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Volume 88 | Number 12
NEWSTALK TAMMIE LANG-CAMPBELL
bringing attention to Ft. Bend ISD discipline problems
P2 NATIONAL ELIJAH CUMMINGS blasts Trump for making money as President
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MLK HOLIDAY SPECIAL
H.S. SPORTS
Houston area Millennial ministers ON
SPEAK
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MAURICE CAMPBELL
enforcing in the paint at Wheatley
MLK
Regina King stuns in new role
Corey Davis Leads at UH
The longtime actress has had a stellar award season so far thanks to her soulful performance as Sharon Rivers in “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Read more about the movie, its stars and filmmaker.
He’s the leading scorer at the University of Houston, and helped the Cougars basketball program return to national prominence. Davis joins an ideal mix of experience and youth that has perfectly blended together.
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Pastor John Johnson, Argentina James Harris and Roger Harris at the NAACP Officer’s Installation.
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Travis Scott donates $100,000 to nonprofit
Teen honored as activist raises awareness about FBISD discipline
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A Fort Bend ISD teen is being honored for trying to “keep the peace” among her peers while subsequently being disciplined by her school. It’s a glaring contrast that activist Tammie Lang Campbell, founder of the Honey Brown Hope Foundation, says is indicative of what is wrong in FBISD. Nahyle Agomo was suspended from Thurgood Marshall High School after trying to deescalate a fight between fellow students. She says school officials told her that she should have found an adult, and then she was suspended for three days for “disruptive conduct.” “My intent was to stop a pregnant student and her unborn child from getting hurt. The district ignored my intentions and wrongfully suspended me,” the honor student said. District officials say they cannot (L-R) Cristal Mason, mother of Nahyle Agomo; Tammie Lang Campbell, founder of Honey Brown Hope comment on individual cases. But Foundation and community activist; and Nahyle Agomo, Thurgood Marshall High School honor student. Campbell says the district continues to According to a six-year study conducted by the U.S. unjustly penalize Black students. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights (OCR), Black “Fort Bend ISD refuses to hold their administrators acstudents in Fort Bend ISD were six times more likely to receive countable for not being onsite to deescalate the incident, but out-of-school suspensions than white students and four times as they insist on upholding the wrongful three-day suspension of likely to be placed on in-school suspension. During the 2016-2017 an honor student who should have been praised – not punschool year, African-American students represented about 64 ished,” Campbell said. percent of all students who received out-of-school suspensions in Campbell says her organization decided to honor Agomo FBISD, even though only 28 percent of the FBISD student populawith the Peacekeeper Award for her effort to bring about peace tion is African-American. among peers. Despite the study, FBISD Superintendent Charles Dupre dis“Even though the district will not remove the suspension putes any disparities, saying during an earlier interview that schools from my record, the outcome is better because of The Honey across the country struggle with racial gaps in discipline and larger Brown Hope Foundation’s help to not only have my side of the trends and patterns found in his district do not equate to wrongdostory added to my official record, but also because of them giving or discrimination on the district’s part. ing me the Peacekeeper Award,” added Agomo.
Travis Scott has stepped up for his hometown of Houston in a major way. The “Sicko Mode” rapper recently donated $100,000 to an after-school nonprofit called Workshop Houston in Third Ward. The organization was one of the groups that helped Scott produce a local festival last year called “Astroworld,” named after his current album. After working with Workshop Houston, Scott learned of their overall mission and liked what he saw, leading him to make the huge donation. The organization is described as a “wellestablished youth development agency,” which offers classes in dance, music production, fashion and graphic design. The organization stresses entrepreneurship, as well as independence and some of the children in the program have reportedly started their own businesses already. Jaime Herrero, who works with Workshop Houston, spoke of Scott’s sizable gift and said it came at a real time of need. “It really couldn’t have come at a better time for us and so, it wasn’t quite a Christmas miracle, but it was a really great gift,” said Herrero. The organization is now in its 15th year and just moved into a new $1.9 million facility. Scott has remained quiet about the donation.
Native Houstonian Travis Scott lends his support to Workshop Houston.
localbriefs FOUR HOUSING RESOURCE CENTERS, one in each quadrant of the city, are being opened by the City of Houston to provide $1.17 billion in federal aid to assist Houstonians whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Harvey. Recovery funds include the Homeowner Assistance Program, which offers five program options. While priority will be given to low- and moderate-income homeowners, assistance is available to homeowners of all income levels. Centers are located at 9551 N. Wayside, 13101 Northwest Freeway, 6464 Savoy Drive and 11550 Fuqua St. Call 832-393-0550 or visit www.recovery.houstontx.gov........DALLAS
STATE SEN. ROYCE WEST signed on as co-author of Senate Bill 3 (SB3), which would raise salaries for Texas public school teachers by $5,000 a year. SB3 was filed by State Sen. Jane Nelson of Denton. If passed, it will go into effect for the 2019-2020 school year and districts will receive an additional $5,000 per fulltime teacher that must be spent on salary……. A CONTROVERSIAL CONFEDERATE PLAQUE that falsely asserts the Civil War was “not a rebellion, nor was its underlying cause to sustain slavery,” is history. Following more than a year of complaints from elected officials, a state board that oversees the Texas Capitol grounds voted unanimously
to remove the plaque. Dallas State Rep. Eric Johnson led a crusade to get rid of the “Children of the Confederacy Creed” plaque, which was erected in 1959……..TEXANS WHO ARE 65 OR OLDER OR DISABLED may postpone paying current and delinquent property taxes on their homes by signing a tax deferral affidavit at the Harris County Appraisal District office. Once the affidavit is on file, taxes are deferred – but not cancelled – as long as the owner continues to qualify for the exemption. A filed tax deferral affidavit keeps homeowners from losing their homesteads because of delinquent property taxes. Visit www.hcad.org or call 713-957-7800.
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Start 2019 with an awesome deal New Year’s resolutions are hard. But starting the new year with an amazing deal on the best entertainment experience? That’s easy! Xfinity X1 gives you the quickest way to find your favorites on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video with just the sound of your voice. Plus, you can watch hit shows, top movies and live TV on the Xfinity Stream app with the most reliable Internet. So if you want to make 2019 your best year ever, get started today with the Xfinity New Year New Deal. Simple. Easy. Awesome.
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Congressman Elijah Cummings said President Trump is reaping financial benefits.
Trump accused of making money in White House Defender News Services
U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), the chairman of the House Oversight Committee, is accusing President Donald Trump of reaping substantial financial benefits from his White House job. In a recent “60 Minutes” interview, Cummings asserted that Trump was making “a lot of money” from the position, implying he was doing so against the law. “It’s not okay,” he said. “I still believe that people – the average citizen, the guys on my block, they ought to know if the president is making a deal, whether he’s making it – making it in his self-interest or that of the country.” Responding to Cummings’ claims, the White House told “60 Minutes” they “are completely baseless,” adding that it “cannot comment further about ongoing litigation.” The matter in question is whether Trump is seeing an increase in revenue from his business ventures, including golf courses and luxury hotels.
