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75 Students from 62 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Named 2014 HBCU All-Stars

U.S. Department of Education
Office of Communications & Outreach, Press Office

The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (WHIHBCU) today announced its first class of HBCU All-Stars, recognizing 75 undergraduate, graduate and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership and civic engagement. Currently enrolled at 62 HBCUs, the All-Stars were selected from 445 students who submitted completed applications that included a transcript, resume, essay and recommendation. The HBCU All-Stars will serve as ambassadors of the White House Initiative by providing outreach and communication with their fellow students about the value of education and the Initiative as a networking resource.

“Engaging with the next generation of leaders who will graduate from HBCUs and go on to make meaningful contributions to society is crucial to the success of our community, our country and our global competitiveness,” said George Cooper, executive director of the WHIHBCUs. “It is a privilege to announce these 75 students who have demonstrated a commitment to both their own academic achievement and making a difference in their communities, and we look forward to working with them as partners in advancing President Obama’s college completion goal.”

Over the course of the next year — through social media and their relationships with community-based organizations — the All-Stars will share promising and proven practices that support opportunities for all young people to achieve their educational and career potential. In addition, the 45 female and 30 male All-Stars will participate in regional events and web chats with Ivory Toldson, deputy director of the WHIHBCUs, other Initiative staff and professionals from a wide range of disciplines. They will also have opportunities to engage with other scholars to showcase individual and collective talent across the HBCU community.

More information about the activities of the 75 HBCU All-Stars will be provided in the coming months as they carry out their role as ambassadors of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Attached is a list of the 2014 HBCU All-Stars in alphabetical order by the state and city they are from, the school they attend and the school’s location.

2014 HBCU All Stars

ALABAMA

Aliceville–Keiwan Harris –attends Concordia College Alabama, Selma, AL

Huntsville–Sharesse Mason –attends Alabama A&M University, Normal

Mobile–Justin Wells –attends Bishop State Community College, Mobile, AL

Tuscaloosa–Morgan Curry –attends Shelton State Community College, Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa–Jeraun Pouge –attends Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, AL

Talladega–Chuck Stewart –attends Talladega College, Talladega, AL

Tuskegee—Kalauna Carter –attends Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL

ARKANSAS

Little Rock–Chelsea Fox –attends Philander Smith, Little Rock, AR

CALIFORNIA

Los Angeles–Nicole Tinson –attends Dillard University, New Orleans, LA

Fresno–Arogeanae Brown –attends Virginia State University, Petersbury, Virginia

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Tyrone Hankerson –attends Howard University, District of Columbia

-Jocelyn Cole –attends Howard University, District of Columbia

-LaTrice Clayburn –attends Livingstone College, Salisbury, NC

Abdul Nurriddin –attends University of the District of Columbia Community College, District of Columbia

FLORIDA

Daytona–Shantel Braynen –attends Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, FL

Tallahassee–Jamil McGinnis –attends Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL

Tallahassee–Jazmyne Simmons –attends Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL

Miami–Jonte Myers –attends Florida Memorial University, Miami Gardens, FL

Orlando–Vivian Nweze –attends Howard University, District of Columbia

GEORGIA

Riverdale–Kelcey Wright –attends Albany State University, Albany, GA

Atlanta–Lillian Harris –attends Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA

Rex–Elijah Porter –attends Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA

Atlanta–Cameron Weathers –attends Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA

Atlanta–David Johnny –attends Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA

Atlanta–Sarah Dillard –attends Savannah State University, Savannah, GA

Albany–Bria Carrithers –attends Spelman College, Atlanta, GA

KENTUCKY

Frankfort–Chaundra Bush –attends Kentucky State University, Frankfort, KY

LOUISIANA

Grambling–Breonna Ward –attends Grambling State University, Grambling, LA

Ruston–Brooke Battiste –attends Grambling State University, Grambling, LA

Zachary–Robert Chambers –attends Southern University A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA

MARYLAND

Accokeek–Symone Jordan –attends Bowie State University, Bowie, MD

Fort Washington–Kayla Reynolds –attends Delaware State University, Dover, DE

Baltimore–Triston Bing-Young –attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD

Fort Washington–Trevor McKie –attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD

Silver Spring–Chanel Banks –attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD

Princess Anne–So Jin Park –attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD

MISSISSIPPI

Brookhaven–Lawrence Warren –attends Alcorn State University, Alcorn, MS

Jackson–Candace Chambers –attends Jackson State University, Jackson, MS

Itta Bena–Rodney Rice –attends Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena, MS

