January 4, 2024

John Whitmire New Houston mayor shares message to the Black community

OBIT

EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON The longtime Texas State Rep. recently died at age 89.

Volume 93, issue 10 January 4, 2024

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FEATURE

JUNE DEADRICK

The sports leader discusses how the college national championship will impact Black Houston.

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2 | January 4, 2024 |

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DN To the POINT

Defender: What’s ahead in 2024 Defender launches branding campaign

Editor Aswad Walker, Cultural Editor Laura Onyeneho, Education Reporter Tannistha Sinha, College & Pro Sports Reporter Terrance Harris, and High School Sports Reporter Jimmie Aggison, we will ask YOU – our readers and advertisers – what the Defender should focus on in 2024. In addition, our talented staff will roll out more videos in 2024 sharing their views and opinions while inviting the community to join the discussion and sometimes watch our weekly huddle.

As the Defender approaches 95 years of existence, we want to make it clear that we are here to stay and BETTER than ever. As the leading Black information source in the Greater Houston area, we take an extreme amount of pride in what we do and the community we serve through digital, social media, print, events, community responsiveness, and more. We have an exciting Sonny Messiah Jiles campaign entitled “Raising Black Voices” that will kick off at the beginning of the first quarter, which Defender Store opens in 2024 wouldn’t be possible without the funding from the Google Defender Special Ops Manager Clyde Jiles will introNews Initiative, donations from you, and the diligent work duce a whole new division that allows our audience to of the Carlberg Group. So, keep an eye out for Defender access award-winning Defender images – from high Billboards, commercials and so much more headed your school sports to community profiles – as keepsakes. Other way in 2024. departments are being created in the Defender Store, so stay tuned for some exciting announcements. Another Defender Staff expands its community reach service the Defender will introduce in 2024 is the opporThank You to Fox 26 for partnering with us on the tunity for you to list your free or ticketed community Defender Top 3 Takeaways airing twice a week during events so the community has a central go-to location. the 5 p.m. news segment spotlighting more information Another service the Defender will introduce in 2024 about Greater Black Houston. To increase our community is the opportunity for you to list your free or ticketed involvement and expand our understanding of the con- community events so the community has a central go-to tent our audience wants and needs, the Defender team will location. So keep a look out for the new developments emphasize community connections. Building a strategy coming in 2024. around our Managing Editor ReShonda Tate, Associate

January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 3

DN News

MacGregor Park gets $54M renovation

By Aswad Walker

Houston’s iconic MacGregor Park is about to experience a major facelift – a $54 million upgrade, to be exact.

Houston City Council approved for the 65-acre park, which sits along Brays Bayou in Southeast Houston.

The funds are earmarked for park upgrades and changes that include improvements to the baseball field, swimming pool, community plaza, playgrounds, event lawn, youth multipurpose field, and tennis court – the court that nurtured the start of Houston tennis legend Zina Garrison’s career.

But beyond restoring park areas that have experienced an enormous amount of wear and tear over the years, funds will also go toward building a new amphitheater to host community happenings and entertainment events, and extending the park’s perimeter by 1.25 miles, a move that will connect the Bayou Greenway Trails along Brays Bayou, creating a network of bike lanes.

“This will be a transformational investment for MacGregor Park, which all of us benefit whether you live right in that area or not,” said former Mayor Sylvester Turner.

MacGregor Park is a stone’s throw away from the University of Houston’s central campus, and near Muslim Mosque #45, Peck Elementary, the Shrine’s Cultural and Event Center and the McCoy & Harrison Funeral Home. Palm Center and the Houston Texans YMCA are a little further south of the park, but is easily accessible by all of Houston’s major freeways.

“MacGregor Park not only has Houston’s MLK statue, it’s home to that famous MLK tree that longtime activist Ovide Duncantell guarded with his life to keep from being

A draft of the master plan for MacGregor Park. Courtesy Houston Parks Board.

chopped down by the city,” said area resident William Dorsey.

Instead of chopping down community-relevant aspects of the area, the City of Houston is seeking to build up the park by contributing $5 million to the project.

The Kinder Foundation’s $27 million makes up half the project’s funding. Other partners contributing include Texas Children’s Hospital.

“We remain committed to investing in projects that increase the quality of life for

our community,” said President and CEO of the Kinder Foundation, Nancy Kinder, in a press release. “MacGregor Park is one of Houston’s most beloved parks, and we’re thrilled to contribute to a project that further develops and preserves this important greenspace in southeast Houston.”

Along with modifications to MacGregor Park’s parking, a new ADA-accessible playground will be added to the park.

Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz represents the area and said she has many

memories of her visits to the park.

