Friday, August 31, 2018

Reverend Talley to Celebrate 5th Anniversary at Mount Corinth

The members of the Mt. Corinth Missionary Baptist Church in “Heavenly” Hempstead invite the community to the Fifth Anniversary Celebration honoring Pastor Clarence Talley, Sr. and First Lady Carolyn Talley on Sunday, September 9 at 2:30 PM at the church on 806 7th Street in Hempstead. The special guest preacher is Pastor Fred Thomas, III of the Greater St. Peter’s Missionary Baptist Church Family. The Anniversary theme is "What's In It For Me?" It is a questioned that many have pondered. I hope that it will provoke thought, encourage action and most of all inspire undying faithfulness to God. The inspiration for the theme is rooted in the writings of the apostle Paul Second Timothy 4:8. Though I am partial to the King James Version, the biblical text is from the New Living Translation: "And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing."A reception will follow the program.

Tuesday, September 11, marks the 16th anniversary of one of the greatest tragedy in modern American history, the terrorist attack and death of more than 3,000 in the World Trade Center and Pentagon disasters in 2001. On this day, the nation will take time out to pay respect to their memory on the now Patriot Day. Say a prayer, light a candle, tie a yellow ribbon to honor the firefighters, first responders and soldiers around the world or turn on your vehicle headlights during the day. Visit the World Trade Center 911/Memorial at: www.911memorial.org.

The men of St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church will host its Men’s Prayer Breakfast on September 15 at 8:30-10:30AM. All men of the community are invited to the Free Breakfast and should confirm attendance at 936-857-3272 or email: stfrancispv@sbcglobal.net.

St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church will host the Houston FoodBank Kraft Mobile Unit monthly food distribution on September 20 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the church on 204 Dooley Street. More than 10K lbs of fresh fruits, vegetables and other products will be available. PLEASE bring your bags and boxes for the items. Additionally, interested persons can sign-up to receive SNAP, Children’s Medicaid/CHIP and TANF programs. Please send information to smtfrancispv@sbcglobal.net.

Pearl’s Pantry featured lunch for September 27 is Fish Fry, vegetable and dessert for $10 at St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church on 204 Dooley Street in Prairie View. Proceed supports the church’s ministries. For tickets call 936-857-3272 or email: stfrancispv@sbcglobal.net.

The Prairie View Federal Credit Union invite members of the community to take advantage of its Educational Promotion Loans for back to school purchases and activities. The credit union are also in the midst of the New and Refinancing of automobile campaign. The credit union is located at 704 University Drive in Prairie View. Call 936-857-4925 for information.

The Prairie View Retired Teachers Association, the Anne Preston Unit, will hold its first meeting for 2018-19 on September 26 from 1-3 p.m. in the Parish Hall of St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church, 204 Dooley Street in Prairie View. All retired educational personnel are invited to membership for a fun-filled time. Mrs. Andrea Miller is the president.

Women of the community are invited to participate in the 2018 Fall Women's Conference on Saturday, September 8 at the Ridin' With Christ Fellowship Hall on 318 Washington Street, Waller, Texas. Themed: "Broken but Blessed", the free event starts at 9:00 a.m. and the guest speaker is Yolanda Stewart and a light lunch will be served. For information, contact Brenda Bundick at 832-600-7949.

Congratulations to Morenike Joela Evans on her selection as a feature director for a made for TV Movie. She is a 1993 graduate of PVAMU and one of the original members of the famed Classic Dance Ensemble. Morenike has a wide range of experiences in production, writing, directing, acting and dancing, with stints at BET, Entertainment tonight on the red carpet. She is also former member of Eta Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Your prayers and encouragement are welcomed for Ada Beal, Amy and Cecil Boykin, Irene Davis, B. J. Freeman, Pearl Martin, Willie Smith, Mary Ann Stubblefield, Otelia Watson and Sandra Watson. May God’s peace be with you!

America and indeed the world is mourning the passing of two icons these past weeks – Queen of Soul Aretha L. Franklin on August 16 and U. S. Senator John S. McCain on August 25. Both led lives of desperation to see and make the world a better place. Aretha Franklin was a singer, actor, humanitarian and activist, while John McCain was a United States Navy/Veteran, humanitarian, politician and former hostage in the war on Viet Nam. Services for Aretha will be held today in the African American Museum in Detroit, August 31 in a special ceremony beginning at 10:00 a.m. and for John on September 1 at 10:00 a.m. in D. C. Washington’s Cathedral. May their souls rest in peace. Our condolences to the families and friends.