Holly Springs–Larrance Carter –attends Rust College, Holly Springs, MS

Bolton–Kisa Harris –attends Tougaloo College, Jackson, MS

NORTH CAROLINA

Greensboro–Jasmine Everett –attends Bennett College, Greensboro, NC

Raleigh–Victoria Jones –attends North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC

Whiteville–Valerie Edwards –attends Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC

Gates–Amanda Eure –attends Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, NC

Charlotte–Jheanelle Linton –attends Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, NC

Greensboro–Shakera Fudge –attends North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University, Greensboro

Greensboro–Leon White –attends North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University, Greensboro

Knightdale–Joseph Wyatt –attends St. Augustine’s University, Raleigh, NC

Winston-Salem–Georges Guillame –attends Winston Salem State University, Winston Salem, NC

NEW JERSEY

Newark–Akirah Crawford –attends Virginia State University, Petersburg, VA

OKLAHOMA

Ardmore–Beautiful- Joy Fields –attends Langston University, Langston, OK

PENNSYLVANIA

Chester–Ahn-yea Graham –attends Cheyney University of PA, Cheyney, PA

SOUTH CAROLINA

Leesville–Rodrea Zeigler –attends Allen University, Columbia, SC

Orangeburg–Jessica Mong –attends Claflin University, Orangeburg, SC

Lynchburg–Refugio Banuelos –attends Morris College, Sumter, SC

Orangeburg–Harold Rickenbacker –attends South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC

Orangeburg–Jasmine Harris –attends South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC

TENNESSEE

Nashville–Ciera Carter –attends Fisk University, Nashville, TN

Jackson–Stephanie Phillips –attends Lane College, Jackson, TN

Memphis–Gilbert Carter –attends LeMoyne- Owen College, Memphis, TN

Nashville–Ciera Scales –attends Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN

Nashville–Jeremiah Cooper –attends Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN

Jackson–Aneesa Sood –attends Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL

TEXAS

Houston–Antoine Southern –attends Oakwood University, Huntsville, AL

Dallas–Priscilla Barbour –attends Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX

Cedar Hill–Glenn Johnson –attends Texas College, Tyler, TX

Houston–Jarrauri Curry –attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX

Houston–Candace Jones –attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX

Garland–Jade Crutch –attends Xavier University, New Orleans, LA

VIRGINIA

Suffolk–Chanae LeGrier –attends Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC

Dendron–Whitney Johnson –attends Hampton University, Hampton, VA

Richmond–Caprichia Moses –attends Virginia Union University, Richmond, VA

VIRGIN ISLANDS

Christiansted–Shereena Cannonier –attends Lincoln University PA, Lincoln, PA

Christiansted–Kevin Dixon –attends University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, USVI

Cavity Prevention Can Save You THOUSANDS

By: Dr. Ka Ron Wade
The Houston Sun

The Data and Analysis Center reviewed more than 77 million Delta Dental claims and found that—over a lifetime—a single cavity can have serious economic consequences down the road.

We can help you prevent tooth decay and save you a bundle!

With new advances in Dental Technology and Treatment, we can stop tooth decay from progressing and beautifully restore damaged teeth.

Once restored, proper home care will help your restorations last; however, there is no such thing as a “permanent dental restoration.”

That’s why we are so passionate about having you and your family come in for routine dental exams to help prevent tooth decay. That means not waiting until you’re in pain to call us!

Keep Your “Pearly Whites” Pristine!

A new study shows that since all restorations are “temporary,” the lifetime cost of treating just one molar that started with a small filling—on average—is about $2,187.

Multiply that by several teeth and you’ll come up with lots of reasons you’d rather enjoy spending your hard-earned money on other things!

Let’s face it, by comparison—an exam costs next to nothing. And this is where real prevention comes in.

We now know that when good oral hygiene is coupled with regular dental visits and cleanings—cavities are almost entirely preventable.

Yet, 90 percent of all adults have had one or more cavities.

And nearly 80 percent of young people have had a cavity by age 17.

We don’t’ want you or your family to become another dental statistic.

When caught early, we can restore the form and function of your decayed teeth before more serious damage occurs.

If you really want to keep your pocketbook and your pearly whites happy…preventive dentistry is the way to go!

