Houston Defender: January 26, 2017

LOCAL

CULLEN, ATTUCKS AND YATES SCHOOL LIBRARY SHELVES REPLENISHED P2

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NEWSTALK WANDA ADAMS leads HISD board

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 86 | Number 12

JANUARY 26, 2017 |FREE

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SUPER BOWL

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WEEK ACTIVITIES

NATIONAL ALICIA KEYS among the voices of Women’s March

P3 ENTERTAINMENT TERRY MCMILLAN heads to Houston

P5 TOP EVENTS

Ricky Anderson, Sonny Messiah Jiles and Jodie Jiles attend the Greater Houston Frontiers Club MLK Breakfast.

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Sylvester Turner

Julio Jones

The mayor is pushing an effort to make Houston a production friendly environment for movie and TV producers. He’s hoping to showcase the city as the right choice to become the next production mecca.

The Atlanta Falcons player is ready to face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI. After an incredible NFC Championship game with 9 receptions for 108 yards and two touchdowns, Jones is counting on a win.

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bringing productions

ready for Super Bowl

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26 | 2017

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School library shelves replenished Defender News Services

Students at three Southeast Houston HISD schools no longer have to experience a library void of books.

The schools’ once-depleted library shelves are now filled with novels, nonfiction, games and gadgets. Thousands of new books, iPads and learning resources were unveiled at Cullen, Yates, and Attucks, following an uproar from parents last fall about woefully inadequate and non-existent libraries.

HISD officials said efforts to cut costs and use “classroom libraries” to increase literacy left many schools without proper resources.

“We had many schools that did not have existing libraries or the libraries were shuttered due to budgetary reasons,” said HISD Chief Academic Officer Grenita Lathan. “So we’ve made an investment not only into these three schools…because we’re going to start looking at some of those other schools where the libraries are closed or they don’t have librarians.”

The shelves of Yates Library are now fully stocked. Courtesy: HISD The issue was brought to light by activist Gerry Monroe, who was speaking at Cullen when he noticed the supply started to deplete. The principal barely has a budthe lack of books. get to run the school, so I’m not faulting him, but this should “I was floored because the shelves had no books,” he never happen.” said. “After years of using books, students taking them home, Monroe, who runs a program called One Houston/One

Hood, immediately rallied other members of his community coalition to spread the word about the dire circumstances at the Third Ward schools.

Representatives from Half-Price Books, the NAACP Houston Chapter and Follett School Solutions, an educational resources vendor, immediately went into book-gathering mode.

“Strategically, we worked together to try and make sure that these libraries were outfitted in a manner that would be sufficient to educating our children,” said Monroe, who is also executive director of the United Urban Alumni Association. “No school should be without a school library.

They also got a lot of new technology.”

The district also announced a collaboration with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, which will donate 1,200 books to students at Attucks and Cullen to help build the students’ home libraries.

Adams named HISD board president Defender News Services

District IX Trustee Wanda Adams was named president of the HISD Board of Education.

A Kashmere High School graduate, Adams was first elected to the school board in 2013. She previously served six years on the Houston City Council.

“I am excited about the success that the

HISD Board has accomplished thus far and am very enthusiastic to lead the Board in making educational advances that will benefit all of HISD’s students, faculty, and administration,” Adams said.

Other Board of Education officers for 2017 are Diana Dávila, first vice president; Jolanda Jones, second vice president; Rhonda Skillern-Jones, secretary; and Anne Sung, assistant secretary.

Two new trustees, Sung and Holly Maria Flynn Vilaseca (Ocampo), also joined the board.

Trustees thanked 2016 President Manuel Rodríguez Jr. for guiding the board through the successful search for a new superintendent, which culminated with the hiring of Richard Carranza.

“He led us through some turbulent times and hiring a new superintendent,” Adams said.

District IX Trustee Wanda Adams

localbriefs THE U.S. SUPREME COURT DECLINED to revive Texas’ voter ID law, dashing – for now – the hopes of the state’s Republican leaders to overturn a lower-court decision that the rule discriminated against Blacks and Hispanics. The decision could mean that the Texas Legislature, which is now in session for five months, could try to fix the legal issues with the law on its own. But officials who were reviewing the ruling said the most likely course will be to let pending appeals continue in lower courts. The delay request came after the new U.S. Department of Justice

sought time for the Trump Administration to review whether to continue challenging the Texas requirements…….STATE REP. HAROLD DUTTON HAS FILED ANOTHER BILL TO END the death penalty in Texas.

Every legislative session since 2003, Dutton, D-Houston, has filed at least one bill to end capital punishment in Texas. It’s often been a lonely quest, but this year Dutton is hoping more of his colleagues join him.……...

FOOTAGE OF FORMER NFL STAR RICKY WILLIAMS being frisked by police while he was taking a walk in Tyler has surfaced.

Williams, currently a “Celebrity Apprentice” cast member, was in Texas to attend the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award ceremony when police stopped him and asked him to stand in front of a police car while they searched him for weapons. The police claimed that they had received calls about a suspicious man hopping fences and loitering. Williams denied the accusations, saying that he had not been in anyone’s yard, and he was eventually allowed to leave and was not charged. Tyler police defended the officers, saying they did nothing wrong.

