot. The Mak family reestablished themselves in the US, and Naro followed in the footsteps of his elders and forefathers to become a public servant and valuable resource to the community.

Escaping a legacy of terror, death and human rights violations back in their homeland, it was only

natural that both Naro and his younger brother, Den Mak, would eagerly sign up to protect the American people under our flag and swear to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. Naro became a member of the United States Marine Corp right out of high school and served from 1996-2000, while his brother Den followed his lead and served in the United States Navy. Naro is both humbled and empowered by his military service, and excitedly ‘shouts out’ to his fellow service members of Infantry 0311 (29 Palms “The Stumps”).

“We are non-existent without the people who work for us and support what we do”, says Naro and he absolutely exemplifies this in the way he champions and honors his employees, customers, fellow veterans and community partners in his daily life and activities.

Just like he answered the call to serve his country, Naro is always ready and willing to answer the call of “the

People”. He is an active member of the Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development, a frequent sponsor of youth and community events throughout the Houston area and also does his part to increase Autism awareness. Still putting it all on the line for others, Naro also supports veteran causes, including participating in the “Greater Heights Comedy Night” at the American Legion Post 560 where proceeds from the event go back into a fund to support veteran services and the veteran community.

Hartz Krispy Chicken on Pinemont offers delicious Southern dishes in a friendly environment, and military personnel/veterans (with valid ID) only pay $7.50 for the buffet.

For More Info Contact: (713) 681-8050

Written by: Kimberly M . Hatter, Esq.

Aframnews Business Directory Visit www.aframnews.com to

SUBMIT YOUR BUSINESS into the FREE Online Directory

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

EDITION DATE: May 30 - June 5, 2016 (Vol. 21 Issue 19) Texas • May 30 - June 5, 2016

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Proposed Goal for the Participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Federal Transit Administration Assisted Contracts As required by Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County has determined a proposed overall goal of 17% for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE’s) in its FY17 – FY19 contracts which are funded by U.S. Department of Transportation.

The proposed goal and its rationale are available for inspection during normal business hours at the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Headquarters, 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002; in Room 2023. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County and the Federal Transit Administration will accept written comments on the proposed goal through July 30, 2016.

Written comments may be directed to Metropolitan Transit Authority Office of Small Business, Attention: Karen Hudson, P.O. Box 61429, Houston, Texas 77208-1429 or Federal Transit Administration: Attention: Robert C. Patrick, Regional Administrator, Region VI, Federal Transit Administration, 819 Taylor Street, Room 14A02, Fort Worth, TX 76102

May 30 - Jun 5

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Heritage Foundation of TX Contact Information: Name: Ashanti Brown 6th Annual Carribean Company: Metropolitan Transit Authority American Heritage Phone: 713-615-6358 Month Festival Fax: Email: ashanti.brown@ridemetro.org 601 Texas St (JonesAddress Hall) for Tearsheets: Houston, TX 77002 1900 Main St | P.O. Box 64129 | Houston, For more info visit: TX 77208

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Saturday - Sunday AD COST The Woodlands Waterway Marriot Hotel & Cost to run Ad for one week: Total Convention Center $509.40 American Fit Expo 1601 Lake Robbins Dr Houston, TX 770380 From 10:00am - 6:30pm For more info contact: (832) 603-3645

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Monday - Sunday MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition 1601 Nasa Rd 1 Houston, TX 77058 (M - F) From 9am - 5pm (S & S) From 10am - 7pm For more info contact: (281)-244-2100

Thursday

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Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Networking Luncheon 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161 info@acreshomecenter.org

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4 weeks in advance! or call (713) 692 - 1892

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Thursday Sisters Network Inc. National Headquarters Emotional Aftermath of Breast Cancer Survivor Social Guest Speaker ** Jacqueline Jones, PhD** 2922 Rosedale St Houston, TX 77004 From 6:30pm - 8:30pm For more info contact: lsmith@sistersnetworkinc.org To Register visit:

www.sistersnetworkinc.org

Saturday The Ensemble Theatre Please sign for approval and fax The Rose 3535 Main St back to (713) 692-1183 Houston, TX 77002 by 12 NOON Wednesday for Beginning at 1pm For more info contact: next Monday’s publication.

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Jun 5 - Jun 6

Saturday - Sunday

Free Press Summer Fest Signature 500 Allen Prkwy Houston, TX 77019 From 11 am - 10 pm For more info visit: Date www.fpsp.com Monday Destiny of Faith Intl Ministry BatteredP.O. Bruised But Number for this Ad Not Broken Ministry 9442 Needham, Hwy 242 Spring, TX 77386 Beginning at 7pm LEGENDARY PICTURES AND UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENT For more info contact: A LEGENDARY PICTURES/BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT/ATLAS ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION “WARCRAFT” (832) 216-2889

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Tuesday Windsor Houtson Networking Breakfast 6920 TC Jester Blvd Houston, TX 77091 Beginning at 9:20am For more info contact: (281)224-0280

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LIFE LEGACY OF PASTOR KENNETH SKELTON

As we celebrate Memorial Day, let’s take the time out and recognize the life of a true man of God who also served for our country.