For breakthrough dental technology,

GIVE US A CALL TODAY!
For More Information, call us at 713.654.7756 or visit our web-site at www.cosmeticdt.com

Colon Cancer Awareness makes City Hall BLUE

blue city hall

March is colon cancer awareness month, and to kick it off, City Hall will be lit up in blue lights, starting on March 4th. Please join us at City Hall that Tuesday evening at 5:30 p.m for the lighting ceremony. The blue lights will stay lit every night from March 4-8, so feel free to check out the light display any evening that week. Dark blue is the color designated for colon cancer awareness. Hope Through Grace, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization that works to promote awareness of this deadly disease, which is the #2 leading cancer killer of men and women. Please help us to bring attention to colon cancer, and join us at this special lighting event. We look forward to seeing you there!

Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Location: 901 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002

Sincerely,

Hope Through Grace, Inc.

Proposed Tobacco Settlement Excludes Black Community

Judge Gladys Kessler
Judge Gladys Kessler

By George E. Curry
NNPA Editor-in-Chief

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Justice Department and the Tobacco-Free Kids Action Fund have reached an agreement with the four major tobacco companies that requires them to spend more than $30 million advertising with the three major television networks and run full-page ads in 35 White and Hispanic newspapers as well as purchasing space on their respective websites but not make a single purchase from a Black print or broadcast media company. The 24-page proposed consent agreement, reached Friday, was scheduled to go before U.S. District Judge Gladys Kessler in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Wednesday, Jan. 15, for final approval. However, that proceeding was delayed until Jan. 22. “We are shocked and deeply disappointed that the Justice Department, the Tobacco-Free Action Fund and the tobacco industry would all agree to sign off an advertising plan that totally disrespects the Black community,” said Cloves C. Campbell, chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a federation of nearly 200 Black newspapers.

“The industry’s past efforts to target African-American consumers have been thoroughly documented. It is sad that an industry that sought to exploit our community with a product that is harmful to our health now seeks to further devalue African-Americans by ignoring the Black media when it is being forced to atone what a federal judge determined was a deliberate effort to deceive the American public.” Peter S. Hamm, director of communications for the Tobacco-Free Kids Action, said on Monday that the media outlets were selected by Judge Kessler and disclosed in an order issued Aug. 17, 2006. Hamm said he did not know how she determined what media outlets would be utilized to carry the newspaper ads and television commercials.

A telephone call Monday requesting comment from the Justice Department was not returned. The story of the agreement was first disclosed by Target Market News, published by Ken Smikle. The Chicago-based publication said an advertising source placed the value of the total buy at $30 million to $45 million. The advertising campaign, which won’t go into effect until all appeals have been exhausted by the tobacco companies, was agreed to as part of a settlement that found tobacco companies mislead the public about the dangers of smoking. The four defendants are: Altria, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, Lorillard and Philip Morris USA. The U.S. Justice Department filed suit against the cigarette manufacturers on Sept. 22, 1999 charging that they had violated the Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organizations Act (RICO). They were found guilty at the conclusion of a trial that lasted from Dec. 21, 2004 to June 9, 2005. Judge Kessler wrote a stinging opinion saying, that the case “is about an industry, and in particular these Defendants, that survives, and profits, from selling a highly addictive product which causes diseases that lead to a staggering number of deaths per year, an immeasurable amount of human suffering and economic loss, and a profound burden on our national health care system.

Defendants have known these facts for at least 50 years or more. Despite that knowledge, they have consistently, repeatedly, and with enormous skill and sophistication, denied these facts to the public, to the Government, and to the public health community… In short, Defendants have marketed and sold their lethal products with zeal, with deception, with a single-minded focus on their financial success, and without regard for the human tragedy or social costs that success exacted.” The judge prohibited the companies from committing similar acts going forward and ordered them to make “corrective statements” about the lies they had told about the dangers of smoking. Kessler’s ruling was unanimously upheld March 22, 2009 by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. On June 28, 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to accept an appeal.

Carefully-crafted “corrective statements” that include the wording, placement and timing of TV commercials and the content, type and size of fonts to be used in newspaper ads were covered in the agreement reached Friday. The statements will acknowledge that the advertising is being done under court order and that companies had misled the public on the health effects of smoking, the addictiveness of smoking and nicotine and the health effects of secondhand smoke. The companies will also admit that they falsely sold and advertised low-tar and light cigarettes as less harmful than regular cigarettes and designed cigarettes to enhance the delivery of nicotine. Under the agreement, each company will decide whether to place commercials on CBS, ABC or NBC.