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JANUARY 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP DECLARED a federal hiring freeze after signing an executive order that will stop federal agencies from filling most of their vacancies. The new president had pledged to do so while on the campaign trail, describing the federal bureaucracy as part of the “swamp” he claims he will drain. The freeze essentially means that federal workers who change jobs or retire will not be replaced, making it more difficult for agencies to carry out their basic duties. The order does not apply to military personnel…….. TRUMP ALSO SIGNED an executive order to scale back portions of the Affordable Care Act, which provided billions of dollars in assistance to help extend health coverage to millions of Americans. Trump’s administration and its Republican allies in Congress billed the order as a first step in their push to repeal Obamacare, which Trump himself described as “a disaster” on his campaign trail……..THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION will determine the outcome of a probe into the death of Freddie Gray. The open federal investigation involves federal agents and prosecutors reviewing evidence to determine whether individual officers criminally violated Gray’s civil rights. It is distinct from the broad Justice Department investigation that determined this summer that Baltimore Police routinely violated individuals’ rights, and which resulted this month in a consent decree mandating police reforms.

Gray died of a neck injury sustained in police custody in 2015……..A BALTIMORE MOTHER IS FURIOUS after she signed a permission slip for her 9-year-old son to participate in his dental program at school, and they pulled three teeth. Shanda Flemming said she believed the program involved only routine teeth cleaning and she was horrified to learn three of her son’s teeth had been pulled.

Baltimore City Schools pointed to the permission slip but said they will still investigate the matter.

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 12 JANUARY 26, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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Blacks join historic women’s march

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Defender News Services

lack women showed out at the recent women’s marches around the world, making sure their voices did not go unheard. The marches were held the day after President Donald Trump was sworn in, and it’s estimated that more than one million people participated. The largest crowd was in Washington.

While some women of color expressed mixed feelings over the march and chose not to attend, those who did made sure to send powerful messages. From calling on white women to take accountability for the election’s outcome to reminding America of Black women’s contributions, Black women spoke up at the landmark protest.

Singer Janelle Monáe, who can be seen in the box office hit “Hidden Figures,” was among the speakers.

“I want to remind you that it was woman that gave you Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” she said.

“It was woman that gave you Malcolm X. And according to the Bible, it was a woman that gave you Jesus. Don’t you ever forget it. And we must remind them, those who are abusing their power. And whenever you feel in doubt, whenever you want to give up, you must always rememJanelle Monáe said women should choose freedom over fear. ber to choose freedom over fear.”

Singer Alicia Keys, who begins her second season on NBC’s “The Voice” next month, said, “Let us continue to honor all that is beautiful about being feminine. We are mothers, we are caregivers, we are artists, we are activists, and we are entrepreneurs, doctors, leaders of industry and technology.

“Our potential is unlimited,” Keys said. “We rise. We will not allow our bodies to be owned and controlled by men in government – or men anywhere, for that matter. We will not allow our compassionate souls to get stepped on. We want the best for all Americans – no hate, no bigotry, no Muslim registry. We will continue to rise until our voices are heard.”

Not everyone was completely on board. Angela Peoples came with resistance, unable to forget that white women voted in force for Trump.

“We need to be really honest about why we’re here,” Peoples told The Root. “There was a sense for me of being at the march and in community with folks that were wanting to resist this horrifying reality, but also not wanting folks to get complacent.”

Her sign, which read, “Don’t Forget: White women voted for Trump,” garnered attention all day.

Alicia Keys spoke at the Women’s March in Washington, D.C.

Protester Angela Peoples carried a sign with a special message.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26| 2017

entertainment

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Can Houston be the next Hollywood?

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

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t’s no secret that places like Atlanta and New Orleans have become a hub for Hollywood productions looking to move out of California. Now, an effort is underway to add Houston to that list.

“Houston is a city that continues to reinvent itself,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner. “In fact, we intend to create a production-friendly environment for producers by adopting strategies to make it easier to create, produce and distribute film and other media productions from inception until the final product,” Turner recently hosted dozens of Hollywood Jada influencers for the Houston Film and Entertainment g Allen Payne, ’s Lyric,” starrin as filmed in Houston. on as “J sic Summit. His goal is to showcase the city as the right as “Powder” was The cult cl oodbine w filmed in Hous and Bokeem W ton and Wharton choice to become the next production mecca.

Pinkett Smith County.

“It shouldn’t just be L.A., or New York, or • Offering free use of city-owned properties San Francisco – Houston ought to be in that conversation,” “The immediate focus and facilities Turner said. should be on looking for ways to • Enhancing Houston’s film culture by Last year the Houston Film Commission assisted with provide aggressive and creative marketing the city beyond our cowboy and 271 film and video projects over 1,000 days of filming. More tax incentives and financing western brand than $19 million was spent here on productions, giving the packages for productions, building Turner also hopes to highlight the fact that Mayor Sylvester Turner Houston region a $57 million economic impact. an infrastructure to assist and Houston has a highly-skilled entertainment With the Texas Legislature in session, there will be lots support productions in this city, workforce and an army of local talent. of discussions about reinstating the state’s tax incentives for including sound stages and marketing this terrific city and “We had to really go and do some research and study film projects. Turner says that’s the perfect time to consider all that it has to offer to Hollywood.” what happened in Atlanta, what happened in San Antonio, plans to make Houston more competitive. Among their ideas: what happened in New Orleans,” said Preston Middleton of “The Houston Entertainment Summit opened • Implementing strategies to improve the industry my eyes to what I haven’t seen before...great spaces, Next Wave Entertainment, speaking of other Southern cities workforce interesting locations, skilled, competent and creative that have become movie and film hot beds.

