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SOUTHSIDE RAVENS BRING YOUTH LEAGUE ‘SUPER BOWL’ TITLE TO CUNEY HOMES P15

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Volume 88 | Number 15 FEBRUARY 7 |2019 |FREE

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ENTERTAINMENT BRITTANY INGE stars in BET’s remake of ‘Boomerang’

P4 OBITUARY KRISTOFF ST. JOHN dead at 52

P10 H.S. SPORTS DOUG YOUNG has a clutch gene at Bellaire

P13 TOP EVENTS

Kamala Harris Cory Booker Stacey Abrams

The future of the Democratic Party? H PAGE 12

Wanda Adams

speaks on HISD drama

Dont’a Hightower dominates at Super Bowl

A school board video is showcasing problems in HISD. And now, Adams, who was seen on the video in a moment of rage, is speaking out on why she’s glad people can see what’s going on with the embattled board. Gary Miller and Christen Blackledge at the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Casino Night.

H PAGE 2

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The linebacker and New England Patriots defensive leader explains how the team was able to dominate such a potent Los Angeles Rams offense and take home the trophy in Super Bowl 53 (LIII) in Atlanta. H PAGE 14

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

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newstalk

Video reveals divided HISD board Defender News Services

Houstonians have known about dissension on the HISD School Board, but a newly released video obtained by the Houston Chronicle shows just how bad things are. It was last October when the board meeting turned raucous, with shouting and racially-charged accusations. The meeting turned controversial when school board member Diana Dávila made a surprise motion to fire the district’s interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan and hire a new one, Abe Saavedra, who served as HISD superintendent in the early 2000s. The move shocked many people in the audience and some other board members, including Trustee Wanda Adams, who is seen on the video shouting and cursing. “It goes to my original statement about racism on this board,” Adams said, referring to the fact that the Trustee Wanda Adams Hispanic board members wanted to oust a Black superintendent for a Hispanic one. “When we walked into that meeting, it was like we were the invited guests. No one told us Saavedra was going to be there. I’m glad the video has come out because now people know what we have been living with for three years. I’ve been holding a lot of stuff in and this particular thing everything just came out. Did it come out in a way I would’ve liked, no, but I was frustrated because of the back-fighting, the things that were said leading up

the video.” Ultimately, the school board voted 5-4 along racial lines to fire Lathan and hire Saavedra. They reversed course a few days later at a press conference. Now, administrators at the Texas Education Agency (TEA) are examining what was behind that surprise motion and split vote. In particular, they are trying to determine if some school board members violated the Texas Open Meetings Act and if there are any other governance issues. “There’s strong evidence that this was your classic ‘walking quorum,’ where one trustee carries water to another trustee,” said Joe Larsen, a Houston attorney who serves on the board of directors for the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. Larsen said Texas has an open meetings law to protect against corruption and require transparency. It’s illegal for elected officials to talk about business without a majority of members present or notifying the public ahead of time. “The fact that the four [board members] were blindsided and the other five seemed to know exactly what was going on, and all appear to have spoken with Saavedra independently, these are all evidence of a so-called ‘walking quorum.'” Adams said a lot of things have happened on the board, and “if the state didn’t have reason to take us over earlier, they have reason now because of the actions of five board members.”

HISD hosts performance meeting HISD will host a public meeting to explain the annual Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR). The report, which is required by TEA, includes data on academics, student and staff demographics as well as comparison data from the region and the state. HISD’s research and accountability team helps gather the statistical information needed to complete the report. The meeting will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14 at Hattie Mae White Education Support Center, 4400 West. 18th St. Under TEA law, every Texas school district must offer an opportunity to discuss the TAPR results with the local community.  The final 2017-18 TAPR report was published on Dec. 21, 2018 and must be shared during a public hearing within 90 days of its release date. To view the complete report, visit https://rptsvr1.tea.texas.gov/ perfreport/tapr/.

Sears building to be rechristened ‘The Ion’ Defender News Service

The long-awaited renovation of the historic Sears building on Houston’s Main Street will begin in May 2019, launching the project designed to transform a local landmark into the centerpiece of a thriving innovation district. The renovated building will be rechristened as The Ion, a 270,000-square foot structure designed to bring the area’s entrepreneurial, corporate and academic communities together into collaborative spaces and programs. The building will support businesses at all stages of the innovation life cycle and provide resources for Houstonians seeking to participate in the innovation economy. Academic and corporate partners will be integrated into an environment of educational events, demonstrations, hack-a-thons and programming. A mix of restaurant and entertainment amenities will make the building a hive of collaboration and activity. “I gleefully applaud this next giant step in the creation of an innovation hub that will take Houston closer

to becoming a world leader in data science and digital technologies,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “As I said last year when the idea was unveiled, we have to leap, not stroll, into the economic frontier. Now the physical transformation of The Ion will help get us there.” The leader of the Mayor's Task Force for Technology and Innovation City Council Member Amanda Edwards played a strategic role in the development of the project. Edwards said, "The Ion will be the foundation of an exciting walkable innovation district in which entrepreneurs, customers and investors can interface. I am excited to witness Houston connect to its roots of innovation in this way.” The building’s renovation into The Ion is expected to be completed late next year and officials say it will represent an inclusive endeavor that reflects Houston’s heritage and its future. “Rice and South Main have both been in the heart of Houston for more than 100 years, and we believe our best days are before us,” said South Main Baptist Church Pastor Steve Wells.

A rendering shows the concept of The Ion on Main Street.

