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December 26, 2007January 1, 2008 ™ Vol. 12 Issue 47

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New Year for Up in smoke: Early morning fire destroys family dream ly destroyed. However, on that fateMARVIN D. CLOUD old news ful day, something more than the African-American News&Issues

Salutation a misnomer for the disenfranchised PAGE 2

HOUSTON- “Twenty years.

That’s how long I’ve been hanging around here,” said Cedric Williams, son of the owner of Williams Smokehouse, 5903 Wheatley St. in the Acres Home community. Just like that, 20 years of hard work, sweat, tears and toil, went up in smoke in the wee hours of the morning on December 18 as residents slept, exactly one week before “visions of sugar-plums” danced in the heads of area children.

Williams Smokehouse was already engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived before dawn.

Although a gallant effort was put forth, the restaurant was complete-

building’s structure was reduced to ashes— the hopes and dreams of what represented success for residents of this impoverished community, on the brink of becoming a developer’s haven were dashed.

Founded by Willie B. Williams and his wife Hattie, the family-oriented business had gained notoriety over the past couple of decades as an award-winning eatery, fit for everyone from area blue-collar workers, downtown executives, lawmakers and even popular entertainers who wouldn’t dare come to Houston without stopping by the little shack with the smokestack.

Arson investigators quickly shut-

Willie B. Williams, founder of Williams Smokehouse, surveys the damage to the famous barbeque restuarant.

Photo by Jesse Simon

See UP IN SMOKE page 3

Happy New Year Scott McClelland, president, Houston Division, H-E-B, addresses the crowd at the 19th annual Black tie gala for the UNCF.

United Negro College Fund hosts 19th annual Black tie gala H-E-B’s Scott McClelland leads charge celebrating education MARVIN D. CLOUD

African-American News&Issues

HOUSTON- The United Negro College Fund held its 19th Annual Black Tie Gala on December 8 at the George R. Brown Convention See UNCF page 6

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Quote of the Week

“America doesn’t respect anything but money. What our people need is a few millionaires.”

-Madame C.J. Walker

Black Americans must renew faith in 2008 BUD JOHNSON

African-American News&Issues

New Year’s Eve celebrations are traditionally festive occasions that celebrate a good year that’s ending, and/or a new year that’s expected to be even better. Conversely, many beleaguered made in America Africans trapped in America’s underserved neighborhoods breathed a sigh of relief (as the clock ticked down to midnight 2007), and prayerfully renewed their faith as they prepared for an even worse 2008. Cynicism notwithstanding, disenfranchised descendants of slaves, indigenous to the “bombed out,” underserved, crime and drug infested urban jungles in the land of the free, can’t deny that the National Urban League’s April 6, 2005 report was prophecy. Thus, African-American News&Issues is obligated to tell it like it is from a common sense Black perspective.

In spite of a preponderance of evidence that supports Black America’s diminishing fortunes, we’re sure that people depending on the A New Year traditionally brings a sense of spiritual renewal, but there will no doubt be bitter-sweet memories for the family and love ones of Marie Tarver Willis whose loving and wonderful life was celebrated two days before New Year 2007 at Island of Hope Church of God in Christ, 1505 Gregg, on December 30, 2006. Especially, since Matriarch Willis’s final year was sadden when her beloved daughter Jacqueline Tarver Cole preceded her in death on January 15, 2006. Nevertheless, the godly matriarch left a legacy of love that was shared by missionaries: Angela Bivens, Yolanda Bryant, Lynn Howard, Ursula Howard; elders: Ricky Glenn, Robert Garrett, Leon Witherspoon, and Mother Theordora Brown during an order of service officiated by Dr. P.E. Bryant, Pastor of Island of Hope.

Active pallbearers were: David Wickware, Paul Bryant, Anthony Cook, Andrew Hafford, James Harris and Michael Jones; Douglas Tarver, Calvin Tarver, Doyle Tarver and Jessie, Wilbert, Richard & Elmo Morris, Jr. were hon-

majority’s media for their primary source of information are more likely to believe prophets of economic doom that lamented in “The Last Days” of 2007: “The difference of opinion is leading to an enormous amount of uncertainty heading into the new year, with some

economists predicting a recession and others forecasting continued growth. Pessimists, such as Dean Baker, co-director of the Washington-based Center for Economic and Policy Research, argue that spillover from the housing slowdown will be great in 2008 as consum-

The National Urban League’s Marc Morial and President George Bush, ponders the new year.

MARIE TARVER WILLIS

July 21, 1926-December 22, 2006

orary pallbearers for Marie, who was born on July 21, 1926 to the Late Elder Elmo and Frankie Morris in Prairieville, Louisiana, a community in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, United States. It is south of Baton Rouge and north of Gonzales, Louisiana. Prairieville is an expanding bedroom suburb of Baton Rouge. The latitude of Prairieville is 30.302N. The longitude is -90.971W. Elevation is 23 feet. Its name comes from the once plentiful pastures and prai-

ries that were visible from Highway 73 and U.S. 61. The most notable of these was the Phillips Farm (FYI: The farmhouse is still a local landmark in Prairieville, although the original owner died in 2005. The house is lined with live oaks and a white planked fence surrounds the grounds. The pasture was sold off in 1992 at the start of the suburban development and a 250-resident subdivision, named “Seven Oaks”, surrounds the farm where the pastures were.

-Wikipedia Free Online Encyclopedia.) Marie accepted Christ at a very early age and allowed God to direct her path. She met and married Herman Tarver and to this union five children were born. Herman preceded her in death on November 19, 1975.

In 1977, the Lord sent into her life Brother Claude Willis. She was a member of Anderson Memorial/ Island of Hope Church and served on the Deaconess Board, Mother’s Board, Church Treasurer, Pastor’s Aide President, Church Secretary, Chairperson of Communion and Chairperson of the Floral Commit-

ers pull back spending.” Even so, a recession translates to a depression in Black America. Accordingly, National Urban League’s (NUL) president Marc Morial made a preempted attempt to solicited mercy from President George W. Bush.

“Blacks lag far behind Whites in economic status, health and education and are in danger of a ‘great backslide’ from the gains made since the civil rights movement began.

This year ... almost every indicator available shows that progress for Black America is stalling or falling,” said league President Marc Morial at a news conference to release the group’s annual Equality Index.

The index found the overall status of Blacks in the United States stayed at 73 percent of the status of their White counterparts, virtually unchanged from the 2004 report.

The widest disparity remains economic, where Blacks have 57 percent of the economic status of Whites. In the area of social justice the status of Blacks fell to 68 percent from 73 the previous year. In the 1990s,” Morial said, “American Blacks saw record drops in unemployment and gains in income.

“But economic stagnation set in after the recession that followed the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.” Translation: In the wake declining jobs and rising costs fueled by unreal gas prices, it’s going to get worse, before it gets better for struggling See NEW YEAR page 6

tee. However, Mother Marie’s true calling was nurturing her children, and their lovingly poem Thank You Mother (Thank you Mother, for your patience and showing you care. Your relentless feelings ever so flowing and your undying love you shared. Thank you, Mother, for loving us and a job we’ll say “well done”…), is a appropriate epitaph for a Proverb 31 woman who celebrated New Year’s Day 2007 in her heavenly home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ.

Marie Tarver Willis leaves to cherish her memories, her husband of 30 years, Claude; one daughter, Barbara Sykes; three sons, Douglas (Diane), Colvin (Janet), Doyle (Jackie); stepchildren, Christine Jones, Ella Willie, Marcia Willis, Cathy Willis, and Lisa Nixon; five brothers, Vincent (Hazel), Wilbert (Diane), Jessie (Ozella), Elmo (Carla) and Richard (Alma).She also leaves her memories to the grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, the Island of Hope Church Family and other relatives and friends.