Cummings has made clear his mission to serve as a check on the Trump administration and his staff has sent a total of 51 letters to the White House. The Trump Organization and government officials are in search of documents concerning potential investigations that may be launched by his committee. Among the issues being examined are cabinet members’ private use of government aircraft and foreign money within the president’s businesses. Trump has already run into trouble on the latter item, being sued by the attorneys general of Maryland and the District of Columbia who’ve accused him of violating the constitution by taking payments from domestic and foreign governments via his namesake hotel in Washington. While certain Democrats believe that Cummings should advocate for Trump’s impeachment, he contends the move would be premature and has also taken an interest in spearheading other initiatives including skyrocketing prescription drug prices.
THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS CALLED on fellow lawmakers to do more than admonish U.S. Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) for his recent racist remarks. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), the chair of the CBC, released a statement calling for House Republicans to remove King from further committee assignments after he defended white supremacy to the New York Times. “White nationalist, white supremacist, Western civilization – how did that language become offensive?” King said. “Why did I sit in classes teaching me about the merits of our history and our civilization?” Some Republicans also denounced King and House Republican leaders later removed him from two committees.…….. THE NUMBER OF AIRPORT SECURITY SCREENERS FAILING to show up for work around the country is soaring as the partial government shutdown goes into its fourth week. The Transportation Security Administration reported a national absence rate of 7.6 percent compared with 3.2 percent on a comparable day a year ago. The agency is working with airports and airlines nationwide to consolidate operations and get the most out of resources……..CHARGES HAVE BEEN DROPPED AGAINST TWO PEOPLE at the center of the Memphis mall “hoodie arrest,” thanks to a groundswell of support from Roc Nation. Twenty-two-year-old Montavious Smith was at Wolfchase Galleria Mall in Memphis with friends when they were reportedly stopped and told to remove their hooded sweatshirts and jackets based on a vague and non-existent policy that considers neither “appropriate attire” for the mall. Smith and an African-American journalist who recorded the confrontation with police were both arrested and charged. After widespread backlash, prosecutors dismissed criminal charges against Smith and retired journalist Kevin McKenzie. Jay Z’s Roc Nation division Team ROC – dedicated to fighting against racial injustices – helped Smith and McKenzie fight their cases by hiring high-profile attorneys who took up the cases pro bono.
Former housing chief joins 2020 race Associated Press
Assailing President Donald Trump for “a crisis of leadership,” former Obama Cabinet member Julian Castro joined the 2020 presidential race as the rush of Democrats making early moves to challenge the incumbent accelerates. Castro, who could end up being the only Latino in what is shaping up to be a crowded Democratic field, made immigration a centerpiece of his announcement in his hometown of San Antonio, less than 200 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. Two days after the president visited the border to promote his promised wall, Castro mocked Trump for claiming that the U.S. faces an “invasion” from its ally to the south. “He called it a national security crisis,” Castro said. “Well, there is a crisis today.
It’s a crisis of leadership. Donald Trump has failed to uphold the values of our great nation.” Castro, the 44-year-old grandson of a Mexican immigrant, said he was running for president “because it’s time for new leadership, because it’s time for new energy and it’s time for a new commitment to make sure that the opportunities that I’ve had are available to every American.” He made the announcement during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, and as the field of 2020 contenders widens and anticipation grows around bigger names still considering runs. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts started an exploratory committee for president, and four other Democratic senators are taking steady steps toward running.
VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 12 JANUARY 17, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler
Strategic Alliance Manager
Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers
Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison
Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard
The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).
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Band brings spirit of New Orleans to town Defender News Services
able to explore a bit more, which profoundly impacted the band not just musically but personally. “In Cuba, all of a sudden we were face to face with our musical counterparts. There’s been a connection between Cuba and New Orleans since day one – we’re family. A gigantic light bulb went off and we realized that
The Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) will present the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band on Thursday, Jan. 24, at 7:30 p.m. in Cullen Theater at the Wortham Center. Throughout its history, New Orleans has been the point at which sounds and cultures from around the world converge, mingle and resurface, transformed by the Crescent City’s inimitable spirit. Nowhere is that spirit more vividly embodied than in the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, which has entertained thousands around the world for more than 50 years. The band marches that tradition forward once again on “So It Is,” the septet’s second release featuring all-new original music. The album redefines what New Orleans music means in the present day. “So It Is” finds the band’s sound invigorated The Preservation Hall Jazz Band performs in Houston on Jan. 24. by a number of fresh influences, including its 2015 New Orleans music is not just a thing by itself; it’s part life-changing trip to Cuba. A visit to the island had long been in the works when former President Barack Obama’s of something much bigger. It was almost like having a religious epiphany.” diplomatic opening suddenly allowed for a more extenProducer David Sitek offered both a keen modern sive journey than had originally seemed possible. perspective and a profound respect for the band’s storied “When the restrictions were lifted, it was no longer history. Upon arriving in New Orleans to meet with the just about going down there and playing a concert,” said band, Sitek and Jaffe accidentally stumbled into one of the bandleader, composer and bassist Ben Jaffe. “We were
city’s famed second-line parades. “I was struck by the visceral energy of the live music all around, this spontaneous joy, everything so immediate,” Sitek says. “I knew I had to make sure that feeling came out of the studio. It needed to be alive. It needed to sound dangerous.” Jaffe is quick to point out that the Preservation Hall – which his parents, Allan and Sandra Jaffe, founded in 1961 – was never meant to be a museum. At its beginnings it broke racial boundaries to present the living legends of New Orleans music, living links to the origins of jazz. Today, the mission remains the same – to pass on the traditions while continually revitalizing it with new blood and fresh ideas. “I see it as something that’s necessary for the evolution and survival of New Orleans music,” Jaffe said. “Interpreting the repertoire that’s been around for a hundred years is one thing, but the challenge is to keep that repertoire and those traditions alive while at the same time being honest about who you are as a musician, allowing all of your musical influences to be reflected in what you create.” While that’s always been a key component of the band, whether at its French Quarter home or on stages around the world, it took on a renewed urgency in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. “When something that catastrophic happens in your life, it becomes important to understand and focus on the things that are most important,” Jaffe said. Tickets to the performance are $45-$75 and can be purchased online at www.spahouston.org by phone at 713-227-4772.
what’sup Rappers TRAVIS SCOTT and BIG BOI have officially joined headliner MAROON 5 as halftime entertainment at Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta. Talk of who would perform at the Feb. 3 game at MercedesBenz Stadium had been ongoing for months, with artists like RIHANNA, JAY-Z and CARDI B reportedly turning down requests to perform because of the furor over the NFL’s treatment of Colin Kaepernick, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback. Scott agreed only after the NFL vowed to join him in making a $500,000 donation to the nonprofit, Dream Corps. The organization works to support economic, environmental and criminal
justice innovators……..In the wake of allegations against R. KELLY and ensuing protests that have erupted in Chicago and elsewhere, Illinois officials said they’ve denied a permit for a planned springtime concert that was supposed to be hosted by the embattled R&B singer. Officials denied the permit application for the April 6 Spring Break Jam because of security concerns after recent protests outside Kelly’s Chicago studio. Kelly, a Chicago native, has come under renewed scrutiny since the premiere of “Surviving R. Kelly,” a Lifetime documentary series that details numerous allegations of sexual misconduct against the singer. Singers such as LADY GAGA and
FUTURE have since distanced themselves from the 52-year-old “Ignition” star. CHANCE THE RAPPER apologized to survivors for working with him. Kelly has repeatedly denied the allegations, blaming “haters trying to ruin his career.”……MISSY ELLIOT recently made history when she was named the first female hip-hop artist to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. The rapper, songwriter and producer joins JAY-Z, who became the first rapper to be inducted into the hall of fame in 2016. The coveted honor recognizes artists whose work “represents a spectrum of the most beloved songs from the world’s popular music songbook.”