“MacGregor Park is one of Houston’s treasures, and we are proud to have initiated the master planning process,” said Houston Parks and Recreation Department Director Kenneth Allen, who hopes park improvements will equate to more park visitors. “The improvements planned for this park will continue its evolution as a source of pride for neighborhood residents. It will also become a magnet for new visitors to the park and the Third Ward community.”

HISD sees 43% decline in teacher absenteeism

By Amaka Watson

Houston ISD authorities recently announced that there has been more than a 40% decrease in “high absenteeism” among teachers this school year as compared to last.

Jessica Neyman, the top human resources officer for HISD, recently said that 180 instructors missed more than 10 days of class in the fall semester, down from 311 the previous autumn.

The decrease coincides with increased enforcement of leave policies and a district-wide crackdown on excessive teacher absences.

“The district is working hard and with urgency to significantly improve instruction and academic achievement,” Neyman said.

“Obviously, we cannot do this without our teachers present in the classrooms. There are only so many instructional days in the

HISD chief human resources officer Jessica Neyman said that the number of teachers absent more than 10 days was 180 during the fall semester, compared to 311 last fall.

academic year. That means every single one of those days is precious, so teachers must report to work consistently.”

Neyman said that the district’s increased assistance to managers and principals in enforcing HISD’s employee leave policy— which stipulates that workers may take no more than 15 days of state or local leave in a school year—caused the decline in high

teacher absenteeism.

“We are being very mindful of the accountability aspect of the leave,” Neyman said. “For the leaves themselves, there’s always been a neutral leave policy and regulation. We are being very mindful that not exceeding that 15 days in a year is being applied equitably.”

She also said employees are free to take

their allotted paid vacation whenever they like, in addition to any other leaves they may be eligible for, such as bereavement or temporary disability, without adversely affecting their pay or leading to disciplinary action like termination.

Numerous stories have indicated that teachers are fearful and angry about the new requirements. Consepcion Zapata, an HISD custodian, gained significant attention after it was reported by several Houston-area media publications that she was dismissed after taking a leave of absence following her husband’s cancer diagnosis and death.

Neyman, however, praised the HISD attendance regulations, pointing out that they offer one week of fall break, two weeks and a few days of winter break, one week of spring break, and two months of summer break. Throughout the academic year, there are nine additional district holidays.

4 | January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News EXCLUSIVE

John Whitmire

Shares Message to the Black community

By ReShonda Tate

Houston’s newly-elected mayor, John Whitmire is already hard at work leading a city he’s long loved. The 74-year-old who was sworn in on Jan. 2, has pledged “total transparency” as he makes “public safety” a top priority of his administration.

And while he is adamant that he’s mayor for all of Houston, Whitmire says the Black community can rest assured that he’s working with their best interest at heart.

The Defender spoke with Whitmire about his message to the Black community.

WHITMIRE’S MESSAGE TO THOSE WHO DIDN’T VOTE FOR HIM.

DEFENDER: What are some of your biggest plans that will directly benefit the Black community?

JOHN WHITMIRE: I’m ex-

cited to be the African American community’s mayor because that’s where I started.

And it’s just really a continuation. The people of Independence Heights elected me as a 22-year-old college student 50 years ago. And as far as I’m concerned, being mayor has just given me an opportunity, to represent all of Houston instead of my Senate district. I will be the same person I’ve been the last 50 years representing a majority minority district. Obviously, inclusion, constituent response, all the issues we talked about in the campaign will certainly apply to the African

Judge Victor Trevino III, Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 6, swears-in Mayor John Whitmire with his daughters Whitney Whitmire Jenkins, left, and Sarah Whitmire, right, during the City of Houston Inauguration Day event held at the Wortham Center, Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, in Houston, Texas. (Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle via AP)

American community. African Americans elected me 50 years ago and have kept me in office my entire career. So I look for a continuation of a close bond with all the residents of Houston, and certainly that would include African Americans. I think the African American community would be very excited to see me govern.

Mayor John Whitmire shakes hands with constituents at Houston City Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via AP

DEFENDER: You recently did a ride-along with Police Chief Troy Finner and have talked about a focus on public safety. How do you walk the fine line between protecting the Black community and ensuring that residents will feel their rights are being respected?

WHITMIRE: Our police

department is very diverse. I was endorsed by the African American Police Officers League. And there’s just no reason to start out talking about any conflict between good public safety and the African American community. In fact, a huge number of the 911 calls are from the minority communities so there are concerns for safety. I mean, when you can’t use the Columbia Trail in Third Ward because people are afraid they’re gonna get robbed, that’s a serious problem right there at TSU. So what I want to do is network and collaborate with community law enforcement agencies.

DEFENDER: What are your plans for tackling the financial issues of the city.

