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“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
HOW GENTRIFICATION IS ERASING BLACK HISTORY BLOCK BY BLOCK
By: Roy Douglas Malonson
For decades, historic Black neighborhoods have served as living records of resilience, culture, and survival. These communities were built during a time when segregation forced Black families to create their own economic systems, social networks, and cultural institutions. Today, many residents fear those foundations are being slowly stripped away as gentrification reshapes inner-city America.
What is often labeled as “revitalization” can feel very different on the ground. New developments arrive promising opportunity, yet longtime residents are left grappling with higher property taxes, rising rents, and a growing sense that their neighborhoods are no longer designed for them. Homes once passed down through generations are suddenly Block on pg. 3
REMEMBERING DEMOND WILSON’S IMPACT AS LAMONT SANFORD
By: Fred Smith
Demond Wilson became a household name in the 1970s as Lamont Sanford, the level-headed son in NBC’s groundbreaking sitcom Sanford and Son. Starring opposite comedy legend Redd Foxx, Wilson helped anchor a show that blended sharp humor with social commentary, offering a raw and relatable portrait of working-class Black life in Los Angeles. His straight-man role was essential, balancing Foxx’s explosive comedic style while giving the series emotional weight.
Before television fame, Wilson served in the U.S. Army and later studied acting in New York, performing on stage and working steadily in television commercials and small roles. That foundation prepared him for the intensity of Sanford and Son, which became one of the most popular shows of its era. Week after week, Wilson’s portrayal of Lamont resonated with audiences who saw themselves reflected in the father-son dynamic at the heart of the series.
Behind the scenes, Wilson’s time on the show was not without challenges. He later spoke openly about clashes with producers and the toll of grueling production schedules, eventually stepping away from the series before its final season. Those experiences shaped his decision to pivot away from Hollywood, choosing a quieter life focused on personal growth rather than fame.
A Revival of God Consciousness
Bobby Mills, Ph.D.
No matter how hard the Trump Administration seeks to transform and rewrite American history, America is a multicultural nation of immigrants. Yet, at the same time, America’s fundamental spiritual problem has always been institutional racism. Even in the 21st century, The Trump MAGA-Cult fundamentally believes that America must become a White country, something that America has never been. This is why ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is willing to place individuals eternally on ice (execution) who are willing to question/ resist ICE’s White Privilege immigration policies. What an ungodly shame. As a devilish result, America is experiencing state sponsored terrorism. To make matters worse, The GOP has given President Trump an administrative permission structure to violate the Human and Civil Rights of illegal immigrants, as well as American citizens who seek to do the right thing! What an ungodly shame. To make matter worse, The Trump Administration is perpetuating state sponsored devilish terrorism primarily in democratic party-controlled states. Consequently, The MAGA-Cult GOP Party is waging an ungodly-unholy war against the truth of God, as well as the cardinal truth of the Preamble to the U. S.
EDITORIAL
Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
ICE CROCKETT CONTINUES TO DOMINATE TEXAS SENATE RACE We Must Understand
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is emerging as the clear frontrunner in the race for the U.S. Senate, according to newly released internal polling that shows her holding a commanding 13-point advantage in the Democratic primary. The results reinforce what many political observers across Texas have been saying for weeks: Crockett’s message is resonating deeply with voters who are hungry for bold leadership and unapologetic advocacy.
The poll, conducted by HIT Strategies, surveyed 1,005 likely Democratic primary voters statewide and carries a margin of error of ±3.21 percent. Its findings show Crockett leading across every major demographic group and in every region of Texas, with support nearing the critical 50 percent threshold needed to secure a primary victory. From urban centers to rural communities, her coalition appears both broad and energized.
reunite the party’s base while expanding the electorate in a general election. For Democrats seeking to flip a U.S. Senate seat in Texas, the poll underscores Crockett’s growing stature as a unifying and formidable contender.
