The American community is going to have to air some more dirty linen and do a lot of explaining to posterity. All indicators continue to support that violence, particularly senseless gun violence is endemic to America. The random and senseless nature of gun violence tells us that bullets have no name.
Businessman and community leader Carroll Oliver was often the vendor of choice of the Dr. Martin Luther King Workshop and Rally. The City of Houston has honored his life work by naming a street in his honor.
Carroll Oliver was cut down by senseless violence. For many years we negotiated with Mr. Oliver to supply meals for our student peer leaders that were mobilized by the Fifth Ward Enrichment Program and Communities in Schools. Mr. Oliver provided deep and generous discounts to cater for hundreds of youth.
On several occasions, we had to lean on Mr. Oliver to employ a troubled student from a poverty background. A smile would develop deep inside of me when I saw that student in the McDonalds uniform at the Lockwood-I 10 store.
The gun violence in inner-city neighborhoods has been unrelenting during the past 50 years.
Jeffrey Canada, in his book, The First Stick Knife Gun, revealed the gun industries steady drive for profit in the 1990’s. Small but lethal caliber .25 and .32 automatics with fancy names such as Vipers were introduced to the American public and the flooding of urban communities with Saturday night specials followed the marketing strategy.
During a Center for Disease Control and City of Houston Health Department youth violence prevention program during the mid- 1990’s, inner-city youth peer leaders were surveyed and most said they could acquire a gun within a few hours.
While we do not know who the misguided assailants were that extinguished the bright light of Carroll Oliver, however we do know that flawed gun acquisition policies do not make us safer.
Perhaps the best way to honor Carroll Oliver is for someone who has clues to the identify of the thugs that killed Mr. Oliver is to snitch to CRIMESTOPPERS.
Wouldn’t it be nice for Mc Donald’s to post a 1 Million Dollar reward to solve this heinous crime?
Whenever I grieve for the victims at Columbine, Charleston or Sandy Hook, a tear will be shed for Carroll Oliver and his family.
The explaining that I mentioned at the beginning of this article will have to be directed at our children and grandchildren.
In a culture of fear and incivility, the dream of strong communities and strong democracy diminishes with each victim of gun violence.
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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.