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EDITORIAL

VIEWPOINTS & OPINIONS “Our country must abandon all of the habits of racism, because we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time.”

President George Walker Bush

WE MUST UNDERSTAND: Keep The Faith In 2008

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PUBLISHER’S NEWS ANALYSIS New Year’s Old News Roy Douglas Malonson

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ost people know that it’s virtually impossible for weekly newspapers to compete with the Internet’s “superhighway of information, high tech TV and radio news, or even daily newspapers. Yet, African-American News&Issues regularly scoops the nation’s media with “exclusive articles.” How? We simply adhere to the media’s oath (Report all news without fear or favor), that’s an extension of Thomas Jefferson’s “Let facts be submitted to a candid world,” in the Declaration of Independence. We do so, in spite of a deadline that’s three days before other weekly newspapers because of the massive press run (over 450,000), needed to distribute in over 46 Texas Cities.

If that’s beating our own drum, then why don’t Black leaders get it?

I only mention this, because adversarial community leaders and politicians try to relegate Texas’ widest circulated and read newspaper with a Black perspective to a small weekly serving northwest Houston, Texas’ Acres Homes community where our corporate headquarters happens to be.

I guess that’s why the Black faces that we expose in our paper’s spaces stopped inviting us to press conferences. Need I use e-mail’s “lol” to let you know I’m joking? Truth is, we scoop other media constantly because we tell it like it is.

In fact, because of our holiday schedule we are unable to report updates on all of the news that happened this year, before it ends. So we’ll start the New Year publishing “old news.” One story in waiting is that of Carol and Hurt Porter’s vindication after an almost five year fight to defend their good names TX-2

s we greet a “Happy New Year,” African American News & Issues (as Texas’ widest circulated and read newspaper with a Black perspective) is obligated to warn made in America Africans wont to think positively about the half full bottle of America Dream’s “intoxicants,” that it’s leaking from a crack at the bottom. On the other hand, we would be equally remiss if we failed to encourage our audited estimated 2 million readers and millions more visiting our Web page www.aframnews. com to keep the faith in Black people who, indeed, have the power to make things better in 2008 than they were in 2007.

We Must Understand, faith is a noun. Thus, when one uses it as a verb it becomes somewhat of a misnomer. Separation of church and state notwithstanding, we have been misled to define faith purely spiritual, as it’s defined in Hebrews 11:1 (“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”), in the Holy Bible’s King James Version. But, the faith that we allude to is of a political nature. It’s more in keeping with the faith that the late, great Congressman Adam Clayton Powell (1908-1972), aka “Big Daddy” preached to galvanize 1968 Black America when he told them to “Keep the faith baby, and spread it gently.” Perhaps, Black History illiterate citizens have forgotten one of the first “Negro” political heroes?

Accordingly, we’ll share an excerpt from a Time magazine article.

The Time magazine’s Jan. 20, 1967 article, “Keeping The Faith,” clearly was an attempt to destroy

and integrity.

I’ve only seen frivolous reports in other’s media that add insult to the Porters’ injury. So you can expect an in-depth story on how Carol and Hurt’s perseverance paid off.

For sure you might see small articles in other media, but news isn’t news unless after reading it you know the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about an issue.

In essence, a complete article reports: who, what, when, where. And why demands history. For that reason, the bias coverage of Rep. Harold Dutton, Jr.’s child support woes won’t be adequately addressed until you read our version. We also have overdue updates on the status of the cop shooter that got Quanell X indicted, and why homicide detectives were dumb enough to believe that a body can be cremated on a small barbecue grill.

And it will be news in its purest sense (read for the first time), as usual. Incidentally, if you have yet to see the credo adopted from The New York Times that media seldom live up to (FYI: “It will be my earnest aim that The New York Times give the news, all the news, in concise and attractive form, in language that is permissible in good society, and give it as early if not earlier, than it can be learned through any other reliable medium; to give the news impartially, without fear or favor, regardless of party, sect, or interest involved; to make of the columns of The New York Times a forum for the consideration of all questions of public importance, and to that end to invite intelligent discussion from all shades of opinion.”-- Adoph Ochs,

Powell’s bond with his constituency: “Lolling at the bar of Washington’s Congressional Hotel last week, Adam Clayton Powell looked the very picture of cavalier confidence.

Back from a two-month sojourn with his comely receptionist on the Bahamian isle of South Bimini, the Harlem Democrat bragged of his angling prowess. “Are you worried?” asked a reporter. Replied Powell: “Do I look it?” What would he say to the Democratic caucus?

“I’m going to tell them,” he purred, “to keep the faith, baby.” Congress did indeed keep the faith—with itself and the American people. In the next 48 hours, Powell’s House colleagues coldly cashiered him from the chairmanship of the perquisite-rich Education and Labor Committee.

“They then barred him, at least for the nonce, from taking his seat in Congress. Powell is a Congressman without a constituency, for the minute he goes back to his New York City district he risks being clapped in jail under contempt of court sentences, which total 16 months and spring from his failure to pay a libel judgment to a Negro widow. That and his alleged gross misuse of committee funds for his own enjoyment were the reasons for his disbarment.”

Need we remind you that Powell was a proud Black man, who refused to go along to get along. He practiced what he preached about having faith in “Black Power” at the polls and was, indeed, a thorn Congressional colleague’s side. In today’s public schools, “Big Daddy” is demonized as a scoundrel who pimped his people in the name of

BUD’S EYEVIEW

On: Renewed Hope

Bud Johnson: The Old African Warrior

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oebeit I’ve resisted making New Year Day resolutions that are forgotten one second after midnight amid New Year celebrations. Instead, I take inventory of my past 365 days (to determine if I had progressed from where I was at the end of the preceding 365 days, or was I happily “Moonwalking” into a New Year with even more, rather than less baggage), as honestly and/or objectively as egocentered humankind possibly can.

For sure, I would like to believe that longevity translates to wisdom, but those of us who dwell in The Twilight Zone of the paranormal are always cognizance of drifting into The Outer Limits of denial.

Even so, unlike most of my blessed and highly favored, born again brothers and sisters my perspective of faith precludes questioning whatever “gods” that may be. Instead, I cover all bets because religion is a crap shoot. Square business, Prophets believe that all things are possible with God our faith is secure. Yet, without hope faith works best for dead folks.

Yeah, I hear the twilight theme. But since this is my New Year absolution, I can tell it like it is from Bud’s Eyeview no matter how cock-eyed it may be to you. For real, even as

a wee child metamorphosing into an African warrior, I surmised that poor folks who stayed poor, wasted their time praying about a victory already won, when they should’ve been playing to run up the score in the game of life.

Shazam! Coaches that play not to lose, rather than to win big, know where I’m coming from. For real, if heaven, indeed, is a true believer’s home, faith should give way to hope. And hope translates to work.

Oh, you don’t feel me? Okay, I’ll let you talk to a White Bible thumper, because I know you think her ice is cold enough to keep you out of hell. Please share: “In these very troubled times in our church and in our world, each and every human being lives by hope. Each and every human being ... is waiting for hope,’ M. Cathleen Kaveny, professor of law and of theology at the University of Notre Dame, said in a speech in Baltimore Oct. 21, 2005. What is hope? According to Thomas Aquinas, hope takes as its object ‘a future good, difficult but possible to obtain.’ First, hope is not to be equated with a sunny, cockeyed optimism.

“Hope does not pertain to easy or certain things, no matter how good they may seem and how much we miss them right now. (1) Funda-

August 18, 1896.)

