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Volume 86 | Number 14

FEBRUARY 9, 2017 |FREE

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NEWSTALK SANDRA BLAND legislation moves forward

P2 NATIONAL OMAROSA MANIGAULT to draft HBCU plan

P3 H.S. ZONE DARIUS WEATHERS shines at Sterling H.S.

SECRETS TO SUCCESSFUL

RELATIONSHIPS H PAGE 8

P15 TOP EVENTS

Turner Caldwell, Kirbyjon Caldwell and Aeneas Williams at the Johnnie Cochran Jr. Salute to Excellence Awards gala.

P16

Raoul Peck

showcases documentary James Baldwin is one of the most acclaimed writers of our time. And now, director Raoul Peck is bringing one of his most poignant offerings, “I Am Not Your Negro,” to the screen in his Oscar-nominated documentary.

Tony Wyllie

creates TSU award He is one of the most decorated executives amongst NFL franchises, now the TSU grad is giving back with the Pioneer Award, a scholarship for seniors who are on the are on the threshold of graduation and have literally run out of funds.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017

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newstalk

Sandra Bland Act

House committee lays foundation

Defender News Services

ourteen recommendations in the Texas House County Affairs Committee’s recent report to lawmakers – including calls for them to increase police officer training for de-escalation and mental health awareness, to back jail-to-treatment diversion programs, and eliminate consent searches during stops – will be the foundation for the Sandra Bland Act. State Rep. Garnet Coleman, D-Houston, announced last year that he would file the bill to address race, poverty, mental health and accountability in law enforcement and corrections. In 2015, former Texas Department of Public Safety trooper Brian Encinia stopped Sandra Bland in Prairie View after she failed to signal a lane change. Bland’s conversation with the arresting officer became heated, and she was arrested for assaulting a public servant. Bland, a 28-year-old Illinois woman, was found dead in her Waller County Jail cell three days after her arrest, sparking concerns about jail conditions and outrage across the country. Her death was ruled a suicide by hanging. Though it’s legal, it doesn’t make sense for someone to be arrested because of a traffic violation or for a stop like Bland’s to escalate into an arrest, Coleman said. “If you look at Sandra Bland, the incident that led to her death – that’s all you have to look at,” said Coleman, who was the County Affairs chairman last session. Committee assignments for the 2017 session have not been announced. If a driver’s tail light is out, or they cross over the yellow line, no matter how briefly, the law says they are jailable offenses, so we have to remove that from the statute,” Coleman said. “[Encinia] was well within his right to [arrest Bland], and that’s where we’re running into the problem,” he

Sandra Bland

said. “It’s baked in the cake. Injustice is baked into the cake.” Other proposals from the committee include eliminating consent searches and raising the threshold for stops to something higher than the current “probable cause” and “reasonable suspicion.” Kevin Lawrence, executive director of the Texas Municipal Police Association, said his organization would oppose such changes. “It’s folly,” Lawrence said. “The whole premise

behind it is the argument that the individuals are not truly consenting [to be searched], that somehow the officers are goading or tricking or whatever into consenting.” Lawrence said changing the standards for stops and searches would help defense attorneys confuse juries. “The standards are set,” he said. “The Fourth Amendment has worked well for 240 years now, and so tinkering with it at this point just because you’re trying to appease a constituency, not a good idea in our opinion.”

localbriefs HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL APPROVED BUDGET SUPPORT for arts and cultural programs in 2017, along with an increase in grant funding available to small organizations. More than 250 local nonprofit arts and cultural organizations will present a wide range of offerings this year for people of all ages, including numerous free activities. Through a contract for the support, advancement and promotion of the arts with four agencies – Houston Arts Alliance, The Houston Museum District Association, Miller Theatre Advisory Board and Theater District Improvement – the City of Houston invests in cultural development and enhances tourism. The approved

plans authorize the distribution of an estimated $15,425,000 by the four agencies in 2017……..HARRIS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AWARDED a $161,674 contract to a firm that will build sidewalks and pedestrian ramps near seven schools selected in Precinct One’s Safe Routes to School Program. Precinct One started the program last year to provide safety to students and parents walking to school in four districts – Houston, Spring, Aldine and Pasadena. Aranda Brothers Construction Co. will build sidewalks around six HISD campuses…….VETERANS WHO NEED LEGAL ADVICE or assistance can visit a free legal clinic on Saturday, Feb. 18, from

9 a.m. until noon, at the Texas City VA Outpatient Clinic, 9300 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway, Suite 206, Texas City. The clinic is a public service of the Galveston Bar Association and the Houston Bar Foundation’s Veterans Legal Initiative, a coalition of local bar associations that provide pro bono legal services to U.S. veterans in 18 counties in Texas. No appointment is necessary. Any veteran, or spouse of a deceased veteran, can receive one-on-one advice and counsel from a volunteer attorney in any area of law. Qualified veterans who need ongoing representation may be assigned a pro bono attorney to handle their case. Visit www.hba.org or call 713-759-1133.

