Students Visit RS Deer & Cattle Ranch
By N. Hamilton, M.Ed., MLS
HEMPSTEAD – With the No Child Left Behind laws prevalent in the 2000’s, many school districts and principals focused on academic instruction in order for students to pass tests via the elimination of music, art, libraries, and other disciplines that would cultivate the whole child.
With the removal of the arts and field trips, many students of color will not get exposure to a full range of experiences like their wealthy counterparts. What educators end up doing is giving kids who are living in poverty the most impoverished learning experiences.
Not at Booker T. Washington High School! Our very own principal, Dr. Carlos Phillips II, knows that something as minor as a field trip can spark interest in knowledge, then, and only then, can authentic learning occur. In return for these types of experiences, research has proven that students test scores will be positively impacted.
Recently, 2018, Mr. and Mrs. Malonson, owners of the African-American News and Issues and the RS Deer & Cattle Ranch, invited a group of Booker T. Washington students and teachers to their private property for an enriching learning experience.
Dr. Phillips, Principal, Mr. Nicholas Turner, Lead Instructor of Future Farmers of America, and Ms. Deaundra Thomas, Outdoor Adventures Instructor, got together and immediately made sure our students were able to take advantage of this opportunity.
Once we arrived, Mr. Malonson made sure our students of color received the top of the line experience. Multiple Texas Game Wardens hosted the learning excursion by explaining all aspects of how to maintain land, how to protect land, and how to maintain wildlife. But, most importantly, the Texas Game Wardens taught our students how to abide by laws regarding land ownership.
The experience did not stop there, the Malonson’s also had an actual hunter present, who provided sample shooting lessons, and in-depth information about upcoming hunting camps and courses.
Our students were also provided an outdoor lunch that was cooked by the Malonson’s themselves, and they were permitted to fish in the man-made lake dug out personally by the Malonson’s as well! It doesn’t get any better than that! How many people take the time to give back to the community in such a personal way?
“We never knew that being a black or minority land owner was an option for us.” stated several of our Booker T. Washington students after talking amidst themselves. Unfortunately, many people of color have forgotten about the basis of land as wealth. Land is essential to providing the self-sufficiency that minority communities need for economic and physical health.
In a single excursion, The Malonson’s taught our students of color about ALL of life’s possibilities outside systematic employment. They taught them entrepreneurship, land ownership, and how to give back to the community that once served them. The in-depth learning from this immersive experience will never be forgotten by our Booker T. Washington students, and an experience like this can never be replaced by classroom only instruction.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