I read that a group of renowned journalists recently held a summit in Washington. They discussed how the media can change the world and make it better, but Jan Schaffer, Solana Larsen (Global Voices), Tom Rosensteil (Project for Excellence in Journalism), and Michael Tippet (NowPublic), quietly deferred to Alan Webber (Fast Company’s CEO), who summed it up: “Media really can’t change the world because you must challenge the status quo. To do that is to risk

your financial well-being. There’s a problem of finance. To change the system, you can’t be in the system. The media is a newsgathering organization - Fast Company was in part ‘edu-tainment.’ The media isn’t going to be in a place to change the world. Report on news, yes, but not raise questions that will significantly change the status quo.”

If you still don’t get it, you need to check our archives www.aframnews.com and read an excerpt in our Oct. 16-12, 2002 edition

Jesus.

We Must Understand, however, that Black America was at the height of the “Black Power” civil rights movement in 1968, therefore Black newspapers (over 5,000 strong nationwide at the time) backed Powell and ultimately Time lamented: “With the great bronze doors of its formal entrance closed and locked against a possible invasion by Negroes gathered in front, the full House convened. Not in the 56-year history of the House’s seniority system had a committee chairman been sacked for any sin other than party disloyalty. Negroes from Julian Bond to Stokely Carmichael denounced the House’s action. Even notably moderate, responsible Negro leaders such as Martin Luther King were angered, contending that Powell is not the only Congressman deserving of censure.

“In New York City, save-Powell propaganda was mailed out under cover of stationery bearing the mark, and postal meter cancellation, of Harlem’s Powellruled HarYou-Act agency, which is financed in part by federal funds.

Civil rights Patriarch A. Philip Randolph announced a ‘summit conference’ of Negro leaders to plot a campaign to win back Powell’s seat.”

Unfortunately, 2008 Black America will have a crisis of faith in our impotent leadership. Yet, the power of the people must be demonstrated at the polls, so it’s essential that we renew our faith in the democratic process and exercise our hard won right to vote to Keep The Faith In 2008.

mentally, then, hope is a way of relating to the future, a way of moving beyond and transcending the limitations, the darkness, the injustice of the present day. But it is a particular way of doing so. Hope is tough: Hope knows there are difficulties and realizes what it will cost to deal with them. Second, precisely because hope deals with difficulties, it requires hard work. The process of pursuing the object of hope is arduous. Hope demands engagement, not just bare acquiescence. And in fact, hope enables action in difficult times. We do not embark upon a difficult course of action unless we have the hope that we will succeed.

Third, hope is not solitary.

“The fulfillment of hope frequently requires activity or assistance from others. (2) By expanding our hearts in love, we also expand the scope for our hope. Fourth, while the object hoped for has to be in the future, not the past or the present, it doesn’t have to be achieved at any specified or certain date.” Translation: If you have faith that God is good, I hope you have sense enough to know that if you work harder to treat folks like you want to be treated, He will bless you with a Happy New Year. I wonder if anybody knows where I’m coming from?

To contact Bud Johnson, please call 281- 847-9929 (8-5- Wednesday -Thursday) or via e-mail at Africanwarrior@aol.com

that asserts: “‘If what we’re doing is wrong, then I guess we’ll never be right,’ countered Roy Douglas Malonson, publisher of AfricanAmerican News&Issues, when informed that Houston Area Urban League CEO Sylvia Brooks openly attacked his paper during the Oct. 3, Town Hall Meeting that had been organized at SHAPE Center by community activist Quanell X.” And nothing has changed. My New Year’s resolution is to be a lot more wrong if it “ain’t right” to tell it like it is. Happy New Year!

COMMUNITY & PEOPLE UP IN SMOKE -from Page 1 down unfounded rumors of a deliberately set fire, by ruling that the neighborhood landmark’s destruction was an accident. A steady stream of customers who had not heard about the early morning fire, were stunned as they pulled up to get their fix of Texas-style barbecue.

The hint of damage from the usually welcoming front of the building was deceiving. Further investigation shows a gutted dining room black floors among other damage.

Ironically, the owners of the restaurants were victims of the same element that they used everyday to earn their living—fire.

Odds were already against Willie and Hattie Williams on three fronts when they first opened Williams Smokehouse. First of all, research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that most failures of American startups will occur in the first two years of their existence. Secondly, these survival rates do not vary much by industry. In fact, H.G. Parsa, author of a recent report and an associate professor of hospitality management at OSU, reviewed other published studies that also suggest failure rates of restaurants to be closer to 60 percent or less after three years to five years.

Finally, according to business analysis Robert Fairlie, business failure rates during the first four years are 27 percent for Black-owned firms compared with 22.5 percent for White-owned businesses.

While Willie 69, might have known the deck was stacked against him, it didn’t deter him from building the restaurant at 5903 Wheatley St, in 1987. It was a dream come true for the General Electric employee who spent most of his waking hours there, until he was able to retire, and work only for himself in 1993. Williams Smokehouse carried the standard fare and was known far and wide for its

African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 26, 2007-January 1, 2008 • 3

ribs, beef and other menu items. It wasn’t a secret that some employees of nearby businesses would stop by only for an order of their tasty fries to go with their homemade lunches.

Now, only one other Black family -owned barbecue restaurant serves the Acres Homes area. The Williameses never left the community which gave them so much success, living just a few minutes away from their “home away from home.” Roy D. Malonson, publisher of the African-American News&Issues and chairman emeritus of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston, headquartered right down the street from the smokehouse stated, “When a Black person goes into business it is always a plus for the community. It was one of the best barbecue houses in Texas. They won Outstanding Business of the Year,” from the chamber; they were cited by the Houston Press as the best and also received acclamations from AAN&I. It’s a major loss to the community. Losing it affects the all of us because several jobs were lost. He employed people from the community.”

Pastor Fred Sanders III, now 44, of Cliffdale Baptist Church stated, “I’ve been going there since my early 20s. I really hope they rebuild it because we need their example of what can be done businesswise, once you put your mind to it.”

Willie at first was emphatic that he would not rebuild, but in later days seemed to soften that stance.

“It’s like losing a child,” he said, the obvious hurt heard in his voice.

Those sentiments were echoed by Cedric. “It’s hard to believe,” he said as he stood in the doorway, a few feet from a sign proclaiming, “We Smoke Turkeys,” heralding what should have been the start of the busy holiday season.

“I just don’t know,” he said. “But you never know what God has in store.”

NEW YEAR -from Page 1

education system that serves us is not meeting these objectives, it is a disservice to our children and our communities. We must take education out of the schools and universities and root it in our homes, our workplaces, our communities, our churches and even in our streets and prisons.”

Ironically, Rep. Sylvester Turner, Speaker Pro Tempore of the Texas Legislature, suggested the same solutions when he spoke at the African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston’s year ending monthly business/networking luncheon one Dec. 6, 2007.

Turner, however, suggested that we grab hold to our young men, who are the capstone of Black families, and virtually make them be the best they can, whether they want to or not. AACCGH’s Chairman Emeritus Roy Douglas Malonson, was even more succinct when he unwittingly defined Black Project’s suggestion. “We can’t expect for people who don’t care about our community or our kids to educate them.

It’s time we get ‘handkerheaded’ Uncle Tom’s out of our classrooms.

We must demand that our schools give educators from our community first priority to teach our children.”

Black people. Nevertheless, African American’s slave legacy of surviving and thriving, in spite of impossible odds, will help them keep the faith in 2008.

Meanwhile, Phillip Jackson, Executive Director of Black Star Project, offers a survival plan in his book (Can Black American Survive?), that suggests: “Black people in America must immediately disengage from the diversions of minddeadening entertainment, useless sports, hyper-sexuality, and excessive social celebrations, stop pointless conversations and debates, meaningless media and the civil rights issue de jour approach to managing our problems.

“We must focus on the most important issue in our communities -- making education the highest priority. We must create a culture of literacy and learning that replaces intellectual apathy and resistance to educational progress. Somehow, we must re-inspire our children to want to learn and to love to learn.