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national

U.S.briefs AN OHIO PASTOR WHO SAID GANG LEADERS promised to “lower the body count” if social programs were enacted and they could meet with President Donald Trump is now saying he “misspoke.” Dr. Darrell Scott, who told Trump that the “gang’s top thugs” wanted to work with his administration, is saying that a lack of sleep caused him to make those comments and in actuality he only spoke with one former gang member..….. FLINT RESIDENTS’ CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT WAS THROWN OUT by a federal judge. The lawsuit had been filed by residents over how the state handled changes in the city’s water that led to a lead contamination crisis. The judge said “allowing claims to proceed would circumvent the SWDA (Safe Water Drinking Act).” The lawsuit was originally filed in 2015 against Gov. Rick Snyder, the City of Flint and other state and city officials that were involved in switching the city’s water system from Detroit to the corrosive Flint River, which resulted in high levels of lead being introduced into the city’s water supply…….PRESIDENT TRUMP IS TAKING CREDIT for the latest jobs report. He claimed credit for the nation’s improving jobs market after spending months on the presidential campaign trail accusing the Obama administration of promoting fake news about the unemployment rate. Employers increased hiring in January, adding a robust 227,000 jobs, and more Americans began looking for employment, signaling that Trump inherited a robust job market, compliments of the Obama administration……..THE HARVARD LAW REVIEW GETS ITS FIRST Black female president. The title now puts Imelme Umana in the company of former President Barack Obama, who held the position in 1990. The second-year Ph.D. candidate is interested in the intersection between African-American studies and government and hopes to examine the ways stereotypes about Black women are recreated and reinforced in American politics.

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 14 FEBRUARY 9, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby

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

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

Omarosa Manigault will present President Trump with a draft of an HBCU executive order.

Trump to sign executive order supporting HBCUs

Defender News Services

en Historically Black Colleges and Universities have been tapped to meet with President Donald Trump’s administration, after he reportedly plans to sign an executive order supporting HBCUs. The meeting will reportedly include GOP Congressional members and Omarosa Manigault, who is supposed to present the president with a draft of the executive order. Manigault, a former “Apprentice” contestant, is Trump’s director of African-American outreach. Though the final list of schools hasn’t been released, several heads of HBCUs will be invited to the nation’s capital to discuss ways to advance their respective institutions. Republicans said they will listen to the needs of universities and their students, while also learning how Congress can help Black colleges. The discussion, which is being called a “fly-in,” is co-hosted by Congressman Mark Walker (R-N.C.) and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.). It comes after Walker’s recently published video stating his wife is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University, an HBCU, and that he is personally invested in helping Black colleges. “We’re trying to bring people together and make connections and by doing that we hope that everyone succeeds and opportunities are granted and I think that’s the goal. It’s not to win any over, it’s to show that we care,” Walker’s spokesperson said. Discussions will take place at the Library of Congress on Feb. 28, the same day Trump is set to give his State of the Union address. According to Walker’s spokesperson, “There have been reports about Mr. Trump’s interest in

HBCUs. With the new administration coming in, we want to make sure that we start off on the right foot.” The Republican Party has faced criticism for its lack of diversity within the party and ignoring issues that face African-Americans; supporting historically Black colleges is just one of them. Trump only received 8 percent of the AfricanAmerican vote and has just one African-American in his cabinet, Dr. Ben Carson. The party’s membership is only 2 percent African-American, according to Gallup. Trump mentioned historically Black colleges in his “New Deal for Black America,” in which he announced last October that he would support funding for HBCUs. However, he has made no mention of it since. Walker’s office insists that the Republican Party is focused on helping the Black community and Black colleges, something some Republicans believe former President Obama did not do. “We’ve done a bad job of not only representing all communities but [also just listening]. It doesn’t take much energy and effort just to listen,” Walker’s spokesperson said. “I think there’s opportunity because the relationship with the previous administration wasn’t very strong, so we see an opportunity to reach out to listen, to help.” During his time in office, Obama’s administration invested more than $4 billion in HBCUs. In 2016, Obama proposed a $30 million dollar Innovation for Completion Fund for HBCUs that would help students from low-income backgrounds overcome challenges and make it to graduation day. The Department of Education said 1 million more African-American and Latino students enrolled in college under the Obama administration.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

Historic Black lawman, Bass Reeves – the real Lone Ranger By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Blacks have a much longer history in law enforcement than many realize. In fact, one of the most revered lawmen in U.S. history, was a Black man named Bass Reeves, who the legend of “The Lone Ranger” was based upon. Reeves was a deputy U.S. marshal who became famous for his ability to successfully hunt down Bass Reeves outlaws while riding a white horse and giving away his trademark silver coins, all while being accompanied by his Native American lawman. Reeves was born into slavery

in 1838. However, his “master” brought Reeves with him to serve as a personal servant while fighting with the Confederate Army, during the Civil War. During the chaos of war, Reeves managed to escape to freedom, after beating his “master” within an inch of his life, or killing him. Various sources differ here. But what is agreed upon is that Reeves fled to the then Indian Territory of today’s Oklahoma and lived harmoniously among the Seminole and Creek Nations. After the Civil War, Reeves married and fathered 10 children, while becoming the first Black to hold the position deputy U.S. marshal.

Chris B.

Brown

Houston City Controller

Salutes Black History Month and the Many Contributions of the African-American Community to Our City & Beyond!

City Controller Chris B. Brown City Hall, 901 Bagby, 6th Floor P.O. Box 1562, Houston, Texas 77251 T. 832.393.3460  F. 832.393.3411 E. controllers@houstontx.gov

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FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Black History Month events American Studies Dept. at Howard University, at 11:30 a.m. at Agnes Arnold Hall, Room 210. She will speak on the topic “Africana Students and Gender: NonAligned Women and the Politics of Feminism.” Contact: www.uh.edu or 713-743-2811.

