Houston Defender: January 28, 2016

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KENDRIC DAVIS IS PLAYMAKER FOR SAM HOUSTON H.S. BASKETBALL TEAM, P11

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Volume 85 | Number 13 JANUARY 28, 2016 | FREE

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NEWSTALK GERALD WOMACK joins Turner transition team

P3 NATIONAL REV. AL SHARPTON calls for Oscar meeting

P4 SPORTS

THE NEW CITY HALL GET THE HOOK-UP

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MIKE DAVIS coaches TSU to victory

P10 TOP EVENTS

Gene Locke serves Precinct 1 Gene Locke, a former Houston city attorney and mayoral candidate, replaces the late El Franco Lee as Harris County Precinct 1 commissioner. See how long Locke will hold the office. Discover what he says about his role and Lee’s legacy.

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Anthony Anderson hosts awards Actor Anthony Anderson, one of the stars of “black-ish,” returns to the starstudded NAACP Image Awards as host and a nominee. Find out why Anderson looks forward to hosting the show.

Check out details of the show and see other nominees.

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George Foreman and Chester Pitts at a tribute to Foreman.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

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UH-Downtown MBA program continues growth In a time when many universities are facing declining enrollment in their master of business administration (MBA) programs, one such program is experiencing unprecedented growth.

In only two short years, the University of Houston-Downtown MBA Program has risen from smallest to largest in the Houston Business Journal’s annual enrollment-based rankings of MBA programs in the Houston region. UHD’s program is listed as No. 1 in the rankings, released in December 2015.

Mike Fields, dean of the UHD College of Business, attributes the program’s success to the faculty and staff’s deep level of commitment.

“The faculty embraced a close connection with industry and are producing a dynamic learning environment,” Fields said. “The staff, both inside and outside

Mike Fields

the college, are providing students with world-class levels of service. That is a powerful combination.”

UHD’s MBA Program recorded enrollment growth for two years in a row, with more than 300 percent growth in fall 2014 and more than

100 percent in fall 2015. Enrollment in fall 2015 totaled 765 students.

The program began in spring 2012 with a cohort of 20 students. Enrollment

rose to 88 in fall 2013, when the young program ranked last among 13 MBA programs. In fall 2014, enrollment grew to 380, and the program ranked fourth.

UT Austin names new chief financial officer Darrell Bazzell has world’s pre-eminent been appointed senior public research univervice president and chief sities,” Bazzell said. financial officer of The “As I considered this University of Texas at role and the financial Austin. He is currently challenges that conthe vice chancellor for front public research finance and administrauniversities, I was very impressed by the tion at the University consistently high level of Wisconsin-Madison. of enthusiasm for UT Bazzell’s appointment Austin.” begins April 18.

At UW-Madison, “I am honored to be Darrell Bazzell Bazzell collaboselected to serve as the rated to develop and implement new chief financial officer at one of the

localbriefs THE LAST DAY TO REGISTER to vote for the March 1 primary is Monday, Feb. 1.

Houstonians can register to vote at any local library, U.S. post office or Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector office branch location. To be eligible to vote in Texas, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of the county, 18 years old, not a convicted felon (unless a person’s sentence is completed, including any probation or parole) and not declared mentally incapacitated by a court of law. Voters will cast ballots for such positions as U.S. representative, state senator, state representative, judge, district attorney, county attorney, sheriff, county commissioner, tax assessor-collector, justice of the peace and constable. For information call 713-274-VOTE (8683)........THE 58TH ANNNUAL MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE hosted by the Johnson-Philip All Faiths Chapel at Prairie View A&M University is Tuesday, Feb. 2 and Wednesday, Feb. 3. The theme is “Embracing the Cross Through Our Preaching.” Guest speakers include Dr. Lester J. Gillespie Sr., Bishop J. Delano Ellis, Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, Bishop Jack C. Vaughn and Dr. William D. Watley. The conference seeks to develop an ecumenical leadership community, cultivate and prepare individuals in the field of ministry, engage participation in the sociological life of the community and enhance leadership. For more information visit www.pvamu.edu........LOCAL MULTI-FAITH LEADERS will join forces to address domestic violence among youth at a workshop titled “Helping Youth Create Healthy Relationships.” It will be held Thursday, Feb. 4, at 11:30 a.m. at the Interfaith Ministries Event Center, 3303 Main St. Topics include domestic abuse basics, identifying red flags for youth and reporting abuse. It is sponsored by Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse and the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council. The event is free and lunch will be provided. Register by Jan. 31 by contacting nicolef@ avda-tx.org or 713-715-6921.

financial models, led the university through several state budget-writing processes, and oversaw budgeting and financing for UW-Madison’s medical school and academic medical center.

Bazzell graduated from UW-Mad-

ison in 1984 with a degree in sociology and held various positions in state government. He was with the Department of Natural Resources from 1993 to 2003 and served as the agency’s secretary from 2001 to 2003.

Welcome to your brighter future.

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We have special programs for first time home buyers, low to moderate income home buyers, and home buyers in low to moderate income census tracts. These programs put home ownership within reach with lower down payment requirements and reduced fees.

Of course, we ofer more than just mortgages. We also provide financial tools and educational opportunities to help clients gain – and maintain – control of their financial journey.

That’s how we’re banking on a brighter future.