“The TV spots will run a total of five times per week, subject to the availability of network time and upon approval of the network (s) on which the spots will air,” the agreement stipulates. “The five TV spots to be run each week will be run by each Defendant at its choice between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. in the time zone in which the spot airs, between Monday and Thursday for one year.”

In the event the desired time slot is unavailable, the companies must continue to purchase spots until they have run the corrective statements at least 50 times and have aired a total of 260 spots. For newspapers, the tobacco companies are required to purchase a full-page ad in the first section of the Sunday edition of each newspaper. Each ad will contain one of the five corrective statements in their entirety. The companies are also required to advertise on the newspapers’ web sites. Those same requirements will run in Spanish in Spanish-language newspapers. The ads and commercials will state, “A Federal Court has ruled that Altria, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, Lorillard, and Philip Morris USA deliberately deceived the American public and has ordered those companies to make these statements.

Here is the truth:” Texts, of the corrective statements will then be provided. Under Judge Kessler’s 2006 order, ads will be placed in the following newspapers: Atlanta Journal Constitution, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, Charlotte Observer, Chicago Sun Times, Chicago Tribune, Dallas Morning News, Florida Times Union, Fresno Bee, Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, Houston Chronicle, Los Angeles Times, Miami Herald, New York Daily News, New York Post, New York Sun, New York Times, Orlando Sentinel, Palm Beach Post, Philadelphia Inquirer, Richmond Times-Dispatch, Sacramento Bee, San Diego Union-Tribune, San Francisco Chronicle, St. Petersburg Times, Tallahassee Democrat, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, LA Eastern Group Publications, San Francisco La Oferta Review/El Vistaz-Combo, NAHP, Chicago Lawndale Group News and NAHP Houston – Que Onda! It is ironic that the tobacco industry is bypassing Black media while complying with a federal order to disclose its deception when in the past it used the Black media to target African-American consumers. “The tobacco industry has gone to great lengths to target the African-American community over the past 30 years,” the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids stated. “Through market research and aggressive advertising, the industry has successfully penetrated this population.

The industry’s ‘investment’ in the African-American community has had a destructive impact: African Americans suffer the greatest burden of tobacco-related mortality of any ethnic or racial group in the United States.” The anti-smoking group also explained, “…There is compelling evidence that tobacco companies not only advertise disproportionately in communities with large African-American populations, they also create advertising specifically targeted to these communities. Cigarette ads highly prevalent in African-American communities and publications are often characterized by slogans, relevant and specific messages, or images that have a great appeal among those in the black community, or that depict African Americans in an appealing light. Contrary to how blacks are typically portrayed in the media, cigarette ads portray images of African Americans who are happy, confident, successful and wealthy, in love, attractive, strong and independent.” The tobacco industry was among the first to make inroads into the Black community by contributing to Black causes and developing close personal relationships with Black leaders. For example, A. Shaunise Washington, president of executive director of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, was Vice President for Government Affairs, Policy and Outreach for Altria. Prior to joining Altria, she was Director of Washington Relations for Philip Morris. In addition to serving on the CBC Foundation’s Corporate Advisory Council, Washington was chairwoman of the CBC Foundation Board of Directors from March 2012 to February 2013.

Jim Winston, Executive Director of the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters, told Target Market News: “The health of the African American community has suffered disproportionately from the advertising campaigns of the tobacco companies, and Black owned media has been demonstrated to be the best way to engage the African American community. Yet, now that the tobacco companies are being required to educate the public about the harm that tobacco products have caused, the companies and the DOJ have no plan to direct any educational advertising to our communities.” Both Winston and Cloves Campbell said they plan to contact the Justice Department and ask it to direct tobacco companies to include Black-owned print and broadcast media in their public education buys. If that fails, Campbell said, NNPA will take stronger action. He said, “If our newspapers aren’t good enough to advertise in, their products – including the non-tobacco ones – aren’t good enough for us to consume.” – See more at: http://www.blackpressusa.com/proposed-tobacco-settlement-excludes-black-media/#sthash.e9KXrgup.dpuf

Houston’s mayor Annise Parker weds long-time partner

Mayor Annise Parker weds long time partner.
Mayor Annise Parker weds long time partner.