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

Missouri City will

celebrate its third annual Black History Month Celebration from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy. Performers include Angel Taylor, formerly of Trin-I-Tee 5:7. Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15 perform during a 1:30 p.m. The Houston celebration of culture, and Step Rideau Wade Smith Bubbha Thomas Public Library presents the Fort Bend Academy of Bubbha Thomas and entertains at 3 p.m. The heart-pounding performance Arts & Dance performs during the Jazz & Poetry Series at 10 a.m. at Lakewood and workshop will explore and engage in African a 5:30 p.m. dance showcase. There will be food, Neighborhood Library, 8815 Feland. The series has cultures. Admission is $12 and free for museum art, a photo booth and face-painting. Contact: www. been presented to more than 1.5 million students members and children under 1. Contact: www. missouricitytx.gov or 281-403-8500. across Texas. Set in story form, the presentation cmhouston.org or 713-522-1138. The Children’s Museum of Houston, 1500 spans the styles of popular music with an emphasis Binz, hosts two events. Author and former Houston on prominent figures in the history of jazz. Texans player Wade Smith will read from his book, TUESDAY, FEB. 14 Thomas is a noted drummer and founder of Jazz “Smitty Hits the Books,” at 1 p.m. The event will The University of Houston AfricanEducation Inc. Contact: www.houstonlibrary.org be followed by a meet-and-greet book signing. American Studies Lecture Series presents Dr. or 832-393-2530. Koumankele Dance Company and Drum Ensemble Valethia Watkins, an assistant professor in the AfroT:9.75”

your first role models. This Black History Month, AARP celebrates those who came rst and helped show future generations how Real Possibilities can be turned into realities.

To learn more, visit aarp.org/houston

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP.

T:6.5”

Get involved by volunteering around town or connect with new people at one of our events. There are tons of ways you can tap into your community to help create exciting futures for everyone here in Houston.

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017

entertainment

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Raoul Peck

Documentary director profiles James Baldwin

By KAM WILLIAMS Contributing Writer

aoul Peck’s complex body of work includes feature narrative films like “The Man by the Shore,” “Lumumba,” “Sometimes in April,” “Moloch Tropical” and “Murder in Pacot.” His documentaries include “Lumumba: Death of a Prophet,” “Desounen” and “Fatal Assistance.” Peck, a native of Haiti, recently completed shooting his latest feature film, “The Young Karl Marx,” a European co-production, shot in Germany and Belgium, and produced by Velvet Film in conjunction with Agat Films. Here, he talks about his latest offering, ”I Am Not Your Negro,” an Oscar-nominated documentary about writer/social critic James Baldwin (1924-1967), the author of such classics as “Go Tell It On the Mountain,” “The Fire Next Time” and “Another Country.” Kam Williams: What interested you in James Baldwin? Raoul Peck: I started to read James Baldwin very early on in my life. At a time, as a young adult in the ‘60s, when there were not that many authors in whom I could recognize myself, he was an important guide and mentor to me as he was to many others. He helped me understand who I was and decipher the world around me. He gave me the words to defend myself and the argumentative rhetoric to master discussions with others. Raoul Peck KW: Where do you think he stands in the pantheon of African-American 20th century thinkers? his particular and original language. At his funeral, Toni Morrison RP: I think that James Baldwin is, for sure, one of the said of him, “You gave me a language to dwell in, a gift so perfect it most important American writer/thinkers of his time... not just seems my own invention.” Indeed, he’s opened the door for many of African-American. He singled-handily revolutionized the politithe brightest generation of young authors of many different origins. cal, artistic and historical discourses about America. He created KW: How would you describe Baldwin to millennials and

others substantially unaware of him? RP: James Baldwin is one of the greatest, North American writers of the second half of the 20th century. A prolific writer and a brilliant social critic, he foreshadowed the destructive trends happening now in the whole Western world and beyond, while always maintaining a sense of humanistic hope and dignity. He explored palpable, yet unspoken, intricacies of racial, sexual, and class distinctions in Western societies and the inevitable, if unnamable, tensions with personal James Baldwin identity, assumptions, uncertainties, yearning and questing. He had an unrivaled understanding of politics and history and, above all, the human condition. His prose is laser sharp. His onslaught is massive and leaves no room for response. Every sentence is an immediate cocked grenade. You pick it up, then realize that it is too late. It just blows up in your face. And yet he still managed to stay human, tender, accessible. There will hardly be anything as precise, as just, as subtle or as percussive, then the writing of this man. KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? RP: Don’t! But seriously, I really can’t give any general advice. Maybe, just try to be yourself and resist complacency and ignorance. All you can do is work, work, work and be disciplined. Watch a lot of films, especially the classics, and read all kinds of books, and lots of them. There are no free rides, nor short cuts in this world. “The Voice” and “The Bachelorette” are very poor examples to model your life with. And there are only one or two geniuses every century. “

what’sup What pregnancy? BEYONCÉ will take to the stage at the 2017 Grammy Awards, just days after she and JAY Z announced that they are expecting twins. Bey is the leading nominee for the awards show, with nine nominations this year, including Album of the Year for “Lemonade” and Record of the Year for “Formation.” In all, she has had 62 nominations over her lifetime, making her the most-nominated female artist in Grammy history. The Grammys will air Feb. 12 on CBS…….. Singer FAITH EVANS will release an album of duets with her late husband, the NOTORIOUS B.I.G., 20 years after his murder in Los Angeles. Evans, who most likely has owner-

ship of Biggie’s masters and unreleased work, will debut “The King & I” on May 19……..Universal has just released the trailer for “Girls Trip,” which stars QUEEN LATIFAH, JADA PINKETT SMITH, REGINA HALL and TIFFANY HADDISH. It tells the story of four friends who head to New Orleans together for the Essence festival. It looks to be a story of friendships, hilarity and mayhem…….LARENZ TATE is set for a recurring role on the upcoming fourth season of Starz’s hit drama series “Power.” Tate will play Councilman Rashad Tate, a politician from Jamaica Queens. “Power” follows James “Ghost”

St. Patrick (OMARI HARDWICK), a drug kingpin living a double life who will seek redemption. “Power” returns for its fourth season this summer……..The bromance between KANYE WEST and PRESIDENT TRUMP appears to be over. The rapper has seemingly scrubbed his Twitter account of any mention of his December meeting with Trump, as well as his tweets supporting Trump. No word on why…..…After the success of the New Edition biopic on BET, many wonder who would be next. Well, MR. DALVIN of the R&B group JODECI, says their story is in the works with Vh1.