WHITMIRE: Our finances

affect all that we do. First and foremost, I want to examine the condition of our finances. We need to get a look at the books

and see how we can be more efficient, see what we can do in terms of partnering with the county, get state resources, and figure out how to fund basic services. There’s conditions that unfortunately are present in the African American community, such as illegal dumping, regular garbage pickup, broken water lines, water bills, etc.

We just need to improve the city’s performance overall. And finances impact all of that. We’ve gotta cut out some waste. I’ll be working with the African American council members. I’m gonna be very accessible. And also, we’re gonna be very transparent. I want Houstonians to see what the real picture is. And I’ll look for opportunities to raise revenue without raising taxes.

VOLUME 93, NUMBER 10 - JANUARY 4, 2024 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Terrance Harris Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2024 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288

January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 5

DN Feature

June Deadrick Leads College Football Playoff Championship benefiting the Black Community

By Von Jiles

EVENTS

From the small town of Palacios, Texas where her love for sports grew from the Friday night lights magic of football, June Deadrick has become a leader in the sports world. Recognized as the first African American woman to chair a postseason collegiate bowl game in the nation (Texas Bowl), she continues to break the glass ceiling and is now the chair of the host committee for the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship set for Monday, Jan. 8 in Houston.

The Defender got an exclusive interview with Deadrick to talk about how the CFP National Championship will impact the Greater Houston area’s Black community.

IMPACT OF SPORTS Taking a holistic perspective of sports, Deadrick looks at sports as a stepping stone to opportunity.

DEADRICK: The business of sports impacts every aspect of a person’s life, from the athlete to the team owner. We look at communities, especially communities of color, and so many of our young people have the opportunity to advance their education through athletic scholarships. It’s true, we have so many young people who, but for that athletic scholarship might not be able to reach that next level of their education. And then for many of them, they don’t go into professional sports. They’re not going to be professional athletes, but it’s a means of getting that education so that then they can come back to their community and be a teacher or a business leader or an elected official. But when we look at the way sports impacts our community and the business of sports, it’s not just the team on the field.

IMPACT ON BUSINESS Referring to the $27 million impact when Houston hosted the Final Four, Deadrick says it is not just the hotels and rental cars that benefit but the local restaurants and “mom and pop” institutions. But the CFP added another dimension that helps Black businesses benefit even beyond the big game.

DEADRICK: When you think about any type of a big sporting event coming to your town, obviously that’s a huge economic impact and a huge infusion of monetary gains for your community. We wanted to highlight and impact our local minority-owned businesses and we created

FRI., JAN. 5 VIP Welcome Party Enjoy a night with Houston sports icons and put down a bid on some once-in-alifetime experiences, with your purchases benefiting the Houston Loves Teachers campaign.

SAT., JAN. 6 Extra Yard for Teachers Summit, If you are an educator, don’t forget to sign up for the College Football Playoff Foundation’s summit taking place at the Wortham Theater. Join fellow teachers from all over the country as they celebrate each other, network, and hear from a curated lineup of speakers that will inspire, motivate, and empower you. Both in-person attendee and virtual options are available for this free event, so sign up today!

SUN., JAN. 7 The Trophy Trot 5K / 10K On Sunday morning you can lace ‘em up and run for a great cause. The Trophy Trot 5K / 10K presented by Houston Methodist benefits the CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers initiative. Stretch well, give it your all, and compete for multiple opportunities to win GAME TICKETS! Use the code HCHSA5 any time before race day to save $5 on your registration.

June Deadrick, chair of the Host Committee for the College Football National Championship, stands by the trophy the game-winner will receive.

a program called Buy Houston: By Houston Supplier Diversity Program. We encouraged minority women-owned businesses, historically underutilized businesses to apply, get certified through us so that we could share that information with some of the larger vendors that were coming in. As of today, I don’t have the exact number, but we have spent just a little over $1 million with local Houston hubs. We’ve had people that are doing janitorial services, florists, balloon artists, advertising agencies, almost any area that you could think of. We have utilized those businesses, plus restaurants, caterers, and all kinds of things.

IMPACT ON EDUCATION Over a quarter million dollars in donor certificates have been issued by CFP to school

districts throughout the Houston area to help teachers buy much needed classroom supplies plus they did 10 makeovers upgrading libraries, media centers, and technology centers.

DEADRICK: One of the things that the CFP does is they focus on education and teachers, but they allow each community where they bring the championship game to create their own special education program.

For Houston, we had three things we wanted to concentrate on, the three Rs: recruitment, retention, and recognition of our teachers.

Our educators are some of the least recognized and respected people in our society right now. Yet they are the hardest working people in our community. And with the help of the CFP, we were able to create a program called “Houston Loves Teachers.”