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All loans subject to eligibility, collateral, underwriting and approval, including credit approval. BBVA Compass is a trade name of Compass Bank, a member of the BBVA Group. Compass Bank, Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

Rev. 1/2016 / #3315.1

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JANUARY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

newstalk

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Gene Locke replaces El Franco Lee cated to him,” Locke said. “He was a person who believed that government belonged to the people, and Gene Locke, a former Houston city atthe people should be served by the torney with a long history of community sergovernment. vice, was recently sworn in as Harris County “I hope in the next 11 months Precinct 1 commissioner. He temporarily that will continue to be the motto replaces the late El Franco Lee, who died for Precinct 1. And as your comon Jan. 3 after serving more than 30 years in missioner, I hope that we don’t lose office. a step in making sure we do our Locke, 68, is a partner with Andrews best.”

Kurth law firm and a former Houston mayLocke’s background includes oral candidate. He will serve as commissionserving as general counsel to the er through Dec. 31 and will be the second Harris County-Houston Sports African-American to hold the position, with Authority and special counsel to Lee being the first. the Metropolitan Transit Authority.

Locke said he will not run for election in He also represented Commissioners November and will return to practicing law.

Court during the court’s most recent Harris County Judge Ed Emmett appointed redistricting efforts.

Locke to the position.

He has served on the board of “Lee was an irreplaceable part of Harris directors of the Houston Bar AssoCounty government, but he would be the ciation, the Center for the Retarded, Gene Locke, accompanied by his wife Aubrey, is sworn in as Precinct 1 commissioner by Harris County first to say county government needs to go Houston Community College SysJudge Ed Emmett. (Photo by Joe Strange) on,” Emmett said. tem and the University of Houston “I wanted to find someone who knew Alumni Association. He is also a Locke said he appreciates the opportunity to serve Lee, who would continue his programs, and who board member of the Center for Houston’s Future, the the public and continue Lee’s legacy. understood county government. Only one person stood Houston Urban Debate League Advisory Council and “This precinct belongs to El Franco Lee and anyout who fit that criteria and it was Gene Locke.” the Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy. thing I do over the next several months will be dediBy JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

Turner names transition team

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nine-member executive committee and 26 committee chairs and co-chairs have been selected to lead Mayor Sylvester Turner’s transition team.

The team will develop policy recommendations on comprehensive financial reform, infrastructure, public safety, traffic and transportation, quality of life issues, economic opportunity and economic development.

“There are challenges ahead for Houston, particularly in the area of finances,” Turner said. “These Houstonians are graciously volunteering their time, effort and expertise to develop the blueprint that will help guide my administration on this subject and many more.”

The Transition Team Executive Committee is chaired by David Mincberg.

His co-chairs are Debra Tsuchiyama Baker, Bill Baldwin, Stephen Costello, Maya Ford, Ginny Goldman, Paul Puente, Bobby Singh, State Rep. Armando Walle and Gerald Womack.

The following is a list of the 13 committees, their chairs and co-chairs: • Comprehensive Financial Reform – Chair Neil Thomas and co-chair Katy Caldwell • Rebuild Houston – Cochairs David Collins and Santiago Castaneda • Public Works – Chair Wayne Klotz and co-chair Tony Council • Public Safety – Co-chairs C.O. “Brad” Bradford and Johnny Villarreal

• Houston Airport System – Chair Danny Perkins and co-chair Claudia Williamson • Quality of Life – Cochairs Nancy Kinder and Bill Baldwin • Economic Opportunity – Chair Ginny Goldman and co-chair Judson Robinson III • TIRZ – Chair Denis Braham and co-chair Marvalette Hunter • Traffic and Transportation – Chair Ramesh Gunda and co-chair Kendall Miller • Criminal Justice System – Chair Sandra GuerraThompson and co-chair Deric Muhammad • Public Health – Chair Maya Ford and co-chair Marlen Trujillo • Housing – Chair Assata Richards and co-chair Ken Valach

Gerald Womack

C.O. “Brad” Bradford

David Collins

Marvalette Hunter

Erica Lee

Deric Muhammad

Assata Richards

Judson Robinson III

• Education – Chair Susie Molina and cochair Erica Lee Royce Brooks is serving as policy advisor to the transition team and Kathryn McNiel is an advisor.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

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national

U.S.briefs

Changes for U.S. juvenile offenders

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resident Obama and the U.S. Supreme Court made life easier for juvenile offenders and those who were incarcerated as juveniles.

Obama banned solitary confinement from being used on juvenile offenders in the federal prison system and reduced the time a firsttime offender can be committed to solitary confinement from a maximum of 365 days to 60 days.

The U.S. Supreme Court offered a reprieve to as many as 2,000 men and women currently serving mandatory terms of life in prison without parole for homicides they committed as juveniles.

The 6-3 decision expanded an earlier ruling in 2012 in which the court struck down issuing mandatory life terms for juveniles convicted of murder. The justices took the unusual step of applying the 2012 ruling retroactively, meaning that juvenile murderers sentenced to life terms in the past will have a chance for release.

In addressing the issue of solitary confinement, Obama said research suggests that it has the potential to lead to devastating, lasting psychological consequences.

“It has been linked to depression, alienation, withdrawal, a reduced ability to interact with others and the potential for violent behavior,” Obama said. “Some

studies indicate that it can worsen existing mental illnesses and even trigger new ones. Prisoners in solitary are more likely to commit suicide, especially juveniles and people with mental illnesses.”

Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G. K. Butterfield applauded Obama’s “bold executive action” to prohibit the use of solitary confinement for certain offenders.

“The CBC has long held that such confinement is a human rights issue, and we commend President Obama for taking another strong and significant step to reform our criminal justice system,” he said.

“We also applaud the Supreme Court’s decision that now requires sentencing courts to consider the immaturity of youth and the possibility of change, diminishing the justifications for imposing harsh sentences on juvenile offenders. We cannot simply lock up our young people and throw away the key,” Butterfield said.