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FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017

SECRETS TO SUCCESSFUL

RELATIONSHIPS By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

Two couples shed light on love

alentine’s Day is Tuesday, Feb. 14, a day devoted to love. Couples who have seen the peaks and valleys of a relationship know better than anyone what it takes to make it succeed. Maintaining a warm and loving relationship takes work. The Defender spoke with two Houston couples from different generations – one married and one engaged – to get their thoughts and advice on love.

Pastor Ed & Saundra Montgomery

Dr. Montgomery, founder and pastor of Abundant Life Cathedral, has been married to his wife for 40 years. The two met as teenagers in a church in Cleveland, Ohio, where they each sang in two different gospel choirs before Saundra Montgomery’s mother introduced her to him. He is an author, musician and songwriter. She is an author, life coach and inspirational speaker who has worked alongside her husband for 30 years. “Marriage first and foremost is a spiritual relationship,” Dr. Montgomery said. “It works best when two people are connected individually to God, walking with Him, obeying Him in the Scripture, and praying as individuals and as a couple. “If you push the spiritual element to the side, you are ignoring the very God who created marriage and the One who can help you make it work.” Saundra Montgomery said she has maintained their relationship like one would tend a garden with three tips her mother taught her. “My mother taught me three components that I use today,” she said. “The first is communication and being each other’s best friends. The second is giving him space. He likes to travel, attend speaking engagements, and further his ministry, and I know how important that is to him so I allow him the space and time to fulfill his dreams.” Her third component for a successful relationship involves

knowing how to cook. “It sounds cliché, but the truth is, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” she said with a laugh. While their marriage started off in bliss, they’ve faced various challenges and hardships through the years, including one of the most heartbreaking things a couple can experience – the death of a child. “We have two adult sons, Eddie and Simeon,” Dr. Montgomery said. “But our daughter, Angela, passed away at the tender age of 14 after a long battle with cancer.” Creating an “honesty space” is how he and his wife work through their troubles. He said communication is a key piece in healthy relationships, especially during the rough patches. “To keep the lines of communication open to move forward, my wife and I created an honesty space, which is us sitting in the living room, in two chairs facing one another, and airing out our difficulties,” he said. “This is where we take turns speaking and respecting the other’s thoughts and opinions, and then working it all out.” In addition, Saundra Montgomery believes that as a wife, maintaining one’s appearance is important. “Whatever my husband likes, I try to accommodate,” she said. “If he likes a certain perfume, I’d wear it. If he likes a certain style of dress, I’d wear that as well. It’s all about keeping up with whatever he likes and vice versa.” Keeping up your appearance not only can make your spouse happy, it can keep the excitement going, she said. “Knowing your partner, understanding and valuing their true selves is critical,” he added. “My wife and I try to make every day one full of love and we don’t take each other for granted.”

Philip Turner & Brianna Sims

Houstonians Philip Turner and Brianna Sims are planning an October wedding after dating for four years. He is a technology specialist for a credit card processing company and she is a beauty

Pastor Ed & Saundra Montgomery

advisor at H-E-B. He said honesty and compassion are crucial in a relationship. “It’s all about putting yourself in the other’s shoes and trying to understand how they feel,” he said. The Texas Southern University graduates met through a mutual friend at church one Sunday morning and continued their relationship on TSU’s campus. Sims said it was Turner’s personality that first caught her attention. “He had a contagious sense of humor,” she said. “Whenever he laughed, I found myself smiling as well.” Sims says their relationship began after developing a close friendship, one that involves God and being true to each other.

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Keys to a healthy relationship According to the American Psychology Association, with more than 40 percent of new marriages ending in divorce, it’s clear that relationships aren’t always easy. Keys to a healthy relationship include:

1 2

Talk openly. It’s important to talk about more than just parenting and maintaining the household. Try to spend a few minutes each day discussing deeper or more personal subjects to stay connected to your mate over the long term.

Resolve disagreements constructively. Disagreements are part of any partnership, but some fighting styles are particularly damaging, such as yelling, resorting to personal criticisms or withdrawing from the discussion. Be considerate during disagreements and attempt to find out exactly what your partner is feeling.

Keep it interesting. Between kids, careers and outside commitments, it can be difficult to stay connected. Plan regular date nights. Try new things, whether it’s going dancing, taking a class together or going on an afternoon picnic.

Stay intimate. Sex is a critical component. Some busy couples actually find it helpful to schedule sex by putting it on the calendar. Setting aside time for an intimate encounter helps ensure that your physical and emotional needs are met.

Know when to seek help. One sign of a problem is having repeated versions of the same fight over and over. Counseling can help couples improve communication and find healthy ways to move beyond conflict.