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national

U.S.briefs PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP DELIVERED his second State of the Union address, using the opportunity to reset his agenda and begin to gear up for his 2020 re-election campaign. But even as the president promises a theme of unity, his performance drew cheers from one side of the deeply divided Congress and stony silence from the other. Former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams delivered the Democratic rebuttal……..A WHITE DETROIT POLICE OFFICER IS UNDER internal investigation after a Snapchat video leaked of him forcing a young Black woman to walk in the freezing cold with the captions, “what Black Girl Magic Looks like” and “celebrating Black History Month.” Corporal Gary Steele pulled over Ariel Moore, 24, for having expired plates. He then instructed her to get out of her car and walk in the subzero temps. As she walked the one block to her home, he recorded it and in the video, he can be heard telling Moore, “Bye Felicia.” Steele, an 18-year veteran of the force, was “placed on administrative leave and demoted from his rank.” The Detroit Police Chief said that he was incredibly angry about Steele’s “racially insensitive post.”……..THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR BLACK PEOPLE in America has been quietly creeping back up to its sky-high levels from last year just months after the president bragged they were at their lowest. Meanwhile, the number of payroll jobs increased by nearly double the rate it was projected to, according to employment numbers for January released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While the shutdown ended in January after more than a month, its effects were expected to linger, especially among African-Americans, who make up more than 18 percent of government employees, according to the Guardian. For a full perspective, Black people only make up 12 percent of the American population.

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 15 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

The photo of persons dressed in blackface and KKK garb appeared on Northam’s yearbook page.

Blackface scandal spotlights racism problem in America

just with our words, but with our resources." Should Northam, a Democrat, ultimately step down, Lt. hen Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam refused Gov Justin Fairfax would become the second Black governor in the South since Reconstruction. Last month, Fairfax, to resign, he did so in the shadow of a the only Black statewide official, sat down in protest as the Capitol built by a founding father and Virginia Senate recognized Lee-Jackson Day, which honors a slave owner, in the former seat of the Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. Confederacy still wrestling with what to Virginia is still healing from the racial wounds inflicted do about statues that honor those who fought to preserve slavery. in August 2017, when white supremacists marched on CharThe 35-year-old photo on his yearbook page of a person in lottesville to protest the removal of a blackface and another person in a Ku Klux statue of Lee. Many of the mostly white Klan robe has brought about a stunning men who converged on the city chantreversal of fortune in Northam's political ing racist slogans and burning torches career and laid bare for the nation just how were about the same age that Northam deeply racist behavior remains interwowould've been as a student at Eastern ven in American culture, institutions and Virginia Medical School. politics. In rejecting calls to step down, the Northam's age belies the assump59-year-old white son of Virginia came tion that their actions reflected the tenor across to many African-Americans as and tone of the era. In 1984, when the displaying a sense of white privilege. photograph was included in Northam's "What we have learned over the last yearbook page, civil rights activist Jesse 24 hours along with all the incidents of Jackson was running for president. the last two years brings front and center Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam has been African-Americans were climbing the the need for this nation to deal with the pressured to step down. nation's social, professional, political question of race once and for all," NAACP and economic ladders at unprecedented President Derrick Johnson said. speed. "Because we have [President DonIn his initial apology, Northam said that the photo does ald] Trump in the White House, who has created a political not represent who he is now. A day later, he denied being in landscape of intolerance and racial hatred, this has exposed a the photograph and admitted to wearing blackface as part of a wound that has been festering for a while now." Michael Jackson impersonation. The incident came on the first day of Black History The incident is the third in recent weeks: Last month, Month and as Virginians prepare to mark the 400th anniverFlorida's secretary of state resigned after photos from a 2005 sary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans to the settleHalloween party showed him in blackface dressed as a Hurment of Jamestown. ricane Katrina victim. Also last month, videos surfaced of "I think a lot of Black folks are tired of apologies and people in blackface at the University of Oklahoma, including talking," said Wes Bellamy, a councilman in Charlottesville, a man walking near campus. Two students withdrew from the Va. "This is another ugly stain on our state's history. We are university and apologized. going to have to commit ourselves to making this right – not Associated Press

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entertaiment

Brittany Inge

‘Boomerang’ yields first major role for actress NNPA News Service

The classic ‘90s film “Boomerang” is the latest movie to get its own reboot, courtesy of BET Network and Paramount Pictures. Halle Berry, who starred in the original film, along with “The Chi” creator Lena Waithe, executive produced the 10-episode, half-hour romantic comedy series for BET as part of the network’s latest foray into scripted programming. Inge joins an ensemble cast on the show, which continues where the 1992 film left off. “Boomerang” will debut Feb. 12 at 9 p.m. on BET. her friends,” the friend who tries to be the voice of reason. The cast includes Tetona Jackson, Tequan Richmond, Crystal, 26 years old and newly divorced, works in adverBrittany Inge, Leland B. Martin and R.J. Walker. tising at Marcus Graham’s advertising firm. The series will continue where the 1992 film left off, foWhen the audience meets her, she’s finding her way after cusing on the offspring of Jacqueline Boyer (Robin Givens), her divorce. “She’s creating a new path for herself and figuring Marcus Graham (Eddie Murphy) and Angela Lewis (Halle out what it means to be by herself,” said Inge, who is especially Berry), as they attempt to step out of their parents’ shadows proud of the character’s pro-Black, curvy, natural girl persona. and create a legacy of their own. “I’m super excited about being able to represent for curIt is described as an updated version of the film that vier women,” Inge said. “I’m thrilled to be able to use my voice explores today’s contemporary workplace dynamics – and body to show that we all have stories to tell and we don’t all including the changing role of gender and office politics – look one way. relationships, love and the conflicts between Generation X “This show will illustrate what it’s like to be a millennial and millennials. in 2019. What it means to be Black and progressive, and trying Actress Brittany Inge plays Crystal Garrett, a friend to to live your best life in the world that we currently live in,” she the main characters. Inge describes Crystal as “the mother to said.