HAPPY SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAY TO: Ida B. Campbell (2), Jasmine Boyer (5), Eula Stafford (6), Lee Coleman (6), Martha Harris (6), Edward Reid, Jr. (6), Karen Hadnot (7), Charles Lewter (7), Rosie L. Matlock (7), Sharon Edison Spikes (7), Troyla Washington (7), Valda Jean Combs (8), Kimmy Kim (8), Deborah Jackson (9), Angela E. Wells (9), Wilfred CJ Alexander (11), Tiffany Harrison (12), Brandon Joseph Harrison (13), Pamelyn Reed (14) and Redessa Coleman (16), Wilfred CJ Alexander (11), Tiffany Harrison (12), Brandon Joseph Harrison (13), Pamelyn Reed (14) and Redessa Coleman (16). HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO: Dorothy and Carlton Carter (2).

A VIEW FROM THE HILL: The Prairie View A&M University Panthers will opened its season with a match up with the Rice University Owls on August 25 and what a match-up! The Panthers struggled through the first half and made a comeback in the last quarter to tie the game at 28. In the waning moments of the 4th quarter the Owls scored a field goal and narrowly defeated the Panthers with no time on the clock. Head Coach Eric Dooley, coaching staff and the team made the PVAMU family proud. Now it’s off to Atlanta, Georgia on September 1, 2018 for the Annual MEAC-SWAC Challenge with the Eagles of North Carolina Central University. The game starts at 11:00 a.m. and can be seen on TV-ESPN2 and broadcast on Radio-PVAMU Sports Network. Coach Dooley is looking forward to his first of the season. The world renowned Marching Storm, directed Dr. Timmey Zachery will also provide the halftime entertainment. Kudos to the coaching staff, students, and athletic staff, and to the band for what we know will be a spectacular show.On September 8, the Panthers will take on the Bearcats of Sam Houston State University at 6 p.m. in Bowers Stadium, Huntsville, TX.

The Office of Career Services at PVAMU is gearing up for its 42nd Annual Fall Career Fair on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at 10:00AM-3:00PM for all majors in the Student Recreational Center. More than 80 companies, non-profits and government agencies will participate in the event which is opened to all majors and classifications. Several pre-career fair events are scheduled, including the Career Readiness Seminar - Resume Review, Career Counseling and Mock Interviews on September 11 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00p.m. in Career Services in Evans Hall. For questions on the Career Fair, Contact: Shadia Washington at sfwashington@pvamu.edu. For more information, contact careers@pvamu.edu or call 936-261-3570 or 936-261-3576.

Until next week, in the words of Phillip E. Bernstein, “We have no right to ask when a sorrow comes, why did this happen to me? Unless we ask the same question for every joy that comes our way.” Keep the news and achievements coming to prairieviewtoday@yahoo.com or P. O. Box 2906, Prairie View, TX 77446.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Prairie View Fire Fighters Red Hot Summer Ball is August 25

The social event of the year - 12th Annual Red & White Ball on August 25, 2018 is here. The event, hosted by the Prairie View Volunteer Fire Fighting Association, Inc. will recognize the fire fighters that have gone above and beyond the call of duty and outstanding citizens of the community. The Red-Hot Summer’s Night in August begins at 6:30 p.m. with a reception, followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. in the Willie Tempton Memorial Student Ballroom on the beautiful campus Prairie View A&M University. This year’s honorees include Waller County First Responders (Firefighters, Dispatchers and EMS Personnel). Additionally, the Morlon Kizzee Scholarship will be presented to an outstanding Firefighter. The event is open to the public with tickets at $40. Proceeds provide support for the department. For more information, contact Belinda Lewis at lewisbelinda@hotmail.com or Sandra Wenzy at sandracworldcare@yahoo.com. The association is in the midst of its 2018-19 “Give a Dollar & a Darn Campaign.” Donations may be sent to PV Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 427, Prairie View, TX 77446.