Philip Turner & Brianna Sims

“We have a deep friendship that comes first before our relationship where we can be complete goofballs around one another and joke like brother and sister,” she said. “It’s the ‘little things’ that truly matter for us, whether it’s leaving small notes for one another, sending random text messages throughout the day, getting dressed up and going out as a couple. “Whether it’s to a club or a formal function, we just like enjoying each other’s company.” Turner said it’s important to be able to comfortably confide in one another without being judged. “In the beginning we both wanted to express and communicate to each other in full details and not leave any parts of a story out,” he

he Houston area for over 85 years

said. “If there was ever a problem, I didn’t want someone to tell her anything that I had not already told her myself.” Sims said she relates to the “five love languages” made popular by author Dr. Gary Chapman – words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service and physical touch. “I need words of affirmation from him daily,” she said. “On the other hand, he needs physical touch and quality time.” Sims added that “nipping it in the bud” immediately is imperative in terms of communication. “When either one of us has something on our chest, we let the other know why we feel a certain way,” she said. “You can’t expect or assume for your partner to know what’s wrong with you by your

actions or mood swings. You have to communicate to them why you feel that way, and express to them what made you feel that way from the start.” Turner said couples need to keep outsiders out of the relationship as well. “When we are upset, we don’t spill it all on social media which will only give room for others to be in the middle of our business,” he said. “That’s a sure way of ruining something good.” Couples shouldn’t rush into anything either, Sims added. “Get to know him or her first,” she said. “Become friends first. Know yourself and love who you are, because if you don’t love yourself, how can you expect for someone else to do so?”

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

health

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

Fight the odds of kidney failure

in the United States. It’s not surprising then that African-Americans are more likely f you shake your family to develop kidney failure from high tree, chances are pretty good blood pressure or diabetes than other you’ll turn up someone racial groups. We’re not sure exactly with kidney failure. In fact, why. Recent research shows genetic African-Americans are more differences may play a part. than twice as likely to have kidney One of the most important risk failure than other racial groups, and factors for kidney disease is family 1-in-3 people with kidney failure in history. Drug use, HIV, sickle cell the United States is Black. Living Alfreda Bell, M.D., F.A.A.F.P. disease and being more than 60 years a healthy lifestyle and working closely with your doctor can help you avoid being a old also can increase the possibility of kidney problems. statistic. By ALFREDA BELL, M.D., F.A.A.F.P.

What’s behind the numbers?

Diabetes is one of the main causes of kidney failure among African-Americans. Almost 5 million Black adults have diabetes, about 1-in-3. The second leading cause of kidney failure is high blood pressure, which also is the leading cause of death because it can lead to heart attacks and stroke. High blood pressure is more common in African-Americans than other ethnic groups. In fact, the rate of high blood pressure in AfricanAmericans is among the highest of any ethnic group

Know the facts about kidney disease

With such dangerous statistics, AfricanAmericans need to pay close attention to kidney health. Prevention and early diagnosis of high blood pressure and diabetes are key. Here are some suggestions I share with my patients. Have the “kidney talk” with your family. Ask your parents, siblings, aunts and uncles if anyone in the family has high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease. Be proactive about prevention. If you don’t

have high blood pressure or diabetes, work to keep it that way. • Eat a healthy diet with low salt and low fat. • Stay in shape with exercise, if your doctor says it’s OK. • Watch your weight. • Don’t smoke or use tobacco. • Limit alcohol use. Team up with your doctor. Whether or not you have diabetes or high blood pressure, check in with your doctor regularly to be tested. Kidney disease usually has no signs until it is advanced, and then the only options might be a transplant or dialysis. It’s much smarter to nip problems in the bud. Do the right thing. If you have diabetes and/ or high blood pressure, keep them under control to avoid complications. Visit your doctor regularly and take prescribed medications. Dr. Alfreda Bell is a board-certified Family Medicine physician at Kelsey-Seybold. She cares for her patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Spring Medical and Diagnostic Center. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bell, call Kelsey-Seybold’s 24-hour Contact Center at 713-442-0000.

Get KelseyConnected

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FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Obamacare repeal hurts Black women Defender News Service

According to recent data, Black women stand to lose the most if the Affordable Care Act is repealed. This demographic is more susceptible to diabetes, uterine fibroids, obesity, high-blood pressure, domestic abuse and sexual assault than any other. Many Black women also have children who depend on them for their health care, since Black women are more likely to be sole providers for their household. Obamacare reduced coverage disparities for a number of Black women, allowing them to access routine health care treatment and check-ups with a primary care physician. The preventive care clause in the ACA has been life-changing for many Black women. It gives them better access to early cancer screenings. Black women are twice as likely as white women to die of cervical cancer and twice as likely to be diagnosed in the later stages of breast cancer. Historically, the government has paid attention to Black women’s health only when it’s convenient, said Joan Faber McAlister, an associate professor at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. “Black women’s health has been pretty much the lowest priority, almost has been completely invisible,”

McAlister said. “The only time we see a lot of attention to Black women’s health is when it’s being misrepresented to undermine social programs that don’t even primarily benefit Black women.” As of Jan. 1, 32 states had expanded Medicaid to include most low-income Americans. If President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans move forward with their plans to repeal Obamacare, that coverage will go away. So will the tax credits that help lower- and middle-class families afford insurance. Many of the

people hit hardest will be Black women. In all, 55 million women would lose access to no co-pay preventive services, including birth control, STI screenings, and life-saving preventive services such as breast cancer screenings and pap tests. Repealing the ACA has been a priority of the 115th Congress since they convened last month – despite the fact that they don’t have a viable replacement. “The GOP-led Senate is acting recklessly and with disregard for the more than 20 million people that would potentially lose their insurance if the ACA is repealed—increasing the uninsured rate for Black women by anywhere from 11 percent to 20 percent. We know there is not a replacement plan, and there will not be one anytime soon. And their personal vendetta against Planned Parenthood plain and simple is playing partisan politics with our healthcare,” said the National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell in a released statement. Women of color, low-income individuals, young people, LGBTQ-individuals and persons with disabilities are just a few of the vast majority of individuals that rely on the ACA for insurance coverage. “Our legislators have a responsibility to act in the best interest of the people. Repealing the ACA without a replacement is not in anyone’s best interest. Defunding Planned Parenthood is in no one’s best interest,” she added.