• Continuing to expand our robust centralized, easily Middleton, along with producer Debra Martin Chase and professionals and, mostly, a place that welcomes the film/ accessible, updated database of production resources TV industry and all the excitement and jobs it will bring,” Oscar winners Antoine Fuqua and Robert Katz, were among available in Houston added L.A. casting director Marie Malyszek. the directors, producers and other entertainment executives in • Creating strategic partnerships with colleges and “We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Go big, or go home.’ attendance at the summit. universities to enhance film programs Well, in this case, it’s ‘Go Houston, or go home,’ and “This city clearly already has many of the necessary • Potentially leveraging the Texas Film Commission I’ll be telling all of the entertainment industry to go to elements in place to build a successful film and television production incentive program with local incentives Houston!” industry,” said Martin Chase, a former Houstonian.

what’sup The Secret Service plans to investigate MADONNA after she stated during the Women’s March on Washington that she has thought about “blowing up the White House,” though she added that it “wouldn’t change anything.”

She also said the F-word four times, causing broadcasters to apologize since they were airing the broadcast live. The final decision to prosecute will fall on the U.S. Attorney’s Office……..CHRISETTE MICHELE drew the ire of fans after agreeing to sing at Donald Trump’s inauguration. She penned an open letter which quoted DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. and said she was trying to “build

bridges.” After attacks on social media, filmmaker SPIKE LEE also said he was dropping her music from his new Netflix series. Michele was reportedly paid $250,000 for the performance……..Gospel singer VICKI YOHE, who built her career with Black support, is in hot water for a post on social media suggesting that Jesus has come back to the White House now that Donald Trump is president.

Some people were outraged by the post. Yohe has since deleted her social media accounts and issued an apology……..Actress and commentator STACEY DASH , a vehement Trump supporter and Republican apologist, has been

kicked off one of her biggest soap boxes. Fox News has declined to renew Dash’s contributor contract……. KEKE PALMER is furious with TREY SONGZ after she says he secretly filmed her for his new video, despite her making it clear that she didn’t want to be in the project. Palmer spoke out on both Twitter and Instagram saying that she is disgusted, furious and appalled that he would use her likeness without permission. Songz issued a “things aren’t what they seem” response…….YARA SHAHIDI, who plays oldest daughter Zoey Johnson on “Black-ish,” is set to get her own TV show, based on her life in college.

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Terry McMillan comes to Houston

Author Terry McMillan, best known for “Waiting to Exhale,” “A Day Late and a Dollar Short,” “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” and many other bestselling novels, will be in Houston as part of the Houston Public Library’s Winter Reading Series presentation.

The event will take place at the Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Avenue, on Monday, Feb. 6, at 7:30 p.m. McMillan will discuss her latest novel, “Almost Forgot About You,” which is described as a bold, inspiring story of second chances and next chapters.

Readers will see McMillan’s signature charm, acerbic wit, and spot-on depictions of modern life and culture on full display, and her lead character, Dr. Georgia Young, could soon find her place among McMillan’s best-loved.

When Dr. Young decides to make some major changes in her life, quitting her job as an optometrist, and moving her house, she finds herself on a wild journey that may or may not include a second chance at love.

Seating for the event is limited.

Terry McMillan

Reserved seating is required. To make reservations now visit www. houstonlibrary.org/hplq The event is free and open to the public.

JANUARY 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Blacks earn record Oscar nominations In a stunning reversal of the past two years, people of color made the 2017 list of Oscar nominations in every major acting category.

Viola Davis of “Fences” made history as the first AfricanAmerican women to earn three nominations, and three films with prominent Black characters earned Best Picture nominations.

The Oscars received criticism in 2015 and 2016 because no people of color received Denzel Washington and Viola Davis acting nominations, resulting in ton, “Fences” a #OscarsSoWhite controversy. The • Best Actress – Ruth Negga, Academy of Motion Pictures Arts “Loving” & Sciences pledged to increase non• Best Supporting Actor – white members.

Mahershala Ali, “Moonlight;” Dev This year’s nominated films, Patel, “Lion” along with a director and actors/ac• Best Supporting Actress – tresses of color include: Viola Davis, “Fences;” Naomie Har• Best Picture – “Fences,” “Hid- ris, “Moonlight;” Octavia Spencer, den Figures,” “Moonlight” “Hidden Figures” • Best Director – Barry Jenkins, The Oscars will be telecast live “Moonlight” on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 6 p.m. on • Best Actor – Denzel Washing- ABC.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26 | 2017

SUPER BOWL

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WEEK ACTIVITIES

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

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ore than one million people are expected to converge on the Bayou City for Super Bowl LI – that’s 800,000 more people who were here the last time the Super Bowl was in town 13 years ago. And most of them will be looking for things to do.