Mayor Annise Parker and her long-time partner, First Lady Kathy Hubbard, were joined in marriage today in a sunset ceremony held at a private home in Palm Springs, California. A small gathering of family and friends, including the mayor’s mother and Ms. Hubbard’s sister, were on hand for the exchange of vows, which were presided over by the Reverend Paul Fromberg, a family friend from San Francisco. Two other close friends from Houston, Judge Steve Kirkland and Mr. Mark Parthie, served as the attendants and formal witnesses. Mayor Parker and the First Lady selected January 16th for their wedding because it marks the 23rd anniversary of the start of their lives together.

“This is a very happy day for us,” said Mayor Parker. “We have had to wait a very long time to formalize our commitment to each other. Kathy has been by my side for more than two decades, helping to raise a family, nurture my political career and all of the other ups and down and life events that come with a committed relationship. She is the love of my life and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life married to her.”

Ms. Hubbard has other insurance options available to her and will, therefore, not participate in the new policy granting city health insurance benefits to the spouses of legally-married city employees.

104-year-old Mrs. Mildred Washington Anthony says, “it’s no secret” to long life, celebrates birthday

By:Sheila Ray Reed
The Houston Sun

For Mildred Washington Anthony who celebrated her 104th birthday with family, friends and church members at True Light Missionary Baptist Church, longevity is all about trusting in the Lord and allowing Him to lead.

“The Lord did it. The Lord kept me alive. Do you know the Lord,” she asked? “You know what he does for you; he will do for others. I trust in the Lord. I ask the Lord to keep me and be with me. Don’t leave me alone. I am going to let You lead me. The Lord, the good Lord. He loves you. He loves me. I know the Lord loves me because the Bible tells me so. That’s all I know; and it is no secret,” she boldly stated.

SunPhoto/Kenya Chavis Mildred Washington Anthony celebrated her 104th birthday at True Light Missionary Baptist Church, with family and church members. Anthony spoke to Sun Lifestyle Editor Sheila Ray Reed about life and the key to becoming a healthy 104 year old.
SunPhoto/Kenya Chavis
Mildred Washington Anthony celebrated her 104th birthday at True Light Missionary Baptist Church, with family and church members. Anthony spoke to Sun Lifestyle Editor Sheila Ray Reed about life and the key to becoming a healthy 104 year old.

Anthony is an early riser and has a quick-witted mind that knows how to get you thinking. “When I woke this morning, I thought today is my birthday, and I am a year older than yesterday. Right now, being 104-years of age doesn’t feel any different from being 103-years of age,” she said with a sly laugh.

She goes on and says, “I hope you are getting something from the background. Always listen to the background when anybody is talking to you,” said Anthony. “You know what, a lot of things are better when you do it for yourself. It makes you feel better about yourself.”

Growing up in her birth town of San Augustine, Texas, Anthony worked in the cotton-fields all day to support her nine younger siblings after the death of their parents. After a long days’ work, she then would return home to prepare dinner for her brothers and sisters. Even with being the oldest, she has outlived them all.

“My daddy used to say, “always cover the ground you stand on. Stand-up and be a woman, Stand-up and be a man. Don’t let nobody push you around. Don’t let nobody run over you. Take the Lord along with you. He will run the old devil clean away. You won’t see him anymore if you keep the Lord with you. The old devil stays away, because he doesn’t like the things of God. That’s what my daddy spoke,” said Anthony.

Even though Mrs. Anthony is not physically able to do some of the things she used to enjoy they still resonate in her heart.

“I like to keep house. I like to dress up and look real good. I do. I’ve always like to dress up. But now I can’t do that. It’s not because I don’t like it. I still like it. I still like good housekeeping, a good clean house. I like to look different. You see me today; I have on such-a-such thing. You see me tomorrow; I have on something different and look better. Let the world turn,” she said.

Her faith and love of the Lord has sustained her through some trials and tribulations. After her husband passed, she moved to Houston to live with one of their three children. She joined True Light Missionary Baptist Church where she has been a dedicated and active member for 51 years.

Anthony’s children have all since passed. She still does have a supportive family of three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren; and two great-great-great grandchildren.

In addition, she has a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and a beloved church family.

Her grandson, Michael Given visits his grandmother every day and says that she has only been ill twice in her life.

“Last year and the year before, she was in the hospital for chest pains. But she overcame that. She is strong and knows how to say what she wants and needs. As she told you, she likes to take very good care of herself,” Given said.