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HISD student goes to Grammys High School for the Performing and Visual Arts student Alexandria DeWalt’s dream to make music that the world will hear is coming true earlier than she imagined. DeWalt is among 32 talented high school students from across the country selected by the Grammy Foundation for the 2017 Grammy Camp-Jazz Session where young musicians are provided the opportunity to record an album together, perform for some of music’s biggest names, and attend the Grammy Awards ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 12 as guests of the Recording Academy. The program encourages high school students to pursue professional careers in the music industry and makes them eligible for more than $2 million in college scholarships made possible through the Grammy Foundation’s college partners. Alexandria DeWalt “I am overjoyed,” DeWalt said. “It is mind-blowing that I will be surrounded by some of the most extremely talented musicians. I am looking forward to making music with them, recording in the same studio as Nat King Cole, and of course going to the Grammys.” The HSPVA senior, who sings jazz and plays the saxophone and flute, is already in Los Angeles for the 10-day experience. The group will record the “Grammy Jazz 25” album at Capitol Studios, and the album will later be featured on iTunes, Amazon, and Rhapsody. They also will perform at the Grammy Celebration after-party. DeWalt started playing jazz at Parker Elementary School and continued her music studies at Meyerland Middle School. Her older brother, Adam DeWalt, an HSPVA graduate and Loyola University jazz student, inspired her to delve deeper into music. “Alexandria is an amazing young lady,” said HSPVA Principal Scott Allen. “She came to us as an instrumentalist, but she has blossomed in the area of vocal jazz. Watching her mature and grow over the last four years has been a joy.” After graduation, DeWalt plans to study vocal jazz and political science in college and has goals of performing on a worldwide music tour with her own group.

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FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Sunnyside academy receives $1 million grant Defender News Services

Pro-Vision Academy, a Sunnyside charter school, has received a grant for a new football stadium and track through the National Football League’s Super Bowl Legacy Grant program. The announcement of the $1 million grant by the NFL Foundation to Pro-Vision and 14 other community organizations was made Feb. 2 at the academy by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Houston Texans General Manager Rick Smith and leaders of the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee. “This is a significant day because it allows for Pro-Vision to get one step closer to our mission, which is to inspire hope and purpose in the lives of young people through access to academic, economic and social enrichment opportunities,” said Roynell Young, Pro-Vision founder and a former NFL player himself. “The most important thing for us, other than having a great event, is to have an impact, a longlasting impact, on the community,” Goodell said. “Roynell, you are the definition of character, of commitment. Your dedication to the community, to the kids in this community, your integrity, it’s really quite remarkable and inspiring.” The grant will allow Pro-Vision to begin work on a multi-purpose football stadium with a track and field that will be used not just by the Academy’s football team but also by the community, including the Pop Warner football program for youngsters and allowing everyone in the community to use the track for exercise.

Pro-Vision, in Southeast Houston, received a Super Bowl Legacy Grant from the NFL Foundation to build a new football stadium and track. Among those symbolically breaking ground for that project were NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (fifth from left) and ProVision Founder Roynell Young (sixth from left).

“As a key ingredient to a healthy community, you need healthy people in both mind and body,” said Young. “This investment will allow for this to happen.” The grant recipients were chosen based on their contribution to the community’s education, health and wellness. Ric Campo, chair of the host committee, said, “I have to tell you that at Pro-Vision, it was a trifecta. They connect with every one of those things.” Pro-Vision provides a holistic, rigorous educa-

tional model which seeks to develop self-esteem, job and study skills and a sense of social responsibility and ethics. Its goal is to provide life-changing programs that help young people achieve their full potential. Pro-Vision’s impact is felt every day when young people discover their unshakable purpose, when a mentor inspires a youth to succeed and persevere against all odds and when a community is transformed. So far, Pro-Vision has impacted the lives of 3,000 young men in its 20-year history.

Spring students compete in oratory contest Spring ISD elementary schools began celebrating Black History Month with an oratory contest for fourth and fifth-grade students held at McNabb Elementary School. “Black History Month is an opportunity for our campuses to recognize cultural diversity and the important role that civic leadership plays in our country,” said Dr. Jennifer Warford, elementary social studies director. “We chose to use an oratory contest to not only focus our students on those important topics but to also develop their writing and speaking skills.” Finalists from 14 campuses each presented a threeto-five-minute speech on the topic of “Barack Obama – Our First African-American President.” Six students advanced to the final round, which was broadcast by the district on Facebook Live. The winners were: First Place, Lance Williams, Winship Elementary School; second place Giovanni Brothers, McNabb Elementary School, and third place, Rodney Watson Jr., Beneke Elementary School.

Oratory contest winners were (l. to r.) Giovanni Brothers, Lance Williams and Rodney Watson Jr.

Spring ISD serves nearly 37,000 prekindergarten through 12th-grade students in a diverse and growing district located 20 miles

north of downtown Houston. The district’s 37 campuses include 18 schools constructed during the last decade.