The members of Center Hill Primitive Baptist Church will celebrate its 136th Church Anniversary and Home Coming Service on Sunday, August 26, 208 at 2:30 p.m. at the church, 40224 Center Hill Road, Hempstead, Texas. The special guest is Reverend Ryan Wolf, Pastor, Louisville Missionary Baptist Church, Hempstead, Texas. Sister Kathryn Thompson is the Mistress of Ceremony. Other program participants include, Sister LaSheika Harrison, soloist, Center Hill Choir and Visiting Deacons. Reverend Richard D. Hayes is the Pastor. Dinner will be served following the program. For other information, contact 979-826-2889.

The Prairie View First United Methodist Church will sponsor its tasty "FISH FRY LUNCH" Fundraiser on Thursday, August 30 at 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the church, 35615 Owens Road. The lunch is $10 each. The members will also raffle off a 55" TV at $5.00 a ticket (3 for $12). Tickets may be purchased from the members. For information contact: Lucius r. Wyatt at 936-857-3426.

The Prairie View Federal Credit Union invite members of the community to take advantage of its Educational Promotion Loans for back to school purchases and activities. The credit union are also in the midst of the New and Refinancing of automobile campaign. The Credit Union now has the Debit Card and Checking services available and membership is open to students of PVAMU. The credit union is located at 704 University Drive in Prairie View. Call 936-857-4925 for information.

Your prayers and encouragement are welcomed for Ada Beal, Irene Davis, B. J. Freeman, Jerry Kellum, Pearl Martin, Willie Smith, Mary Ann Stubblefield, Otelia Watson and Sandra Watson. May God’s peace be with you!

HAPPY AUGUST BIRTHDAY TO: Frank T. Hawkins (20), James Tompkins (20), Sharon Marshall (21), John Osby (21), Amy Boykin (23), Marguerite Robinson (23), Cecil Boykin (24), Desire'e Boykin (26), Iris Sawyer (25), Cheryl Manuel (27), Elaine Francis-Shafer (27), Brad McCleod (29), Jimmie P. Poindexter (30), Tresh'e Boykin (31) and Sharon Tisdell (31). HAPPY SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAY TO: Ida B. Campbell (2), Jasmine Boyer ( 5), Eula Stafford (6), Lee Coleman (6), Martha Harris (6), Edward Reid, Jr. (6), Karen Hadnot (7), Charles Lewter (7), Rosie L. Matlock (7), Sharon Edison Spikes (7), Troyla Washington (7), Valda Jean Combs (8), Kimmy Kim (8), Deborah Jackson (9) and Angela E. Wells (9). HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO: Dorothy and Carlton Carter (2).

A VIEW FROM THE HILL: On August 18-19, Prairie View A&M University welcomed some 2,400 students to the Class of 2022 to the campus for Panther Week. The students having participated in the series of orientations throughout May-July came to the campus in droves for the formal week of events. Traffic to the campus on Sunday, August 19 was like a homecoming event with vehicles backed-up to U.S. 290 waiting turn to get on the campus.

During the week August 20-24, the new students participated in workshops, spirit sessions and get-aquainted games fun filled events at the Recreation Center. They also got a chance to develop the Class of 2022 Shuffle, learn about the university's spirit events, i.e. fight song, cheers, Alma Mater and meeting and greeting the various staff members.

The students were greeted by staff and student leaders and were addressed by President Ruth Simmons at the usual convocation for new students on today in the University’s Recreation Center. Classes for all students begin on August 27 at 8:00 AM.

The students will get a chance to mix and mingle with other students, faculty and staff during the Official Welcome Week August 26-31. There will be many opportunities for the community to come out and meet the new members of the Prairie View Family and enjoy the various social events.

Prairie View A&M University Football team kicks off its 2018-19 Season when they take on the Rice Owls on August 25 at Rice Stadium in Houston at 6:00 p.m. First Year Head Coach Eric Dooley and his staff are hopeful for a great game. Prairie View A&M University's Marching Storm will bring their ever non-stop funk to the Owls fan.

PVAMU Office of Student Employment will host its 3rd Annual Student Employment Job Fair on August 29 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm in the Willie A. Tempton Sr. Memorial Student Center – Ballroom (2nd Floor). The event allows students to gain hands-on experience through on-campus and off-campus employment. The job fair is an exceptional opportunity for students to gather information about various departments to determine career options and promote themselves in a professional environment. Employers participate in these events to promote their organizations and to find qualified candidates for internships and job openings within their companies. For information call 936-261-1793 or Email: seo@pvamu.edu.