Crockett’s rise comes despite the fact that she entered the Senate race just over a month ago while continuing to serve her congressional district in Washington. Rather than slowing her momentum, that dual role appears to have strengthened her credibility with voters. On weekends, she has crisscrossed the state, participating in more than 30 events across over 15 cities in just two weekends. Her campaign has also mobilized volunteers to participate in nearly two dozen Martin Luther King Jr. Day parades, signaling a deep commitment to grassroots organizing and community presence.
Constitution: “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness—That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed.” America, God says we are all equal. The U. S. Constitution says we are all equal. Death treats everyone equally (Hebrews 9:27a), and the U.S. Constitution affirms equality for all, regardless of skin color, sex, gender, or location. This is why we sing God Bless America; even though, America is comprised of fifty different and unique states that are united by common Godly Constitutional Principles. Remember this MAGACult Trumpsters, the enforcement of law without moral conscience is destined to destroy a civilized society, because individuals without a God conscience are animalistic. Sadly, individual liberty, freedom, and due process rights are under vicious White Privilege attack. In fact, the lack of pragmatism, common sense, civility, and wisdom are sorely absent in the Trump Administration. Hence, we have masked individuals masquerading as ICE officials/policemen; without moral-intellectual conscience, self-discipline, or proper police training enforcing the law. Law enforcement assassinations are not effective moral policing. The objective of law enforcement is to uphold the rule of law, not violate
Terrance Woodbury of HIT Strategies described the polling methodology as “gold standard,” emphasizing that the results leave little room for doubt about the state of the race. According to Woodbury, the data confirms that Crockett is not only the bestpositioned candidate to win the Democratic primary, but also the strongest choice to
In a statement responding to the poll, Crockett framed her campaign as a direct challenge to what she called a broken system that has failed working families and Black communities in particular. She pointed to stark economic and social inequalities, arguing that the middle class is overtaxed while billionaires thrive, and that everyday Texans are told there is no money for basic needs like healthcare or food assistance. Her remarks struck a populist tone that cuts across race, class, and geography, emphasizing shared struggle and collective responsibility.
Crockett also made clear that she has no intention of running a conventional campaign. Rejecting what she described as “politics as usual,”
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surrounded by upscale housing, boutique businesses, and investors with little connection to the community’s history. The concern goes beyond money. Culture itself is at risk. Local Black-owned businesses that once anchored these neighborhoods struggle to compete with national chains. Historic churches see congregations shrink as families
Crockett Cont.
she positioned herself as a fighter willing to speak plainly about injustice and power. Her message of being “Texas Tough” is less about branding and more about resolve—a promise to show up in every corner of the state and to represent people who feel ignored by traditional politics.
relocate farther from the city core. Streets that once echoed with familiar faces now feel unfamiliar, leaving residents to wonder whether progress requires erasing the past.
Supporters of redevelopment argue that investment brings safer streets and improved services. Critics counter that those benefits rarely reach the people who endured decades of neglect before the neighborhood
For many African American voters, Crockett’s candidacy carries particular significance. Her campaign blends policy urgency with lived experience, and her rapid rise in the polls reflects a growing confidence that she can articulate the frustrations of Black Texans while building a multiracial, statewide coalition. As the primary approaches,
became “valuable.”
Instead, they say, the rewards flow to newcomers, while original residents are pressured to leave the very communities they built.
As gentrification continues to expand, the question facing cities is no longer whether change is coming, but who gets to stay when “progress” arrives—and whose history gets left behind.
the numbers suggest that voters are not just listening—they are lining up behind a leader they know and trust.
If the latest polling is any indication, Jasmine Crockett’s campaign is quickly becoming the defining force in the Democratic primary, and potentially a historic one for Texas politics.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT
TRANSIT AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS (METRO)
At its January 22, 2026, meeting, the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) approved the FY2025 Urbanized Area Formula, the FY2025 State of Good Repair, and the FY2025 Bus and Bus Operating Facilities Programs of Projects. These Programs of Projects will become the final Program of Projects and are funded with grant support from the United States Department of Transportation, Section 5307, Section 5337, and Section 5339.