Dr. Kenneth A. Skelton, Sr. was born on April 25, 1957 to Mr. Winston & DorLee Skelton. As a very young man Kenneth Skelton embraced a relationship with God and as a teenager he would pack his bible to school. At the age of 16, Dr. Kenneth Skelton Sr. rendered his first sermon at Bethany Baptist Church and never stopped preaching until the Lord called him home. His love for God caused him to be a profound and obedient scholar of the Word of God. Dr. Skelton obtained his Bachelor of Theology at the College of Biblical Studies and his Master and Doctorate from the Houston Graduate School of Theology. He also graduated from Ever Increasing Word Training Center.

On October 12, 1976, Dr. Skelton married his best friend and the love of his life Cookie “Lady C” Skelton.

The blessing of this union honored them with three children, Michael (Sabrina), Kenneth Jr. and his baby girl Kennisha. They are the proud grandparents of seven; Elijah (16), Faith (14), Marcus (12), Matthew (10), Mya (9), Ariel (7) and TX-8

Religion

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Caleb (6).

While walking in obedience to God and fulfilling his purpose, God gave him the revelation of II Corinthians 3:6 that states “…. the letter killeth but the spirit giveth life.” On September 26, 1990, Spirit of Life Church was birthed with a mission to Change Lives. For almost 26 years, nothing gave him greater joy than pastoring this great congregation.

Through all of his dispensed wisdom, he taught the hand that can get anything form God…Live, Give, Forgive, Serve and Evangelize.

When it comes to delivering the Word of God to members or people he met, Dr. Skelton was happy to share God’s word in the store, on a plane, in a meeting, at a game, and of course every time the church doors were opened. His weekly broadcast reached many across the nation. He was an avid crusader for the cause of Christ and a great worshipper and never ashamed to lie prostrate in the presence of God and man. Dr. Skelton was also the established author of two books – “Slavery: The Abuse of a Nation,” “Why They Just Can’t Get Over It,” and “The Names of Man”.

Dr. Skelton was a man in authority and one under authority and a great disciple under the leadership of Apostle Leroy Thompson Sr. where he faithfully served as a Master Vision Bearer.

He embraced the revelation of “Money Cometh” which caused his life to change and prosper immeasurably. Pastor had a stern and steady handle on both his personal and church family coupled with love and humility.

CONTINUE READING ONLINE @ WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

50 SHADES OF SINGLE

HOUSTON - Many people are simply not getting married anymore. “This is the first time in history where there are more single people than married people,” expressed by Rev. Keion D. Henderson, who is the pastor of The Lighthouse Church. Pastor Henderson is originally from Gary, Indiana, and was called to the ministry in 1995 at the age of 14. The Lighthouse Church is not the first church he has founded.

While he was in college, Pastor Henderson created a church named New Horizon Church.

He then received a call and made the move to Houston in 2009, and founded his current church with only 5 members, which has now grown to 5,000 members.

Pastor Henderson has witnessed many programs and events that were geared towards married couples, but never saw many people create functions that targeted single people. This prompted him to ask the question “Is that why a lot of the people in our church are disengaged because all of our programs are centered around what the church used to look like?” This question created the idea for a conference that centers on those who are single. There are many factors that contribute to this epidemic especially since our current society has shifted significantly from the mindset of when people would marry young back in the 1930’s.

This is the second year for the conference, and it is called The Well Experience, and the theme is titled 50 Shades of Single. The theme was a playoff from the movie 50 Shades of Grey. In addition to, the theme focuses on the “multiplicity of the shades of single”. This includes people who are divorced, widowed, those who are too busy to be in a relationship, those who are driven by their career rather than romance, and even for

those who are married and may parent single children just to name a few. Pastor Henderson didn’t want to just focus on one group of single people, but to target all shades of single.

So the one question that still remains is why are people not getting married anymore? “I think that we have a culture of young people who are accustomed to things happening quickly…we are in a moment of instantaneous gratification, and relationships are not microwavable.

They take time to solidify,” expressed Pastor Henderson.

Furthermore, he made it known that people don’t like to commit to anything anymore.

Commitment is now one thing that scares many people. If people feel committed, they may feel stuck in something that they can’t get out of. On top of the commitment issues, Pastor Henderson voiced his thoughts on how “what some would call the most biblically illiterate generation that has ever happened.” Many people aren’t aware of what the bible says about marriage, or what it says about the covenant and how to be in church is to be in a marriage with Christ.