But having educated children is not enough. We must have educated families and educated communities. Every Black man, woman and child must become part of this new community of learners. If the

Everyday People with Jesse Simon

The Platinum Adults Social Club celebrated the Holidays with a Christmas Zydeco Party at the Herman Park Golf Course Club House, 2155 N. MacGregor, Houston, Texas. Special musical guest was Jabo and the Southside Playboys. The “Adults” enjoyed the festivities and the fellowship and vowed to continue socializing in 2008.

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Blacks must renew faith in 2008 aside, according to the Black Star Project: “Today, many Black people seem to be having ‘cosmic flashbacks’ to our time in slavery, which was the first crude effort at globalization that helped to set the stage for today’s globalization. For years, Black America was buffered from modern globalization by political boundaries and economic barriers. Now globalization has come to our country, our cities, our communities, onto our blocks and into our homes, schools and workplaces. Globalization has happened, whether Black America is ready for it or not.

We still have time to make the necessary changes that will guarantee that Black people will survive into the 21st century and that we will thrive in this global economy.

“But there is not much time.

With globalization, Black America has entered into the ‘Educate or Die’ era. In this era, there are only two questions worth answering: ‘Will we change? Can we survive?’ How we emerge from this era is up to us.”

Henceforth, if African-Americans revitalize their faith and keep hope alive, they’ll have a Happy New Year!

Photos from the left: 1. Dorothy Blaylock and Winfred & Evelyn Allen 2. Annie Benjamin, Hazel Tate, Mercedes Coleman and Bertha Jefferson 3. Ruth Rigsby, Janie Foreman, Gloria Tapscott and Anita Rodgers 4. Ella McNelly, Mercedes Hunter and Mary Graves 5. Lucious Curry, Chester Renfro and Theodore Davis 6.

Mildred Levy and Annie Guidry 7. Wilbert Norton, Geneva King, Johnny Richard and Valerie Dorsey 8. Jimmy Jackson and Phadra Glenn 9. Lauren Ford, Adryenne Bates and Veronica Ford

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Rebuilding the famous Williams Smokehouse is in the hands of Reginald, Willie (founder) and Cedric Williams.

Photo by Jesse Simon

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Roy Douglas Malonson-Chairman Shirley Ann Malonson-Pres./CEO Bud Johnson-Mgr. Editor Emeritus Marvin D. Cloud-Production Mgr. Lisa Smith - Production Assistant Jesse Simon - Photojournalist Mario Salas-Cont. Writer Oswald J. Scott -Cont. Writer Roger Jackson-Photographer Fred Smith-Advertising/Sales James Johnson-Distribution Allen Carlton-Distribution David Johnson-Distribution

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Wishing Season Greetings to everyone, a consolidation of sub-divisions, Riverwood Estates 1 & 2, Winfield Forest 1 & 2 and Royal Glen 1 & 2, came together under the banner of Riverwood Estates Civic Club, for a Holiday Gala Meet & Greet, at Barbara Jordan Park, 6500 Winfield Rd. Photos from the left: 10. Elvin & Ann Franklin 11. Earnest & Brenda Samuels and Lennie & Sharon Chatman 12. Brenda Blount and Mae Sykes 13. Virginia Cormier, Daisy L. Walker and Alice Henry 14. Harold Pettigrew and Damell Walker 15. Martie Hunter, Susie Ellegan and Alester Hogan 16. Sylvia Potier, Clara Pattigrew and Dorothy Briggs TX-3

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NEED A WILL? QUESTIONS ON PROBATE? FOR FREE INFORMATION Contact Attorney Oswald J. Scott, Sr.

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713-666-2900 Off 713-666-2932 Fax Email: mlovecpa@yahoo.com www.michaellovecpa.net 2626 South Loop W, #420 Houston, TX 77054 Michael Love specializes in tax planning and return filing for individuals; taxes and bookkeeping for small businesses and corporate tax returns. Education courses offered by local chapters of national associations keep the firm on the leading edge of ever-changing tax laws and accounting methods. Computerized offices and internet access ensures clients accurate, efficient, state-of-the-art service at a competitive price.

Increase your business with an ad in our Texas Marketplace Contact:

713-692-1892 THIS AD COULD BE YOURS and ... potential customers would be reading it instead of this

APARTMENTS Fountain at Tidwell/ Tidwell Estates Apartments 2303 West Tidwell Houston 77091 713.688.5125

ATTORNEYS SYLVESTER TURNER Attorney At Law

713/227-8060

texasprobateandwills.com Not certified by theTexas Board of Legal specialization

BARBER COLLEGE

Acres Homes Barber College 2306 Ferguson Way Houston 77088 281.931.5591

BARBER/BEAUTY

Tracy’s Beautiful Braids and Beyond 8222 Antoine Dr. Suite 101 Houston 77088 832.888.3906

BEAUTY SALON Spoil & Pamper Me Day Spa & Salon The Unique Salon for “The Phenomenal Woman” We offer: Complete Healthy Hair Care for All Type Hair Free Hair Analysis Precision Cuts, Relaxers, Styles, Perms Texturizers, Hair Extentions Hair Protein Infusions Tues-Fri 10am-7pm Sat 7am-4pm

(Mon. Appointments Only)

Masseur & Reflexologist on Staff

Attorneys At Law 440 Louisiana Street 1880 Lyric Centre' Houston, Texas 77022

(713) 650-3688/office (713) 650-0308/fax bbarnes@barnesturner.com www.barnesturner.com

FAMILY LAW

Acres Home Citizens Chamber of Commerce 6130 Wheatley St. Houston, TX 77091 (713) 692-7003 African-American Chamber of Commerce of Arlington, Inc. P.O. Box 202716 (817) 946-5196

African-American Chamber of Commerce of Victoria 1501 E. Mockingbird, Sute 104 Victoria, TX 77904 (361)575-2061

CHEMICALS

FUNERAL HOMES

Boyd Funeral Home 7411 Wheatley St. Houston Texas 77088 281.445.0971

Ad to run Paradise in AAN&I’s Houston/Gulf Coast edit Funeral Home & Cemeteries EDITION DATE: March 14-20, 2007 Morgan Harris Funeral Home

Citywide Chemical Janitorial & Commercial Pest Control Company 3521 Jensen St. Houston, TX 77026

713/227-4808 or 4809 Janitorial Supplies Sales-Service-Supplies Wholesale-Retail

We repair buffers, vacuum, shampooers and all other machines.

Charles Dawson

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US METRO Chemical

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& Janitorial Supply Company & Janitorial Supply Company 4308 Kelly St. • Hou., TX 77026 6010 Irvington -Hou.,TX 77009

Citywide Chemical, founded in 1977, is the largest minority-owned chemical company in the southwest. They pride themselves on being customer-oriented offering same day, free delivering, free installation of dispensers and free training on all equipment, rented or bought.

10401 W. Montgomery Rd. 8011 West Montgomery Houston Texas 77088 INFORMATION Houston, Texas CONTACT 77088 281.820.2391 Name: Billie Burns 281.445.1201

O.W. Wiley Mortuary, Inc. 713-522-9821 "Committed Phone: to the Community" 1290 Pinemont Dr. Fax: 713-520-5247Houston 77018 713.681.7475

16630 Imperial Valley #242 Houston, Texas 77060 281-591-0152 Hiring Hairstylists & Nail Techs

P.O. Box 1796 Lubbock, TX 74408 (806)771-1815

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce 2638 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Dallas, TX 75216 (214)421-5200 Denton Black Chamber of Commerce 602 S. Elm St. Denton, TX 76201 (940)484-4404 El Paso Black Chamber of Commerce 109 N. Oregon St., Suite 212 El Paso, TX 79901 (915)534-0570 Ennis Negro Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1036 Ennis, TX 75120 (972)878-0068

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Make some history of your own with the LUNCH BUNCH

at the African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston’s

Business Networking Luncheon Thursday, January 10, 2008 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

(commission or booth rental) Ask for Natasha or Jacquie

BEAUTY ORG.