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Regina King portrays Tish’s mother, Sharon.
Stephan James and Tish Rivers are young lovers in the film.
‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ a moving story Defender News Services
Director Barry Jenkins has given audiences another acclaimed movie with “If Beale Street Could Talk,” which is currently in theaters. Set in early-1970s Harlem, it is based on the novel by the late James Baldwin (1924-1987) and is a story of love in the face of injustice. KiKi Lane portrays Tish Rivers and Stephan James portrays Alonzo “Fonny” Hunt. The two young sweethearts are ripped apart when Fonny is wrongly arrested for the rape of a Puerto Rican woman due to the maneu-
vering of a racist police officer. While seeking justice for Fonny, a pregnant Tish relies on her Harlem community, including her mother (Regina King), her sister (Teyonah Parris) and future mother-in-law (Aunjanue Ellis). King won a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting actress for her role. Jenkins made Oscar history as an African-American filmmaker for “Moonlight,” the haunting story of a Black boy coming to terms with his sexuality and identity in a neighborhood ravaged by poverty and drugs. “Moonlight” won 2017 Oscars for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor
(Mahershala Ali). In preparation for “If Beale Street Could Talk,” Jenkins received a leather notebook from Baldwin’s estate filled with the author’s handwritten notes about how he would have approached a film version. “When I opened it, it was like this slow epiphany – this dawning where I understood what I was holding,” Jenkins said. “And it was electric. It wasn’t this thing where they were sending me this thing to go: ‘Just so you know, this is how Jimmy wanted it done.’ If anything, it was a confirmation that we were moving in the same spirit.”
THE STORY OF A DREAM. PASS IT ON.
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we remember to continue the legacy of those who stood for something. Learn more at aarp.org/blackcommunity.
@AARPTexas @AARPTX Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP
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MLK HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Celebrating Dr. King E Inside
very year, on the third Monday in January, the country comes together to honor the accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In 1994, Congress designated the holiday as a day of service for Americans to bridge barriers and give back to their communities. The day has become a time for reflection about the changes King wanted to bring to America and a time for service and to give back to the community. The Defender continues its tradition of bringing attention to the issues that mattered most to Dr. King.
2B – How the shutdown is affecting celebrations nationwide 3B – King chronology 4B – Millennial ministers speak out about issues 6B – Houston celebrates original MLK Parade 7B – Dr. King’s famous quotes
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MLK HOLIDAY SPECIAL
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Government shutdown affects holiday plans
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or years, Nikeland Nichols has traveled hundreds of miles to march on the streets of Atlanta with his children, sing at the church where the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once preached and tour the civil rights figure’s birth home. “This is a family thing, this is something that I bring my entire family to,” said Nichols, 42, of Mobile, Ala., of traveling for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. “It’s one of the highlights of our year.” National sites across the country face temporary closure due to the shutdown. But this year, Nichols’ cherished tradition is in jeopardy. Park facility is closed for the safety of visitors and park resourcThe historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and King’s birth es,” said several signs on the landmarks run by the National Park home are sitting empty and dark behind locked doors as most of Service. the MLK Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta is closed.. As the partial government shutdown continues, many The national historic site is one of many National Park travelers will miss their chance to relive part of King’s legacy Service facilities closed during the partial government shutdown. and teach children about the civil rights movement on the federal “Because of a lapse in federal appropriations, this National holiday.
Visitors unaware of the closures were wandering around the park’s grounds reading the historic plaques, taking photos at the tomb of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, and buying a few souvenirs at a gift shop. “It’s disheartening and disappointing,” Nichols said. “For us, it’s very important to see the places that made [King] such a change agent and a front-runner at a time when we were not accepted because of our skin color.” The absence of National Park Service rangers in Atlanta brought tears to the eyes of Rev. Bernice King, the youngest child of the slain civil rights leader and CEO of the King Center. “I feel a little bit of sadness because our main partner in this area, in this district, is the National Park Service…and they are not here with us today,” King said. “I didn’t expect to cry over this.” The National Museum of African American History and Culture and the other 18 museums and galleries managed by the Smithsonian Institution, including the National Zoo, were also closed. The facilities initially remained open using unused funds from last year, but they closed on Jan. 2.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY Monday, January 21, 2019 “Today we remember the life and legacy of a true American hero, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” — TONY BUZBEE, 2019 CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON, TEXAS Pd. Pol. Ad. Paid for by Tony Buzbee for Mayor Campaign. Gilbert Garcia, Treasurer.