PVAMU College of Nursing is First in Houston to Train on “Super Tory” Simulators. The “Super Tory” is helping student nurses at the university get that real-world experience, without ever leaving the classroom. They are saving a life during a medical emergency starts with being prepared with proper training. Super Tory resembles an 8-pound baby and can virtually recreate any neonatal medical emergency. She looks real. She feels real. She sounds real. She’s a wireless robot that is the world’s most advanced neonatal patient simulator; and, for the first time, the technology is being used by nursing students in Houston.

Until next week, seek God's guidance in all that you do and you will never be lost. Give thanks to God in all circumstances and you shall receive his grace. Keep the news, achievements and recognitions coming to prairieviewtoday@iwon.com, fax 936-857-5352, phone 936-857-3272 or P. O. Box 2906, Prairie View, Texas 77446.

Friday, August 10, 2018

Buyer Beware Seminar Workshop is set for August 13 at St. Francis of Assisi

“Buyer Beware” issues in buying and selling property is the first in a series of Legal Clinic for the Public sponsored by the Amos Project set for August 13, 2018 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm in the Parish Hall, St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church, 200 Phillips/204 Dooley Street in Prairie View. Limited seating; please call 936-857-5964. Suggested donation for the program is $15.

Congratulations to Cheikh Jackson and Tyrese Skeene of Troop 1906 on their achievement of their Eagle Scout Ranks. The award will be presented to the scouts in the special Eagle Scouts Court of Honor on August 12 at 4:00 p.m. in the Waller-Carden building at Prairie View A&M University. The public is invited to share in the achievement and to congratulate the young men, the first for the city in 21 years. Troop 1906 is sponsored by the Epsilon Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

The men of St. Francis will host its Men’s Prayer Breakfast on August 18 at 8:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall of the church on 204 Dooley Street. The speaker is Mr. Percy Lowe of Lowe's Financial. Mr. Lowe has been a part of the financial industry since 2005 as a Financial Coach. As a native Texas living in Houston, he is currently pursuing his degree in Psychology and Mathematics. His working with numbers has helped him to understand the building of wealth for others. Lowe's Financial is an education driven first company that works towards educating the consumer. The goal of education of the client on all levels of credit reporting, credit monitoring, and score building. Mr. Lowe's goal of unlocking financial success are to be at a total service to us and our participants at the Men's Prayer Breakfast on August 18, 2018. The men look forward to your attendance. "I will fight to earn, give, save, spend and invest money in obedience to God's perfect plan for my life." (I Timothy 6:10) The men of the community are invited to the Free Breakfast and should confirm attendance at 936-857-3272 or email: stfrancispv@sbcglobal.net.

The Prairie View Cooperative Extension Service presents BI-County Beekeeping Workshop on August 18 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Waller County Community Center, 21212 FM 1098 Loop, Prairie View, Texas. Topics to be covered include: Ways to Get Started, Beehive and its Accessories, Pest and Disease Management, and Maintenance and Management. Mr. Clint Weaver form R. Weaver Apiaries is the presenter. A Beekeeping Textbook will be provided to first 20 persons who register for the FREE program. For information contact: Stedman Douglas, Extension Agent, Waller County at 979-826-7651 or shdouglas@pvamu.edu or Kim Perry, Extension Agent, Harris County, Kimberly.perry@ag.tamu.edu.

The countdown is on for the social event of the year - 12th Annual Red & White Ball on August 25, 2018. The event, hosted by the Prairie View Volunteer Fire Fighting Association, Inc. will recognize the fire fighters that have gone above and beyond the call of duty and outstanding citizens of the community. The Red-Hot Summer’s Night in August begins at 6:30 p.m. with a reception, followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. in the Willie Tempton Memorial Student Ballroom on the beautiful campus Prairie View A&M University. This year’s honorees include Waller County First Responders (Firefighters, Dispatchers and EMS Personnel). Additionally, the Morlon Kizzee Scholarship will be presented to an outstanding Firefighter. The event is open to the public with tickets at $40. Proceeds provide support for the department. For more information, contact Belinda Lewis at lewisbelinda@hotmail.com or Sandra Wenzy at sandracworldcare@yahoo.com. The association is in the midst of its 2018-19 “Give a Dollar & a Darn Campaign.” Donations may be sent to PV Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 427, Prairie View, TX 77446.