BLACK ART-GIFTS

CHILDCARE

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REGISTERED DISPENSER

HEARING AIDS Free 5-line Please signOFfor approval and fax back to 713-692-1 (713) 692-EARS(3277) CIVIL RIGHTS ORG. listing for your (713) 697-9410 Ad must be approvedFAXand payment received by 12 NOON Tue business!

Coalition For The PARKWAY TOWERS Advancement Of Civil Rights W. PARKER ROAD, SUITE 506 before150Wednesday publication orCall the ad will not ru

Lee Alcorn, Founder and President 5801 Marvin D. Love Fwy. #202 Dallas, TX 75376-3743 Signature www.Dfwcivilrights.com contact information: leealcorn@dfwcivilrights.com or call 214-232-5138

National Black United Front

HOUSTON, TX. 77076

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INSURANCE BORRIS L. MILES Insurance Agency

GEORGE W. LUNNON, JR. Agent

America can depend on Farmers

Auto - Life Home - Health Business

Houston Chapter

Chairman Kofi Taharka Houston Chapter

Professional Hair Designers of TX 10767 Eastex Freeway Houston 77093 713.691-0868

Meetings Monday @ 7:00pm 2428 Southmore Houston, 77004

713-942-0365 or www.nbufhouston.org

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A sign of a good insurance agent that CREDIT REPAIR Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 will care about you is one that cares about

Keynote Speaker: Kirbyjon Caldwell e c in s Senior Pastor, 1994 Windsor Village UMC Members: with lunch :$20 without lunch: $10 Non-Members: with lunch: $25 Signature without lunch: $15 Marketplace Heading: RSVP by January 8, 2008 You can Attorney register & pay online.

*Child Support *Adoptions *Modifications *Custody *Name Change *All Areas

Credit Restoration

the community. George W. Lunnon, Jr. is

kind of agent.

Among his activities, Back Guarantee publication or the adthat Wednesday will not run. he is active in Greenspoint Mng. District, the price and size of the Ad to by run12 in NOON Friday before forMoney 281.726.2693 Greenspoint Chamber, Houston Livevrtmg.com/awhite2 stock Show & Rodeo, and is a charter Borris L. Miles member & president of 100 Black Men. CRIMINAL - ACCIDENTS reater Houston Edition May 16-22, 2007.

COMPUTER SERVS.

Law Offices of James & Stagg 1314 Texas, Ste. 701, Houston, TX 77002

713-223-5811 Se habla Espanol Not certified by Texas Board of Legal specialization

Beulah Ann Shepard Bld.

IMMIGRATION DEPORTATION

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713-692-7003

F orester Law Firm Since 1974

713-528-4668 www.visa2us.us

W

Thank You for Your Business!

ith warm appreciation of our association during the past year we extend our very best wishes for a happy holiday season.

Email: webmaster@aaccgh.org Website: www.aaccgh.org

Former Felony Prosecutor • Criminal Defense • Juvenile Law • Personal Injury 4001 N. Shepherd Dr., Ste. 223 Houston, Texas 77018 – 713-696-9500 www.plovelaw.com TX-4

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REGULAR STORE HOURS:

Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m to 7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We accept: American Express, MasterCard, Discover, Visa, ATM/ Debit, Cash, Checks and Lay-A-Way

100% Black Owned We Appreciate Our Customers

...see more on PAGE 2

Aus-Tex Electric 1525 Wilburforce Houston 77091 713.682.5809

FINANCIAL

Let me handle your IRS Issue and Problems. Generally you will never have to speak with or meet with the IRS if I am your representative.

Rodrick Dow, PC

Supporting The Community

Auto • Home • Life Disability • Annuity Commercial Health Insurance

Bus. 713-355-8331 Fax: 713-355-8318 Pgr. 713-406-1088 5302 Almeda Rd. Hou. TX 77004 email:bmiles@bmilesinsurance.com

Hunters Insurance Agency Scott Hunter, Agent

Auto Home Life Flood 832-778-8194 “For All Your Insurance Needs” 2656 S. Loop West # 340 Houston, TX 77054 scott@huntersinsuranceagency.com

Check Out Our New Business Profiles In Our Texas Marketplace

Bryant Hunter started the agency in 1993 with the vision of helping people protect their most valuable assets. Scott joined the family business in 1997 and has continued the tradition of helping people protect their homes, autos, RVs, businesses and most importantly, their families.

Certified Public Accountant

Come in or Call for more information

Houston, Texas 77091

ELECTRICAL

Do not talk to the IRS without Representation!!!

o run in AAN&I’s Houston/Galveston edition.

DATE: VOLUME 12 Issue 13, 2007 6130 Wheatley Street

Hands On Business Date Services P.O. Box 23536 Houston 77228-3536 832.512.0863

IRS PROBLEMS & Income Tax Preparation

&

1” Ad For 4 Weeks= Paul B.$100.00 Love - MSW,J.D. +One Time Set-up Attorney At Law Fee= $25.00 Total Net Amount: $125.00

Mar Help

WANTED- Class A and B CDL Drivers - Local Haul Rate and size of ad to run in AAN&I’s Houston/Galveston edition.

You must be 21 years old, have six months Lubbock Black Chamber experience, a clean driving record and be able to Publication 4, 2007 Entrepreneurs, Inc.Date: November 28- December

Elliott Community Shop 13030 Woodforest Suite G Houston 77075 713-455-2321 Hair Design by Antoinette 163 Greens Rd. Houston 77060 281.875.4993 Rogers Barbershop 2113 West Little York Houston 77091 713.680.8827

Hours:

Barnes & Turner

Black TAAACC Members

713-862-4332 Ask for Rodrick HOUSTON MINORITY BUSINESS COUNCIL

Three Riverway, Suite 555 Houston, Texas 77056 713-271-7805 | www.hmbc.org

CAFE Coolwater Cafe 11500 Northwest Fwy. Houston 77045 713.680.2665

FUNERAL HOMES

MABRIE Memorial Mortuary

5000 Almeda Rd. Houston Texas 77004 713-942-7673 Our advertisers

SUPPORT YOUR NEWSPAPER!

Please read us online at www.aframnews.com Media Partnership Purchase an ad in our publication and we will do a profile on your business that will be in the newspaper. Plus we will help publicise your events, milestones, activity, new products, etc. We will be the media partner that helps you with publicity and marketing. Contact the advertising staff for more info and to find out about our Media Partnership that offer for even more benefits.

BUSINESS and COMMUNITY

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LIVESTOCK/CATTLE BRANGUS

Rate and size of Ad to run in AAN&I’s Houston/Galveston African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 26, 2007 -January13, 1, 2008 •5 EDITION DATE: VOLUME 12 Issue 2007

RADIO MIN. ROBERT MUHAMMAD

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KPFT 90.1 FM

THIS AD COULD BE YOURS and ... potential customers would be reading it instead of this

SOUL MUSIC

Cecil shaw Sounds like motown baby!

For bookings call (832)256-9992

Rate and size of Ad to run in AAN&I’s Houst www.myspace.com/cecilshaw Publication Date: November 28- Dec No Credit Check Financing for Repairs Increase your business potential!

Advertise with us!

AACCGH 1st membership appreciation held

The African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (AACCGH) held its 1st Membership Appreciation Reception on ThursREAL ESTATE day, December 13. Many members, old and new, HUD/RESALE AND NEW HOME SALES MEDICAL enjoyed the holiday music, business networkCall Your Hometown Realtor Now! ing and delicious food present at the reception.