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MLK HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Chronology: Important dates in life of King Defender News Services
1929 – Born Michael King Jr., son of Rev. Michael King Sr. and Alberta Williams King, on Jan. 15 in Atlanta. His father was later inspired by Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther and changed his name and that of his young son. 1944 – Began his freshman year at Atlanta’s Morehouse College in September. 1948 – Ordained and appointed assistant pastor at Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church in February. Received Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Morehouse in June. Began studies at Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Penn. in September. 1951 – Graduated from Crozer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. enrolled in Morehouse College at age 15. with Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1961 – King’s third child, Dexter Scott, born on Jan. 31. May. Began graduate studies in systematic theology at Boston Met with President John F. Kennedy in October and urged him University in September. to issue second Emancipation Proclamation to eliminate racial 1953 – Married Coretta Scott on June 18 near Marion, segregation. Ala. 1962 – Arrested at Albany, Ga. prayer vigil and released 1954 – Became pastor at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church after spending two weeks in jail. in Montgomery, Ala. in September. 1963 – King’s fourth child, Bernice Albertine, born 1955 – Awarded doctorate in Systematic Theology from March 28. Wrote “Letter from Birmingham Jail” in April. Book Boston University in June. The Kings’ first child, Yolanda, born of sermons titled “Strength to Love” published in June. Delivon Nov. 17. Rosa Parks arrested on Dec. 1 for refusing to vacate ered “I Have a Dream” speech at March on Washington for Jobs her seat and move to the back of a Montgomery bus to make and Freedom on Aug. 28. Delivered eulogy at funerals of three way for a white passenger. King became president of Montgomof four Black girls killed during Sept. 15 church bombing in Birery Improvement Association and spokesman for boycott on mingham. Wiretap of King’s phone authorized by U.S. Attorney Dec. 5. General Robert Kennedy in October. 1956 – King’s home bombed on Jan. 30 while speaking 1964 – Named “Man of the Year” by Time Magazine at a mass meeting; no one was injured. Addressed angry crowd in January. Met Malcolm X for first and only time in March. that gathered outside his home, pleading for nonviolence. In King’s book “Why We Can’t Wait” published in June. Launched November, U.S. Supreme Court affirmed a lower court opinion People-to-People Tour with SCLC in July. Met with FBI declaring Montgomery and Alabama bus segregation laws Director J. Edgar Hoover unconstitutional. Montgomery buses resumed full service and in December after King was among first passengers. Hoover denounced King 1957 – Elected president of Southern Christian Leaderas liar and said SCLC ship Conference (SCLC) in January. Delivered first national was “spearheaded address, “Give us the Ballot,” at Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom by Communists and in Washington, D.C. in May. King’s second child, Martin III, moral degenerborn Oct. 23. ates.” Received 1958 – “Strive Toward Freedom,” his first book, Nobel Peace published in September. King stabbed that same month during Prize in Norway in book-signing in Harlem by Izola Ware Curry, a Black woman. December. Doctors successfully removed seven-inch letter opener from 1965 – Led civil rights his chest. Curry arrested and later committed to hospital for marchers from Selma to Montcriminally insane. gomery in March after voting 1960 – Moved from Montgomery to Atlanta in February rights marchers were beaten at Edmund to devote more time to SCLC and freedom struggle. Became asPettus Bridge on “Bloody Sunday.” Publicly sistant pastor to his father at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Arrested opposed Vietnam War at Birmingham rally in August. in October during sit-in at Rich’s department store in Atlanta.
1966 – Moved to Chicago apartment in January to draw attention to city’s poor housing conditions. Met Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad in February. 1967 – Demanded that U.S. take new initiatives to end Vietnam War during April address. King’s book “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?” published in June. Announced plans to organize Poor People’s Campaign in December. 1968 – Led march of 6,000 protesters in support of striking Memphis sanitation workers in March. Violence and looting ensued and King rushed from scene. Returned to Memphis in April. Delivered final speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” on April 3. Assassinated while standing on Lorraine Motel balcony in Memphis on April 4. Buried in Atlanta on April 9. A White man, James Earl Ray, arrested on June 8 for King’s murder. (Received 99-year prison sentence and died in 1998).
In 1964, King became the youngest person awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
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Defender: For Dr. King, fighting for civil rights and later economic equality were big drivers of his ministry. Are there one or two political, social or cultural issues that drive your ministry? Beatty: The drivers for The Kingdom Culture Center are Black economic/entrepreneurial support and construction. The Civil Rights Movement was a group of Black people who knew the power of pooling their efforts and money and even withholding their money to create change…Think of the power we could possess to create change in our communities and cities if our dollars stayed in them longer than six hours. Think of the power we could see surge in our people if we encouraged them to open businesses that they knew would be supported and financially undergirded by our own. How much do you need to ask for from a government when you can supply financial freedom and certainty for your own? Johnson: Socially, it would be community violence and Rev. Ishmael Barn community restoration, with an emphasis on human, civil, and community rights. Politically, it would be voter suppression, with an emphasis on voter awareness and registration. Cumby: First, young men who are raised without a father in the home or a positiv influence. Young men need consistency and direction. Last year I helped produce an ev Manhood Camp in an effort to encourage young men from single parent homes. That e helped link over 150 boys to positive influences and gave them insight on changing a t management, physical fitness, why they should abstain from sex, and more. Second, lit continued education. There is power in knowledge. The marriage of literacy and contin yields a lifetime of successes. The Fountain of Praise has a fantastic summer reading p kids and a unique college program that connects recent high school graduates with curr school students for a realistic snapshot of college through college tours, seminars, and c classes. Barnett: What drives my ministry is preaching the word of God correctly. There things taken out of context and it affects us in a major way. I’m also driven by the chur I have experienced. So many people have left the church because of the church. I want change some of the negative connotations of church, especially the Black church. Defender: How do you respond to the criticisms some millennials voice about and the Christian church in particular (i.e. it is anti-intellectual; often treats wome second-class citizens; ignores or downplays culture and social issues)? Cumby: A lot of people have been hurt through experiences they have had at a But, the church didn’t hurt them; the people at that location hurt them…We are the ch building is where we serve, and the preacher is the vessel God uses to lead, edify, edu inspire at that location. Our greatest relationship should be with Jesus because throug can serve in the correct capacity at the divine destination He chooses. Additionally, chu
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In honor of Dr. King
ENNIAL MINISTERS SPEAK OUT By ASWAD WALKER Defender
r King Jr. began his socially conscious ministry at 26, an age we now consider a millennial. With that in mind, the Defender sought out four millennial members of the clergy to get their take on the big issues of the day, and how those issues impact how they do ministry. the conversation are: Rev. Ishmael Barnett, Riceville Mount Olive Baptist Church; Minister Christopher Johnson, Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church; Bishop Andre Beatty, The Kingdom Culture Center and Rev. William Cumby, The Fountain of Praise.
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old routine. Another friend was upset because of what he perceived to be the unwillingness of some Black churches and pastors to speak out regarding the shooting of unarmed Black men…All of these are important issues. I believe God has earmarked this generation to be change agents in their communities, churches, workplaces, and families…The church has to begin to listen to what the younger generation says it needs spiritually, relationally, emotionally, socially, politically and economically. Beatty: I am empathetic and I often apologize. I do this because they have valid points. Ultimately, I try to show them a difference and ask them to consider giving the church another try. Defender: What political issue is having the Minister Christopher Johnson Bishop Andre Beatty Rev. William Cumby biggest impact on the U.S. and/or members of your congregation? Barnett: The biggest issue impacting the U.S. and the members of the church I attend is www.Defendernetwork.com the power of white Supremacy. This issue has plagued our schools, communities, churches and Millenial ministers talk about President Trump, opportunities and especially our minds and the way we view each other and the world around us. challenges, and their Blackness Johnson: I serve under Dr. D.Z. Cofield, senior pastor of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Third Ward. We see and are engaged in so many political issues that impact our moving from the traditions that are off-putting to many millennials. The more commonly relaxed community and congregation. If I had to choose one, it would have to be police brutality/ atmosphere, the enhanced worship experience with multi-generational as well as multi-cultural community violence…Police brutality is not only the physical attack by law enforcement on music, and the incorporation of visually appealing aesthetics in nontraditional locations has people of color, it is also when law enforcement refuses to police minority neighborhoods in drawn a new wave of churchgoers…Our competition is not other churches or athletic programs, a way that is fair and addresses the criminal element in that community. On the south side of it is apathy. We have to get the heart of the millennial before we can get their committed Houston, we are in the midst of the worst pandemic of community violence this city has seen attendance. in almost 40 years. When I listen to residents there is the belief that police just don’t care. Many Barnett: I know firsthand that a lot of the criticism is true and all I try to do is do better. My residents believe the biggest form of police brutality is the absence of police protection in their motto is to “Grow, Advance and Become.” I watch, look and listen so that I won’t make those communities. same mistakes those before me have made. Beatty: I believe the issue of respect for Black life and money are the biggest issues. When Johnson: I would start by saying that many of these criticisms of religion and some our Black family members are afraid of dying in police traffic stops, we have to endure bogus churches are true. I didn’t grow up in the church like some of my friends. I had to learn that the 911 calls and we have $1.5 trillion in spending power in this country, but our neighborhoods church is not a perfect place. The people in the church are not perfect people. They are fragile, are constantly being gentrified and Black businesses beg for support, there are major problems. flawed, deficient, hurt, and in the process of becoming just like everyone else… [Still], every However, there are so many issues that affect us. It can be hard to narrow it down. church isn’t bad or sexist or anti-intellectual. And not every church is behind the curve socially Cumby: I serve as a youth pastor and although the youth I serve cannot vote, they are and politically. One of the biggest criticisms that my friends have of the church is that it feels affected by who is chosen. I make a point to teach them about the importance of being involved like a business, [meaning] they don’t feel any level of connectivity with the people, pastor in elections…We just had a major overhaul of judges through the election process and a radical or worship experience. One friend shared with me that after growing up in church all her life change to the mayor of Missouri City. That was a great opportunity to talk about change and she just didn’t feel as if her place of worship was authentic enough. She said it was the same possibility. We also discuss how to manage the decisions that we don’t prefer.