Black leaders request meeting with academy TriceEdneyWire.com

Three civil rights organizations are requesting a meeting with the trustees of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and other film industry leaders in the wake of a lily white slate of actor nominees for the upcoming Oscars.

The National Urban League, the National Action Network and the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation released a statement expressing their intent to get directly involved in efforts to speed up the process for justice and equality in the movie industry, which draws more than a billion dollars from the Black community.

The statement was released by the three organizational presidents, Marc Morial of NUL, Al Sharpton of NAN and Melanie Campbell of the NCBCP. It points to the fact that the issue goes beyond entertainment awards, but also involves economic parity.

“African-Americans attend the movies on average more often than whites, spending more than $1.1 billion annually on movie tickets,” the groups said.

Morial said the leaders want to establish a mechanism that will assure results.

“They need a monitor, they need accountability, they need a memorandum of understanding to ensure that if they make commitments, they’re going to come through,” he said.

SIX CLEVELAND POLICE OFFICERS involved in the 2012 fatal shooting of an unarmed Black couple during a car chase have been fired. The officers fired 137 bullets, killing Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams. The chase began when officers standing outside police headquarters mistook the sound of a car backfiring as a gunshot.

The high-speed chase involved 62 police cruisers and more than 100 officers. The City of Cleveland implemented a new pursuit policy as a result of the shooting……..

KWAME KILPATRICK, the former mayor of Detroit, claims Michigan governors Jennifer Granholm and Rick Snyder knew about Flint’s water problems long before they received national attention because of the water’s high lead content. “Gov. Snyder is misleading people by saying he recently found out about the issue,” Kilpatrick wrote in a Facebook post from a federal prison where he is serving 28 years. ”More than likely, he is being viciously, aggressively and deliberately untruthful.” He added that Granholm, Snyder’s predecessor, was also aware of the issues with Flint’s water……..

THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT and its fearless pioneers who marched throughout the South to transform America are fading fast. Most of those who worked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are either elderly or dead. “We are very close to losing that last generation of warriors,” said former Georgia State Rep. Tyrone Brooks. “When you talk about the SCLC staff still alive when Dr. King was assassinated, few of us are still living. Most are deceased; they’ve gone on.” The latest to transition was Rev. Willie Bolden who died on Jan. 19 at age 77.

Bolden was recruited to the SCLC field staff

by Dr. King. He was known for his role as the “wagon master” of the mule train on the Poor People’s campaign that traveled from Mississippi to Washington, D.C. in 1968.

VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 13 JANUARY 28, 2016

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing writers Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon

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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JANUARY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Image Awards air live on Feb. 5

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he star-studded NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast live on TV One on Friday, Feb. 5, at 8 p.m. A one-hour pre-show will air from the red carpet at 7 p.m.

The 47th annual awards show celebrates the accomplishments of people of color in the fields of television, music, literature and film, and also honors individuals or groups who promote social justice through creative endeavors. Anthony Anderson of “black-ish” will return as host.

“I look forward to the NAACP Image Awards each year,” Anderson said. “The [show] always delivers an epic evening with the best of the best across film, TV, music, and literature.”

“It is a privilege and honor to be asked back to host for the next two years. There is no doubt that this year’s show is going to be magnificent. I may even have a few surprises up my sleeves.”

Anderson won an Image Award last year, and is nominated again in the category of Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series. His competitors are Andre Braugher of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Don Cheadle of “House of Lies,” Dwayne Johnson of “Ballers” and RonReaco Lee of “Survivor’s Remorse.”

Dozens of other actors and actresses of color are nominated for awards, including Taraji P. Henson, Will Smith, Tracee Ellis Ross, LL Cool J, Loretta Devine, Morris Chestnut, Uzo Aduba, Terrence Howard, Viola Davis, Wesley Snipes, Gabrielle Union, Michael B. Jordan, Kerry Washington, David Oyelowo, Cicely Tyson, Idris Elba, Regina King and Cuba Gooding Jr. Nominees for Outstanding Motion Picture are “Beasts of No Nation,” “Concussion,” “Creed,” “Dope” and “Straight Outta Compton.”

Musical stars who received nominations include The Weeknd, Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Lalah Hathaway, Jussie Smollett, Lauryn Hill, Kendrick Lamar, Tina Campbell, Houstonian Kim Burrell, Marvin Sapp and Kirk Franklin.

In addition, John Legend will be presented the President’s Award for special achievement and distinguished public service, and eight individuals and organizations will receive the Chairman’s Award for being agents of change.

“The NAACP Image Awards is more than just a ceremony, but an institution for artists and social justice pioneers of color,” said Cornell William Brooks, NAACP president and CEO. For a complete list of nominees visit www.naacpimageawards.net.

John Legend

Anthony Anderson

Houstonians nominated Three authors with Houston ties have been nominated for NAACP Image Awards.

ReShonda Tate Billingsley, a former Houstonian, is nominated for Outstanding Literary Work-Fiction for her novel, “Mama’s Boy.” It is a “ripped-from-the-headlines” story about a young man in Jasper, Texas, who films the arrest of his friends. The situation quickly escalates and when the dust settles, a police officer is dead and the young man is on the run.

Billingsley is the best-selling author of more than 35 books and won an Image Award for her novel “Say Amen, Again.” She is also a member of the Defender staff.

Gwen and Sylvia Richardson, a local mother-daughter writing duo, have been nominated for Outstanding Literary

ReShonda Tate Billingsley

Work-Youth/Teens for their book, “You Are Wonderfully Made: 12 Life-Changing Principles for Teen Girls to Embrace.”

Gwen Richardson, an entrepreneur and author, was nominated last year for her book, “101 Scholarship Applications: What It Takes to Obtain a Debt-Free College Education.” She is co-founder of the African-American Internet retailer Cushcity.com.