The top five places expected to see those crowds are Discovery Green, Club Nomadic near the Washington Avenue corridor, Midtown because of its bars and nightlife, Galleria area hotels and -- on game day -- NRG Stadium.

“While we are expecting about one million people total, there are two huge events that we get to enjoy before all of the out-of-towners move in which means smaller crowds and shorter lines,” explained Kevin Cooper with the Super Bowl Host Committee.

On Saturday, January 28th, the NFL Experience opens at the GRB Convention center, complete with games, autograph sessions and an up-close look at the Vince Lombardi Trophy. A family friendly event, tickets are still available and range in price from $25 - $55. That same weekend right next door at Discovery Green, Super Bowl Live gets underway and hosts more than 90 musicians.

“We’re going to have big time headlines,” Cooper explained. “We’re going to have ZZ Top, we’re going to have Solonge. We don’t know when the next Super Bowl is coming, so let’s enjoy this one!

“This Super Bowl is literally for the city of Houston and the one place you can’t do Super Bowl is from your couch. We want all of Houston to come out and enjoy themselves.” said Cooper.

While there will be more than enough parties and events to attend, the Defender compiled some of the highlights so there’s no reason not to partake in the fun.

Major highlights

Super Bowl Live: Jan. 28 – Feb. 5 – Discovery Green, 10am -11 pm The multi-day event with food, music, entertainment, attractions, and more will allow everyone to experience the Super Bowl even if they aren’t attending the game. This area of the city will serve as the epicenter of all the action at Super Bowl LI. Among the highlights at Super Bowl Live, Future Flight, an out-of-this world virtual reality experience and numerous hands-on

Solange Knowles

space exhibits. housuperbowl.com The NFL Experience; Jan 27-Feb 5 This family-friendly event at the George R. Brown Convention Center features interactive games, autograph sessions with current and former NFL players, and plenty of physical activities to tire out the tots, like kicking a field goal or playing a quick game.

Check out the Hall of Fame memorabilia display and shop for limited-edition merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.

Tickets start at $20; ticketmaster.com St. John’s Bread of Life Celebration for homeless, Sun., Jan. 29, CBS NFL Today host James Brown will kick off celebrations at St. John’s Bread of Life Church with a sermon at both the 8am and 10am services. www.StJohnsDowntown. org.

Opening Night: Mon., Jan 30, 5:30 p.m.

Start the week right with this kick-off celebration at Minute Maid Park, where the teams that make it to the Big Game will be introduced out on the field, along with music, food and more. Tickets start at $20, ticketmaster.com Luminaries of the Game: Wed., Feb 1, 7 p.m.

Houston socialite Lynn Wyatt and former Secretary of State James Baker are the honorary chairs of this gala at the Marriott Marquis Houston, featuring an NFL Pro Football Hall of Famer at each table. Proceeds benefit Touchdown Houston, the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee’s charitable program, which supports non-profits throughout the city. Tickets start at $75,000 per table, housuperbowl.com Super Bowl Breakfast: Sat., Feb 4, 8-10 a.m.

At this morning event at the Houston Marriott Marquis, one player will receive the 2017 Bart Starr Award, annually bestowed upon an NFL player who demonstrates leadership within the community. The NFL Today and Thursday Night Football host

Bruno Mars

James Brown emcees, former coach and players Tony Dungy, Roger Staubach, Bruce Matthews will be in attendance. Tickets start at $200, superbowlbreakfast.com The Super Bowl Taste of the NFL: Sat., Feb 4 at 7 p.m.

Benefiting the Houston Food Bank, this event at the University of Houston offers food and wine tastings from renowned chefs representing all 32 NFL cities. Guests get to sample the dishes and chat with the cooks as well as plenty of pros. Tickets start at $700, tasteofthenfl.com The Players Tailgate Houston 2017: Sun., Feb. 5 at 1 p.m.

We’ve all seen Guy Fieri on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and now fans can watch him work live at this pre-game party, where he’ll cook up a mouthwatering menu—tacos, mac n’ cheese, burgers, brisket and nachos—for fans as well as more than two dozen current NFL players.

Tickets start at $700, bullseyeeventgroup.com

James Brown will preach at St. Johns Church on Jan. 29.

Yards that will have plenty of “24 Karat Magic” when Bruno Mars headlines on Friday night. Tickets start at $175, ticketmaster.com Taylor Swift Concert at DirecTV: Sat., Feb 4, 9 p.m.

Taylor Swift will headline AT&T’s DirecTV Saturday-night concert at Club Nomadic, the pop star’s second live performance since the end of her tour in December 2015.

Rolling Stone Live Big Game Bash: Sat., Feb 4, 9 p.m.

Although the headliners hadn’t been released as of press time, it wouldn’t be a Rolling Stone party without the biggest and best musical acts in history—past headliners have included Steven Tyler, Pitbull, Elle King, Avicii and Charli XCX. Expect celebrities and athletes to swarm the Museum of Fine Arts.

Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, Fri., Feb. 3 Concerts Lakewood Church, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25 Bruno Mars Super Bowl Concert: Fri., The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is the first Feb 3 at 9 p.m., Club Nomadic and only inspirational music event sanctioned by the Making headlines as one of the hottest NFL for Super Bowl LI weekend. NFL players and Super Bowl Week venues, Club Nomadic top artists will join together on stage for uplifting is a temporary space popping up at Sawyer music and inspirational messages. Guest artists

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There will be no shortage of parties during Super Bowl LI.

Future Flight is one of the highlights at SuperBowl Live.

include CeCe Winans, Damien Escobar, Natalie Grant and the Player’s Choir. http://superbowlgospel.com/ celebration/ Super Comedy Bowl Explosion: Wed., Feb. 1 – Texas Southern University’s HP&E Arena, Tickets start at $55 Hosted by Rickey Smiley, this all-star comedy concert will feature Billy Sorrells, Ali Siddiq, Michael Blackson and Tony Roberts. www.ticketmaster.com.

Parties

The Houston Power Party, Thurs., Feb. 2 Houston Museum of Natural Science, 10 p.m. Tickets start at $100 The Houston Power Party is hosted by Houston City Council Member, Larry Green, the Santana Dotson Foundation and the Moran Norris Foundation.

Art, fashion, music and sports will collide for an exciting evening during Super Bowl week. Enjoy multiple interactive experiences throughout the

he Houston area for over 85 years

museum, access to one-of-a-kind exhibits, celebrity appearances, theatrical lighting and concert level sound.

Texas Size Super Bowl Party with Special Guest Morris Chestnut, Sat., Feb. 4 - Doubletree Hotel Greenway Plaza Party like a rock star at one of Houston’s hottest pregame celebrations with Actor Morris Chestnut. He has appeared in numerous feature films including Boyz n the Hood and on television series including Rosewood. http:// www.texassizesuperbowl.com/ The BIG TEXAS Party, Thurs., Feb. 2 - Silver Street Studios, 7 p.m. The BIG TEXAS Party...Tickets start at $125 This Texas-sized event is designed for the people who love Texas and will be hosted by Ed “Too Tall” Jones and Randy White, and celebrates the city of Houston. Special guest appearances by Texas football players. Enjoy an evening of beer, BBQ and bourbon.

Ditka & Jaws Cigars with the Stars Party, Thurs.,

Feb. 2, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets start at $500 This VIP party features a red-carpet entrance and premium cigars from the industry’s top brands, singlemalt scotch, heavy appetizers and football celebrities to keep you entertained throughout the evening.

Pre-Super Bowl 2017 VIP Meet and Greet Party, Fri., Feb. 3 - Hermann Park Golf Course, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $25 The Feb. 3 Celebrity VIP Meet and Greet Party will start with a Champagne hour and Red Carpet Event at the Hermann Park Golf Club. Will feature guest performances, celebrity guests, a lavish buffet, drinks, and raffles. Celebrity guest appearance by Houston’s own Damion Square of the San Diego Chargers.

Lil Wayne & Celebrity Friends “Undisputed” 2017 Super Bowl Party, Sat., Feb. 4 - Ayva Center, Richmond Avenue, 9 p.m.

Join Lil Wayne and celebrity friends for his live 2017 Pre-Super Bowl LI party at the Ayva Center on Richmond Avenue. Limited early bird tickets are available. Reservations recommended for VIP sections.

Full lineup of friends is to be announced.

Super Bowl Parties at GreenStreet; Jan 27-Feb 5 Just a block from Super Bowl Live, GreenStreet will be offering music, food, games, photo booths and digital art installations. greenstreetdowntown.com/ happenings An AfroCaribbean Super Bowl, Sat., Feb. 4 Midtown/Galleria Venue tba, 4-10 p.m.

The best DJs from across the country will be spinning Afrobeats, Soca, Dancehall and Hip-hop for an international Super Bowl vibe.

Woric 400 Men’s Super Bowl Party, Sun., Feb. 5 - Word of Restoration International Church, Rosharon, 5-9 p.m. FREE event All men are invited to attend a special Super Bowl Party hosted by the 400 Men’s Ministry.

The Biggest Super Bowl Watch Party, Sun., Feb. 5 - Ballroom @Bayou Place, 2:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $25 Watch the game on big screen TVs, drink specials, celebrity Djs, special invited surprise guests and NFL players, balcony view of the city.

We’re going to have big time headliners.

We’re going to have ZZ Top, we’re going to have Solange.