Being single seems to now be a new trend, and Pastor Henderson communicated that the church must shift with this trend, and made suggestions of how people should get the most out of their single life.

He quoted Paul and stated, “You should use your single life to do the work of the lord.”

Furthermore, “being single is not about being wild. It’s about building yourself, your brand, your reputation, your income, building those things so that you are an asset to your spouse, and not a liability.”

Additionally, divorce is also rising amongst this generation. According to Pastor Henderson, most marriages end in a divorce about 50%, this means half of the mar-

First Lady Felicia & Pastor Keion Henderson

riages that start, don’t finish.

Furthermore, when people get remarried, the percentage of a divorce rises to 70%, and on the third marriage, 80%.

“People think that being married multiple times is a security blanket that makes it stronger, but it actually makes it weaker.” This percentage of divorce after being married rises because people feel that since they went through a divorce once, it will be easy to go through a second one.

Pastor Henderson wants to inform people, that being single is not a bad thing, but it’s a blessing. People shouldn’t be in a rush to get married because “to be alone, is better than being with someone that isn’t right for you. It’s miserable to be in something you feel like you can’t get out of when you finally wake up and realize that this is not the person that I want to spend the rest of my life with.” In addition to those feelings, the person will eventually have to find a way to tell their spouse that they don’t want to be in the relationship anymore without hurting them. He wants people

to understand that this single’s conference will teach people how to utilize their single life, and how people should get to know themselves first, before they get to know someone else. If someone jumps into a marriage without knowing who they are first, they can never tell their partner how make them happy.

If people do get married, they must also understand their cause for getting married. He further proposed the question, “What is the cause of you wanting to be in the relationship?” Pastor Henderson expressed that some people get married for different causes such as, getting married because it’s cheaper to share one apartment, or because a woman’s biological clock is ticking and she feels like she needs a baby by a certain age, just to name few. He feels as if sometimes, people get married for the wrong cause. This feeling can be derived from people not really knowing or understanding what love is.

CONTINUE READING ONLINE @ WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM BY: CHELSEA DAVIS-BIBB, M.ED

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

Health

Read us online! www. aframnews. com

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For the past 15 years, our Medicare Advantage care coordinators have made it possible for our members to have happier and healthier days.

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HOUSTON’S LARGEST MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN 4-STAR QUALITY RATED BY MEDICARE TexanPlus® HMO and HMO-POS are Medicare Advantage plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-Star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. For more information about TexanPlus HMO and HMO-POS call 1-866-470-0041 (TTY users call 711), 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in your local time zone Monday–Friday. Your call may be answered by a licensed agent.

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TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

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Bold and fierce, 12 year old Iyanni Pradia, is an actress, a model, a designer, an activist, and the founder of her own campaign named the Million Kid March.

Iyanni Pradia was born and raised in Houston, and she knew at a young age that she wanted to make a positive impact on others and to change the world. At the age of 4, Iyanni was placed in The Mayo Hill School of Modeling, and at the age of 6, she then started to venture into high fashion.

Shortly after, she moved with her mom to California where she started to do voice overs, and shifted into acting. “Acting has always been one of my passions. I think it’s a fun thing to do, and I just love becoming a new character,” expressed Iyanni.

When she moved back to Houston, she acted as a radio host for KLOH, and started to take interest in designing clothes. Iyanni designs everything, and has even launched her own clothing line. She is also currently on a show called Take the Stage, which is a history making show that will be held at The Children’s Museum. This is a history making show because this will be the first time that someone will have a fashion show there. Her first fashion show was in 2014, and she currently has an upcoming show, which is scheduled for July 24th.

Although Iyanni has many passions, her heart lies within her campaign known as the Million Kid March, which was created to help stop bullying. The inspiration for this campaign was derived from Iyanni being a victim to bullying, and she wanted to make a difference and try to help prevent all forms of bullying. According to National Institutes of Health statistics, every 30 minutes a teen takes his/her life as a result of bullying. Also, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that, in 2013, about 22 percent of students ages 12-18 reported being bullied at school, and in that same year, approximately 7 percent of students ages 12–18 reported being cyber-bullied during the school year. “Bullying happens everywhere… I was bullied for two years at two different schools.” Because of her own experiences, this prompted her to have a Million Kid March.

The very first Million Kid March for antibullying will take place at the George R. Brown Convention Center sometime this summer.

After the debut of the first Million Kid March, Iyanni plans to go on a 13 state campaign, and will end up the campaign in Washington D.C. In Washington, a Million Kid March will take place

right where President Obama was inaugurated.

Iyanni further spoke to Sheila Jackson Lee, and is currently working with her in order to have a bill signed to place stiffer measures on those who bully others.