Sylvia Richardson is a student at North Carolina Central University majoring in accounting and hospitality management. She is equipment manager for the NCCU football team and a leader of the NCCU gospel choir.

Their book is designed to empower Black teenage girls with the tools needed to successfully navigate their teen years and avoid the pitfalls that can derail their futures.

Gwen Richardson

Sylvia Richardson

January 29 February 21 BY

ROBERT SCHENKKAN KEVIN MORIARTY

Tickets start at $26

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Battle for the Civil Rights Bill ALLEYTHEATRE.ORG 713.220.5700

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

cente

Mayor Sylvester Turner

Phone – 311 or 713-837-0311 Email – sylvester.turner@houstontx.gov To request an appearance scheduling@houstontx.gov

Houston City Council Mayor pro-tem

Ellen Cohen

AT LARGE 3

DISTRICT C

Michael Kubosh

Phone – 832-393-3004 Email – districtc@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, PSHS, QOL Areas – Afton Oaks/River Oaks, Braeburn, Braeswood, Fourth Ward, Greenway/Upper Kirby, Heights, Lazy Brook/Timbergrove, Memorial Park, Meyerland, Midtown, Montrose, University Place, Washington Corridor

Phone – 832-393-3005 Email – atlarge3@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, HCA, RNA,

AT LARGE 4

AT-LARGE 1

Amanda Edwards

Mike Knox

Phone – 832-393-3014 Email – atlarge1@houstontx.gov Committees – EECG, HCA

Phone – 832-393-3012 Email – atlarge4@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA vice chair, BFA Subcommittee, EECG, TTI

AT LARGE 2

AT LARGE 5

DISTRICT A

DISTRICT B

DISTRICT D

Phone – 832-393-3013 Email – atlarge2@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, HCA,

Phone – 832-393-3017 Email – atlarge5@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA chair, EECG, QOL

Phone – 832-393-3010 Email – districta@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, PSHS chair, QOL, RNA, Areas – Addicks Park Ten, Carverdale, Fairbanks/Northwest Crossing, Greater Inwood, Langwood, Lazy Brook/Timbergrove, Spring Branch Central, East, North & West, Westbranch, Willowbrook

(Vice mayor pro-tem) Phone – 832-393-3009 Email – districtb@houstontx.gov Committees – EECG, PSHS, QOL, TTI Areas – Acres Home, Clinton Park Tri-Community, East Houston, East Little York/Homestead, Eastex Jensen, Greater Fifth Ward, Greater Greenspoint, Hidden Valley, IAH/ Airport, Kashmere Gardens, Pleasantville, Settegast, Trinity/ Houston Gardens

Phone – 832-393-3001 Email – districtd@housto Committees – BFA, BFA Subcommittee, EECG cha Areas – Astrodome, Her Hobby, MacGregor, Med Midtown, Minnetex, Mus OST/South Union, South Crestmont Park, South B

Jack Christie

David Robinson

Committees

QOL vice chair, RNA, TTI

BFA – Budget & Fiscal Affairs BFA Subcommittee – Budget & Fiscal Affairs Subcommittee on Debt, Financing & Pensions

EECG – Ethics, Elections & Council Governance HCA – Housing & Community Affairs PSHS – Public Safety & Homeland Security

QOL – Quality of Life RNA – Regulation & Neighborhood Affairs TTI – Transportation, Technology & Infrastructure

Call 311 for help and information

The City of Houston’s 311 helpline is a consolidated call center designed to make local government more user-friendly and responsive by providing one telephone number for information on city services and to report non-emergency concerns.

Houstonians can also email 311@houstontx.gov. Here are the service categories: Animals & pets – Adoption, animal shelter, licensing, dead animal pick-up City government, elections & records – Municipal courts, Houston TV, mayor’s office, personal records, voting Employment & education – City jobs, internships & volunteering, library & resources, schools Garbage, recycling & graffiti – Graffiti removal,

recycling requests, trash collection, heavy trash, dumping, yard waste Health, safety & social services – Air & water quality, birth & death certificates, health inspections, neighborhood protection, veterans’ affairs Licensing, permits, fees, fines & taxes – Commercial permitting, franchise & transportation fees, fines, taxes Neighborhoods, property & construction – Commercial, homeowner & residential building permits, neighborhood protection Parks & trees – Esplanade, right of way & median maintenance, park event permits, park maintenance & safety, pools & water parks, trees & planting

Brenda Stardig

Jerry Davis

Dwight Boyki

South Park, Sunnyside, Th Texas Southern University of Houston

Recreation & event planning – Arts, calendar of events, convention center, Jones Hall, municipal golf courses, pro sports & recreation, special event permitting, Theater District outdoor venues, tourism, Wortham Center, youth Traffic, streets & drainage – Capital improvement projects, streets & drainage, driving, maintenance & repairs, parking & violations, public transportation, bikes & taxis, signs & signals, general traffic Utilities – Electric & gas, fire hydrants, maintenance & repair requests, sewer, water For more information visit www.houston311.org.

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THE NEW CITY HALL

H

ow can you contact the City Councilmember who represents you? What can you do about graffiti in your neighborhood?

How can you get a broken water main repaired?

For the answers to these and other questions, the Defender is providing its readers with a City of Houston hook-up as a community service.

Houston started out the year with a new mayor and some new faces on council, and all the councilmembers are included here. We have also provided information on calling 311 and feature a list of frequently asked questions.