Visit RideMETRO.org/PublicHearing for the complete FY2025 Program of Projects.
Members of the public may submit comments or request a public hearing by contacting GrantApplications@RideMETRO.org or 713-739-4697. Requests for a public hearing will be accepted until 5:00 p.m., Friday, March 6, 2026. The Main Street location is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. Individuals with hearing impairments may phone 713-635-6993 for TDD/TTY access.
Further information may be obtained by contacting GrantApplications@RideMETRO.org or 713-739-4697.
1807 1820 1845 1857 1835 1852 1859
Thomas Jefferson signs the Act Prohibiting Importation of Slaves.
The Missouri Compromise is passed. It was a legislative package designed to address the issue of slavery in the new territories acquired from the Louisiana Purchase.
The first recorded lynching of an African American occurs in St. Louis.
Frederick Douglass publishes his first autobiography and bestknown work, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave.
Uncle Tom’s Cabin is published, helping fuel the abolitionist movement.
In Dred Scott v. Sandford, the Supreme Court case finds that the U.S. Constitution does not protect or recognize free or enslaved African Americans as citizens.
TEXAS TAKEAWAY
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
Houston is home to one of the largest historically Black universities in the nation — Texas Southern University (TSU). Founded in 1927, TSU played a major role in educating Black leaders and was a center for civil rights activism in the city.
EMANCIPATION PARK
Emancipation Park is the oldest park in Texas dedicated to Juneteenth celebrations. Purchased in 1872 by formerly enslaved people, the park became a central gathering place for Houston’s Black community to celebrate freedom after slavery.
THIRD WARD
Houston’s Third Ward is one of the city’s most historically significant Black neighborhoods. Often called the “Cultural Heartbeat of Black Houston,” it has been home to prominent civil rights leaders, artists, and educators for generations.
LEE P. BROWN
Houston elected one of the most influential Black mayors in U.S. history. Lee P. Brown became Houston’s first Black mayor in 1998, marking a major milestone.
CAMP LOGAN
The Buffalo Soldiers had a strong presence in the Houston area. Black cavalry and infantry units were stationed at nearby Camp Logan in the early 1900s, playing a role in the region’s military history and the growth of the city.
Otis Boykin was born in 1920 to a Dallas carpenter and a housekeeper, but he tragically lost his mother to heart failure when he was only a year old. Growing up in a segregated Dallas, he proved to be a brilliant student and eventually graduated as the valedictorian of his class at Booker T. Washington High School in 1938. His academic excellence in Texas earned him a scholarship to Fisk University in Nashville, where he began his formal journey into the physics and chemistry that would later define his career. He developed key electrical resistors used in pacemakers, computers, and guided missiles.
OTIS BOYKIN
John Brown’s Raid on Harper’s Ferry. Brown and his 18 men seized the US Armory and Arsenal at Harpers Ferry on the night of October 16, 1859.
HOUS TON’S HEALTHCARE SAFETY NE T FOR 60 YEARS.
CHRISTIAN MENEFEE WINS TURNER SEAT AHEAD OF PRIMARY
By: Fred Smith
significant turning point in Menefee’s political career.
Christian Menefee secured a major victory in a special runoff election on Saturday, winning the right to serve the remainder of former Texas Rep. Sylvester Turner’s term in the U.S. House of Representatives. The win ends months without representation for Texas’s 18th Congressional District and marks a in the U.S. House of ends months without 18th Congressional
The special runoff was required after no candidate earned a majority in the initial special election. Menefee defeated former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards, consolidating support across the district and demonstrating broad
voter confidence. His victory reflected a desire among residents to restore stable leadership and a strong voice in Washington. Throughout the campaign, Menefee emphasized his experience as Harris County Attorney, where he built a reputation for taking on complex legal battles involving
consumer protection, environmental justice, and government accountability. That background helped frame him as a candidate prepared to step into federal office with urgency and purpose.