Mrs. Anthony says there isn’t one thing that she feels is missing in her life. She just knows that God knew her before she was born a 104-years-ago and knows her the same yesterday and today.

“When you pray, you are talking to the Lord. When you are reading the Bible, the Lord is talking to you. That is the way it is. That’s the way it goes. That’s the way it is written. And when you read the Bible and it is something important, write it down so you will not forget,” said Anthony.

Mother found on Christmas after 28 years due to Facebook

Daood Obaid
Special Edition
The Houston Sun

Kelly Lott, a Denton native and resident, spent her entire life overcoming drug abuse and homelessness. Within five years she lost her parents to cancer, her brother to a car accident, and three boys to Child Protective Services. Decades have passed, but Kelly has still managed to maintain peace of mind and life.

Born as a crack baby with several health problems and taken at birth, Milton Lee Hood was officially adopted by the Bradford family at the age of six years old and renamed J.R. Bradford. The young boy thrived in the environment created by his adopted parents. The family adopted five children with J.R. being the oldest and the only they’d adopted from two weeks old. Raised in Ft. Worth, J.R. spent his adolescent years searching for his true identity and family. A few years ago he found his passion and talent in acting and stage plays where he has been very successful.

SunPhoto/Daood Obaid J.R. Bradford poses with his biological mother Kelly Lott whom he met for the first time on Christmas Eve.
SunPhoto/Daood Obaid
J.R. Bradford poses with his biological mother Kelly Lott whom he met for the first time on Christmas Eve.

For the past five years every Christmas, J.R. has searched for his biological mother. While his adopted parents had passed away over the last few years. Time and time again, his research only unearthed bits and pieces of information but now had lead him in the right direction. On Thursday, December 24th, he decided to search for “Lott” on Facebook and added published author and entrepreneur Crystal Victoria as a friend. He quickly sent a short message to ask if she knew of a Kelly Lott. J.R. had finally met one of the only living relatives of Kelly Lott, her niece Crystal Victoria.

Crystal Victoria is the founder of Target Evolution Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit organization teaching entrepreneurship to at-risk youth and low income families located in Dallas, Texas. After reading J.R.’s message, Crystal called the contact number to arrange to meet J.R. in person. She drove across Dallas to pick him up and after one look decided they should go find Kelly together immediately. Crystal was unsure of where Kelly was located but knew her aunt wanted to find her children. Over the past few years, Crystal and Kelly searched online to locate her sons, however to no avail due to name changes. CPS and the adoption agencies had sealed the records making it impossible to locate the boys by their birth name.

Crystal had a hunch of where Kelly was living in Denton, and took J.R. to see if they could locate his long lost mother. On the way to Denton, Crystal and J.R. had a great conversation and became good friends immediately. Out of all the places Crystal wanted to check to find Kelly, they found her at the very first stop. J.R. watched as Kelly ran out of the house to embrace Crystal for the first time ever. Taking in every moment of time observing his mother, he anticipated the moment they’d meet for the first time.

Finally, Crystal introduced Kelly to J.R. and asked her if she saw a resemblance. Kelly looked baffled, but introduced herself as “Aunt Kelly”. Crystal intervened and said, “I’m not sure you’re Aunt Kelly in this case. In fact, I think y’all look a lot like mother and son.” Kelly’s eyes instantly watered as she asked Crystal if J.R. was her son. Crystal’s smile gave away the answer, and Kelly clinched her heart as tears of joy fell from her eyes. She turned to J.R. and embraced her son for the first time ever on Christmas Eve.

The three bonded for the next few hours and Crystal took J.R. back to Denton to spend Christmas Day with his mother. For the first time in 28 years, Kelly and her son were reunited for the holidays. Next, for Aunt Kelly, Crystal Victoria and J. R. Bradford is to find the other two siblings, Christopher Milton and Brett Boyeau.

If you or anyone you know, can assist them in their efforts to reunite their family please contact Crystal Victoria via email at CrystalV@eemceducation.com.

The meaning of Kwanzaa

kw

Written By:Maat Heru

Celebrations and rituals seem to be natural phenomena arising from
The Houston Sun
the human heart. These activities fill a psychological or spiritual void that the everyday, common-sense mind does not approach. Rituals attach the human psyche to something like itself, unseen. Or so seems the thinking of Maulana Karenga , who years ago initiated the custom of celebrating Kwanzaa.