SEE THE VIDEO & LEARN HOW DEADRICK AND THE CFP ARE IMPACTING THE ARTS IN THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA

On Sunday night indulge your taste buds at Taste of the Championship. Enjoy individual servings from 30+ of Houston’s best restaurants all in the home of the Astros! The restaurant lineup was curated

by James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd and is the perfect snapshot of Houston’s diverse and delicious food scene. Use the code CFP2024 at checkout to save $100 per ticket! All proceeds from this event as well as the Trophy Trot will benefit the CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers initiative.

CHAMP WEEKEND FREE EVENTS: CFP National Championship weekend has something for everyone, including a pair of amazing experiences that are FREE and fun for the whole family!

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, head downtown to the George R. Brown Convention Center and enjoy Playoff Fan Central, a college football extravaganza that features everything from the national championship trophy to live performances by the two school bands to a zip line to a 40-yard dash. And did we mention there are puppies?!? While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the Houston Loves Teachers lounge to connect with other educators and win exclusive HLT prizes!

Each night of CFP National Championship weekend, enjoy FREE concerts at Shell Energy Stadium as part of AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! Friday’s show features KIDZ BOP; Saturday is all about hip-hop with Paul Russell, 2 Chainz, Latto and Jack Harlow; and Sunday features a trio of country stars: Megan Moroney, Jake Owen and Jon Pardi.

Visit https://collegefootballplayoff.com/ sports/2018/9/25/pfc for details.

6 | January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 7

DN InFocus Blacks for Trump show their support for former President Donald Trump outside of the Fulton County Courthouse on September 06, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Getty Images)

Wanda Mosley, national field director of Black Voters Matter, yells during a community information session about the state takeover of HISD. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

Tomikia P. LeGrande

Sheila Jackson Lee Chris Hollins

John Whitmire Amanda Edwards

Reginald DesRoches

2024 is poised to be a year of significant change and progress. As we embark on this transformative journey, our focus will be on a myriad of pivotal events that promise to shape the narrative for Houstonians, particularly, the experiences and concerns of the Black community.

By ReShonda Tate

At the forefront of our coverage is the inauguration of the new mayoral administration under the leadership of John Whitmire. And of course, as the nation gears up for the presidential race, our coverage will extend beyond conventional political analyses. We plan to explore the voices within the Black community and their perspectives on the candidates, policies, and the broader implications for Houston.

There’s so much on tap in 2024, including how the “Trump effect” continues to resonate across the country; advances made in health and education; setbacks in state government and much more.

Check out some of the news that we’ll be covering as we’re sure it will shape Houston in 2024.

New mayor, new council With a vision for an “inclusive and equitable Houston,” newly-elected mayor, John Whitmire is poised to take office with a promise to make sure the Black community is served.

He’ll do so with a city council that includes four new members, and a total of seven Black council members, as well as Black city controller Chris Hollins. We look forward to delving into the policies and initiatives that aim to uplift the Black community and address longstanding issues that have persisted over the years.

Presidential election the last one standing The presidential election will take place in November of 2024 and this election carries the potential to redefine the landscape of national

politics. We are committed to providing a platform for the diverse voices that contribute to this democratic process. Republicans will decide in March who will face off with the likely-Democratic nominee Joe Biden (all current polls say it will be Donald Trump).

With the unwavering wild card campaign of scholar Dr. Cornel West, it remains to be seen if his candidacy will throw a monkey wrench in the election.

March primary But before that election, we’ll see a primary that has Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee trying to hang onto the congressional seat she’s held for 19 years. Jackson Lee lost her bid for mayor and announced she would seek to keep her seat representing District 18. But Amanda Edwards, who left the mayoral race

Voters wait in line at a polling place at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs in Austin, Texas, on election night, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. (Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via AP)

when Jackson Lee entered, plans to fight for that seat, as well. It’ll be interesting to see who voters select. There will also be a number of judicial races on the ballot, so we’ll be watching how it all plays out.

Education Of course, we’ll be keeping our eyes on all things education. As the Houston Independent School District (HISD) becomes a “District of Innovation” and navigates the choppy waters they’ve been in since the TEA takeover, we’ll be on hand to cover the good, the bad and the downright controversial as Superintendent Mike Miles tries to navigate what he had previously called a sinking ship. A Black man (Marc Smith) will be leading the Fort Bend ISD, so we’ll be watching a district that is also constantly embroiled in issues. And there’s the school voucher issue. Gov. Greg Abbott is committed to getting school vouchers passed, so we’re sure that issue isn’t going anywhere.