Need your vehicle custom detailed? Well The PV Car Wash at the Valero on Business 290 and University is open for detailed services. While you’re having the vehicles attended to, Penrice and Associates are also into residential and commercial repairs. Additionally, they are seeking experienced carpenters, gardeners and maintenance workers. Please call 979-525-8127 for appointments and application.

Precious Diamond Jewels is seeking eager Middle and High School young ladies in Waller County and surrounding areas for membership who desire to focus on their dreams and aspirations as young leaders for today. The purpose of the program is to teach, train and mentor and empower young ladies to be spiritually minded, rooted in biblical family values, as they pursue their educational and career goals, as well as providing community service. The interest meeting is set for August 19, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Mt. Corinth Baptist Church 806 7th Street, Hempstead, TX 77445. Refreshments will be provided at 1:30 p.m. prior to the meeting. For information and questions, contact: preciousdiamondjewelsmp@gmail.com. Sponsors: Dr. Vanessa Weatherspoon at 979-525-9100 and Ms. Stephaine Daniels at 979-645-2201.

Mt. Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, Business 290 & 7th Street in “Heavenly” Hempstead will celebrate the 5th Anniversary for Pastor Clarence Talley, Sr. and First Lady Carolyn Talley on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at 2:30 p.m. Pastor Fred Thomas, III and the Greater St. Peter’s Missionary Baptist Church of Hempstead will be the special guest. We are planning a great celebration and invite you to join us. If you have any questions or need special assistance, please call Norma Tompkins at 979.826.3524. We look forward to seeing you on September 9th.

Your prayers and encouragement are welcomed for Ada Beale, Irene Davis, B. J. Freeman, Jerry Kellum, Pearl Martin, Willie Smith, Mary Ann Stubblefield, Otelia Watson and Sandra Watson. May God’s peace be with you! Our condolences to the family of Mr. Alvin E. Coleman, who passed on August 3. Mr. Coleman was a retired member of the Biology Department Prairie View A&M University and a faithful and long-time member of Mt. Corinth. Funeral Services are as follows: Visitation is on August 10 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Singleton & Sons Funeral Home, 627 New Orleans, Hempstead, TX 77445. Funeral and Burial Service is on August 11 at 1:00 p.m. at the Mt. Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, 806 7th Street, Hempstead, TX 77445.

Our condolences also to the family of Mr. Ernest P. Williams, who passed on August 8 in Houston. Mr. Williams was retired English Teacher at Prairie View A&M University, where he taught for more than 40 years. Funeral services are pending at press time.

HAPPY AUGUST BIRTHDAY TO: Timothy Anderson (8), Debra Berry (8), Flossie Byrd (8), Billy Jordan (8), Gloria Richardson (8), Evelyn Santee (8), Dora Lawson Smith (8), Pearline Stubbs (8), Joshua Turner (8), Blessing Ezeoka (10), Jonathan Randle (11), Lolita Jackson (12), Arthrayia Love Tompkins (12), Stephon Nathaniel Martin Jr. (13), LaKethia Harrison (15), Janelle Siaffa (16), Marion Williams (16), Christopher Ryan Starks (17), Shadia Fuller Washington (17), Lucius R. Wyatt (18), JoAnn Blake (19), William Bill Clinton (19), Arthur Washington (19). CELEBRATING WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES: Don & Beatrice Sowell (18).

A VIEW FROM THE HILL: The office of Special Programs at Prairie View A&M University will hold its 2017 Summer Alumni Pinning and Induction Ceremony tonight, August 9, at 6:30 p.m. in the Opal Johnson Smith Auditorium in the Memorial Student Center. The speaker for the event is Mr. Billy Davis, Director of Alumni Affairs for the university.

Prairie View A&M University will host its Summer Comment Exercises on August 11 at 10:00 a.m. in the Berry Center of Northwest Houston, 8877 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77433. The commencement speaker is Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and Chief Executive Officer of UNCF (United Negro College Fund). Lomax is a former president of Dillard University in New Orleans and a literature professor at Morehouse and Spelman colleges and serves on the boards of the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of African American History and Culture and the Studio Museum of Harlem. He founded the National Black Arts Festival.