the Houston area for over 88 years
6B DEFENDER | JANUARY 17 | 2019
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MLK HOLIDAY SPECIAL
City of Houston begins new MLK tradition
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cided to move forward in the best interest of all Houstonians,” Turner said. “In case you did not already know, the Black Heris the country pauses to tage Society organized the very first MLK remember Dr. Martin Luther Day parade in the country and maintains an King Jr., the City of Houston official IPM license from the King Center will begin a new tradition to in Atlanta.” honor his life and legacy. Turner noted that in 1978, Dr. King’s Mayor Sylvester Turner announced that father even traveled to Houston to give his this year, the city will partner with the Black blessing to Duncantell’s efforts to preserve Heritage Society to promote the 41st annual his son’s work. Original MLK Day Parade. Turner said Duncantell, a well-known local civil the parade will be a tribute to Houston’s rights activist, died last October at age 82. In strength and diversity and unite people of addition to originating the parade, he was a different faiths and cultures from across driving force behind the renaming of South the community. Park Blvd. to MLK Blvd. He also promoted “From the start of my administrathe MLK Memorial Statue and Plaza. tion, I have been “During the parade, we will remember honest about my Original MLK Day Parade The city is partnering with the Black Heritage Society to promote the annual his lifelong contributions,” Turner said. desire for our city Original MLK Day Parade. “There will be a float dedicated in his memory to have only one Monday, Jan. 21, 10 a.m. and representatives from various organizaMLK Day paright thing.’ So, in the spirit of Dr. King’s work Hermann Square, 900 Smith St. tions will ride on it. rade,” Turner said. to unite everyone, I met with representatives of Visit www.blackheritagesociety.org “…As your mayor, I ask you to stand with me and let’s “As the nation’s the Black Heritage Society and the MLK Parade make the 2019 parade the best parade in the country and the befourth largest city, Foundation and expressed my hope to combine ginning of a new tradition,” he said. “Considering the cynicism Houston should be the groups into one grand, meaningful parade. and divisiveness across the country, we should show the nation known for celebrating the best and biggest MLK Day parade. “I am proud to say that the Black Heritage Society and that our city is a place of peace, unity and cooperation.” “Dr. King once said, ‘The time is always right to do the its founder, Ovide Duncantell, agreed with me and we deDefender News Services
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JANUARY 17 | 2019 | DEFENDER
7B
REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., NOVEMBER 17, 1957:
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” HERE IS WHAT I KNOW ABOUT HOUSTON:
If we work together, and we are excited about our city, and if we love each other, regardless of our race, our ethnicity, our gender, our sexual identity, our socioeconomic
Dr. King was a powerful speaker and prolific writer. Here are some of his quotes on various topics: America – “America is essentially a dream, a dream as yet unfulfilled. It is a dream of a land where men of all races, of all nationalities and of all creeds can live together as brothers.” – Speech, 1961 Crime – “I knew that I was a convicted criminal, but I was proud of my crime. It was a crime of joining my people in a nonviolent protest against injustice. It was the crime of seeking to instill within my people a sense of dignity and self-respect. It was the crime of desiring for my people the inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” – “Stride Toward Freedom,” 1958 Danger – “We have allowed our civilization to outrun our culture, and so we are in danger now of ending up with guided missiles in the hands of misguided men.” – Speech, 1961 Destiny – “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny…As long as there is poverty in this world, no man can be totally rich even if he has a billion dollars. As long as diseases are rampant and millions of people cannot expect to live more than 20 or 30 years, no man can be totally healthy, even if he just got a clean bill of health from the finest clinic in America.” – Speech, 1961 Freedom – “Our freedom was not won a century ago, and it is not won today; but some small part of it is in our hands, and we are marching no longer by ones and twos but in legions of thousands, convinced it cannot be denied by any human force. – Quote, 1967 God – “God has been profoundly real to me in recent years. In the midst of outer dangers, I have felt an inner calm. In the midst of lonely days and dreary nights I have heard an inner voice saying, ‘Lo I will be with you.’” – “Strength to Love,” 1963 Power – “There is nothing essentially wrong with power. The problem is American power is unequally distributed.” – “Where Do We Go From Here,” 1968 Segregation – “I felt as though a curtain had dropped on my selfhood. It was a bitter feeling going back to segregation. It was hard to understand why I could ride wherever I pleased on the train from New York to Washington and then had to change to a Jim Crow car at the nation’s capital in order to continue the trip to Atlanta.” – Article, 1957
divide us — we will build a city that values the service and labor and essential humanity of one another.
HAPPY MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY!
M AYO R SY LV E S T E R T U R N E R
Pol. adv. Sylvester Turner Campaign
King was outspoken on issues, ideologies
status — and all the things that could potentially
8B DEFENDER | JANUARY 17 | 2019
PUBLIC MEETINGS
2019
You Spoke. We Listened.
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METRO is coming back to the public to share the draft long-range transportation plan designed with your input. Join us at a public meeting or learn more at METRONext.org.
Any person who requires language interpretation or special needs accommodations is encouraged to contact METRO Public Affairs at 713-739-4018, or via email at METROPublicAffairs@ridemetro.org. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate your needs.