Brittany Inge portrays Crystal Garrett in BET’s update of “Boomerang.”

After graduating from Spelman College with a bachelor’s degree in music, Inge began studying acting, and has been acting professionally for six years. “This is my first major role,” she said. “I’m so excited to be a part of this cast – full of fresh faces and new actors. My experience in the Spelman College Glee Club really helped prepare me for long hours, rehearsals, being disciplined and on time, and how to take direction. All of those things apply now as an actor and full-time artist. “‘Boomerang’ is dynamic, solid good content. The stories we are illustrating are universal,” added Inge, who is also creator of the (Non) Starving Artists, which is dedicated to empowering and educating artists of every kind to be the lead in their own journeys.

what’sup BEYONCE and JAY-Z are serious about their health, and according to their new vegan challenge, everyone else should be, too. Queen Bey recently took to Instagram to announce a challenge designed to get folks to follow the advice of Marco Borges, CEO and founder of 22 Days Nutrition (co-owned with the Carters). Borges recently launched the Greenprint, an inclusive plant-based movement he said is designed for healthier living. The couple cited the importance of veganism – not only for personal health, but also for the planet. The challenge includes a chance to win Jay and Bey concert tickets for life……..Grammy-nominated rapper

21 SAVAGE is in federal immigration custody. The artist, whose given name is Sha Yaa Bin AbrahamJoseph, was arrested in a targeted operation in the Atlanta area. Officials said the rapper is actually a British citizen who overstayed his visa and also has a felony conviction…….. MO’NIQUE had some choice words about WHOOPI GOLDBERG. Sharing details about a behind-the-scenes conversation she had with Goldberg during a visit to “The View,” Mo took offense with Goldberg’s offer to “school” her on contracts. “Whoopi Goldberg has always been the help, and I say that humbly,” Mo’Nique said. In addition, she brought up an

issue from Goldberg’s past. “This is a woman who says ‘I could have schooled you,’ and this is a woman who accepted Ted Danson in blackface, and our community praises this woman,” she added……..TERRY CREWS said he has had enough of being bullied by the likes of TARIQ NASHEED, 50 CENT and D.L. HUGHLEY. Crews, who said he was groped by his agent in 2016, recently wrote to Hughley on Twitter “You @50cent @unclerush and @ tariqnasheed have decided my sexual assault was hilarious, whereas there [is] a whole generation of Black women and men who don’t think it’s funny…”

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FEBRUARY 7 | 2019 | DEFENDER

All your favorites, all in one place? All good! Xfinity brings you all your favorite movies and shows and makes it easier than ever to find what you love to watch. Just speak into the X1 Voice Remote to search across live TV, On Demand and even Netflix and Prime Video. It’s all your entertainment, all in one place. Now that’s simple, easy, awesome.

Internet & TV

each a month for 12 months

when you bundle both with 1-year agreement

Get Xfinity X1 with access to Prime Video, Netflix and more

Includes up to 150 Mbps download speed & Streampix

Equipment, taxes and other charges extra, and subject to change. See details below. Bill will reflect bundled rate for X1 Saver Double Play at $79.99 a mo. for 12 mos.

Go to xfinity.com, call 1-800-xfinity or visit an Xfinity Store today.

Offer ends 3/21/19. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to X1 Saver Double Play with Digital Starter TV with Streampix and Performance Pro 150 Mbps Internet. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services (other than Xfinity Mobile) are cancelled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $10.00/mo.) and Regional Sports Fee (up to $8.00/mo.), and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after agreement term. After term agreement, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. Access to Netflix and Amazon Prime Video on Xfinity X1 requires an eligible set-top box with Xfinity TV and Internet service. Netflix streaming membership and Prime Video subscription required. Netflix and Prime Video use your Internet service and will count against any Xfinity data plan. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. Call for restrictions and complete details. © 2019 Comcast. All rights reserved. NPA221831-0006

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BLACK HISTORY

Texas Trailblazers left business legacy Louis and his brother Clarence started the business, hence the name C & L. It began as a small neighborhood shoe shine stand. Louis learned the shoe repair trade at Texas Southern University. Although his world was global – he had an audience with the Pope at the Vatican – his major concern remained with the community where he finished elementary, middle and high school, operated his business, raised his family of six children, attended church and served as a board member of the Julia C. Hester House.

Defender News Services

In observance of Black History Month, the Defender presents condensed profiles of three African-American men who made a lasting impact on the local business community. They are featured in-depth in the Texas Trailblazer Series edited by Patricia Smith Prather and the late Bob Lee.