On August 14, 1876, the Texas Legislature established the “Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas for Colored Youths” (present day Prairie View A&M University) and placed responsibility for its management with the Board of Directors of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas at Bryan (present day Texas A&M University), linking the 1862 and 1890 Land Grant Universities. Officials at Prairie View A&M University and the National Alumni Association are calling on alumni around the world to take time out on August 14 to celebrate and remember the university and its impact and contributions to higher education. In 2015, the university commemorated the William H. Holland and Matthew Gaines Memorial Student Park in their honor.

Until next week, in the words of noted historian and piper professor Dr. George Ruble Woolfolk, “Prairie View Agricultural & Mechanical College is a study in public conscience. For every man whose feet has touched these hallowed soils have found a spirit and deepened it until what began as a meandering stream has now turned into an oasis.” Keep the spirit of PVAMU alive. Keep the news and achievements coming to prairieviewtoday@yahoo.com or P. O. Box 2906, Prairie View, TX 77446.

Wednesday, August 8, 2018

Prairie View Legend Alvin Coleman passes

Prairie View is mourning the loss of another legend, Alvin Eldridge Coleman, who passed away on August 3, 2018. He was the ninth child of twelve born and reared in Piedmont, West Virginia to Paul and Marguerite Howard Coleman.

Funeral services are as follows: Visitation is on August 10 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Singleton & Sons Funeral Home, 627 New Orleans, Hempstead, TX 77445. Funeral and Burial Service is on August 11 at 1:00 p.m. at the Mt. Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, 806 7th Street, Hempstead, TX 77445.

After graduating valedictorian from Howard High School, Mr. Coleman earned his Bachelor of Science degree from West Virginia State College. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army for two years, later returning to his studies and earning a Master’s Degree in Biology and Natural Sciences from Michigan State University. Beginning his professional career teaching biology, microbiology, botany and zoology at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), Mr. Coleman later went on to teach in the Houston Independent School District at Milby High School and at M.C. Williams High School in the Acres Home community. PVAMU recruited him to teach microbiology part-time after he retired from HISD in 1987. Known for being an excellent teacher, Mr. Alvin’s teaching career spans more than 30 years.

Widowed following the death of his first wife, Margaret Ann Thompson Coleman, Alvin lovingly took pride in his sons born to that union: Michael, Jeffrey, Larry, and Rodney. Blessed to again find love, Mr. Coleman later met and, in 1973, married the lovely “Fuller Girl,” Redessa. To that union was born, daughter, Jill.

Alvin worked diligently in the community. His numerous affiliations included Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. of which he was a charter member of the PVAMU Alumni Chapter, the Prairie View Federal Credit Union on whose board he served, Waller County Democratic Club, Prairie View Chamber of Commerce, PV Cub Scout Pack 141 for which he was a Leader, and the PV Athletic Club.

Affectionately called “Al” or “Coleman,” Mr. Coleman received an award for his 25 years of officiating the Prairie View Relays in 2009; being a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Prairie View Volunteer Fire Fighting Association, Incorporated; and providing unwavering support as a citizen and thus meriting the Citizen Award in 2011. On the occasion of the 45th Anniversary of the City of Prairie View in 2014, then Mayor Frank Jackson awarded Mr. Coleman with the Key to the City. For outstanding support and love for his family Alvin was awarded the Paul and Maggie Coleman Award.

Coleman is preceded in death by his parents, nine siblings, his first wife Margaret Ann Thompson Coleman, and a son Michael Alvin Coleman. He is survived by his brothers Reverend Harry Coleman and Reverend David Coleman (Vicki) of Piedmont, WV.

Cherishing the memory of Mr. Coleman are his three sons from his first marriage, Jeffrey of Tallahassee, FL, Larry and Rodney(Cecilia) both of Houston, Texas, three grandchildren Eric, Rodney Jr., Shawn, Carson, Angel, Jordan, Jimmie III, Joshua, Justin and Roderick and his great-grandsons Mason and Marshall. and Carmen and great-grandchildren Jayne and Kai.