JOIN US FOR A PUBLIC MEETING SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center 4014 Market Street Houston, Texas 77020
Missouri City Community Center 1522 Missouri City Drive Missouri City, Texas 77489
HCC - Spring Branch Campus 1010 West Sam Houston Pkwy N. Houston, Texas 77043
Tracy Gee Community Center 3599 Westcenter Drive Houston, Texas 77042
Springhill Suites Conference Center 20350 Northwest Freeway Houston, Texas 77065
Double Tree Houston Hobby Airport 8181 Airport Blvd. Houston, Texas 77061
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MONDAY, JANUARY 28 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Fulbright Tower 1301 McKinney Houston, Texas 77010
Kingwood Community Center 4102 Rustic Woods Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339
Magnolia Multi-Service Center 7037 Capitol Houston, Texas 77011
Montrose Center 401 Branard Street Houston, Texas 77006
South Park Baptist Church 5830 Van Fleet Street Houston, Texas 77033
Junior League of Houston 1811 Briar Oaks Lane Houston, Texas 77027
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MONDAY, JANUARY 28 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 11 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Klein ISD Multipurpose Center 7500 FM 2920 Klein, Texas 77379
Double Tree by Hilton Hotel IAH 15747 John F Kennedy Blvd Houston, Texas 77032
Katy ISD Boardroom 6301 South Stadium Lane Katy, Texas 77494
Southwest Multi-Service Center 6400 High Star Houston, Texas 77074
Volunteers of America Texas 4808 Yale Houston, Texas 77018
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JANUARY 17 | 2019 | DEFENDER
health
A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance
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Cervical cancer screening saves lives BY CHANELLE CLARK, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
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ervical cancer kills thousands of women each year, and black women are especially vulnerable. Sadly, more than 50 percent of new cervical cancers are in women who have never been screened or have not been screened in the previous five years of their lives, according to a 2014 Chanelle Clark, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, with recommended screening, cervical cancer is preventable and, when discovered early, is one of the most curable cancers. With the start of a new year, now is the perfect time to make cervical cancer screening a 2019 health goal.
Slow growing cancer
Cervical cancer forms in the tissues of the cervix where the uterus and vagina connect. It’s usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms
but can be found with regular Pap tests, a procedure in which cells are scraped from the cervix and examined under a microscope for signs of cell changes that might lead to cervical cancer, and human papillomavirus (HPV) screening in certain age groups, which looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes. It isn’t clear what causes cervical cancer, but various strains of HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, play a role. HPV vaccination helps prevent infection with HPV types that cause most cervical cancers. It’s recommended for preteen boys and girls ages 11 to 12 years but can be given as early as age 9 and until age 26. In addition to HPV, the following may also increase a woman’s risk of cervical cancer: • Smoking • Having HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) or another condition that makes it hard to fight off health problems • Using birth control pills for five or more years • Having given birth to three or more children If your doctor determines that you have cervical cancer, you’ll have further tests to determine the extent of your cancer before deciding on your treatment,
which may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of the three.
Schedule your well-woman exam
Even if you feel well, you should see your gynecologist regularly for a well-woman checkup. Your doctor can help determine an appropriate screening and prevention program based on your family’s history of cancer and other factors. The Pap test is one of the most reliable and effective cancer screening tests available to women. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, regular Pap tests should begin at age 21. Women ages 30 to 65 should have an HPV test and Pap test. If you know a woman who doesn’t have health insurance, let her know she may be able to get free or low-cost cervical cancer screening through CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (call 800-CDC-INFO or visit cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp) or through the Texas Health and Human Services’ Breast and Cervical Cancer Services Program (call 512-7767796 for information). Dr. Clark is an OB/GYN specialist currently accepting new patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Pearland Clinic. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.
Get KelseyConnected
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Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, you have an entire healthcare team that can share your medical history through one electronic medical record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you. Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: n
Locations close to home and work. Choose the location most convenient for you at kelsey-seybold.com/locations.
n
24-Hour Nurse Hotline. Speak with a Kelsey-Seybold nurse after 5 p.m. and on holidays and weekends.
n
MyKelseyOnline. Email your doctor’s office, make appointments, refill prescriptions, view test results, and more.
n
Appointments today! Book a Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics appointment online at kelsey-seybold.com/NOW.
24-Hour Appointment Scheduling: 713-442-0000 | kelsey-seybold.com
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 17 | 2019
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Legislative update
Bill would protect homebuyers in flood areas Texas Tribune
State Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, recently filed legislation that would require sellers of residential properties to notify buyers if a property is located in a flood-prone area – and whether it has previously flooded. Senate Bill 339 would change a provision of the state’s property code to force sellers to tell buyers whether properties are in a 100- or 500-year floodplain or partly inside a reservoir or reservoir “flood pool” — an area next to a reservoir that is usually dry but is designed to hold floodwater. The bill also would require sellers to disclose whether the property has flooded before, whether it might flood under “catastrophic circumstances,” and if it’s located within 5 miles downstream of a reservoir. If a seller doesn’t disclose the information, the law would allow buyers to terminate the contract – or sue. Currently, sellers only have to disclose whether a home is in a 100-year floodplain. The lack of flood risk disclosure became a major issue in Houston in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, when homeowners who live upstream from two federally-owned reservoirs learned their properties were actually designed to flood even though they aren’t located in any designated floodplain. Scores of those homeowners are now suing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the City of Houston and Harris County in federal court. Many more homeowners who
Development encroached on the north side of Addicks Reservoir in Houston in 2016. (Michael Stravato for Texas Tribune).
live downstream of the reservoirs, known as Addicks and Barker, also are suing because their properties flooded after the Army Corps released a historic amount of water from the reservoir dams following Harvey’s torrential rains. “One issue in particular that I have heard about from so many constituents who were affected by Harvey is that they were completely unaware they were at risk of flood-
ing,” Huffman said in a statement. “This is just a small piece of the complicated puzzle that is Harvey recovery and resiliency. I believe that if passed, S.B. 339 will have a tremendous lasting impact as prospective homeowners for years to come will be provided with the critical flood risk information they need for what is often their largest investment.”
JANUARY IS SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH
Thank you for all you do to ensure our District is the Best in Texas!
Jason Burdine President Position 1
Addie Heyliger Vice President Position 6
Dave Rosenthal Secretary Position 7
Grayle James Position 2
Jim Rice Position 3
Kristin K. Tassin Position 4
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JANUARY 17 | 2019 | DEFENDER
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NFL launches social justice initiative Associated Press
“We really took the time to meet with and talk to advocates and community leaders and to decide the most important aspects to focus on.”