O. P. DEWALT (1886-1931)

The Lincoln Theater in Houston was known as the finest movie theater in the South for African-Americans in the 1920s and was the only theater in downtown Houston where African-Americans did not have segregated seating in the balcony. The owner and driving force behind the Lincoln was Olen Pullum DeWalt. He grew up in Livingston and moved to Houston after graduating from what is now Prairie View A&M University in 1910. By 1931, DeWalt’s fortune was estimated to be $200,000. He started his career by selling shoes and stockings on commission, then moved on to real estate. In 1916 when the Lincoln Theater opened, DeWalt handled the rental of offices in the building. He worked The late Louis Dorian made a difference with his shoe shop in Fifth Ward. his way up to manager and later became owner. become elected officials, police officers, entrepreneurs, hourly He served as president of the Houston workers, college professors and good fathers. NAACP and president of the Prairie View Alumni and ExDorian was a businessman who believed in sharing his students Association. Tragically, his life ended abruptly when he good fortune with his community, especially young men. He was gunned down in his theater. The only local landmark to his gave them gifts that money could not buy, like genuine caring. legacy is DeWalt Street in Acres Homes. He insisted that his shoe shine students be neat, clean and on LOUIS DORIAN (1925-1991) time to work. He would not let them work if their school grades His shoe shine students were from the neighborhood. One, were not up to par. Mickey Leland, became an internationally known congressman. As grown men, Dorian’s students would always return to Students who learned to shine shoes from Louis Dorian at C. & the shop to see “Papa Lou.” He was like a father to them and L. Shoe Shop in Houston were expected to succeed and have they continued to show their respect.

A.K. KELLEY (1846-1928)

Prior to World War II, the Housing Authority of Houston began plans to provide housing for low-income residents in an effort toward slum clearance. By 1942 there were four housing projects, two for African-Americans. On Sept. 27, 1942, Kelley Courts, a million-anda-half-dollar housing complex for 333 families was dedicated in honor of, “An outstanding colored citizen of Houston,” A. K. Kelley. Although he was deceased, Kelley was no doubt chosen for the honor because of his own contributions to housing for his people. Kelley owned a lot of houses that he rented in Houston. He also owned Evergreen Negro Cemetery and a laundry. According to the souvenir program of the Kelley Courts dedication, he was born a slave in Brazoria County near Sandy Point, Texas. He worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad for 50 years. He bought property in Fifth Ward. Kelley was probably among the founding members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Another reminder of Kelley’s contributions is Kelley Street.

Area Black history events FRIDAY, FEB. 8

The Houston Community College History Department honors African-American Groundbreakers in Houston at 6 p.m. at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, 3816 Caroline. Honorees are rodeo legend Myrtis Dightman Sr., TV news pioneer Bob Nicholas, well-known cowgirl Mollie Taylor Stevenson, former Port of Houston Commissioner Howard Middleton and Constable May Walker. The event is free and open to the public. Info: www.hccs.edu

SATURDAY, FEB. 9

The Houston Public Library hosts a Black History Month Celebration at 1:30 p.m. at

Morris Frank Library, 10103 Fondren. There will be a conversation about tracing your roots, line dancing, face painting, story time, crafts and refreshments. Info: 832-393-2410

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 13

Prairie View A&M University hosts a 1 p.m. reception and opening of a History of African-American Legislators in Texas and Voting Rights exhibit at the Texas Institute for the Preservation of History and Culture in the Nathelyne A. Kennedy Architecture Building first floor gallery. Info: 936-2619836. Missouri City hosts An Evening Celebration of Art & Artists at 6 p.m. at the Visitors/ Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway.

Guests can enjoy the works of Ted Ellis, best known for his African-American themed art, and Amy Cassidy, whose painting is like jewelry on walls. Entertainment will be provided by jazz saxophonist Theresa Grayson. Info: www.missouricitytx.gov

FRIDAY, FEB. 15

Missouri City’s Black History Month Heritage Committee hosts a Celebration Gala at 1522 Texas Parkway. A reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and the gala at 7 p.m. The theme is “A Celebration of Firsts.” There will be dining, dancing, music and fellowship. Tickets are $55 per person and $500 per table. Tickets or info: www.edisonartsfoundation.org or www.missouricitytx.gov

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FEBRUARY 7 | 2019 | DEFENDER

PBS programming honors Black history

shifting tides of civil rights and racial progress during 20th century America. Features interThis February, PBS will showcase speviews with Billy Crystal, Norman Lear, Whoopi cial programming to commemorate Black Goldberg and Kim Novak, and clips from Davis’ History Month. Programs are available for TV, film and concert performances. streaming following their broadcast on all “American Masters: Charley Pride, station-branded platforms, including PBS. I’m Just Me” – Feb. 22, 8 p.m. – Explore the org, PBS Black Culture Connection and the complicated history of the American South PBS Video App. Programming includes: and its music through the life of country star “Live From Lincoln Center: PipeCharley Pride. Raised in segregated Mississippi, line” – Feb 8, 8 p.m. – Meet Nya, an he discovered a journey that shows the ways inner-city teacher desperate to save her artistic expression can triumph over prejudice son, in Dominique Morisseau’s critically and injustice. acclaimed new play. When her son gets in “Finding Your Roots With Henry Louis trouble at school, Nya must confront his Gates Jr.” – Tuesdays through Feb. 26, 7 p.m. rage and her choices, and try to reach him – Join Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr. before he gets pulled away forever. to uncover the surprising ancestral stories of “Breaking Big: Danai Gurira” – 25 cultural trailblazers. Personalities featured Feb. 8, 9:30 p.m. – Growing up in Zimbathis season include Michael Strahan, S. Epatha bwe, actress Danai Gurira didn’t see many Merkerson, Kehinde Wiley, Michael K. Wilfilm and television characters who looked liams and Joe Madison. like her. By embracing her culture and her In addition, coming in February to Youdifferences, she was able to score roles in Tube and Facebook Watch is “Say it Loud,” such smash hits as “Black Panther” and a new PBS Digital Studios series hosted by Actress S. Epatha Merkerson of “Chicago Med” and “Law and Order” finds her roots with Dr. Henry “The Walking Dead.” She also wrote the YouTube sensations Evelyn Ngugi of “Evelyn Louis Gates Jr. Broadway play “Eclipsed,” which won critifrom the Internets” and Azie Dungey, Emmycommunity, the film offers detailed glimpse at life in cal acclaim and a Tony Award. nominated writer and creator of “Ask a Slave.” America’s Black Belt. “Independent Lens: Hale County This MornPart cultural critique, part talk show and part history “American Masters: Sammy Davis, Jr., I’ve ing, This Evening” – Feb. 11, 9 p.m. – Visit the lesson, “Say it Loud” will explore Black American Gotta Be Me” – Feb. 19, 8 p.m. – Explore the enterworld of Hale County, Ala. Composed of intimate and culture and its impact on broader communities and tainer’s vast talent and journey for identity through the unencumbered moments in the lives of people in the trends. Defender News Services