Since many kids are taking their life due to bullying, Iyanni wants to try and save as many as she can. When speaking on the issue of kids killing themselves because of the person that bullied them, she stated, “I feel like even though that person didn’t physically kill that person, they mentally did, so I feel like they deserve punishment because those people just go on with their life like nothing ever happened…so I feel like there needs to be something in place for when those things happen.” Iyanni wants to be a voice for those children who have taken their life. She further expressed that she does have sympathy for the person who is acting as the bully because they may have something going on in their life that is causing them to bully others.

Iyanni has accomplished so much thus far, and she has had some obstacles along the way.

One challenge has been because of her age.

Some people felt that she was too young to do everything that she is currently doing. She doesn’t let those comments stop her, but only uses it as a form of motivation to continue to fight for the cause she believes in. Through all of what she has accomplished thus far, none of it would have been possible without the full support of her mother Lisa Pradia. “My purpose is that I’m the bridge…the person who kind of lays down, and she gets to walk across my back to get to the other side.” Lisa supports her daughter, and believes strongly in the message that her daughter is trying to get across in regards to bullying.

Continue Reading Online @ www.aframnews.com By: Chelsea Davis - Bibb, M.Ed

TEXAS • MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2016

Education/Y uth

Parent University Ceremony Stepping Into the Future

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Salute to the Seniors of the Class of 2016 Harper Alternative School

Klein Intermediate Parent University 2016 Graduation

Klein Intermediate School held its first Parent University Graduation on May 24, 2016. The Parent University is a program that is designed to encourage and promote family engagement at Klein Intermediate. The school uses the Practical Parent Education Curriculum and has over 1,310 parents to attend parent workshops or events this past school year. There were 42 eligible parents that graduated May 24th. The parents were thrilled about the opportunity to graduate! Some of the workshops held were: Effective Parent Communication, Nutrition Class (with a chef), Getting Ready for College, Trusting within Family and Cupcakes and Canvas; just to name a few. Klein Intermediate School believes that parent involvement is very important for the students. Dr. Hope Luster, the parent liaison stated, “Research shows that Parental Involvement improves student achievement”. When students have their parents involved with school it gives them hope. The principal Mr. Bob Anderson says, “We want to provide an opportunity to network with our parents, gaining a deeper understanding of strategies they can use to improve the middle school experience for the parent and child”. The parents were attentive to the commencement speaker, Roy Douglas Malonson. He spoke passionately about the future of our children, how parents should support them as well as how important their involvement is to their child (ren) He had them thrilled with the analogy of Whitney Houston’s song The Greatest Love of All. Klein Intermediate is looking forward to the next parent involvement event on August 19, 2016 from 10am – 2pm on campus for Family Engagement Day. There will be free immunizations, health screenings and child activities.

Bob Anderson & Angelica Cespedes

Harper Alternative School Graduation, Promotion, and Awards Ceremony was held Tuesday, May 24, 2016. The program celebrates the accomplishments of fulfilling high school requirements, and eighth grade promotion standards. Five seniors, Adam Estrada from Milby H. S., Nayelly Bocanegra from Sam Houston H. S., Raymond Hardman, from Bellaire H. S., Demarcus Nelson from Sharpstown H. S., and Jacob Yaeger from Booker T. Washington H. S., along with ten eighth grade promotees were honored. What makes Harper Alternative School Class of 2016 special and unique: The Harper Class of 2016 has worked hard all year, and has been looking forward for this special day, May 24, 2016? The seniors are excited to finally see the end of the bittersweet road. Our students come from all over the Houston ISD with behavior, and academic challenges. Harper is a campus that allows students to overcome challenges, and obstacles to assist in meeting their graduation requirements that would have been stimulating at their home school. Our theme for this year is, “The Pen is in Your Hands, the Rest is Unwritten” When we think about the

word commencement it means, “the beginning of something.” What are you about to begin? What are your plans? What does your future hold?

The pen is in your hands. As our distinguish guest speaker Roy Douglas Malonson spoke to our seniors graduates, and promotees, he explained to them, not let to no one stop them from achieving success no matter who you are. Don’t let your circumstances block you but whatever it takes to get you where you need to be conquer your fears.

The Graduation Committee included: Ms. Gwendolyn Benton-Graduation Coordinator, Ms. Gwendolyn Lee, Ms. Debbie White, Ms. S. Coats, Mr. Terry Phillips, The Glass Café, and Ms. Sonia Alvarez. Harper Alternative School 2015-2016 Teacher of the year is Mr. Albert Lira. The Administrators; Raymond Glass, II-Principal, Tamera Brown- Assistant Principal, Patrice Grovey-Assistant Principal, Sonia Alvarez- Secretary, Cleveland ShepardHigh School Counselor, Mary Becher-HughesMiddle School Counselor, Tondra ThompsonSpecial Education Coordinator, and Mario Marquez-SSO.

Dr. Hope Luster TX-11

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