The NFL is launching a social justice platform, with an emphasis on education, economic development and community and police relations. The platform is called Inspire Change and includes the funding of grassroots organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and Operation HOPE. It also will establish a digital learning curriculum for African-American history in 175 underserved high schools. The initiative will work in connection with the league’s 32 teams and the Players Coalition, a group of
players that works for social justice. Inspire Change is the latest step for the league and the players after they established a working relationship in October 2017 following player demonstrations for social justice during the national anthem. “This launch involves new grants, new AfricanAmerican history education programs in schools, grants with organizations we have not worked with before and who are doing the work on the ground, and PSAs on broadcasts beginning with this weekend’s playoff games,” says Anna Isaacson, the NFL’s senior vice president
of social responsibility. “You have to really take the time to understand the topic, you can’t just dive in. We really took the time to meet with and talk to advocates and community leaders and to decide the most important aspects to focus on under the broad social justice umbrella.” The league’s financial commitment in 2018 was $8.5 million, plus an additional $2 million for NFL Foundation grants
for clubs, former players and active players. For the 2019 fiscal year,
that will increase to $12 million overall.
classifieds ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS SWBC KINGWOOD, L.P. (“the OWNER”) will receive sealed bids for the ROCK CREEK DRIVE IMPROVEMENTS project, located in CITY OF HOUSTON, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS. Bids will be received until 2:00 PM, local time on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 ST, 2019 by HELEN STALLKAMP, PROJECT MANAGER, STANTEC CONSULTING SERVICES, INC., 580 WESTLAKE BLVD., SUITE 1000, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77079. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Beginning 9:00 AM, FRIDAY, JANUARY 18TH, 2019, Bid Documents will be available via CivCast at www.CivCastUSA.com: search ROCK CREEK DRIVE IMPROVEMENTS. Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications, plans, and other related documents for this project. There is NO CHARGE to view or download documents. Addenda will also be distributed CivCast. There will be a charge of $100 to procure a set of documents through Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. NON-MANDATORY Pre-bid Conference will be held at 10:00 AM on THURSDAY, JANUARY 24TH, 2019, at the offices of STANTEC CONSULTING SERVICES, INC., 580 WESTLAKE BLVD., SUITE 1000, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77079. All bidders (general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers) are invited to attend.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
HISD BELLAIRE HIGH SCHOOL REBUILD
Phase II & III New High School, Athletic Fields, Parking Garage 5100 MAPLE ST BELLAIRE, TX 77401 Turner Construction Company is the Construction Manager for the HISD Bellaire High School Rebuild Project. You are invited to submit your Lump Sum Proposal (LSP) for all labor, material, equipment, taxes, and other necessary items to complete the work in your trade for this project. The LSP’s are to be in strict accordance with the Plans and Project Manual prepared by PBK.
PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND
The Phase II & III – New High School, On-Site Athletics, and Parking Garage Package Work for this Project is defined in the Contract Documents and consists but is not limited to the following: components to build new school, on-site athletics, and parking garage. All Work must be performed and coordinated through Turner in strict accordance with City of Bellaire and Houston Independent School District requirements, the Project Schedule, this RFP and the Contract Documents. In the event of a conflict, the most stringent requirement will prevail. This early release package requests just in time delivery based on Schedule provided in RFP, no storage will be provided for materials by Turner or HISD. This proposal shall be in strict accordance with the Packages contained herein, this RFP and the Contract Documents. However, cost saving suggestions are acceptable and encouraged and are to be submitted as voluntary alternates to the base plans and specifications. Proposals are to be in strict accordance with the Request For Proposal Manual and contract documents. Please refer to the Request For Proposal Manual for Instructions to Bidders, Insurance requirements, Proposal Forms, etc. Proposal documents may be downloaded from BuildingConnected on 01.10.19. Contact Toni Cromer. 281-702-2033 tcromer@tcco.com for access to Turner’s Building Connected site. All Subcontractors must complete Turner Construction qualifications. Please reference RFP for Pre-Qual Instructions. There will be one Pre-Proposal Meetings based on the scope of work we are bidding in this GMP Phase II & III. The Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held at the Turner Office. • Phase II & III – New High School, On-Site Athletics, Parking Garage Package – January 16, 2019 / 2:00pm / Turner Office: 4263 Dacoma St, Houston, TX 77092 (Training Room) RFI’s must be submitted on the RFI Form located in the RFI folder (in BuildingConnected) on or before 4:00pm January 18, 2019. Proposals are to be submitted to tcromer@tcco.com or through BuildingConnected before 2:00 PM Tuesday January 29, 2019. They may also be submitted Turner Construction Company, 4263 Dacoma St. Houston, TX 77092, Attention: Toni Cromer., or faxed to 713.840.8365. Turner Construction Company reserves the right to utilize the following evaluation criteria when reviewing the bids that are submitted: a) Subcontractor’s experience e) Price b) Manpower f) Ability to meet the construction schedule c) Equipment g) Project Approach d) Financial capability/performance h) Safety record history/litigation history i) MWBE Plan, refer to Section 16 in RFP
JANUARY 24 • 7:30 PM CULLEN THEATER, WORTHAM CENTER SPAHOUSTON.ORG • 713.227.4772
The bid will be awarded to the subcontractor which is determined to be qualified under the evaluation criteria mentioned above and based upon the Scoring Criteria & Subcontractor Selection Sheet in Section 1 Instruction to Bidders. Turner Construction Company may have discussions with qualified subcontractors to clarify the bid that has been submitted and to assure full understanding of and responsiveness to the bid solicitation. Turner Construction Company may negotiate with subcontractors that have been determined to be qualified in order to obtain a final and best offer. However, negotiations shall not alter the original scope of work as defined in the contractor’s original bid documents as provided by Turner Construction Company. Turner Construction Company will select the subcontractor which is determined to be the most advantageous to the successful completion of the Project based upon the evaluation criteria set forth in Section 1 Instruction to Bidders and need not necessarily accept the lowest subcontractor. The subcontractor whose proposal is determined to be the most advantages to the successful, timely and efficient completion of the Project, taking into account the evaluation factors, shall be selected. Upon selection of a subcontractor, the subcontractor will be required to sign the contractor’s standard subcontract agreement.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 17 | 2019
sports
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UH basketball back in national spotlight
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By MAX EDISON Defender
comers along with freshman Nate Hinton. We also have Fabian White [sophomore] from Atascocita, who was conference Newcomer of the Year last year and Armoni Brooks [junior] who was conference Sixth Man of the Year last year. We also added Chris Harris [junior], originally out of Madison, so we have a good group.” Davis returns as the Cougars’ leading scorer after averaging 13.1 points per game and earning the American All-Tournament Team honors a year ago. The Lafayette, La., native became the fifth player in school history to sink 100-plus three-pointers in a single season and buried at least one trey in 29 straight games, the second longest streak in school history. Brooks also noted the impact playing in the
erhaps all it took was a brand new homecourt to play on. Maybe it was a heartbreaking, last-second loss to Michigan in the NCAA tournament, the same Wolverine team that wound up advancing to the Finals last spring. Perhaps it was being selected as a Jordan brand team by Nike. Whatever the reason, the University of Houston basketball program has returned to national prominence. The Cougars are off to a 16-1 record, 3-1 in American Athletic Conference action. UH is currently ranked No. 15 in the latest USA Today Coaches poll and No. 17 in the most recent Associated Press poll. The team features seniors at its core – players who have experienced the improvement in the UH program and leaders who exemplify what head coach Kelvin Sampson wants to see on the floor. “They are what I want senior leaders to be,” Sampson said. “They couldn’t care less about statistics or any of that stuff that will grab teams by the throat. We don’t have any knuckleheads. We don’t deal with – knock on wood – discipline issues. These kids are on time, they stay late, always in the coaches’ office watching film. I told them, ‘I want you to be addicted to getting better.’” The Cougars were close in 2018, losing to a Michigan team that lost in the Finals to Villanova for the championship. Longtime UH assistant coach and Houston native (Wheatley High School) Alvin Brooks said this year’s success has not been a surprise to him. “I thought we would have a chance to have a better team,” Brooks said. “Kelvin Sampson has done a great job of assembling a roster and building it so that you stay mature and get better every year. That’s been his staple over the course of his career, especially with the players we had coming back.” This season’s Cougar squad is an ideal mix of experience and youth that has perfectly blended together. “Galen Robinson, Corey Davis and Breaon Brady are our three starters,” Brooks said. Corey Davis, the team’s leading scorer, made last season’s American “Brison Gresham [sophomore] and Athletic Conference All-Tournament Team. Dejon Jarreau [sophomore] are new-
Coach Kelvin Sampson is guiding the Cougars to an impressive record.