DISTRICT E

Dave Martin

Phone – 832-393-3008 Email – districte@houstontx.gov ontx.gov Committees – BFA, BFA air, HCA, RNA, Subcommittee chair, EECG, TTI Areas – Clear Lake, Edgebrook, rmann Park, Kingwood, Lake Houston, dical Center, seum District, Meadowbrook/Allendale, Port of Houston, Northshore, South Belt h Acres/

GET THE HOOK-UP

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

Houston’s mayor and 16 councilmembers play a major role in the operation of the city. Mayor Sylvester Turner serves as Houston’s executive officer, chief administrator and official representative. He also presides over City Council with voting privileges.

City Council is the legislative body, with the power to enact and enforce all ordinances and resolutions. Councilmembers’ responsibilities include adopting or altering the annual budget, confirming mayoral appointments, issuing bonds, awarding contracts and leasing city real estate.

As of this January, the mayor and councilmembers are now elected every four years, and can serve a maximum of two, four-year terms. Those who already served one two-year term are eligible to serve two more four-year terms, for a maximum of 10 years.

Five councilmembers are elected at-large, or citywide, while the other 11 are elected to geographic districts

DISTRICT F

DISTRICT G

Phone – 832-393-3002 Email – districtf@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, PSHS, QOL, TTI, Areas – Alief, Eldridge/West Oaks, George Bush Park, Mid West, Sharpstown, Westchase

Phone – 832-393-3007 Email – districtg@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, BFA Subcommittee, EECG, PSHS, TTI Areas – Afton Oaks/River Oaks, Briarforest, Galleria, Greenway/ Upper Kirby, Memorial, Mid West, Terry Hershey Park, Uptown

Steve Le

Belt/Ellington, hird Ward, y, University

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Greg Travis

of roughly the same proportion of population.

Council meetings are open to the public, and are held at 1:30 p.m. each Tuesday and 9 a.m. each Wednesday on the second floor of City Hall at 901 Bagby. The Tuesday session is devoted to public comment and the Wednesday session is for consideration of actions that require approval.

To sign up to speak for a Tuesday session, call the City Secretary’s office at 832-393-1100, send an email to citysecretary@houstontx.gov or visit the office on the public level of the City Hall Annex at 900 Bagby by 1:30 p.m. that day. In addition, the council agenda can be viewed at www.houstontx.gov/citysec.

Following is contact information for the mayor and councilmembers, as well as the committees they serve on and the areas served by district councilmembers.

DISTRICT H

DISTRICT I

DISTRICT J

DISTRICT K

Phone – 832-393-3003 Email – districth@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, HCA, PSHS, RNA, TTI Areas – Denver Harbor/Port Houston, Downtown, Eastex/ Jensen, Heights, Independence Heights, Northside/Northline, Near Northside, Second Ward

Phone – 832-393-3011 Email – districti@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, HCA vice chair, RNA chair, TTI Areas – Clinton Park, Downtown, Eastwood, El Dorado/Oates Prairie, Hobby Airport, Golfcrest/ Bellfort/Reveille, Gulfgate, Harrisburg/Manchester, Hunterwood, Lawndale/Wayside, Magnolia Park, Northshore, Park Place, Pecan Park

Phone – 832-393-3015 Email – districtj@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, EECG, HCA chair, PSHS, QOL, RNA Areas – Braeburn, Braeswood Parkway, Gulfton, Houston Baptist University, Mid West, Sharpstown, Westwood

Phone – 832-393-3016 Email – districtk@houstontx.gov Committees – BFA, BFA Subcommittee, EECG, TTI chair Areas – Astrodome, Braeswood, Brays Oaks, Central Southwest, Fondren Gardens, Fort Bend Houston, South Main, Westbury, Willow Meadows/Willowbend

Karla Cisneros

Robert Gallegos

Mike Laster

Larry Green

Frequently asked questions Here are frequently asked questions from the City of Houston.

Q. Where can I find a map of Houston divided

by ZIP codes?

A. That page is www.houstontx.gov/zipcodes. html Q. Can I view City Council meetings on the Internet?

A. Yes, via www.houstontx.gov/htv.

Q. Where do I vote?

A. Voting locations, ballot information and more

the Houston area for over 80 years

are available at www.harrisvotes.com or 713-7556965.

Q. How can I become certified as a minority or small business?

A. Contact the Office of Business Opportunity at www.houstontx.gov/obo/ or 832-393-0600.

Q. How can I apply for a DBA? A. It is administered by the Harris County Clerk’s Office at www.cclerk.hctx.net/or 713-755-641.

Q. How can I get a handicapped parking sticker for my car?

A. Stickers are administered by the State of Texas.

For more information visit www.houstontx.gov/ disabilities/ or 832-394-0814.

Q. How do I form a civic club?

A. Information is available via the Citizens’ Assistance Office at www.houstontx.gov/cao/ or 832-393-0955 Q. How can I contact Houston’s chamber of commerce?

A. It is known as the Greater Houston Partnership, at www.houston.org or 713-844-3600.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

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Young men from area chapters of Jack and Jill of America were presented to society at the 16th Biennial Beautillion Ball.

Belles, many of whom are also members of area chapters of Jack and Jill, escorted the young men.

Beautillion Ball presented by Jack and Jill included a golf clinic at Royal Oaks Country Club, a financial management workshop hosted by and held at the offices of McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy, a worship experience at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Houston, and an etiquette workshop at Holley’s.

The formal culminating Beautillion Ball was co-emceed by Mayor Sylvester Turner and Fox 26 News anchor Melinda Spaulding. An uplifting invocation was delivered by Rev. Derrick Cyprian, pastor of Clear Lake AME Church, and father of one of this year’s Beaux.

The Beautillion benefited Jack and Jill of America as well as Covenant House of Texas.