Higher Education In 2024, expect big changes on the higher education front. Prairie View A&M University is under the leadership of a new president, Dr. Tomeika LeGrande, and she has some big shoes to fill with the departure of Dr. Ruth

Simmons. We’ll be watching Texas Southern University, which is currently under the leadership of an interim president after the abrupt resignation of previous president Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young. And over at Rice, a Black man is leading the institution, and we can’t wait to see what Reginal DesRoches has in store.

Community At our core, we are steadfastly committed to amplifying the voices and stories that matter most to the Black community in Houston. We stand in solidarity with residents in the Fifth Ward as they courageously battle against cancer clusters, shedding light on their resilience, strength, and the pressing need for comprehensive support. As the Texas Department of Transportation undertakes the reconstruction of I-45 through Black and Brown communities, we remain dedicated to bringing attention to the residents’ fight for equitable development and fair treatment, ensuring that their concerns are not overlooked in the midst of progress. In neighborhoods like Sunnyside, Missouri City, and Pleasantville, where the battle against crime persists, our commitment to reporting goes beyond statistics, focusing on the community-driven initiatives and

Health Health will also take center stage in 2024 Business as we report on the latest advancements that Our commitment to comprehensive cov- directly affect Houston’s Black residents. From erage extends to the thriving Black business breakthroughs in medical research to initiacommunity in Houston, where tives addressing healthcare dispariwe actively advocate for equitaties, our coverage aims to shed light ble opportunities. We will delve on the evolving landscape of health into ensuring that contracts up in our city. We’ll be exploring LBJ’s for bid are awarded to minority addition of the new trauma cenbusinesses, shining a spotlight ter, Texas Children’s opening of on the endeavors of Black new clinics, and all the stories that entrepreneurs and their contriaffect your physical, mental and CHECK OUT butions to the city’s economic emotional well-being.

ONES TO landscape. As big changes loom WATCH IN 2024 on the horizon for METRO State Government and the Port of Houston, our In our charge to provide reporting is dedicated to disinsightful and impactful coversecting the impact of these transformations age, we recognize the critical importance of on Black businesses, emphasizing their role reporting on Texas state government issues, in shaping the city’s infrastructure and eco- especially those that profoundly affect the nomic development. In the ongoing battle Black community. With a focus on diverfor vendors with Houston airports, we are sity and inclusion in government, we aim to steadfast in our commitment to unraveling scrutinize policies and initiatives that either the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs, advance or impede equitable representation, providing a platform for their voices to be ensuring our audience is informed about the heard, and championing initiatives that fos- decisions shaping the state’s leadership. As the ter inclusivity and diversity within Houston’s state grapples with contentious debates surbusiness ecosystem. rounding book bans, we commit to shedding resilience that serve as beacons of hope.

Gov. Greg Abbott signs into law HB 900, legislation that prohibits sexually explicit material in Texas public school libraries, at the Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Monday June 12, 2023. (Jay Janner/Austin AmericanStatesman via AP)

light on the implications for the Black community. Additionally, in the ongoing abortion fight, we stand committed to covering the nuanced intersections that impact the Black community, providing comprehensive insights into the legal, social, and healthcare aspects of this complex issue. Our unwavering dedication is rooted in the belief that informed communities are empowered communities, and we strive to be a reliable source for understanding the multifaceted dynamics shaping Texas state policies that impact the lives of Black residents.

The Trump effect Since former president Donald Trump burst onto the political scene, he has brought a firestorm with him wherever he goes. And now that he’s emerged as the Republican frontrunner for the 2024 presidential election, the Trump effect - where politicians and people in general - unleash their racist, sexist and misogynistic views, we will be here dissecting the lasting impact of this outrageous approach. From economic shifts to social dynamics, our coverage aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these changes intersect with the experiences of the Black community.

8 | January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Obits REMEMBERING A TRAILBLAZER

Eddie Bernice Johnson Former U.S. Rep dies at 89

Defender News Service

Retired U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson has died at age 89.

A towering Dallas political figure — once a nurse, state legislator and congresswoman — Johnson was the dean of the Texas Congressional delegation before retiring from office in 2022. She proved effective at her work due to her long tenure serving in the U.S. House — nearly 30 years — and a pragmatist streak that made her open to working with Republicans.

“I am heartbroken to share the news that my mother, Eddie Bernice Johnson, has passed away,” Johnson’s son, Kirk Johnson, wrote in a Facebook post on Dec. 31. “She was a remarkable and loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great grandmother, as well as a trailblazer and public servant. While we mourn the loss of an extraordinary woman, we celebrate her life and legacy.”