We don’t know when the next Super Bowl is coming, so let’s enjoy this one.” -Kevin Cooper, Super Bowl LI - Kevin Cooper, Super Bowl LI Host Committee

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

New business center

The Business Information Center recently opened at 5330 Griggs Road, and is a partnership with Houston Business Development Inc. (HBDI), Allegiance Bank and SCORE. Shown at the grand opening are (l. to r.) Marcus Vasquez, fair banking officer, Allegiance Bank; Rickey Jimenez, banker; HBDI President & CEO Marlon Mitchell; Councilmember Dwight Boykins and M.D. Marshall, managing director. “This is a ministry, not a job,” Mitchell said. “The Business Information Center is all about helping people, especially those in communities that are underserved, which will create jobs for the community, improve the tax base for the community and help transform the community [into a] vibrant economic hub.” The BIC assists aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses with business planning assistance and access to capital that is not readily available from conventional sources.

classifieds The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD

Millions of taxpayers face refund delays

(formerly known as THE MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following:

AGENCY WIDE TOWING SERVICES

Defender News Service

As many as 15 million taxpayers could have their refunds delayed until as late as February 27 this year.

Around 153 million tax returns will be filed between now and April 15, and most of those who file early do so to get a refund.

Congress put a brief hold on refunds for anyone who claimed the earned income tax credit or the additional child tax credit. It requires the IRS to hold the refund until Feb. 15.

Congress was reportedly worried that these two refundable tax credits are being requested fraudulently. The Earned Income Tax Credit averages around $2,400 per eligible family.

Those not claiming that particular credit should have no delay in getting refunds.

Once you file — and your refund seems delayed — check out “Where’s my Refund” at www.IRS.gov.

Johnny Hollins – JG Hollins Builders & Justin Vickrey – Vice President, Allegiance Bank

A PLEDGE OF COMMITMENT. A FOUNDATION OF TRUST.

The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD

(formerly known as MHMRA of Harris County) in partnership with the Center for Hearing and Speech (CHS) will be accepting proposals for the following:

At Allegiance Bank, we don’t just serve our customers, we’re completely dedicated to their success. So it’s only natural homebuilder Johnny Hollins banks with us. Says Johnny, “Allegiance is more than a bank to your business. It’s a partner, too.” If you’re looking for a bank that feels like home, give Allegiance a call.

281-894-3200 16 locations AllegianceBank.com ABTCO-151 November Forward Times_MECH.indd 1

Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7304 and/or via THE HARRIS CENTER’s website www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Dailey Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Monday, January 30, 2017. A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., 9401 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Thursday, February 9, 2017.

Proposals must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 21, 2017 in a sealed envelope marked "PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2017, “AGENCY WIDE TOWING SERVICES”. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Marguarette Washington, Senior Buyer, via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail questions to marguarette.washington@mhmraharris.org cc: Sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all bids, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest bid.

11/17/16 4:52 PM

Real Estate Brokerage Services for the Sale of Property located at 3630/3636 West Dallas, Houston, Texas 77019 .

Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7279 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER website www.mhmraharris.org beginning Monday, January 30, 2017. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Monday, February 6, 2017. Proposals must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Thursday, February 16, 2017 in a sealed envelope marked "PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – Thursday, February 16, 2017, Real Estate Brokerage Services for the Sale of Property located at 3630/3636 West Dallas". Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Sharon Brauner, C.P.M., Buyer III, Senior Purchasing Coordinator cc: Nina Cook, CPPB, MBA, via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail questions to sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org cc: nina.cook@mhmraharris.org.

The HARRIS CENTER and CHS reserves all rights to reject any and/ or all Proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest Proposal.

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JANUARY 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26 | 2017

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Super Bowl LI (51) matchup

Atlanta vs. New England in NRG

By MAX EDISON Defender

A

fter weeks of hardhitting action, it has come down to this.

After months of blood, sweat and tears we have our finalists. In what is certain to be an entertaining match-up, the highflying Atlanta Falcons will take on the methodical New England Patriots.

All roads lead to Houston on Sunday, Feb. 5 for the nation’s largest sporting event, Super Bowl LI (51). It will be live from NRG Stadium beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Fox. The Falcons punched their ticket to Houston after simply crushing the Green Bay Packers in the NFC championship game 44-21. For the Falcons it will be their second appearance in the Super Bowl. They will try to avenge a loss 18 years ago to the Denver Broncos. They will bring the NFL’s No. 1 scoring offense to NRG along with a young aggressive, playmaking defense.

The face of the Falcons franchise, Pro Bowler and MVP candidate quarterback Matt Ryan, expressed the feelings of the team following their recent accomplishment.

“I’m happy for everybody in our organization,” Ryan said.

“We’ve worked hard to get to this point.

The challenge is still in front of us, what we set out to accomplish is still ahead of us. We’ll enjoy it because it’s hard to get to this point. I know that from experience. We’ll enjoy the buildup and the process leading to it, but our ultimate goal is still in front of us.”

At this point of the season, teams

Tom Brady leads the New England Patriots’ juggernaut.

Julio Jones has been an absolute terror all season.

rise or fall based on the play of their quarterback and no QB has been hotter than Ryan.

Against the Packers Ryan was a cool 27 of 38, passing for 392 yards and four touchdowns. His primary batterymate, receiver Julio Jones, had an incredible nine receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns.

According to Pro Football Reference, the veteran QB now has more 350-yard, 3-TD conference championship outings than Peyton Manning and Tom Brady combined. What’s more, his 139.4 QB rating is the 19th-highest ever in an NFL playoff and his 392 passing yards are the 20th most ever tallied

in a postseason contest.