After the presentation of this year’s participants and tributes to their loved ones, many ball attendees danced the evening away to the live sounds of Al’ter Ego. This year’s event was chaired

by Tammy Lanier, Chaun Hubbard and Lisa Mead. The president of the Missouri City-Sugar Land Chapter is Donna Wise Joseph.

This year’s Beaux lineup featured Canaan Anthony, Coulson Anthony,

Bryce Broussard, James Bryant III, Derrick Cyprian, Cameron Eason, Chase Fontenot, Rodney Francois, Colby Frazier, Howard Grant, Ollie Harris IV, Justin Hodrick, Dallis Kendrick, Ryan Marshall, Christopher Mathis, Mason Mayes, Jeremiah McCollum, Jackson Odom, Marcus Rockwelll, Brennan Roquemore, Kenneth Stephens, Bryce Terrell, Tucker

Toole, Roshaan Turner, Cameron West and Devin Woods.

Jack and Jill of America is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.

T:4.79”

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The Marriott Hotel in the Sugar Land Town Center served as the backdrop for the 16th Biennial Beautillion Ball hosted by the Missouri CitySugar Land Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Twenty-six young men from area chapters of Jack and Jill across the city of Houston and its suburbia were presented to society before an audience of more than 650.

Chapters represented during the ball included Missouri City-Sugar Land, Houston, Greater Channel, North Houston Suburban, and South Belt. The Missouri City-Sugar Land chapter hosts the event in odd-numbered years. The Houston chapter presents debutantes from area Jack and Jill chapters during even-numbered years.

This year’s Beaux included young men classified as high school juniors through college freshmen. They were escorted by Belles, many of whom are also members of area chapters of Jack and Jill.

The season kicked off with a mothers’ luncheon at Holley’s Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Activities

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JANUARY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

opinion

9

Tuning out: Why I will not

watch the Oscars

By MARC H. MORIAL National Urban League

F

or the second year in a row, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences – the organization behind Hollywood’s biggest and splashiest awards show – failed to nominate a single actor or actress of color in the lead and supporting acting categories.

This year, when pay equity and gender equality were as much a Hollywood narrative as anything screened in local movie theaters, women earned more Oscar nominations (up almost 24 percent versus 21 percent in each of the last two years), but they were shut out from the best cinematography and best director categories – again.

In a nation as diverse as ours, an Oscar ceremony that neither recognizes nor includes the vast artistic talent and contributions of women and people of color is a whitewashed fiction that would better serve us as the premise of a sci-fi feature and not as a mirror of our multicultural reality.

While my role is not to question the cinematic credentials of the academy’s 6,291 voting members, I do question how it is that in a season that produced critically-acclaimed films such as “Beasts of No Nation,” which stars Idris Elba as an African warlord; the N.W.A biopic “Straight Outta Compton;” and “Creed,” the latest installment in the iconic “Rocky” franchise, there were no Black screenwriters, directors, composers, cinematographers or actors to be found whose contributions deserved academy recognition.

Ironically enough, two films helmed by either Black actors and/or directors – “Creed” and “Compton” – were recognized by the academy,

but their sole nominations were denied to people of color, with Sylvester Stallone receiving a best supporting actor nod for his role in “Creed” and writers of “Compton” receiving a nomination for best original screenplay.

A lot of ink has been spilled citing the composition of the academy and its role in travesties like this year’s copycat lock out of talent from communities of color.

A much-cited 2012 survey of the academy by the Los Angeles Times highlights the crux of the problem: the academy’s members are 94 percent white, 77 percent male, and an average age of 63, hardly representative of the diversity we see in the streets and increasingly on our TV screens.

There was a push for more inclusion after last year’s infamous snub of the civil rights movie “Selma,” with a record 322 invitations sent to join the academy. The list of invitees included fewer than 20 new African-American members, close to 14 Asian and Pacific Islander members and a

handful of Latin Americans, according to the Wrap, an industry-insider magazine.

Here are a few more statistics you should also take into consideration.

In its most recent study, the Bunche Center at UCLA found that film studio heads were 94 percent white and all male and that film studio senior management was 92 percent white and 83 percent male. The problem is two-fold.

The struggle to transform the academy into a diverse body that thoughtfully contemplates and recognizes the work of communities who do not fit the cookie cutter mold is one that must take place within the academy, but change will remain elusive if there is no transformation of white male dominated studio system that decides what gets made, and perhaps most importantly, what doesn’t get made. Major studios are not greenlighting the projects that reflect our nation and the few movies that are produced end up on the cutting room floor of the nomination process.

Like so many others, I am scandalized by the shut-out of people of color across most major awards categories for the second consecutive year.

I will continue to add my voice to the public scrutiny necessary to keep this issue on Hollywood’s front burner.

And I will also be doing something else this year: I will not be watching the Oscars. I am not an Academy Award member. I do not greenlight films, nor do I direct them. But I do control what does – or doesn’t – appear on my television screen. If we want Hollywood to tune in to our legitimate concerns and issues, I, for one, will be tuning out.

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10

DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

sports

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Mike Davis and TSU basketball keep winning

T

By MAX EDISON Defender

he hip hop anthem by DJ Khaled titled “All I Do Is Win” could very easily be the mantra for Texas Southern University basketball coach Mike Davis.

In his fourth year at the helm as TSU’s top cat, Davis has the Tigers in first place with an undefeated SWAC record. In addition, Davis recently achieved a coaching milestone by obtaining his 300th victory.

Davis is 50-10 in SWAC competition during his TSU stint. He captured the conference regular season crown in 2013 and 2014. He won the conference tournament and advanced to the NCAA March Madness in 2014 and 2015.