Galen Robinson Jr. was conference Co-Player of the Week in December. He played high school ball at Westbury Christian.
newly reopened Fertitta Center has had on the program. “It’s really changed the perception that people in the city and folks abroad have of the program,” Brooks said. “We have the new Guy V. Lewis Development Center, which we’ve been in for two years, which is attached to the Fertitta Center. “[Sampson] did a great job adding some touches to the facility and the arena that NBA facilities have. The message boards, the light shows before the game, the improved locker rooms are all major league. “Now it’s second to none and you can recruit just about anybody,” Brooks continued. “Kids can come visit and they are thoroughly impressed when they witness the first-class facilities of the program. You haven’t always been able to say that. The university and the administration made a great commitment to Kelvin Sampson when he came in and he’s done a great job getting what he needed to move the program forward.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years
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JANUARY 17 | 2019 | DEFENDER
HS sports
The Wheatley Wildcats have soared to the district’s top spot. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison)
Maurice Campbell
Wheatley forward/center enforcer in the paint
Defender: How would you describe your style of play? Campbell: Pass first and a defensive player. heatley 6-foot-5 junior big Defender: How have you developed your game man Maurice Campbell has since your All-District sophomore season? made strides in his third year Campbell: My running for the most part and workon varsity, coming off of ing hard every summer, getting better with my coaches a second team All-District and my teammates, working hard in the weight room, performance as a sophomore. trying to get better at everything I do. This season he has helped the Wildcats secure the No. Defender: What goes through your head when 1 spot in the district with a 10-3 you see that opportunity to record so far. knock a blocked shot into DefenderNetwork.com Wheatley head coach Lonnie the stands? See game highlights Reynolds said Campbell’s impact Campbell: My coach on the team is significant. tells me to go for where “What Maurice brings to the they want to put the ball team is a presence on the inside and he is a leader, at. So, whenever I see them going for a layup, I Reynolds said. “I am hard on him because I see tell my teammates let them go. I am going to block the potential that he has. it, mainly because I don’t want them to get in foul “Maurice came from a freshman year of not even trouble.” playing to his 10th grade year making second team Defender: How are you able to dominate the All-District, and now as a junior he has really improved painted area? by leaps and bounds. So, he is one of the key pieces to Campbell: “I worked hard and my teammates our team.” helped me get better looks in the post. They’d see me The Defender talked with Campbell about his style and I’d score. Most of the time I like passing the ball of play, keys to victory inside the paint and his overall and I sometimes find myself passing too much but I progress on the court. just do whatever I have to do to get the win.
Maurice Campbell brings a presence on the inside to the team.
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By JODIE B. JILES Defender
About Campbell
Instagram: mr.ballislife_ Favorite food: Fruit Favorite subject: Math NBA players he watches: Michael Beasley and Lebron James World problem he would solve: Building a better community Shout-outs: Everybody in his neighborhood
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 17| 2019
defendernetwork.com
Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
topevents
STEPPING INTO STRENGTH (SIS) MENTORING PROGRAM TEEN Theatre Group and more. In addition, individuals signed up for a videography project SUMMIT……..This Woman’s Work, a non-profit organization led by entrepreneur documenting personal recollections of Third Ward history. Attendees included Alicia Neal, Carla Lane, recently hosted the Stepping Into Strength (SIS) Mentoring Program Teen Rev. John Eigege, Georgia Provost, Rev. Ray Martin (PABA), Pastor Linda Davis, Dr. Summit. Held at South Early College High School, the event was a day of empowerment Assata Richards, Zinetta Burney, Judge Clarease and Cary Yates, F.B. McWilliams, filled with uplifting, educational and life-changing sessions tailored to teen girls. The Margo Hickman, Michelle Barnes, Howard and Alyssa Thomas and many more. summit kicked off the program’s expansion from serving one school (Madison High ……..NAACP HOUSTON OFFICERS INSTALLATION CEREMONY……..The School) to becoming a citywide force. Attendees included Wortham Center served as the venue for the Installation Ceremony of Dorita Hatchett, Sonja Pelton-Sam, Angele Frank, TaNitra NAACP Houston Branch officers and Executive Committee members. Defender TOP EVENTS Robinson, Clarissa Henderson, Kimberly Campbell, Attendees were treated to powerful oratory presentations by 2018 ACTMore photos on defendernetwork.com Nettie Jones, Angelique Burris, Yaretzi Marban, Khyria SO Gold Medalists Amari Venzor and Imani Davenport and remarks Thompson, Michelle Jones, Zoey Hausman, Mia from U.S. Reps. Sheila Jackson Lee and Al Green before Judge Maria Jimenez and many others……..LEGACIES OF THE EMANCIPATION PARK Jackson performed the swearing in duties as branch officers and executive committee NEIGHBORHOOD……..The Emancipation Economic Development Council hosted members officially began their terms. Attendees included branch President Dr. James Legacies of the Emancipation Park Neighborhood, a program celebrating the history Douglas, Executive Director Yolanda Smith, Pastor James and Tonya Dixon, Howard of Third Ward. Led by Dolores and Ken Rodgers and Carl Davis, the program not Jefferson, Carolyn Scantlebury, Dr. Luckett Johnson, Reginald and Alane Lillie, only provided history lessons on Third Ward, but also artistic expressions by the Third Dana Davis, Cindy George, Nita Gilbert, Tanya Douglas, Carrol Robinson, Chauncy Ward Community Choir, Baylor College of Medicine at Ryan Choir, Yates High School Glover (ABC13) and scores more.
Carla Lane, Dorita Hatchett
Demonica Amerson, Hailey Amerson, Alexis Amerson, Nina Anderson
Yaretzi Marban, Kimberly Campbell, Angelique Burris
Carl Davis, Dolores Rodgers, Ken Rodgers
Maurice Rausaw, Sharon Richard, Joe Dotson, Shan Williams
Zinetta Burney, Judge Clarease Yates
James Douglas, Tonya Dixon
Pastor John Johnson, Argentina James Harris, Roger Harris
Akwanza Venzor, Amari Venzor
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years