Also mourning his loss and cherishing his memory are his devoted wife Redessa Mae Coleman and daughter, Jill Robertson(Avery) of Prairie View, TX; his stepdaughters, Talitha Lewis(Jimmie Jr.) of Katy, TX, and Angela Gibbs of Prairie View,TX.

A host of nieces, nephews, former students, family friends and the members of the Prairie View Community will also cherish the memory of Mr. Coleman for he touched the lives of many people with his smile. He loved to play golf and attend various events with his wife, especially those connected to the PVAMU alumni. He loved the University and the community as though he was an alumnus and a native Texan. “To God be the Glory!”

Flowers and memorial gifts may be sent to the family of Alvin E. Coleman c/o Singleton & Sons Funeral Home, 627 New Orleans, Hempstead, TX 77445. For the gift store visit: http://www.singletonandsonsfh.com.

Thursday, August 2, 2018

Former Prairie View Mayor Lee Henderson Passes

The City of Prairie View is mourning the passing of Dr. Lee Henderson, former Prairie View Mayor and retired professor at Prairie View A&M University on July 31, 2018.

Funeral Services for Dr. Henderson is as follows: Funeral Services Saturday August 4, 2018 at Mt. Corinth Baptist Church 806 7th St, Hempstead. Viewing will take place from 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11 a.m. Burial will be at the Prairie View Cemetery.

Dr. Lee Ellis Henderson was born in Prairie View, Texas, on February 9, 1943. He was the second of three sons born to Duria and Mae Henderson. Lee received his primary and secondary education through the segregated Brookshire school system where he graduated valedictorian of his class in 1960.

Lee attended Prairie View A&M University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963. Guided by his father, Mr. Duria Henderson, and supported as always by his mother Mrs. Mae Henderson, Lee secured a job in Cuero, Texas where he taught all of the science courses at Daula High School. In 1964, Lee moved to Orange, Texas where he taught seventh grade life science, eight grade earth science, and ninth grade physical science in the West Orange School District. In 1965, Lee met Shirley Fontenot and the two were married in 1966.

Lee returned to his studies and earned two Master?s Degrees in 1967 from Prairie View A&M University. He earned his third Master's Degree from the University of Houston in 1968. Lee joined the United States Navy, was accepted into Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Rhode Island and, upon completion of OCS became a commissed Lieutenant, Junior Grade.

Lieutenant Henderson was assigned to Prairie View A&M University in 1971 and assisted in starting the N.R.O.T.C. program. In time, Lee transitioned to the faculty as an instructor of biology. In 1980, Lee earned his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Houston. Dr. Henderson's faculty position in the Department of Biology was solidified. He became well- known as a lead professor of anatomy and physiology, especially for nursing majors. He also served two terms as Speaker of the Faculty Senate and was engaged fully in University life. Additionally, he impacted the lives of many students outside of the classroom with his services as an advisor to Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society and the Le Beaux Arts and Le Belle Lettre's Organizations.

Committed to his community, Dr. Henderson was elected Mayor of Prairie View in 1990, a position he held for two terms spanning four years. In his spare time, Dr. Henderson dabbled in photography. His hobby grew into a part-time business. Initially opening as Econo-Thrift Photography, the business grew and Dr. Henderson continued to invest in his photography studio, which ultimately became Elle (L.E.) Photography. He retired from the University in 2008.

For many years, Dr. Henderson was a faithful member of Mount Corinth Baptist Church; however, later, he worked in the Video Production Unit at Brookhollow Baptist Church which is well- known as the Church Without Walls or "the Wall." He always joked, "I am the hardest working non-member at Brookhollow!"

Dr. Henderson is preceded in death by his father, Duria L. Henderson, and his eldest brother, Dura L. Henderson, Jr. His memory will be cherished by his wife, Shirley, and their three sons Daryl (La'Keshia), Michael (Dorothee), Cory and his daughter Lo'Quita. Deeply missing Dr. Henderson will be his grandchildren Alyssia, Royal, Daniel, Rachel, Julia, Camille, and Elliot as well as his friends, colleagues, the members of the Prairie View community.

Mama Goose Knocks it out of the park with a New “Black Nova” Book Series

The legendary goose who filled our childhoods with golden tales is back—and this time, she’s stepping up to the plate! As baseball season el...