“Sometimes I get my years confused because they have by gone so fast,” Davis said. “I was hired to win the conference, then win the conference tournament and that’s our goal Mike Davis and the TSU Tigers are having another outstanding basketball season. every year.”

Winning breeds success and Davis admits he’s having the time of his life at Texas Southern.

“It’s not a challenge because I’m enjoying it so much,” he said. “I just love seeing the young men develop and grow. I’ve had players who played for me who are out in the real world doing well.

“I have guys playing overseas who call and text and say how much they learned from me. That’s the ultimate goal for me, developing boys into men who can not only represent TSU, but their families and neighborhoods.”

With the Tigers off to another Chris Thomas is a 6-foot-5 forward from Denver. Davis said Thomas is among those “playing really good basketball for us.” tremendous start in conference play, (Photos by John Posey) Davis reflected on the mindset of his current troops. that same attitude over to our games. This Derrick Griffin, a 6-foot-7 forward from Houston, played high school ball at Terry in “This team is a little loose [compared to previous years]. team has done a good job carrying out that Rosenberg. He’s also a wide receiver on the TSU football team.

You have to grind them a little harder, but know when to ease up mindset.” on them,” Davis said.

TSU, under Davis, has played one of focus, practice and prepare every single day like we’re going “We have three guys in Chris Thomas, D.J. Blanks and the toughest non-conference schedules in the nation. The Tigers against Arizona or Kentucky. If you can focus and prepare like Derrick Griffin who are playing really good basketball for us. seldom play any home games during the first two months of the that then you can play at the highest level. We want to be the This is not the most talented team I’ve had since I’ve been here, season. best basketball team we can be in March, winning the SWAC but their mindset works better than any team I’ve had here.”

“Anytime you have success in non-conference it’s always tournament and heading to the ‘Dance.’ “ “I try and get them to focus on coming to practice every positive for our conference,” Davis said. “I just want us to Davis, a native of tiny Fayette, Ala., doesn’t dwell on winday prepared to work hard and get better. In practice guys aren’t get better each and every game. Last year we beat Michigan ning his 300th game as a collegiate coach. While some coaches worried about who’s in the State and Kansas State and I would celebrate, Davis takes the accomplishment in stride. stands, what fans are saying thought once we got to confer“My goal is 600, so I’m halfway home,” he said with a defendernetwork.com about them, none of that stuff. ence we played down to the sly grin.

“I’m pleased with the accomplishment, but if the good “The only goal in Denver Broncos vs. Carolina competition.

Lord can bless me to get 10-15 more years in, then that will be practice is to work harder and Panthers in Super Bowl 50 “I want our guys to the real goal.” get better. I want them to carry

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JANUARY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

h.s.zone

sportsbriefs

Davis serves as court general for Tigers

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

defendernetwork.com

Find out which private school girls’

There are plenty of reasons why the Tigers of team is reaching milestones Sam Houston Math, Science and Technology Center High School are a top five state-ranked Class Greene-Duplichan led the Tigers with 16 points 6A basketball team. and Kennard Robinson chipped in with 11. Davis After guiding his team to the Region III-6A provided a workman-like 12 points and 10 assists. semifinals last year without one of his key players, “Last year we split the district games 1-1 with head coach Ralph Barreras is a proven winner.

Westside so we wanted to get the tempo of the Senior twins Kennard and Lennard Robinson game in our favor early to take them out of their are gifted guards who create havoc on the defengame,” Davis said. “We’re not the tallest team sive end and provide consistent scoring for the around so we have to scrap and play hard. We want offense. to run and be as disciplined as we can.”

Forward Ja’Qualin Greene-Duplichan is a mulWhile Davis wants to be part of another long tiple first-team all-district performer who can play Sam Houston playoff run, his teammates also came all three frontcourt positions and bring the ball into the season with lofty aspirations. up-court if necessary.

“We have a goal of getting to the state tournaThe 22-4 Tigers have quality wins over power- ment and winning it,” Davis said. “Before that, we houses Yates, Beaumont Central, Fort Bend Bush want to go through district undefeated.” (twice) and Cedar Hill along with close losses to In order to improve his overall game the state-ranked Atascocita, Westbury Christian and 5-foot-6 Davis wants to become a better leader.

Fort Bend Elkins.

“I’m young compared to some of my teamSophomore point guard Kendric Davis is mates,” he said. “I have to make sure hungry for a return to the postseason after a we’re on the same page. first-round playoff injury ended his season a “I can get my shot anytime, but year ago. my responsibility as a point guard “Kendric is a special player. He’s a great is to make sure my teammates are point guard that sees the floor extremely involved,” Davis said. “If I can well and scores the ball extremely well,” make the game easier for my Barreras said. “He’s everything you’d want teammates, then we can go all in a point guard. He shares the ball, can the way.” get to the bucket or knock down the Although Davis likes watchjump shot. It’s a pleasure to coach ing University of Maryland point him. guard Melo Trimble and Golden “He was a big part of what we State Warriors’ guard Stephen Curdid last year. Kendric started as ry, he doesn’t pattern his game a freshman,” Barreras said. after any one individual.

“He’s one of the top point “I’m trying to creguards in the country, ate my own legacy,” but got hurt in the first he said. “Everygame of the playoffs body is made and that kind of set differently, so I us back.” try to play my Sam Houston game and have improved to 7-0 the little kids in District 20-6A look up to me recently with a instead of me 71-43 victory looking up over Westto somebody side at Butler else.” fieldhouse.

Kendric Davis is a playmaker at point guard for Sam Houston Math, Science and Technology Center High School.

UH football celebrating University of Houston Cougar alums and fans will have the opportunity to honor and celebrate the 2015 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl champions on Monday, Feb. 1. The UH Football team will be feted at an event by Mayor Sylvester Turner at TDECU Stadium, and at halftime of the Houston men’s basketball showdown vs.