BLACK HISTORY. PASS IT ON.

Pass on your stories, your knowledge and your love. AARP celebrates Black History Month. Learn more at aarp.org/blackcommunity.

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

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10 DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

Former TSU coach and AD Bill Thomas dead Defender News Services

Services were recently held for William "Bill" Thomas, a former Texas Southern University football coach and athletic director. He died Jan. 18 at age 70. Thomas was the second all-time winningest coach in TSU football history. He coached the Tigers for 10 seasons, taking charge in 1994. His best season was in 2000, when he guided the Tigers to an 8-3 record, capping a string of five consecutive winning seasons for TSU. He later became dean of Student Services. "The Texas Southern University community mourns and extends our condolences to Coach Bill Thomas' Bill Thomas family at this time," said TSU Interim Vice President for Athletics Kevin Granger. "On behalf of the athletics department, we thank Coach Thomas for the excellent standards he set while here at TSU. He is a Tiger that will be missed." Thomas, a native of Jacksonville, Fla., was a standout high school player and received a football scholarship to Tennessee State University in Nashville. He played middle linebacker at Tennessee State and received undergraduate and graduate degrees there. He became an assistant defensive coach at the university and eventually served as head coach for five seasons in the 1980s. He became athletic director in 1986. Survivors include his wife, Dr. Gayla Boyd Thomas, daughter, Tosha Bille Thomas, three brothers and three sisters.

Award-winning actor Kristoff St. John dead Defender News Services

Kristoff St. John, a star of the longrunning CBS soap opera “The Young and the Restless” since 1991, was found dead in his Los Angeles home on Feb. 3. He was 52. The cause of death is pending. TMZ reported that St. John had recently been released from the UCLA Medical Center after having checked himself in for depression issues. St. John mourned the loss of his son, Julian, who committed suicide four years ago at age 24. St. John played Neil Winters on “The Young and the Restless.” He won Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series in 1992 and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2008. Kristoff St. John He was a 10-time NAACP Image Award-winner and the organization said in a statement that he will be missed. “The NAACP mourns the passing of Kristoff St. John and our condolences and prayers go out to his family,” the statement said. “His work as an actor, particularly his role on ‘The Young and the Restless,’ served as a trailblazer for many African-Americans seeking a career in Hollywood and soap operas.” St. John, a New York City native, made his television debut at age 7 in the series "That's My Mama" and later starred in the series "Charlie & Company" with Flip Wilson and Gladys Knight. He made numerous appearances on other shows.

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FEBRUARY 7 | 2019 | DEFENDER

2019

PUBLIC MEETINGS

You Spoke. We Listened.

METRO is coming back to the public to share the draft long-range transportation plan designed with your input. Join us at a public meeting or learn more at METRONext.org.

Any person who requires language interpretation or special needs accommodations is encouraged to contact METRO Public Affairs at 713-739-4018, or via email at METROPublicAffairs@ridemetro.org. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate your needs.

JOIN US FOR A PUBLIC MEETING SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center 4014 Market Street Houston, Texas 77020

Missouri City Community Center 1522 Missouri City Drive Missouri City, Texas 77489

HCC - Spring Branch Campus 1010 West Sam Houston Pkwy N. Houston, Texas 77043

Tracy Gee Community Center 3599 Westcenter Drive Houston, Texas 77042

Springhill Suites Conference Center 20350 Northwest Freeway Houston, Texas 77065

Double Tree Houston Hobby Airport 8181 Airport Blvd. Houston, Texas 77061

Missouri City MCTX Flex route

MONDAY, JANUARY 28 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Fulbright Tower 1301 McKinney Houston, Texas 77010

Kingwood Community Center 4102 Rustic Woods Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339

Magnolia Multi-Service Center 7037 Capitol Houston, Texas 77011

Montrose Center 401 Branard Street Houston, Texas 77006

South Park Baptist Church 5830 Van Fleet Street Houston, Texas 77033

Junior League of Houston 1811 Briar Oaks Lane Houston, Texas 77027

52 137 412

METRORail Red line

255

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MONDAY, JANUARY 28 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

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G I V E U S Y O U R I N P U T A T M E T R O N E X T. O R G