The Falcons have a young aggressive defense that starts three rookies. Second-year, Pro Bowl linebacker Vic Beasley Jr. explained their success.

“We didn’t doubt ourselves,” Beasley said. “[We] have been playing at an exceptionally high level. It’s great to see the way we evolved, the way we matured. It just shows what we have in the future with this defense.”

For the Patriots it’s business as usual when it comes to Super Bowls, with nine appearances and four championships, including a 3229 last-second win over the Carolina Panthers ‘in 2004, the last time the game was played at NRG. The Patriots systematically took apart a very good Pittsburgh Steeler team in the AFC championship game, 36-17. The win marked the seventh time that the combination of head coach Bill Belichick and Brady at quarterback have captured conference titles.

Predictably, Belichick deflected his accomplishments away from himself and his superstar QB and lauded the play of the team as a whole.

“Tom played well tonight,” he said. “Everybody played well…We had a good team effort on all three units, both sides of the ball. I mean, the numbers are nice and all that, but it’s really about this team and this year and this group of guys. I’m really happy for our coaching staff, for our players, all of the guys who gave us such a great look this week. It was just a good team victory. It’s a good team.”

Calling the Patriots a good team is an understatement. They have the NFL’s No. 1 scoring defense and a Hall of Fame quarterback who, at age 39, is as smooth as a rare vintage scotch. They have what seems like a never ending array of noname playmakers, offensively and defensively, who emerge at just the right time to break your heart. Their head coach is widely revered as the best football mind of the modern era.

One of their players with local ties is tight end Martellus Bennett, who played at Alief Taylor High School and Texas A&M University.

The Patriots are as good as it gets, but they can be beaten. Can Atlanta be the team to deny New England their fifth Lombardi Trophy and in the process capture their first? Only time will tell.

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h.s.zone Westside’s Jessica Soders can do it all Yasmine Arogunjo, Stephanie Gregory, Jordon Lewis and Kayla Pilson round out the Westside starting unit.

Zalaya Thomas-Tucker, Helena Johnson, Triniti nly a handful of players can do it well.

Charles and Fatou Samb are key players off the Wolves’ Jessica Soders is in that mix. bench. Tucker is returning to form following an injury.

The Westside High School sopho“With this group we’ve already talked about being more has been called on to play all five better than we were two years ago by the end of this positions on the basketball court. That season,” Gillespie said. “That’s a tall order, but the includes point guard, shooting guard, small forward, potential is there.” power forward and center.

Soders likens her game “Jessica is one of those to the all-around brilliance rare players who can play of former Notre Dame Allany position on the floor See the difference maker when American Skylar Diggins, effectively,” said Westside Bellaire played Lamar who currently plays for the head coach Troy Gillespie.

WNBA’s Dallas Wings.

“Over the course of the sea“I like the way Skylar son due to circumstances I’ve had to plug her in where plays the game. I like her approach to the game,” Sodwe needed the most help. She does a great job.” ers said.

Soders says her natural position is at 2 (shooting “I love playing for Coach Gillespie and my guard) or 3 (small forward). Yet she’s only too willing teammates,” she added. “Coach knows how to help her team in any capacity. to talk to people and makes you want to In a recent lopsided win over undermanned play hard for him. We’re getting more Westbury, Soders scored all 14 of her points in and more confidence as a team,” she the first quarter as Westside raced out to a 33-0 said. advantage.

That’s to be understood considerSoders dominated in the lane with offensive ing a recent 64-42 victory over defendrebounds, put-backs and an assortment of shots ing district champion Bellaire. Westaround the basket. She culminated her first-quarter side will also face Lamar, Sam Houston, foray with a driving layup through traffic.

Chavez and Heights in the coming weeks.

Her only shortcoming was in the area of free “We know that Bellaire will be throws. She was 0-for-2 from the line. gunning for us next time and “That’s one of the things that we’ve got a lot of basketball I’m working to improve on,” yet to be played,” said she said. “I need to make my Gillespie, who played free throws, improve defenhis bench extensively sively and shoot better from against Westbury. distance. I’ll get better.”

“We played a team Westside finished off a that was missing a 94-24 victory and improved few players tonight to 17-7 on the season. The but we have to be Wolves are unbeaten in ready to play every District 18-6A with a 7-0 time out.” mark.

The future is Gillespie knows now as far as Sodhis team is a work in ers is concerned. progress. Just two She and her teamyears removed from mates are primed reaching the regionfor the moment. al finals, he starts “We’ve acquired a three sophomores taste for winning and we’d and two juniors. like to keep it going,” she said.

In addition to “We’ll concern ourselves with the the 5-foot-10 Soders, future at the proper time.”

O

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

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JANUARY 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Bagwell goes to HOF Former Astros first baseman Jeff Bagwell was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Bagwell, in his seventh year on the ballot, received 86.2 percent of the votes (75 percent is needed). He hit .297 with 2,314 hits, 449 homers, 1,529 RBIs, 1,517 runs scored and a .408 on-base percentage in 15 seasons in Houston. He posted eight seasons with at least 30 homeruns, 100 runs scored and 100 RBIs, tying him for eighth on that list all time with Willie Mays and Jim Thome.