Frances Campbell 281-414-2211 Event sponsors for the night were H-E-B, HousCCD Ventures, Realtors ton Community College – Pinemont, AfricanAmerican News&Issues and Shirley Ann’s Black RESTAURANTS Art & Kollectibles Showroom. Reception attendLeonard’s Famous Burgers ees won wonderful gifts donated by the sponsors 1913 W. Little York Rd. through raffles.

Houston 77091 AACCGH Board members facilitated the (713) 686-3555 night’s event and informed members of the chamHeading: Josie’s Place ber’s goals for the upcoming year. Also, in order 7473 N. Shepherd Dr. Pest Control to truly have an African American chamber that Houston 77091 represents the Black community business ownPEST CONTROL (713) 695-7711 ers, members were asked for their input. The Board Chairman Emeritus, Roy D. Malonson, CONTACT INFORMATION Your BUGS are our Problem!

SARTINS SEAFOOD encouraged members to share what they would Heading Title: RAYCO Name:BAY Raynard JonesRayco Pest Control OF NASSAU like to see take place through the chamber.

Restaurant Pest Control Signature “I’m proud to be a chamber member,” said artPhone: 281-444-3525 GUARANTEED! ist Nate Doss of Doss DZine, one of the newest AACCGH members. “The event was very infor281-444-3525 Fax: 281-999-0161 mative and a very good networking tool.” At the www.raycopest.com end of the reception, members were informed Rayco will get rid of or prevent, pest probContact Information lems, inside and out at your residence or thatCOST AAN&I will place a Business Profile in the AD business. Rayco can help with mice, ants, Name: Kim Vawter newspaper. The small business member attendwasps, roaches, spiders, bees, silverfish, 1.5’ ad for 52 - $780.00 Company: Sartins Seafood Nassau termites, fleas, earwigs and much more. ees weeks networked with each other and ofthe eventBay Rayco uses microencapsulated products Phone: 281-333-4040 after 9p.m.

COST sponsors TO RUNuntil AD: $780.00 ALL YOUTOTAL CAN EAT for a more effective treatment.

281-333-2132 The firstFax: business networking luncheon of PLATTER SERVICE! Address forThursday, tearsheets: held on January 10 from Including: BBQ crabs, fried shrimp, 2008, will be 18023p.m.

Upper PHOTOGRAPHY fried fish, crab balls, French fries, 11a.m. to 12:15 at Bar the Drive Beulah Ann Shepahushpuppies and salad bar Texas 77058 rd Building,Houston, 6112 Wheatley.

The keynote speak$23.99 ADULTS Creative Colours By RJ er wll be Kirbyjon Caldwell, senior pastor, Wind$11.99 CHILDREN (under 10) Outdoor Portraitssor Village United Methodist Church. Admission Bring this ad on Monday – Thursday Commercial Weddings and receive $5 off adult platter and is $20 for members with lunch and $10 without; Fashion-Advertising $3 off children’s platter. and $25 for non-members with lunch and $15 Signature 713/734-1442 18023 Upper Bay Road without. For more information, call (713)692281-333-4040 7003.

YOUTH SPORTS

L & S Youth Sports BASKETBALL LEAGUE

BOYS & GIRLS AGES 9 THRU 18

Registering Now!

Harvest Time Community Center 17770 Imperial Valley Houston, Texas 77060 Registration Fees: $75.00 For more information call (832) 338- 4766 or (713) 249-9337 ENROLL NOW! All games will be played at Harvest Time Community Center- 17770 Imperial Valley

Ad to run in AAN&I’s Marketplace nning Edition Date: December 12-18, 2007

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

Please sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 Publication Date: December 19-25, 2007 by 12 NOON Friday or the ad will not run.

Date

Please sign for approval and fax back to by 12 NOON Friday before for Wednesday publicat Date

4925 Richfield Lane

Houston, TX 77048

Roger Jackson, Photographer

sign for approval and fax back to 713-692-1183 roved and payment received by 12 NOON Friday the week e Wednesday publication or and the ad not Please sign for approval faxwill back torun.

713-692-1183 NOON Friday before for Wednesday publication or the ad will not run.

Date

Our advertisers support our newspaper!

Date

Members of the AACCGH enjoyed the holiday festivities at the chambers first annual membership appreciation. From the top left: Felecia Enner (96.1 FM) and her godson Phoenix; Nate Doss, Doss DZine; Byron Riley, Uncle Buddy’s Used Cars; and Pastor Eddie Everline, Greater Ward A.M.E. Botton row from the left: Attorney Riecke Baumann; David Charles, Owens Security; Christopher Williams, CW Computer Services and Dr. Joe J. Mills, D.D.S., Mills Dental Center.

Photos by Roger Jackson

Please visit our website at news@aframnews.com AfricanAm News A-V.indd 1

register today Spring classes start January 12 713.718.2000 hccs.edu

12/18/07 3:33:31 PM TX-5

6 • African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 26, 2007 -January 1, 2008 UNCF -from Page 1 Center. Using the theme: “Celebrating Education: the Equalizer,â€? this year’s event drew more than 750 attendees in support of the Texas five: Huston-Tillotson University, Dr. Larry L. Earvin, president and CEO; Jarvis Christian College, Dr. Sebetha Jenkins, president; Paul Quinn College, Michael Sorrell, president; Texas College, Dr. Billy C. Hawkins, president; and Wiley College, Dr. Haywood L. Strickland, president and CEO. Scott McClelland, president, Houston Division, H-E-B, and honorary chairman said, “... I am honored to serve as the Honorary Chair of this event - one that helps ensure our youth receive an equal opportunity to obtain a higher education. ... Like the UNCF, H-E-B is a major supporter of education in Texas, annually contributing more than $4 million to education related programs. With more than 300 stores across Texas, we believe that we have a responsibility to support education in the communities that we serve, and take a lead in establishing initiatives that make our communities a better place to live.

We are a proud partner of the of the UNCF. We thank you for encouraging higher education among our youth, and giving them the opportunity to fulfill their dream.�

Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund stated, “ ... support for UNCF is not only a generous gift that will benefit thousands of deserving young men and women, but an investment—in their future,

and in ours. Today’s students are tomorrow’s innovators and leaders. They are the teachers who will educate our children and grandchildren, the public servants who will lead our communities and the nation, the scientists whose discoveries will male our lives better, and the researchers who will find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Your support for the Black Tie Gala and UNCF makes their future possible. Thanks to you, UNCF can provide its colleges with the resources they need to offer a good education at tuitions their students can afford. And thanks to you, UNCF can provide more than 400 scholarship programs that help students overcome the financial obstacles to a college education.�

Dinner chairs for the event were Gail Nutt, senior vice president, Community Affairs & Diversity Management, Macy’s, and Bishop James & Tanisha Dixon, the Community of Faith Church. Nutt stated, “This is a great opportunity for us, corporate and private citizens, to celebrate the UNCF’s leadership in education. At Macy’s we believe education is the great equalizer. We are proud of our long relationship with the UNCF, contributing to scholarships, internships and special programs. As a graduate of an HBCU, I am especially proud that my company is committed to investing in the stars of the future.�

Bishop Dixon stated, “The fact that Historically Black Colleges and Universities are necessary is indeed an emphatic understatement. The value of these institutions in light

of the citizens they have produced is too enormous for accurate measure. We owe a debt of gratitude to our visionary ancestors who bled and died to launch and build institutions of higher learning for Negroes, when other doors were not opened to us. American and the world continue to benefit from the rich legacy of academic excellence, inspired creativity, artistic cultivation, athletic prowess and the social influence of students groomed by HBCU’s.�

Masters of Ceremonies for the event were Jerome Gray and Rachel McNeill, of KPRC local 2 news. The duo also presented highlights of the UNCF after the dinner. Greetings were brought by Jamie G. House, chairman of the UNCF Advisory Council and Dr. Ervin of Huston-Tillotson University. The invocation was given by Dr. Marcus D. Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and dinner music was provided by Huston-Tillotson Jazz Ensemble. After remarks by McClelland, Nutt and the Dixons, closing remarks were given by Pam Davis who served as the Gala Chair.