12 DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

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Who is the future of the Democratic Party? “We are here at this moment in time because we must answer a fundamental question: Who are we? Who are we as The 2020 presidential election is still Americans?" nearly two years away, but a number of New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker is Democratic lawmakers are already enterhoping his message of love will resoing the race. Among the sea of people nate with voters. who have thrown their hat in the ring, are "We are better when we help each two African-Americans U.S. Senators, other," Booker said. "I believe that we Cory Booker and Kamala Harris. can build a country where no one is They join other Democrats Julián forgotten, no one is left behind; where Castro, former Housing and Urban parents can put food on the table; where Development secretary; John Delaney, there are good paying jobs with good former Maryland representative; Tulsi benefits in every neighborhood; where Gabbard, Hawaii representative; Pete our criminal justice system keeps us Buttigieg, South Bend Indiana mayor; safe, instead of shuffling more children Kirsten Gillibrand, New York senator, into cages and coffins; where we see the and Elizabeth Warren, Massachusetts faces of our leaders on television and senator. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker is one of the newest U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris said the American feel pride, not shame." Each of the candidates hopes that presidential candidates dream is under attack. Before any of the Democratic conPresident Donald Trump's anemic aptenders get a chance to take on Trump, proval ratings will give them a solid shot "We are at an inflection point in the history of at capturing the White House. our world,” she said. “We are at an inflection point they'll have to survive a grueling schedule of debates and primary contests. In the end, only one Harris is framing her candidacy as an effort to in the history of our nation. We are here because Democrat will be chosen by delegates at the party's restore fundamental American values she believes the American dream and our American democracy convention in the summer of 2020. are under attack. are under attack and on the line like never before. Defender News Services

Stacey Abrams gives Democratic rebuttal choosing Stacey Abrams 85,000 more than what Democrat Hillary Clinton is the physical embodireceived in a higher-turnout ment of that recogniAs the first Black presidential election two tion," said Democratic woman to deliver a Demoyears earlier. strategist Symone Sandcratic response to a State of Despite Abrams' loss, ers. the Union address, Stacey her presence at the top of The speech offers Abrams represents what the ticket helped others. Abrams a high-profile many in the party see as Democratic Rep. Lucy launching pad to a Sentheir political future. McBath flipped a suburban ate campaign. With its In picking Abrams, Atlanta congressional seat growing diversity and the Georgian who narrowly Republicans had occupied urbanization, Georgia is lost her bid to be the nafor decades. A neighboring being eyed as one of the tion's first African-Amersuburban district went narnext battleground states. ican woman governor, Abrams' performance in rowly to the GOP incumSenate Minority Leader Former gubernatorial candidate Stacey 2018 surprised observers bent and is again a top Chuck Schumer is reflect- Abrams represents the political clout of who assumed a toss-up Democratic target in 2020. ing the party's hope to win Black women. environment was several Democrats also flipped at future elections with ap"understand the power and elections away. Her 1.92 least a dozen state legpeals to women and people prowess and contributions million votes were about islative seats across the of color. He's also signaling of Black women ...and the party's desire to make inroads in the diversifying NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR South and Sun Belt after disappointing losses there Project LEAP 2019 during last year's midterms. Project LEAP (Learning, Empowerment, Advocacy, Participation) is a free 17 week training course for individuals living with or affected by HIV. The purpose of Abrams, 45, represents Project LEAP is to train people to become active participants on local HIV planning the growing political clout bodies. Topics covered include history of HIV in the Houston area, local HIV of Black women. That's trends, services for people living with HIV and much, much more! something Schumer wants to tap into by recruiting her Classes are 4 hours on Wednesdays  April through July to compete in next year's 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. -or- 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Georgia Senate race, a A brief application and in person interview are required decision that could have Application Deadline: Friday, March 1st at 5:00 p.m. national implications for If you have questions about the program or would like to request an Democrats if she successapplication by mail, please contact Diane Beck at fully flips the seat and, 832 927-7926 or diane.beck@hctx.net in the process, turns out Or apply online: www.surveymonkey.com/r/P-LEAP2019 enough voters to make the Deep South state competiRYAN WHITE PLANNING COUNCIL OFFICE OF SUPPORT tive at the presidential level. 2223 West Loop South, Suite 240; Houston, TX 77027 Phone 713 572-3724 Fax 713 572-3724 TTY 713-572-2813 www.rwpcHouston.org Schumer and others Defender News Services

northern Atlanta suburbs, mirroring trends in metro areas across the country. Yet for all Abrams' star power, the juxtaposition with Trump could highlight Democrats' struggles among white voters outside metro areas, where Trump draws his strongest support.

During her gubernatorial campaign, Abrams emphasized the importance of Medicaid expansion to Georgia's rural hospitals, trying to reach both smalltown white voters and the considerable Black populations in central and southern Georgia.

Mrs. Alma Baldwin Feb. 7, 2019 is your Birthday in Heaven above. As you celebrate with the angels, we are sending our blessings on the wings of a dove, not just for today, but every day hereof.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY From Your Loving Husband & Children You will be forever missed!! But never forgotten!!

Sunrise: Feb. 7, 1937 - Sunset: Oct. 30, 2018

classifieds ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS

HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT DOWNTOWN SECURITY OFFICER PROGRAM

The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed proposals for the Downtown Security Officer Program, located in Downtown Houston. Proposals will be received until 2:00 PM, local time on Thursday, February 28, 2019 by the Director of Operations & Capital Projects, Downtown District, 1119 Milam, Houston, Texas 77002. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted. Beginning Thursday, February 7, 2019, the Request for Proposals (RFP) may be viewed and downloaded as an electronic file from the District’s website: http://www.downtowndistrict.org. Queries or request for information will be addressed by the Downtown District pursuant to the instructions provided in the RFP.