Kwanzaa, a celebration of the first fruits, began in the 1960’s and by the 70’s was common place in many artistic circles throughout the United States. In the least, it was an effort to start a conversation about a past African-Americans had neglected for the hopes of a seamless inclusion into a bright and shiny American dream. The conversation that Karenga invited African-Americans to participate in included the time before The Maafa, a term grafted from the homeland, meaning The Great Suffering, which starts with the capture, transport, and selling of Africans into forced unpaid labor, violent exclusion from primordial human interaction and continues up to today’s delusional shopping.

The Kwanzaa invitation was a reasonable one. It was a call to remembrance. At its highest possibility, this celebration asked that the children of a much burdened people look back in appreciation to a time when the nurturing black hand of mother consoled the childish tears of her loved ones, when the harmony of her work-song resonated within the beating heart of her young one carried on her back as she harvested the first fruit of the season, Kwanzaa.
But the memory could not be had so easily then. For the most part African-Americans had no words with which to talk about their past; they had no language. For some reason, the pictures in the human mind need words to bring them forth, need rituals on which to hang their neurological links, and so, Karenga used Kiswahili, a multi-people language from East Africa to express the principles and functions of this return home, Sankofa.

Kwanzaa parties or gatherings begin on December 26 and end on January 1. Each day of the seven days has a different focus and theme.

December 26 – Umoja, meaning Unity
December 27 – Kujichagulia meaning Self-Determination
December 28 – Ujima, meaning Collective Work and Responsibility
December 29 – Ujamaa, meaning Cooperative Economics
December 30 – Nia, meaning Purpose
December 31 – Kuumba, meaning Creativity
January 1 – Imani, meaning Faith

During the celebration, each day a candle is lit. There are three red candles, three green candles and one black candle. Libation is poured and ancestors’ names are remembered aloud. Gifts are given each day. Gifts should have meaning and not be commercial. After that, the activities vary. A beginning practitioner should follow his or her heart. Some activities include, poetry, music, speeches on the theme or principle of the day, testimonials, dancing and, of course, food.

Kwanzaa is a time of self-reflection and can be as formal or informal as one wants it to be. One key ingredient here is remembering; another is re-aligning oneself with a life purpose to begin a new year.

Opponents to the Kwanzaa celebration argue that this holiday is made-up. True that. But then, so are all other human celebrations. These religions, faiths, and paths are constructs from some other human mind, and they illicit followers and believers to participate, as Kwanzaa does. This celebration asks for a most humane undertaking, remember the ones who came before and align oneself to a purpose. What African-American could refuse such an humble invitation? What stone-thrower could begrudge a much maligned people such an honorable custom?

So, with a little research and a few to many friends and family, one can add to the holiday cheer and extend the cloth of humanity by celebrating Kwanzaa thanks to Dr. Maulana Karenga and his insights. Asante.

Emancipation Park holds Annual “Holiday in the Park”

Sandra McNuckles
The Houston Sun

Emancipation Park's youth decorate their tree in the Holiday in the Park tree decorating contest.
Emancipation Park’s youth decorate their tree in the Holiday in the Park tree decorating contest.

While I know that we all know that a park is land set aside for the enjoyment of the public to rest and relax; and I believe that most of us have, at least, heard of Emancipation Park, once or twice,I can’t help but wonder if we all knew its fascinating history and what it offers the citizens of Houston, today?

So, I sat down recently with the Co-Founder & Editor of the Houston Sun Newspaper, Dorris Ellis-Robinson, to discuss, the history of Emancipation Park.The history is quite exciting involving names that you may know like President Roosevelt (FDR), the late Congressman Mickey Leland, former Mayor Bill White, Mayor Annise Parker, City Council Member James Rodriquez, City Council Member Wanda Adams, and many more. Have I whet your appetite, yet?

Did you know that four Negro men from Freedman’s Fourth Ward, two businessmen (Richard Allen & Richard Brock) and two clergymen (Elijah Dibble and Jack Yates) amassed a sum of $800 in order to purchase 10 acres of land at the same location (3018 Dowling at Elgin, Houston, TX 77004) that is Emancipation Park today, in an effort to celebrate their newfound FREEdom? Yes, you’ve heard the story, when President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863 and Texas received the news on June 19, 1865. In 1872, the story further goes that these noteworthy men created the first Negro park in Texas and it “was central to the life of freed men, women, and children as a facility for various purposes such as to have fun, to display talents, to disseminate information, to become educated, and to be used as housing”, according to Ms. Ellis-Robinson. She went on to say that this is the same goal (today) of Friends of Emancipation Park Houston.