Born in Waco on Dec. 3, 1935, Johnson became one of the most powerful Texas Democrats in recent memory to serve on Capitol Hill. She broke many glass ceilings: she was the first Black woman elected to any seat in Dallas, she was the first nurse and Black Dallasite to serve in Congress, and she was only the third Texas woman — behind Lera Thomas and Barbara Jordan, both from Houston — to represent the state in the U.S. House.

Funeral services are pending, the family said.

“I am stunned and saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson wrote on X. “Congresswoman Johnson was a groundbreaking leader for this country and for our state and city, and there

really are no words to express my profound sense of grief and loss at the passing of this legendary American.”

JOHNSON’S ASCENT After graduating from A.J. Moore High School in 1952, Johnson sought to work in the medical field. Segregated Texas had no nursing program she could attend, so she went to St. Mary’s College at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, where she received a nursing certificate in 1955. She received a bachelor’s of science from Texas Christian University in 1967, followed by a master’s of public administration from Southern Methodist University in 1976.

Soon after finishing nursing school in South Bend, she accepted a job to work for the Veterans Administration hospital in Dallas. Eventually, Johnson became the chief psychiatric nurse and psychotherapist at the Veterans Administration hospital in Dallas.

She was the first Black female chief psychiatric nurse at the hospital.

During her third term in the Texas House, Johnson resigned to accept a post in the Carter administration as a regional appointee for the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (now the Department of Health and Human Services). She was reelected to the Legislature in 1986, this time in the Senate.

From her perch chairing the Senate Committee on Redistricting in the early 1990s, Johnson is widely credited with drawing a version of the newly-formed 30th Congressional District that overlapped heavily with her state legislative constituency.

That district, which is anchored in Dallas, is one of the bluest districts in Texas.

U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson. AP

A D M IS SIO N F R E E F R I DAY, JA N UA RY 5 – S U N DAY, JA N UA RY 7 G EO R G E R . B R OW N C O N V E N T IO N C E N T E R

Read more about her storied career.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

| 9

DN Feature

One of the night’s big events included the Waltz. Ken Jones

YOUNG, GIFTED & BLACK

Beautillion ball celebrates Houston area teens

By ReShonda Tate

When Elkins junior Myles Billingsley was “voluntold” that he would have to participate in the Biennial Beautillion Ball sponsored by his Missouri City - Sugar Land chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., he wasn’t looking forward to donning tuxedos with tails, learning the waltz, and participating in a number of leadership activities. But by the time his big night came on Dec. 27, 2023, not only was Myles all in, he was excited about the entire event.

“This really was an unforgettable experience. Not only was I able to participate in events that will help me as I navigate the road to manhood, but it was a great opportunity to bond with like-minded young men and women with similar goals.

I’ve developed lifelong friendships and I appreciate being able to show the world all the positivity and Black excellence,” said Billingsley.

This year’s 20th Biennial Ball, chaired by LaChanda Ricks, Ayanna Hill and Lolita Smith, boasted the largest class ever - 29 young men and women (who served as their Belles) from the Houston area.

A STORIED TRADITION Beautillion Balls are celebrated across the country by various chapters of Jack and Jill of America, an organization of Black mothers focused on promoting children’s education, culture and health. The mothers in Jack and Jill of America all knew young

Black men who were honor students, ded- Orlando Edwards, the founder of Strictly icated volunteers and celebrated athletes Street Salsa and was presented the night but say those weren’t the images being of the event. In addition to spotlighting portrayed in the media. They decided to the Beaux, the young men paid tribute combat negative stereotypes by organiz- via video to a special person in their life, ing Beautillions — a spin on the cotillion, who then presented the young men with in which young women are presented to a stole made of kente cloth, a boldly patsociety. terned African textile once worn by West The Beautillion also serves as a fundraiser African royalty. to support organizations which share Jack & Jill of America, Inc.’s mission to improve A NIGHT OF EMERGING the lives of children across their communi- EXCELLENCE ties. Net proceeds from the nearly $100,000 Dressed in their finest tuxedos and prisraised from this year’s ball will be donated tine white gloves, the 29 accomplished young to 8 Million Stories, The Chauncy Glover African American men, and their accompaProject and The Jack and Jill Foundation nying belles, were presented to a room of (the philanthropic arm of Jack and Jill of nearly 700 attendees during the celebration America). held at the Marriott Marquis Houston. The “Over the past 40 years, our biennial ball, themed “Emergence: The Rise of Excelevent not only uplifts the young men in lence,” marked the end of the Beautillion our chapters, but it also allows us to provide season for the teens who completed several resources to organizations that weeks of service projects and leadmirror our mission to ensure ership and self-development workthat all children have access to shops designed to ensure success as opportunities that we seek to they cross into adulthood. provide to our own,” said Dr. Beaux, including 16-year-old high Jackie Ward, president of the school junior Trent Hubbard, found READ Missouri City - Sugar Land the instruction valuable. “Outside of MORE Chapter of Jack and Jill of school and other activities, this expeABOUT America, Inc. rience definitely helps get me ready THE BIG Preparations for the Beautilto be an adult,” said Hubbard. “I’ve EVENT & lion included 25 hours of dance learned more about how to conduct SEE THE rehearsal centered on learning myself in a professional manner, and PHOTO a waltz, taught by renowned I feel I am better prepared to stand GALLERY. Houston dance instructor Raúl on my own once I head to college.”