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FEBRUARY 7 | 2019 | DEFENDER

Doug Young

Bellaire High guard possesses clutch gene

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

f there is one word to describe Bellaire High School guard Doug Young, it would be “clutch.” When the game is on the line, Young doesn’t just want the ball in his hands, he demands it. Time after time Young displayed the ice water in his veins scoring 16 points in the victory over Westside, and 31 points in the loss against No. 4 area-ranked Sam Houston. Young’s confidence and lack of fear of the moment speaks volumes. Bellaire coach Bruce Glover pointed out what makes Young so special. Bellaire’s Doug Young demonstrated his skills against Lamar. “Doug does a really good (Photos by Jimmie Aggison) job for us,” Glover said. “He has some noise in the playoffs? been with us for four years and Young: Being tough. Toughness has now it’s his time. Doug relishes his role as a been the key word for us the whole year. Beleader. He is the first one in and the last one ing able to grind out games. Also, I think it is out, leading the team on and off the court. crucial that when it comes down to the wire, He is a work in progress and we are proud of we learn to control the games and win. where he is.” The Defender spoke with Young about his playing style, keys to success DefenderNetwork.com and love of the game. See high school basketball highlights Defender: How would you describe your style of play as a guard? Young: Being able to spread the floor, open up for guys, being able to knock down open shots, create for others, and being a team player and a leader. Defender: What have been your keys to success so far? Young: Personally, doing everything I can to help us win. Whether that is defending, scoring or anything my coaches ask me to do, I am going to do it. Defender: Where does that clutch gene you have come from? Young: Preparation from years of playing. Being a freshman on varsity and getting the playing time as a sophomore as a young kid, I didn’t have to dribble the ball as much and I could just shoot. Now that it is my time to step up as a senior guard, I have to help younger players out who need help controlling the ball in getting these wins Twitter: @doughoops1 like this. College commitment: Defender: How did you fall in love with Uncommitted the game of basketball? Favorite subject: English Young: From playing around the park Favorite Food: Fried chicken with my friends, playing with family and NBA Players You Watch: just growing up around the game and staying Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving, around it in the gym. Steph Curry Defender: What is it going to take for World problem he would Bellaire to close the season strong and make solve: “Poverty and death where I come from” Shout-outs: “God, my mama, my family, friends and Hiram Heights basketball player P.J. Clarke, Texas” Neil is a sophomore, not a senior.

About Young

Correction

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

sports

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Patriot defense key to Super Bowl win

Patriot linebacker Dont'a Hightower said hard work led to New England’s 13-3 win over the Los Angeles Rams in the Super Bowl.

Flores – newly named Miami Dolphins head coach – is considered one of the top young defensive minds in the game. Coupled with defensive genius Bill BelichTLANTA – Super Bowl 53 ick, you just knew the Pats would devise a scheme to was billed as an epic rematch slow down the high-flying Ram offense. of Super Bowl 36 held in Belichick, a man of few words, gave the secret 2002 in New Orleans. Back to the Patriots defensive success in two words – team then, Bill Belichick and his defense. lightly regarded quarterback “There is not one guy that can stop the Rams,” Tom Brady faced the high-powered offensive he said. “They have too many good players, too juggernaut, the St. Louis Rams, known as “the many explosive guys and they're too well coached. Greatest Show on Turf.” We played the run competitively. I felt we rushed the The Patriots won that game 20-17 on a passer competitively. I thought we covered competilast-second field goal. It was New England’s tively. We didn't give up big plays, which they hit on first Super Bowl title. Little did we know that everybody. For the most part we kept the ball in front we were witnessing the beginning of an NFL of us and forced them to execute a solid number of dynasty featuring the greatest head coach and plays to move the ball. Eventually, we were able to quarterback tandem in league history. get some stops. I thought our third-down defense was Coach Bill Belichick’s Patriots have now won Brian Flores, New England’s defensive playFast forward 17 years to Super Bowl 53 competitive. Those shortened some drives and got us six Super Bowl titles. caller, is the new Miami head coach. (LIII) in Atlanta. Fans were expecting an offenoff the field.” sive explosion between the Patriots and the now An international fan base was expecting an offensive Linebacker Dont'a Hightower, the Patriots defenLos Angeles Rams. But the 13-3 final score was the lowest spectacle. Instead they got a defensive masterpiece that left sive leader, explained how they were able to dominate such a scoring output in Super Bowl history. some fans wondering what happened. potent Rams offense. The Rams entered the contest with one of the most In retrospect, it’s not hard to believe. Both teams featured “Whenever you work as hard as we do, are dedicated, explosive offenses in the league, averaging over 30 points per defensive coordinators with Super Bowl pedigrees. got guys who come in and work hard, who are willing to game. Brady, universally acclaimed as the greatest QB of all Rams defensive coordinator Wade Phillips has long sacrifice their time away from their family, their loved ones, time, is 41. After losing a close Super Bowl LII to the Philabeen considered one of the NFL’s great strategists. Give him who are willing to do whatever each and every week to make delphia Eagles many feared the Patriots as a team and Brady weapons like two-time Defensive Player of the Year Aaron plays, you expect that,” Hightower said. as a quarterback had lost their mojo over the NFL. Donald, tackle Ndamukong Suh, ends Michael Brockers and “We did what we needed to do and how we needed to Brady thrived on the doubt that fans and media alike had Dante Fowler and corners Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib and play,” he said. “We have done a good job in these last couple about his team and its ability to win big games. He constantly you get the picture. of months playing the way we wanted to play. We had to reminded everyone that, “We’re still here.” Patriots defensive play-caller and linebacker coach Brian come out and be physical and play on our side of the ball.”