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017

sports

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TSU alum creates award to aid students working with the Rams,” Wyllie recalled. “I had to look t’s safe to say for an example of what that most colto be like. Integrity, lege graduates honor, God-fearing, have a certain mentor, professional, level of pride in I could go on and on, their alma mater. After but those are adjecyou’ve struggled and tives that describe strived for at least four Kevin Warren. So it’s years to grab that often no surprise to where elusive sheepskin, he’s ascended profesthere’s a real emotional sionally. attachment to your “A pioneer sets school. the standard. With this For Tony Wyllie, award, we want to recTexas Southern Univerognize, going forward, sity class of 1993, that the men and women pride has manifested of color in the Naitself in the creation of tional Football League. the Pioneer Award to Therefore it’s fitting benefit TSU students. Kevin Warren be our Wyllie is one of the first recipient. He repmost honored execuresents what we’d like tives working with an everyone to be like.” NFL franchise and is For Warren, an currently senior vice Arizona native with Texas Southern University President Dr. Austin Lane (left) and Redskins executive Tony Wyllie (right) present the Pioneer Award to president of comparental roots that Vikings executive Kevin Warren. munications for the extend Marlin, Texas, Washington Redskins. receiving the award He was the Houston was humbling. Texans first VP of communications. “I’m honored, humbled to stand He and his staffs have earned the presbefore you today and receive this honor,” tigious Pete Rozelle Award, presented anWarren said. “I really don’t deserve this. nually by Pro Football Writers of America I really don’t think I’ve done anything to the best NFL public relations staff, five special. I’ve only done what my parents times during his career. He is the only exand grandparents raised my family to do. ecutive in the NFL to have won the award I’m proud of my relationship with Tony, with three different teams. going back to those years with the Rams. He carries the Texas Southern flag around Wyllie, a native of Brooklyn, worked the world and he’s proud of it.” in TSU’s sports information department ation and have literally run out of funds. This “Tony Wyllie has done a phenomenal thing, and interned with the Houston Oilers, San Diis an historic occasion because from this day ego Chargers and Dallas Cowboys. In addition to reach back to his alma mater, Texas Southern forward at every Super Bowl location we will to the Texans, he worked in communications University,” Lane said. “We are so proud of honor someone and raise money for the Texas with the Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams and Tenhim. On behalf of the TSU family I would like Southern Gap Fund.” nessee Titans. to congratulate Kevin for the excellent example “The Pioneer Award and its funds will help Wyllie explains the initiative behind his he has set for our students to model themselves our kids get from orientation to graduation,” creation of the Pioneer Award and the fundrais- TSU President Austin Lane acknowledged. after. We know that our students will benefit er associated with it. greatly from this annual award. “This will fill a financial gap which students “I wanted to create something that would “Kevin Warren is a great model for our usually have to finish to receive their degree.” celebrate the accomplishments of African students,” Lane continued. “His story today The inaugural award was presented to American executives in the NFL, as well as be was about persistence, stick-to-it-ness and most Kevin Warren, chief operating officer for the a way to raise funds to promote Texas Southern Minnesota Vikings. Warren is the highest rankimportantly grit. When he talked about his and help students in need. The funds raised will ing African-American in any of the NFL’s 32 obligation to pay it forward, his message rings go to the Gap Fund Scholarship. It will help volumes for all our students. He is a magnififranchises. TSU seniors that are on the threshold of graducent role model.” “I met Kevin back in 1997, when I was By MAX EDISON Defender

“The funds raised will go to the Gap Fund Scholarship. It will help TSU seniors who are on the threshold of graduation and have literally run out of funds.”

– Tony Wyllie

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h.s.zone Weathers a good fit for Sterling basketball opportunities waiting in both sports, the mostly A and B student isn’t quite ready to declare arius Weathwhich sport he will pursue on ers is still the collegiate level. weighing his “Basketball may be my options in the better sport, but I play both of aftermath of them to my highest potential,” National Signing Day. Weathers said. “I’m trying to As a two-sport standhelp my family out by getting a out at Houston’s Ross Shaw scholarship. Sterling High School, Weath“On the basketball court ers was the strong-armed we’re trying to get ourselves quarterback for the Raiders prepared for the playoffs,” playoff-bound football team. Weathers said. “I try to get all Now he’s working his my teammates involved so we magic on the basketball court can have a deep playoff run.” as a member of the Raiders’ Weathers began playing starting backcourt. basketball in eighth grade after The senior guard scored watching Cleveland Cavaliers a team-high 22 points in great LeBron James play on Sterling’s 75-68 victory over television. Milby at Barnett Fieldhouse “As I was watching him I to stay in hot pursuit of a thought to myself that I can do high playoff seeding in Dissome of the same things that trict 24-5A. he was doing,” Weathers said. “Darius had a very “[James] played basketball and good game,” said Sterling football at that stage. So I starthead coach Andrea Young. ed working hard on my game “Against a team that plays through the summers to become a zone [defense] we want to a better basketball player.” look for shots in certain areas Weathers believes his best Birth date – Aug. 4, 1998 on the floor. He did a good asset is a quick first step. He Birth sign – Leo job of getting to those spots enjoys playing for a coach that Favorite subject– Math and knocking down the shots. listens to his players and makes adjust“He is our leader. As he ments accordingly. Favorite meal – Seafood goes, we go,” Young said. “Yet “He had an injury in middle school Possible college major – he has to understand that he sets that set him back a little,” Young said. Mechanical engineering the tone for us. When he sets the “But he’s overcome it and gotten a lot or criminal justice tone as our leader, then everyone quicker. else will follow. Our supporting “There’s a college out there where Favorite meal – Ox tails, cast gets better when he plays at a Darius would be a good fit,” Young said. rice and gravy, cornbread high level.” “We just have to find the right spot for World problem he would Adept at finishing with either him. He’ll be a very good player for solve – Crime hand, Weathers possesses shootsomebody.” ing range that extends beyond the In the meantime, Weathers said three-point line. An eight-point this is a great time to be a student at second quarter against Milby enSterling High School. Its brand new building opened abled Sterling to carry a 41-27 edge into intermission. following the Christmas holidays. Two three-pointers in the third stanza allowed the “I love the new building, the new gym and I love Raiders to claim a 62-47 the environment,” Weathers advantage following three said. “For me to be in the first quarters. senior class to graduate from the See who won bragging rights With scholarship new building is exciting.” in Pearland By DARRELL ARDISON Defender