Beau Christopher Trent Hubbard and his Belle, Blair Middleton.

Beau Myles Billingsley and his Belle, Morgan Webber.

Beaux Matthew Mead and Zachary Marshall.

10 | January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Texans rookie QB C.J. Stroud completed 24 of 32 passes for 213 yards and one touchdown in his first action since missing three weeks while suffering from concussion symptoms.

Sports Briefs UT’s Rori Harmon suffers season-ending injury

University of Texas women’s basketball point guard Rori Harmon has suffered a torn ACL injury and will miss the remainder of the 2023-24 season.

Harmon, a product of Rori Cypress Creek High Harmon School, suffered the injury during practice on Dec. 27. The reigning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year had developed into one of the best players in the nation this season while averaging 14.1 points, 7.8 assists and 5.6 rebounds prior to the season-ending injury. “I’m heartbroken that I won’t be able to play with my teammates this season, but I’m going to support them and be the best teammate I can be,” Harmon said in a released statement. “We have big goals for this season and those are not going to change.”

Will Anderson Jr. sets Texans’ rookie sacks record

Texans edge rusher Will Anderson, Jr. set the rookie franchise record for sacks with seven on the season. Anderson, the No.3 overall pick out of Alabama in Will last spring’s NFL Anderson Jr. draft, reached the record in his first game back from injury during the 26-3 win over Tennessee. Anderson missed three straight weeks of action after suffering the injury.

Willie Simmons leaves FAMU for Duke

Willie Simmons, fresh off of leading Florida A&M to the Black College Football National Championship and the SWAC title, has decided to leave the Rattlers to become the running backs coach at Duke.

Willie Simmons, who is a Simmons former head coach at Prairie View, received a significant raise to become a position coach at the Power 5 school. FAMU, meanwhile, could turn to former Alcorn State head coach Fred McNair, who has been in play to become Texas Southern’s next head coach.

Rockets guard Jalen Green had 22 points, five rebounds, and one assist during the 136-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

What we can expect from Houston sports in 2024 ByTerrance Harris

Now that we are done looking back and reviewing 2023, it’s time to look ahead to what promises to be an even more exciting 2024 for Houston sports.

Here are my predictions for the upcoming New Year.

1

TEXANS DOMINATE AFC SOUTH, RETURN TO PLAYOFFS

After a surprising 2023 season in which the supposed-to-be rebuilding Texans sped up the process, the Texans will continue at warp speed during the 2024 season by officially returning to the class of the NFL elite. Quarterback C.J. Stroud will prove to be even further along in his development than expected in just his second season.

The Texans’ defense will be a virtual brick wall to opposing offenses. The Texans will win the AFC South division outright and will advance to the AFC Championship Game with second-year head coach DeMeco Ryans.

2

A TOUGHER ROAD FOR THE COUGARS

With Jamal Shead, Emanuel Sharp and C.J. Cryer leading the way, the UH Cougars will continue to be an exciting team that will have a lot of big moments this season. But Kelvin Sampson and the Coogs are no longer playing in the American Athletic Conference. They are in the Big 12 now, which has now become the best and most competitive basketball league in the country with the addition of UH. The Cougars, who were a top-three team during the non-conference schedule, will be in for a fight against the likes of Kansas, Oklahoma, Baylor and Texas – all legit Top 25 teams. UH will do good to earn a No.4 seed in this year’s NCAA Tournament.

3

ROCKETS ARE PLAYOFFS-BOUND

Ime Udoka pulled off the unthinkable when in his first season as head coach of the Boston Celtics, he took them all the way to the NBA Finals. The Rockets firstyear coach will have similar success this time around, too. No, the Rockets aren’t making it to the NBA Finals. But they will return to the playoffs as the 8th seed in the Western Conference. Veterans Fred VanVleet and Jeff Green will continue to give the Rockets young corp of Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr the leadership and understanding of the right way to play, while Dillon Brooks will provide the toughness needed to finally break back through to the playoffs.