By MAX EDISON Defender

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FEBRUARY 7 | 2019 | DEFENDER

HS sports

SOUTHSIDE RAVENS Team brings ‘Super Bowl’ to Cuney Homes By JODIE B. JILES Defender

s the New England Patriots celebrate their recent Super Bowl victory, Houston has its own version of biggame champions. One of the city’s best kept secrets, the Southside Ravens football program has its roots in Third Ward’s Cuney Homes. The team is led by head coach James Walker and team president Nakesha Boone and defeated the Mo City Jaguars to win their youth league “Super Bowl.” With 90 percent of the team coming from public housing, the program provides the kids with positive resources needed to overcome the adversities some of them face. The Defender spoke with Walker about the program and the impact it is making on and off the field in the

lives of young athletes. Defender: What were the keys to success in the championship run? Walker: Working as a team. Our motto we use is, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” Everyone understands that we are all on a team and I make sure to teach them why they need to understand their roles in order for us to move together as a unit…Unity is huge. Defender: How has the program helped the kids involved? Walker: The program has helped because [it] is a little bigger than football. It’s not just about the sport. Ninety percent of the kids come from shattered homes and can’t afford to play, so our jobs is a little tougher than a usual little league football team. We are more than just coaches to these kids, we are fathers. We have to go to school to check on them, deal with them, redirect them.

The Ravens also have a team with 7-and-8-year-olds that won the Super Bowl in their age group.

Coach James Walker and the Southside Ravens 4-to-6-year-olds display their trophies.

We are not just hands-on on the field but off the field as well because we want them to understand we truly love and care about them. Defender: What are some of the success stories you have seen? Walker: One kid was struggling emotionally, not understanding why his situation wasn’t what the other kids’ situations were. At school, he would hear other kids brag about things they did with their parents or did with their dad, and he was struggling with that. He became a part of the football team and had a couple of breakdowns, lashing out, but by the end of the season he was a leader and a captain on the team. At the end of the season he understood that your situation doesn’t determine

who you need to be. And that spoke volumes to me. Defender: What can Houstonians do to help the program? Walker: Because of our success, we've been invited to a higher-level league with higher-level players, better teams and better competition. So, this year our age 6-and-under guys that have been winning championships usually playing flag football will now be in another league playing tackle. We definitely need new helmets and we have been trying to put some money together to get a small van to transport the children that don’t have transportation. For more information on how to help call 346-401-0319 or 713-4050198.

Walker offers encouragement on the Ravens’ sideline.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 7 | 2019

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

topevents

HAULYP’S ANNUAL CASINO NIGHT……..The Houston Area Urban League national entrepreneurs, leaders, and those that are excelling in the community. Young Professionals recently hosted the 6th Annual Casino Night, “Noir: A Night The evening started with a star-studded red-carpet experience, which consisted of Black Excellence,” at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. The event brought of the 2019 honorees, sponsors and familiar faces such as Houston’s own Mayor together Houstonians to raise funds in support of HAUL and HAULYP’s service Sylvester Turner, comedian/artist Lil Duval, TV Johnny, Chamillionaire, efforts including youth enrichment, education, small business development, former Miami Dolphins player Alphonso Roundtree, television hostess Julissa first-time homebuyers and health awareness. Funds raised at Noir go toward Bermudez, singer Tobe Nwigwe, Justin Martin of IJustGotHit.com and wife Shannon supporting underserved communities. Great casino Martin, Percy and Cheryl Creuzot and a host of others……..HCC games, entertainment, food and networking were enjoyed FOLLOW-UP COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS…….. Houston Defender TOP EVENTS by attendees, including event coordinator Christen Community College recently hosted a follow-up conversation with the More photos on defendernetwork.com Blackledge, Gary Miller, Deion Dorsett, Genae community regarding the future of education in Houston. The event PHOTOS BY: Aswad Walker Wilburn, Jalisa Ray, Taisha Walker (KPRC), Paige attracted individuals from across the Greater Houston area interested in Hubbard, Casaundra and Jeremy Johnson, Dr. Gwendolyn Alfred, Elizabeth getting updates on education at all levels – K-12, undergraduate and graduate school. The Fletcher, Samantha Williams, Chalice Ebow and many others……..SLIM event was held at HCC West Houston Institute. Attendees included Susan Hines, Colleen THUG’S ANNUAL BOSSLIFE BALL……..It was a night filled with glitz and Reilly, HCC Assistant Vice Chancellor Michael Edwards, HCC Vice Chancellor Kurt glam as the city’s finest came out to help Slim Thug, Corey Crawford, Troy Ewen, Frances Dyess Casteneda, Sidney Lacey, Marina Coryat, Maritza Guerrero, Green and the Boss Life Foundation celebrate the 6th annual Boss Life Ball. Held Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and scores more. The founder of The Imani School is at the Post Oak Hotel, the celebration highlighted some of the area’s top local and Windsor Viillage UMC Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell.

Gary Miller, Christen Blackledge

Slim Thug

Kurt Ewen, Sidney Lacey

Elizabeth Fletcher, Samantha Williams, Chalice Ebow

Chamillionaire

Dr. Michael Edwards and attendees

Jalisa Ray, Genae Wilburn

Justin Martin

Susan Hines, Colleen Reilly

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