“Throughout his career, Jeff worked extremely hard to become a great player,” Astros owner Jim Crane said in a statement. “He was a winner and an outstanding representative of the Houston Astros and of the city of Houston.” Bagwell will be enshrined in Cooperstown, N.Y. on July 30.

TSU’s Kendall honored Texas Southern University’s Harvey Kendall has been named the Southwestern Athletic Conference’s Track and Field Performer of the Week for his outstanding performance in competition during Jan. 12-14. Kendall secured two top eight finishes during the recent Aggie Team Invitational, setting personal records in the high jump and triple jump along the way. The sophomore cleared 6-08.25 feet in the high jump, winning second place.

He also posted a leap of 47-09.25 feet in the triple jump, getting eighth place. Kendall is ranked No. 1 among SWAC high jumpers in performance lists.

Klein Forest boys No. 1 This isn’t the first walk around the block for the Klein Forest High School boys’ varsity basketball team. They’ve been to the state basketball tournament before in 2008. They played in a state title game in 2000. So the fact they are currently the top-ranked Class 6A team in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) state poll shouldn’t come as a shock to anyone. Klein Forest improved to 22-0 on the season with a recent 103-84 victory over Stratford. Cedrick Alley led the way with 30 points and 13 rebounds.

That’s the best start for any Klein Forest boys’ basketball team in school history. Head coach Cary Black summed up his team. “They play together so well,” he said. “They’re very unselfish. Talent-wise, they’re up there with some of the other good teams we’ve had, but they really buy into playing hard and playing together.”

Other teams ranked The Houston area is well represented in the TABC state high school basketball rankings.

While Klein Forest holds down the top spot in the Class 6A boys’ rankings, four other schools are in the Top 10. Sam Houston (2), Cypress Falls (7), Bellaire (9) and Fort Bend Bush (10) are highly ranked. Pearland Dawson (13), Pearland (17), Aldine Davis (21) and Spring Westfield (22) are included in the 6A Top 25. Nine Houston girls’ teams are in the TABC 6A state poll with Clear Springs (3) and Cypress Ranch (9) in the Top 10. The Manvel boys (4) and Tomball Memorial girls (5) are Class 5A powers.

Jessica Soders adds versatility to the Westside High line-up.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 26 | 2017

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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

MLK JR. SCHOLARSHIP BREAKFAST……..The Greater Houston Frontiers careers and making an impact in their communities through the second installment of Club, Inc. held its 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarship the “40 Under 40” Awards. In attendance were JHJ Alumni Chapter President Verdis Breakfast at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The keynote speaker was Wilson, TSU National Alumni President Julia Askew, Connie Cochran, Milton Mayor Sylvester Turner. During the breakfast, Ricky Anderson was presented Shackelford, scholarship recipient Natasha Malone, Clarence Brooks, Robert with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award. Honorary co-chairs were Johnson, Clarence Brooks, Ian Henry, Cassandra Henry and many more……..

Defender Publisher Sonny Messiah Jiles and business leader Jodie Jiles. Proceeds HBREA AWARD & INSTILLATION GALA…….The Houston Black Real from the event benefit the GHFC scholarship program which provides educational Estate Association celebrated 68 years at its Award and Installation Gala at the Power opportunities for young and gifted individuals to reach the Center. HBREA offers scholarships, training, home ownership levels of success Dr. King dreamed they would achieve in this and counseling to low-to-moderate income individuals.

Defender TOP EVENTS assistance country. In attendance were GHFC President Donnell Cooper, Special guests included honorary chair Mayor Sylvester Turner, More photos on defendernetwork.com Cary Yates, Judge Clarise Yates, Committee Chair Shawn master of ceremonies Isiah Carey and keynote speaker Roland Martin. During the gala, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee Simmons, T.C. Feaster, Cleve Baker, Winell Herron, Doug and Congressman Al Green delivered proclamations. The gala served as a fundraiser Herron and a host of others……..TSU SCHOLARSHIP SOIREE……..The Jesse to support HBREA community initiatives that educate and help current and potential H. Jones School of Business Alumni Chapter of the Texas Southern University National Alumni Association celebrated the 90th Anniversary of its alma mater at the homeowners in the Houston Area. In attendance were HBREA President Kimberley Barnes-Henson, Ann Frank, Denise Austin, L. B. Reynolds, Anthony Norman, 2017 Scholarship Soiree: Ninety Shades of Maroon & Grey at the Hilton Americas in Michica Guillory and many more.

Downtown Houston. The event recognized 40 young alums who are excelling in their

Ricky Anderson, Sonny Messiah Jiles, Jodie Jiles

LaRence Snowden, Connie Cochran

Ernest Hayes, Roland Martin

Clarence Grier, Michael Harris, Donnell Cooper

Clarence Brooks, Milton Shackleford

Congressman Al Green, Dana Kervin, Courtney Johnson-Rose, Glenn Willkerson

Doug Herron, Winell Herron, Cleve Baker

Jeremy Handy, Tajuanna Addison

Denise Austin, Ann Frank

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