By T.J. Baker

HOUSTON – With a seventy-year history – Boy Scout Troop 212 has been in the community since 1947.  It originated in Third-Ward when it was predominately white, but over the years the culture changed into a much more diverse and well established financial Black community.  (SHAC- Sam Houston Area Council of the W.L. Davis district) Troop 212 meetings are held on Saturdays from 9:00 AM- 12:00 Noon at the St. James’ Episcopal Church that’s been governed by Scoutmaster Lionel Jellins for the past eleven years, and blessed by Father Bictor Thomas, when hosting the Eagle Scout Ceremonies in the sanctuary.

Scoutmaster Jellins shared some advice on what it takes to make a successful Boy Scout Troop.  He said, “First of all we’ve had twenty-nine Eagle Scouts ceremonies from Troop 212 within the past eleven years.  And we just now happen to have four different Eagle Scout projects going on at the same time.” He helps these young men stay on task and will be assisting as well.  Congratulations on the successful Eagle Scout Projects.  

Samson Dinkins:  Eagle Scout Project 
Photo Credit:  T. J. Baker

Samson Dinkins.  Eagle Scout Project:  Build Cymbal and Percussion Wooden Cases that were installed at the Texas Southern University’s Band room.

I was super impressed with this young man’s project.  I wanted to know Samson’s essential background and what better way to get real truth than secretly asking his father.  Mr. Dinkins said that with so many negative influences out there such as gangs, girls, sports, drugs, and etc.; that the ultimate secret of rearing a Black/African American Son in scouting is “Team efforts-staying involved-stay prayed up-allow mistakes-trust your son(s)-give them praises-no option to quit!”

Anthony Jones, II.  My same question also went to Anthony’s father a terrific single parent, “Ms. Tj, you’ve been in my shoes before with your son, Keith and you know firsthand the loving stress and butterflies and excitement when your son gets to this particular point of becoming a soon to be Eagle Scout.  I think being a single father is even harder to keep a son on task in scouting.  Boys’ thinks fathers should understand them more and give them more lead way, when it’s totally opposite.  We already know the fear and the struggles of being Black/African American Educated & Logical Males in this world that we have to share with other races, cultures and creeds.  Anthony is also on a baseball team and doing very well, no doubt he will get a baseball scholarship to a very prestigious college or university.  Not only that, I have to restart this scouting process all over again, because I have an eleven-year-old that will be starting in Troop 212 soon.  So, I’m not finished yet – no breaks for me.  But I do understand each of my boys will have their own tremendous and fun experiences in scouting.”

Kyle Morgan.  Eagle Scout Project:  Kyle’s cousin (Rion Christopher Morgan) was murdered, a victim of a mass shooting with seven more of his friends (one visiting female barely survived) from an estranged-outcast friend, who was in the middle of a nasty and complex divorce.  The shooter came unannounced and went on a rampage, all while the friends were watching a Dallas Cowboy’s game at the Ex-wife’s home back in the early Fall of 2017 and Kyle wanted to do something for his cousin to honor him.  Putting together a prayer memorial garden where the deceased used to worship every Sunday, at the Friendship Church M.B.C. located on 16138 W Bellfort, Sugar Land, Texas. 

Lastly, I asked Kyle’s father how he has been assisting his son to stay in scouting.  “Luckily Kyle enjoys being in scouting.  Now when it came time for leadership and maturing, that part was a challenge, but when he turned fifteen years old, he was on track with no issues.  Also, Kyle has cousins in scouting, but mostly his uncle, named Darryl Morgan, who retired as an employee in BSA-Boy Scouting of America in Shreveport, Louisiana, has been a big encouragement to him.  He couldn’t be here right now, but he will be here at Kyle’s up-coming Eagle Scout Ceremony, which should be this April.”

Joshua Rasheed.  Eagle Scout Project: (not yet begun) installing a new playground (Gaga-Ball pit) at his church called The Rock Church, south of Pasadena.   The rule of this fun game is to hit as many boys with the ball to get them out of the pit – last boy standing is the winner.  

As you can see, the activities of the Boy Scouts are very diverse, and the young men come up with a lot of different and challenging ideas. They are also engaging in positive projects which will benefit many people.  It is important to remember that the scouts provide a positive influence on these young men, as opposed to gangs, drug dealers, and other negative elements we sometimes have in our neighborhoods.  By engaging in these positive activities, we are helping develop leadership skills and positive humanitarian skills that will last a lifetime.  These young men and others around the country like them will all develop skills they will value throughout their lives and the communities they live in will also benefit from having them there.

 

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.

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