4

SIMONE BILES MAKES TRIUMPHANT OLYMPIC RETURN

Houstonian and seven-time Olympic medalist gymnast Simone Biles will not only make a brave return to the Olympic stage in Paris, but the soon-to-be 27-year-old will leave triumphant and even more decorated this time around. Look for Biles to bring home the gold this summer. This is in stark contrast to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics when Biles was expected to shine brightest but went through a difficult two weeks where she pulled out of multiple finals and left with only a bronze medal in the balance beam, but ignited the important conversation surrounding athletes and their mental health. Biles took two years off from competing before making an incredible return in 2023 that saw her win a record eighth U.S. national championship and sixth world all-around gold on the

way to being named The Associated Press’ Female Athlete of the Year.

5

ASTROS WILL NOT MAKE EIGHTH STRAIGHT ALCS APPEARANCE

When things could have completely fallen apart for the Astros in the wake of the sign-stealing scandal, longtime manager Dusty Baker came through and not only gave the organization credibility, but he kept the Astros winning. But now that Baker has retired there are legit concerns about whether the Astros will be in line for an eighth straight American League Championship Series run. The answer is, unfortunately not. The Astros will take a step back in Joe Espada’s first season as manager with general manager Dana Brown having to make some tough decisions on personnel with the Astros set to exceed the $237 million threshold this season. There are rumors that some fan favorites could be on the trading block. The biggest among them is the Astros at some point could be willing to trade lefty ace Framber Valdez to free up some money. His loss would certainly weaken a rotation that has been among the best in baseball.

January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

QUINTON SANDERS

Proves pivotal for Wheatley

By Jimmie Aggison

Quinton Sanders is a 6-foot-2, threelevel scorer who can defend and likes to get his teammates involved. A true leader on the court, he’s loud and has great energy for any high-level basketball program. In the classroom, he understands that “student” comes before “athlete.” To that point, Sanders maintains a 3.8 GPA and has a great head on his shoulders.

So, with all that he brings to the table, Sanders is a pivotal piece for Wheatley’s basketball program.

He studies the playing styles of a college baller who has yet to become a household name and a perennial NBA all-star who currently plays for the Golden State Warriors and is considered to be one of the all-time greats.

“I watch a lot of Elliot Cadeau. He is about my height. He’s very poised, athletic, and can shoot the ball always under control. On the professional level, I study Chris Paul. I like how he comes off screens, finds the open mid-range, and assists. He’s just a three-level scorer,” said Sanders.

Basketball has been a longstanding tradition in Sanders’ family, and he has been actively involved in the sport for as long as he can recall. Both his sister and brother were basketball players at Booker T. Washington, with his sister graduating in 2006 and his brother in 2007. However, Sanders took a different path.

His decision to join Wheatley was influenced by his elementary coach, Coach Burrell, who not only imparted basketball skills but instilled in him a love for the game.

“I’ve been under Coach Burrell since I was in the third grade, so when he moved to Wheatley, it was a no-brainer,” said Sanders. “In the third grade, I was a little scrawny kid wanting to play basketball and Coach Burrell said, ‘Hey, you should come play basketball.’ We were working out at the Fonde Recreation Center in the gym and at home in my backyard. We were always working out and that grew into a long-term relationship.”

In his younger years, he was part of the Fifth Ward Saints football team until a fractured wrist temporarily halted his participation. Following that setback, basketball became his sole focus. Unlike

those who view basketball merely as a sport, Sanders perceives it as something more profound.

“Basketball is like therapy,” said Sanders. “Every day at practice, when I pick up a ball, all of my thoughts zone out and I’m locked in. Basketball is a way to get stuff off your mind. When I go through things, basketball gets it all out for me.”

Sanders plays summer basketball with Team Temple 16U. Traveling and playing against tougher competition has shown him he has to continue to work on his craft.

“It showed me that I have a lot to live up to because the 2025 class is stacked all around the world and while I’m playing 16U I’m getting a chance to play against those guys early. Those are the guys I’ll be competing with for a spot to play on the next level, so I’m up for the challenge every time I step on the court,” said Sanders.

When thinking of the next generation of hoopers, Sanders encourages them to keep striving to get better.

“Keep hooping, keep working, stay locked in on the gym. I know you want to play the video game, but some things you have to sacrifice in order to really get what you want. Lock in on your craft.”

ABOUT QUINTON SANDERS Class: 2025 IG: @qturntt Twitter: @D1Quinton11 Position: Point Guard Height & weight: 6-feet-2, 157 pounds Players he studies: Elliot Cadeau (UNC), Chris Paul (Golden State Warriors) Status: Uncommitted Favorite artists: Lil Baby, Lil Durk Shout-outs: Chris Hynes, Coach Burrell, Team Temple, Coach Matt, Coach Rogers

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12 | January 4, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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