Entertainment was then brought by the soul group, “Con Funk Shun.�

In addition to H-E-B, the Platinum sponsor, other 2007 Black Tie Sponsors were (Diamond): BP America, Inc. and Macy’s; (Crystal): Anheuser-Busch Companies, Brentwood Baptist Church, Shell Oil Company; (Gold): Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, Aramark, Chevron, Coca-Cola, The Community of Faith Church, Reliant Energy, Wachovia Bank, Wheel-

From the left: Winell & Doug Herron, Mayerline & Kevin Harris, Deneen & Gregory Newman, and Shavonda & James Harris of HEB.

What’s new at the Northeast Campus? t .PSF DPVSTFT PGGFSFE t $IJMEDBSF %SPQ PGG Center t 4UVEFOU HBNF SPPN BOE MPVOHF BSFB t 4UVEFOU DBG�

Learn about high paying, in-demand jobs at our Career TraiNiNg Fair Saturday, January 5 & 12

Northeast Campus 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Spring 2008 Classes Begin January 12

RegisteR Now!

713.718.8300 hccs.edu

Northline Campus 401 Northline Mall 713.718.8000

Pinemont Campus 1265 Pinemont 713.718.8400

HCC seeks to provide equal educational opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability

TX-6

er Avenue Baptist Church and Windsor Village United Methodist Church. (Silver): African-American News&Issues, Andrews Kurth LLP, Bank of America, Bracewell & Giuliani LLP, CAMAC International Corporation, CenterPoint Energy, Frenchy’s, Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P., Gulf States Toyota, Inc., Haliburton, Houston Chronicle, JP Morgan Chase Bank NA, Judy & Charles Tate, Marathon Oil Corporation, Memorial Hermann, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, National Black MBA Association - Houston Chapter, Port of Houston Authority, Schlumberger, Smith Graham & Company, Southern Union Company, State Farm Insurance Companies, Sterling Bank, Sysco Corporation, United Space Alliance, Vinson & Elkins LLP, Washington Mutual and Wells Fargo.

In-kind sponsors were Academy Awards, ARAMARK Corporation, City of Houston-Convention & Entertainment Facilities Department, Community Funeral Home, Continental Airlines, Kroger, and Tiffany & Company.

Other Advisory Council Members included Percy Creuzot, III and Margot Charles (vice chairs) Noble J. Alix. Jr., Brenda Aldridge, Pamela Joubert-Davis, Dr. Jocelyn PylesElo, Helen George, Albert Gaylor, Winell Herron, Helen George, Jamie House, Mick Lewis, Jackie Martin, Derrick M. Mitchell, Holly Montalbano, Kimberly Nichols, Everette B. Penn, Elmer Rogers, Ed Smith, Barron F. Wallace, Michael Williams and Terry Williams.

Pastor Marcus Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church delivers the invocation.

Dr. Larry L. Earvin, president and CEO, Huston-Tillotson University.

From the left: Shirley Ann & Roy D. Malonson, Jocelyn Williams, Soraya & Scott McClelland, Mary St. Romain and Tony Brown.

Northeast College, where careers begin!

Northeast Campus 555 Community College Dr. 713.718.8300

EDUCATION/COMMUNITY

UH welcomes first Black coach for football program

HOUSTON- University of Houston Director of Athletics Dave Maggard announced that Kevin Sumlin was hired as the Cougar football head coach. Sumlin becomes the 11th head coach in UH history, but more importantly, he becomes the first African-American to lead the prestigious Cougar Program. “As I spoke with people around the country about Kevin, he is very highly regarded by his peers, by head coaches, by assistant coaches and Kevin Sumlin by athletic directors,� said Maggard. “He has been in programs that have been very strong programs (and in) programs where success has taken place and have continued the success. He has a great deal of success in recruiting, and he has been recruiting the Houston area for a number of years during the time he was at Texas A&M and the University of Oklahoma. “He’s a man of strong character. He will set expectations for the players, and yet at the same time, the players have enormous respect for him. And it goes both ways.

He has respect for the players, and they have respect for him.

Sumlin is the first African-American to be hired to lead a Division IFootball Bowl Subdivision program in the state of Texas. Former North Texas head coach Matt Simon was first hired in 1993 when the UNT program was a Division I-Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA) school, later moving up a division and coaching the North Texas program from 1994-97 as a member of the Division I-FBS. “This is a great University and a great city,� said Sumlin. “This is a place that has won conference championship in recent years, and we want to continue down that path and play for a conference championship every season. This is Dave Maggard’s vision, and I share the same vision. “I bring both energy and excitement to the program, as well as an aggressive style of offense and defense. It will be a style that the players will want to play and a style that our fans will like to watch. “What excited me (about coming to Houston) was a chance to play for a championship every year.�

The Indianapolis, Ind., native graduated from Purdue in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in both criminology and liberal arts. Sumlin and his wife Charlene have four children: daughters Courtney and Shelby, and sons Jackson and J.R.

Read us online at www.aframnews.com

CHURCH & COMMUNITY

African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 26, 2007 -January 1, 2008 • 7

THIS

BUD’S FOR YOU

★★★★★ ★★★★★ InDaHood--Nobody was more FIVE STAR DEALER FIVE STAR DEALER surprised than birthday girl Jewel R. Hunt, when the Hunt clan and friends feted her James Davis, Owner on her James Davis, Owner 70th Great Sales birthday on Great Service Dec. 7, African American 2007 DODGE NITRO at St. Owned & Operated ’s 7 0 0 2 Jewel Hunt Peter Over 75 must go!

L Claver in stock ... AL Hall, 6005 North Wayside Dr. MatriOffer arch Hunt, who was born on Nov. No Reasonsaebdle!

Refu 31, 1937 is a grand lady who definitely deserved to smell her flowers while she was not only still alive, but vibrant and beautiful. For sure, PRE-OWNED 2007 DODGE CHARGER 2007 DODGE MAGNUM the celebration was a capstone of VEHICLES her life, insofar as Jewel, the mothIN STOCK! er of six children, 19 grandchildren Good Credit, and 5 great-grandchildren, dearly loves her family. Hunt, who worked Bad Credit, No Credit for Nabisco for 20 years, before No matter what your retiring in 1985 really got to stepping by enrolling in Texas SouthCredit Situation is ... ern University to continue her eduwe will get you cation that was temporarily sideapproved, guaranteed! tracked when she married her Phillis Wheatley classmate Charlie Hunt in 1956 at age 19.

—The first and the longest in the industry. Warranty covers the cost of all She got her degree from TSU in 1996. Meanwhile, after getting parts and labor needed to repair engine, transmission and drive system!** her degree from TSU, she became teacher trainer at Mt. Zion Church under Pastor James D. Lightfoot GULFGATE DODGE 7250 GULF FRWY. and later taught in national, state DODGE’S DISCOUNT DEALER! and local “Congress” and became Member of DaimlerChrysler www.gulfgatedodge.com a spokesperson for the Bible Minority Dealers Association throughout Texas. Jewel, who loves teaching, writing plays and books that gives back to the community, based her life’s mission on Dec. 31, 2007. Pastor George and First Lady Annie Mae Nelson who were married on New Year’s Eve night by Bishop scripture found in 2 Timothy 2:15.