About Darius Weathers

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FEBRUARY 9 | 2017 | DEFENDER

sportsbriefs Patriots, Brady champs What more can you say, other than we all were witnesses to the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history. For that matter the greatest Super Bowl in the game’s 51-year history, performed by the greatest quarterback who ever played the game. The score, 34-28, was almost an afterthought. New England’s Tom Brady won his fifth Super Bowl ring. His stat line looked like it came from someone playing Madden, hyped on a double expresso. Brady was an astounding 43-62 for 466 yards passing. Patriots’ running back James White caught 14 passes for 110 yards with a receiving TD. White also ran for a two-point conversion. In addition, he rushed for two touchdowns, including the game winning TD in overtime. It’s only fitting that a game with that much excitement capped off a flawless performance by Houston as the host city.

Hall of Fame announced During Super Bowl weekend the NFL announced its latest class of inductees into the Hall of Fame. The Class of 2017 consists of kicker Morten Andersen, running back Terrell Davis, safety Kenny Easley, defensive end Jason Taylor, running back LaDainian Tomlinson, quarterback Kurt Warner and owner, president and general manager Jerry Jones. The Class of 2017 will be formally enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, Aug. 5. The ceremony is held at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton as a part of the spectacular Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week Powered by Johnson Controls.

Episcopal’s Wilson signs Marvin Wilson ended months of speculation on National Signing Day when the No. 1 high school football recruit in the nation committed to Florida State. The 6-foot-4, 329-pound defensive tackle from Houston’s Episcopal High School was one of eight of the top 10 recruits in Texas departing for colleges and universities outside of the Lone Star State. “When I was growing up, all the top talent stayed in state,” Wilson said. “Now everybody is going out of state. It’s our era. In a couple more years, I think everybody may start staying in state again. Right now it’s a different time.” Wilson’s other final choices were LSU, Ohio State, Oklahoma and South Florida. Offensive lineman Walker Little, Wilson’s teammate at Episcopal, is heading west to Stanford University. The highest-ranked Houston area product (25th nationally) to stay in Texas is Langham Creek running back Toneil Carter, who signed with Texas.

HTA event benefits youth The Houston Tennis Association and Tennis Express will host an event that provides free tennis and educational classes along with scholarship opportunities for the youth of Houston. The Game Set Match Gala and Tennis Fashion Show is Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Galleria, 2222 W. Loop South. USTA President Katrina Adams will be the featured speaker. The event raises funds to support the HTA National Junior Tennis & Learning youth development programs. More than 6,000 students ages 4 to 18 are served each year at over 60 local venues. Call 713-721-5515 for ticket information and sponsorship tables.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 9 | 2017

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

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JOHNNIE L. COCHRAN JR. SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS……..The media members. It was held in the Mickey Leland Public Affairs Building on the TSU campus. Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation (FPAF) hosted its 12th annual Johnnie L. Cochran Jr. Attendees included event host News One’s Roland Martin, Wharton School of Business Salute to Excellence Awards at the Kingdom Builder’s Center. The event, hosted by ESPN’s Professor Ken Shropshire, NFL Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams, Washington Redskins Josina Anderson and Defender Sports Editor Max Edison, honors individuals who display Senior VP Tony Wyllie, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, NFL players Anquan outstanding performances on the field, in front offices and classrooms across the U.S. The Boldin, Malcolm Jenkins, Rashad Jennings, Brandon Marshall, Benjamin Watson and Defender Network was among the sponsors. Award recipients included Texans General Andrew Hawkins, and many others……..SUPER BOWL GALA in H-TOWN……..The Manager Rick Smith, and a host of local high school athletes including K’lavon Chaisson Professional Football Players Mothers Association (PFPMA) hosted the Super Bowl Gala and Marvin Wilson. Attendees included NFL Commissioner Roger in H-Town at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Greenway Plaza. The nonGoodell, commentator Skip Bayless, FPAF officers John Wooten organization is dedicated to educating and informing moms about Defender TOP EVENTS profit and Harry Carson, NFL legend Doug Williams, Pastor Kirbyjon the business of professional football, and supporting charitable causes and More photos on defendernetwork.com Caldwell, and countless NFL Hall of Famers including Willie Lanier, the communities where their sons were reared and now live. The event Jackie Slater, Willie Brown, Ken Houston, Mel Blount, “Mean” featured live music, cocktails and fellowship. Attendees included PFPMA Joe Greene, Rayfield Wright and Art Shell ……..FROM PROTEST TO PROGRESS President Karen Hopkins, Ann Cockrell, Jeanie Arbuckle Miles, Mary Taylor Ojo, NFL PLAYERS FORUM……..The Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality hosted From Cleotha Aldridge, Denise Wayne, Peggy Jones, Deborah Bell, Johnny and Laticia Gipson, Joseph and Salena Gourrier, Jennifer George, Karen Crew, Joy and Hugh Freeney, Arcia Protest to Progress, an NFL players forum focused on the power of sports to improve race relations. The forum featured current and former NFL players, NFL executives and prominent Johnson, Sherry Hill, Michael Chaney, Ron Chaney and others.

Josina Anderson, John Wooten, Max Edison

K’lavon Chaisson, Jodie B. Jiles, Marvin Wilson

Tony Wyllie, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Rashad Jennings, Benjamin Watson

Denise Wayne, Karen Hopkins, Peggy Jones

Ann Cockrell, Jeanie Arbuckle Miles

Turner Caldwell, Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell, Aeneas Williams

Danielle Jackson, Lincola Harris

Joy Freeman, Hugh Freeman

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