No. 8 SMU at Hofheinz Pavilion. The evening will kick off at 6 p.m. with Turner honoring the Houston squad at Legends Plaza, located at Gate 1 on TDECU Stadium’s northeast corner.

It will feature the Spirit of Houston, UH President Dr. Renu Khator, UH head coach Tom Herman and the entire football program. The 6 p.m. event is free and open to all fans wearing Cougar red.

Astros sign their guys The Houston Astros recently agreed to terms on one-year contracts with right-handed pitcher Josh Fields, infielder Marwin Gonzalez, left-handed pitcher Dallas Keuchel and infielder Luis Valbuena. All four players had been arbitration-eligible. Terms of the deals were not disclosed. Most notable among the signings was Keuchel, the 2015 AL Cy Young Award winner. In his 33 starts, he went 20-8 with a 2.48 ERA while leading the Majors in innings pitched (232.0). Gonzalez reached career bests in virtually every offensive category last season, including batting average (.279), homers (12) and RBI (34) while filling the role of super utility player. Valbuena tallied 25 home runs in 132 games inz2015, ranking second on the club and fifth among AL third basemen in long balls.

Elkins falls to Bush Fort Bend Bush withstood two missed Elkins shot attempts in the final seconds to hold off the state’s top-ranked Class 5A school 61-60 at Wheeler Field House. The Broncos, 18-6 overall and 7-0 in District 23-5A, came into the game ranked No. 3 in the state after earning the top spot earlier in the season. Elkins falls to 23-2 and 6-1 in district play. Fort Bend ISD schools could have the top two spots in the next Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Class 5A state poll with Fort Bend Marshall likely in the Top 10. Elkins and Bush will meet again before the postseason on Feb. 16 at Hopson Field House.

Cypress Woods girls win Some of the names have changed but the results remain the same. The defending Class 6A state champion Cypress Woods High School girls’ varsity basketball squad no longer has state title game MVP Erica Ogwumike (Pepperdine) or point guard Tatyana Perez (Tulsa). Yet with a 66-55 victory over Cypress Falls the Wildcats are 8-0 in District 17-6A and haven’t lost a district game since 2014. The return of 6-foot-9 Nancy Mulkey and 6-foot-2 Cate Reese along with Jasmine Williams gives head coach Virginia Flores a tough frontline to match up with for opposing defenses. “They’re a great team and they might be the biggest team in the state,” said Cy Falls coach Jim Stephens. “We’re small but I’m proud of our girls.”

Although unbeaten in league play, the Wildcats have played in several close games. Reese paced Cy Woods with 16 points.

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DEFENDER | JANUARY 28 | 2016

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

topevents

Paul Cannings, Warren Luckett, Che’ McFerrin, LeMetrice Dopson, Errol Allen II, GEORGE FOREMAN TRIBUTE DINNER……..Hundreds gathered for the first Frederick Barksdale, Niles Dillard, James Donatto, II, Carol Guess, Carl McGowan annual George Foreman Youth and Community Center (GFYCC) Tribute Dinner at the Doubletree Greenwood Plaza. The GFYCC was founded to offer a safe place for youth and Latoya Wall. The GHBC has served as an advocate for African-American business owners and professionals in the Houston area for 80 years……..HOUSTON CARES to learn and grow. The evening’s honorees included former heavyweight champ Foreman HONORS HEROES……..To promote awareness of January as National Mentoring himself, along with Dr. Adan Rios, Ryan Soroka, Rev. Ray Martin, Alex Vassilakidis, Month and to promote awareness of the critical need to mentor youth, Houston CARES Michael Harris and Patrick Hutton. The Foreman family planned the event to honor recognized two local mentoring heroes at the Gite Gallery. Houston their father’s life and legacy. The tribute was emceed by Jenny CARES honored Founder and Executive Director of Children’s Books Dial. Guests included Mayor Sylvester Turner, Ashley Turner, Defender TOP EVENTS on Wheels (CBOW), Rita Wiltz and board member and Co-Founder Fox 26 anchor Rita Garcia, Chester Pitts, JJ on the Mic, J More photos on defendernetwork.com of the Urban Souls Dance Company, Walter Hull. Those in attendance Mac and rapper ZRo. The World Boxing Council, Chef Tiffani See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m. include: Priscilla Williams, KC Carroll, Dr. Michon Benson, Janelle and Dawniel Winningham were among the sponsors Sharon Gray, Jonathan Jackson, Rory Victor, George Rose, Will ……..BLACK CHAMBER INSTALLATION…….The Womble, Carl McGowan, Lloyd Gite, Anthony Freddie, and Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) held its installation Karen Franklin. This event hopes to inspire more “capable” and “able” adults to become of officers and realtor and community leader Courtney Johnson Rose took the oath of mentors, to create new partnerships with youth-serving organizations and to identify office as GHBC’s board chair at Houston’s Federal Reserve Bank. The night also included partners who will help with mentor recruitment. the installation of officers and directors by Judge Clarease Yates. They were Joi Beasley,

George Foreman

Ashley Turner, George Foreman IV

Annie Lidge, Frederick Barksdale, Carlecia Wright

Courtney Johnson-Rose, Vernita Harris

Anthony Freddie, Priscilla Williams, Karen Franklin

Walter Hull, Rita Wiltz, Lloyd Gite

JMac, Rita Garcia (Foreman photos by B. McKinzy Photography)

Judge Clarease and Cary Yates

Will Womble, George Rose, Jonathan Jackson, Rory Victor, Walter Hull, Karif Carroll, Sharon Gray, Dr. Michon Benson

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