James Dixon, II at The Community of Faith Church 25 years ago. Rev. Nelson, founder and pastor of Grace Fellowship She also became president of the Church, in Brenham, and his first lady works tirelessly for the ministry and their congregation, as well as their appreciaNorth Houston Chamber of Comtive community intends to honor them accordingly. Team Nelson is not only founders of the flourishing church, but merce in 1996, and was co-ownthey serve on many community and ministerial boards. Not to mention that they are also the guiding force behind er principal, and board member of the Annie Nelson Food Pantry, George Nelson Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, Grace Angel Academy & Daycare, Judthe North Houston High School for nell Records,LLC just to name a few. Congrats Team Nelson, may God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Business in Acres Home for seven SportsWatch-- I love every creature in the sea, with the exception of Octopus. Although I’ve never been fishing, I years. Happy belated birthday would like to enlighten my brothers and sisters who consider fishing a sho’ nuff sport about the Texas Freshwater FishJewel R. Hunt. May you have many, ing Hall of Fame. many, more….I would be remiss Individuals or organizations that have made a lasting contribution to freshwater fishing in Texas may be nominated not to note that my late mentor through Feb. 29, 2008 for induction into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. Nomination forms and instructions Bro. George Nelson’s son and his are available on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Web site or by calling (903) 670-2228. wife, are celebrating their Silver Anniversary in Brenham, Texas on Rev. & Mrs. George Nelson, Jr.

MODEL YEAR END CLOSEOUT

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CHURCH ADS and CHURCH LISTINGS FIDELITY CHURCH OF CHRIST “ The Church That Cares” Sunday

DUNCAN MEMORIAL

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Pastor Elder Supt Ohmas Edwards (713) 674-5466

2222 Lockwood Dr.

“Preaching The Tx Gospel Houston, 77020Is More Important Than Philosophizing.

SUNDAY Soul Winning Is More Important Than Building Membership Morning Prayer: 9:15 am .”

If youSunday are looking church School: for 9:30aam home, you might want to come Church Services: am Befellowship with these11folks. sides Sunday, they meet for prayer on Tuesday morning at 11 am, and on Friday the Bible Band Mission meets from 12 to 1 pm and a Bible

Morning Bible Class 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:45 a.m.

Evening Bible Class 5:00 p.m.

Evening Worship 6:00 p.m.

Chorus Group Rehearsal 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday

MINISTER: Mid-Week Bible Class Theaster Maloy, Sr. 7:00 p.m.

OFFICE: 713/674-5131

140 Fidelity Rd. Houston Tx 77029

Greater Progressive MBC 840 Ringold Houston 77088 (281) 445-8603

SUNDAY SERVICE

FIFTH WARD CHURCH OF CHRIST SUNDAY 8:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m. Bible Class 11:15 a.m. Worship 6:00 p.m. Worship MONDAY 10:00 a.m.

Gary Smith Ladies Bible Class Minister WEDNESDAY 7:30 p.m. Bible Class for all

Website

www.fthwardcoc.org “GIVING, GROWING, & GAINING” 4308 Stonewall St. Hou. Tx 77020

713-672-2654

In addition to their other activities, the Fifth Ward COC also holds a Bible Class for non-members on Thursday nights at 7:30 PM. For more information on the various special events or activities you really should visit their website, it is very well done, informative and worth a visit even if you have

Blessed Hope MBC 3741 Colvin Houston 77013 (713) 673-6309

Greater True Vine MBC 3010 Fontinot Houston 77026 713) 672-9086

Hope in Christ Church 10310 Antoine Drive Suite A Houston 77091 (832) 882-7925

East Houston Church of Christ 7515 E. Houston Houston 77028 (713) 631-7435

Green Meadow MBC 777 Green Meadow Lane Houston 77091 (713) 694-7624

Jerusalem MBC 2835 Fidelity Rd. Houston 77029 (713) 674-3794

Ebenezer MBC 1814 Jensen Houston 77026 (713) 222-0838

Homestead Rd. Church of Christ 7211 Homestead Rd. Houston 77028 713) 633-1540

Mt. Ararat Baptist Church 5801 W. Montgomery Houston 77073 (713) 692-9954

GREATER FRIENDSHIP MBC Rev. Johnny L. Goff, Sr.,

8 AM and 11 AM

14055 Dublin

BIBLE STUDIES Wednesday 7:30PM Leonard N. Barksdale, Pastor

Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church 4300 Noble Street, Houston TX 77020 Ph: 713/675-5111 • Fx: 713/675-1522

Website: www.fwmbc.org

Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church members will endeavor to provide a strong foundation of love; we will stand on Biblical Truths; and we will equip one another to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our community

Mt. Ararat Community BC 9313 Lockwood Houston 77016 (713)858-9801 Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church 1055 W. Tidwell Rd. Houston 77091 (713) 680-1419 New Pleasant Grove MBC 3221 Bain St. Houston 77021 (713) 672-7419 Olivet MBC 3115 Lyons Ave. Houston 77020 (713) 224-1515

SHADY ACRES

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Houston, TX. 77085

730 West 26th St, Houston, TX 77008

Office: 713-7289503

713/861-6625

www.gfmbc.com Experience the Friendship! Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is a church with a mission- “Let Each One, Reach One!” They have been committed to following the Lord’s command to reach out to the lost (Matt. 28: 18-20) since their found-

Progressive MBC 944 Reverend B.J. Lewis Dr. Houston 77088 (281) 447-2342 Starlight MBC 9202 Willow St. Houston 77088 (281) 447-5837 St. Monica Catholic Church 8421 West Montgomery Rd. Houston 77088 (281) 447-5837 Wesley UMC 7225 Homestead Houston 77028 (713)635- 3191

Sunday

Minister Frank Melton Jr. Res.713/733-0868 Off. 713/861-9249 FX 713/861-2744 Assoc. Minister Glen Burgess, Sr. Res.713/734-8983

Early Worship 6 am Sunday School 9:30 am Regular Worship 10:30 am Evening Worship 6 pm

Wednesday General Song Practice

Announcements HURST- Chosen Generation Fellowship Church, 817 Pipeline in Hurst, presents an evening of praise and song at 3:30p.m. on Sunday, December 30, 2007. For more information call (817)2838483.

FT. WORTH- Sweet Home Baptist Church invites the public to share their abundant outreach ministry every Tuesday from 6p.m. to 8:30p.m. For more information call (817)534-2635.

Read us online at www.aframnews.com.

To get FREE coverage of your community events, news and announcements, please send items to news@aframnews.com.

TX-7

8 • African-American News&Issues • Texas • December 26, 2007-January 1, 2008

Low Prices every day!

• 100% pure beef, no additives!

• Ground fresh several times a day!

• Time stamped for freshness!

2

$ 29 lb.

1

Fresh!

Ground Chuck

80% lean, value pack

$ 49 Fresh!

Blackeyed ea. Peas 11 oz.

Your Choice!

1

Hill Country Fare Texas Oranges $ 99 Boneless Skinless $ 99 or lb. Chicken Breasts ea.

2

1

individually quick frozen, sold in net wt. 4 lb. bag at $7.96 ea.

2

4 lbs.

Grapefruit

5 lbs.

TexJoy $ 49 Gumbo File ea.

$ 39

Doguet's Extra Fancy ea. Long Grain Rice

2 oz.

80 oz.

4

5

$ 15 ea.

$ 59 ea.

Motions Oil Moisturizer

Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer

12 oz.

1

$ 88 ea.

Doguet's Roux 16 oz.

2

Wick Fowler’s $ 37 2-Alarm ea.

Chili Kit

3.03 - 3.625 oz. regular or mild

Prices Good Wednesday, December 26, 2007 Thru Tuesday, January 1, 2008 At Your Neighborhood H-E-B Stores.

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. Printed on recycled paper. ©2007 H-E-B Food Stores, 08-1198CS

HOU-8

8 oz.

visit www.heb.com