The Friends of Emancipation Park celebrates its sixth year as a non-profit volunteer organization that services Emancipation Park, in case you (the Reader/Public) would like to get involved. All you have to do is go to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-Of-Emancipation-Park-Houston or to the Friends of Emancipation Park’s website at www.emancipationusa.com to find out how and also to become more familiar with the history and events both upcoming and offered at the Park.

So if you already knew the above, do you also know that Emancipation Park offers all children, even the handicapped (6-18yrs.) various year-round Afternoon/Afterschool programs from 3-6p such as tutoring, arts & crafts, basketball, softball, volleyball, swimming, 4H Club, Afro-American History, and others activities that include a daily snack & meal? There are classes for adults such as line dancing, water aerobics, exercise classes, quilting, and more. I am told that the elders are also always welcomed and can volunteer in any of the programs of interest to them. They are gracing our children as story tellers, as audience members, and they can be seen cheering on the children, as well. I don’t have to tell you how beneficial this is to both parties, do I?

I found out from the Emancipation Park’s Recreation Facilities Manager, Ms. JoAnn Johnson, at 713-284-1302, that their Community Outreach Program’s Christmas Giveaway this Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013 (10-2p) is sponsored by yet another very interesting non-profit organization called The Houston Launch Pad that you may also know or want to know about.

On December 14, 2013 The Friends of Emancipation Park sponsored their Annual “Holiday in the Park” where different organizations came out to decorate the trees in the park to look like Christmas trees. The trees were then judged and the winners were announced at the “Holiday in the Park” ceremony. The tree lighting followed.
Organizations and businesses such as Gyrls Inc., FEP Youth Leadership, Houston League of Business and Professional Women and the Houston Sun participated.

Statesman Nelson Mandela dead at 95

Nelson Mandela dead at 95.
Nelson Mandela dead at 95.

By: Sheila Ray-Reed

Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, who served 27 years in prison for his stance against white minority rule in South Africa has died at the age of 95. The announcement was made by South African president Jacob Zuma, who said in a nationally televised address,” Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father. Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss.” The anti-apartheid trailblazer has been in failing health for months.

​He is being remembered as one of the world’s most revered statesmen who led the struggle to replace the white racist apartheid regime of South Africa with a multi-racial democracy.

President Obama had once described Mandela as a personal hero when he was a law school student and said he was inspired by him. “It gave me a sense of what is possible in the world when righteous people, when people of good will, work together on behalf of a larger cause,” said Obama.

​Born Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela in Transkei, South Africa, he joined the ANC (African National Congress) and fought apartheid. He was eventually arrested and charged with attempting to overthrow the government. During his trial Mandela expressed his beliefs about democracy, freedom and equality.

​In 1964 he was sentenced to life in prison. Mandela said, “In prison, you come face to face with time. There is nothing more terrifying.” Mandela termed his years in prison as the “long, lonely, wasted years. By the time he turned 70, he was the world’s most famous political prisoner.

​Bowing to international pressure in 1990, South African President F.W. de Klerk lifted the ban on the ANC and released Mandela from prison. In 1994, Mandela became president of South African serving from 1994 to 1999.

​In 1999, Mandela came to Houston to deliver his views on world affairs during a speech at the James Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University. Dorris Ellis, Publisher of The Houston Sun recalls meeting him on that visit. “The Houston Sun covered the Apartheid Movement with numerous stories where local anti-apartheid activist such as Ada Edwards keep it on the front burner,” said Ellis.

​“During the reception at Rice University, I thank him for his service. I saw him as a very focus humane leader who understood the significance of his work and the impact it had on the world. He knew his place in history,” Ellis said.

​The Rev. Bill Lawson, pastor emeritus of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church traveled to South Africa and had an opportunity to meet Mandela. He says he was struck by Mandela’s inner strength which he believes allowed him to survive being imprisoned for fighting white minority rule.

​Mandela had been hospitalized in Pretoria in early June, after a series of lung infections that may have been related to his bout with tuberculosis while in prison a quarter-century ago. Once released from the hospital, he had live in a sterilized environment at home. A team of doctors attended to him around the clock.​

​Nelson Mandela is survived by his wife Graca Machel, his former wife, Winnie Mandela and three daughters Pumla Makaziwe, Zenani Mandela and Zindziswa Mandela.