Houston Defender: February 21, 2019

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WESTSIDE STARS JESSICA SODERS AND KAYLA PILSON FORM FORWARD-GUARD COMBO P10

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Volume 88 | Number 17

NEWSTALK

BLACK HISTORY:

ART ACEVEDO under fire for warrant case

YESTERDAY,

P2 NATIONAL

TODAY

GARY MARTIN details emerge about mass shooting

& TOMORROW

P3 FEATURE KEVON GREEN on point at Madison

H PAGE 1B

Jussie Smollett

Sylvester Turner

The outrage over an alleged attack on the “Empire” actor has now been replaced by surprise, doubt and bafflement as the singers, actors and politicians who came out in support of the "Empire" star struggle to digest the strange twists the case has taken.

Houston’s Mayor recently met with members of local media for an open discussion on his administration’s work thus far, and his thoughts on this fall’s mayoral election. Read what he has to say about his past accomplishments and future goals.

questions about case

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discusses record

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Dr. Justin Washington, Jona Sargent, Kanisha Wiley and Fred Navarro at the Kasino Royale Diamonds & Bowties event.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

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newstalk

Houston police to stop ‘no knock’ warrants

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Defender News Services

ouston Police Chief Art Acevedo says his department will stop serving “no knock” search warrants, weeks after a raid on a house left two married suspects dead and five officers injured. Acevedo also reiterated that the officer who led that raid may face criminal charges.

“The no-knock warrant is going to go away, kind of like leaded gasoline in our city,” Acevedo said.

He added that raids that stem from those warrants would only be used in very limited cases and would not be used to nab people suspected of dealing Chief Art Acevedo small amounts of drugs.

Acevedo announced the policy shift during a town hall meeting hosted by the Greater Houston Coalition for Justice. The event gathered criminal justice officials and politicians with local activists and members of the public – who vented their anger over the deadly raid and what they called the police’s overreliance on informants and searches rather than investigation.

The chief gave few new details about suspicions the lead officer in the raid may have lied about getting a tip about the target house from a confidential informant. Acevedo said the officer is still getting paid as the investigation proceeds, saying the arrangement is required legally but goes against his own opinion.

“I’m very confident that we’re going to have criminal charges on one or more police officers,” Acevedo said.

Dennis Tuttle, 59, and Rhogena Nicholas, 58, died in the Jan. 28 raid, which was planned after an informant purportedly told police the couple’s house was used for heroin dealing.

No heroin was found at the residence, and Acevedo and the Houston police were forced to backtrack after initially saying the two suspects opened fire on officers as soon as they reached the door of the house in the Pecan Park neighborhood, south of downtown Houston.

The official narrative changed after it appeared that police seemed to have opened fire first, shooting the couple’s dog.

First African-American and female Missouri City mayor Yolanda Ford is sworn in by Houston mayor Sylvester Turner in a capacity-filled inauguration ceremony at Thurgood Marshall High School. Ford, who officially took the oath of office in December, held an inaugural ceremony during Black History Month because of the historic occasion.

She is the first African-American female mayor elected in Missouri City.

See more photos in the Gallery at DefenderNetwork.com.

Mayor Turner releases potholes repair report Defender News Services

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner made pothole repair one of the top issues of his 2015 campaign. He said currently, city crews have repaired 100 percent of the potholes that were reported in 2018 by the next business day.

“We are consistently hitting our target to address potholes reported through 311 to fill those by the next business day,” Turner said.

When Turner took office, the city redefined potholes as any area of missing or severely deteriorated pavement up to 5 feet by 5 feet, while the previous definition was up to 2 feet by 2 feet. The mayor said the goal is “to take on the more serious problems with our pavement facing our streets.”

Turner provided a breakdown of the repairs done in the last three years. In 2016, 9,977 potholes were reported and city officials say 98 percent were repaired by the next business day.

In 2017, 4,961 potholes were reported and 96 percent were repaired by the next business day. Last year, 5,509 potholes were reported and 100 percent were repaired by the next business day, according to the mayor.

Turner also announced that crews from the city’s Public Works department will increase concrete panel replacements in 2019 “to help improve the drive quality and look of our streets.”

localbriefs LEADERS IN THREE MAJOR CITIES HOPE TO bring the 2020 Democratic National Convention to their towns. Houston is among the cities vying for the event that could funnel millions of dollars into the local economy. Democratic National Committee Chairman Tom Perez is choosing among Houston, Miami and Milwaukee. Some Democrats have suggested Milwaukee would get the nod, and a sense of finality set in once the DNC paid what were billed as the last visits to each city before a decision was made. A fierce debate has since unfolded behind the scenes over which city can raise enough money, avoid labor disputes and prove they have enough

high-end hotels and event accommodations…….

THE U.S. SUPREME COURT STRUCK DOWN the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals’ way of determining if a death row inmate is intellectually disabled and eligible for execution. The high court made the determination in the case of Bobby Moore, who the court decided is intellectually disabled. After reviewing Moore’s case in 2016, the Supreme Court tossed out the way the Texas court determines the disability in 2017. The Texas court previously relied on decades-old medical standards and a controversial set of factors created by judges to make the determination, including how well

an inmate could lie…….MISSOURI CITY IS TAKING PART IN THE STATEWIDE Warrant Roundup again, allowing offenders to settle their fines without going to jail. Payments began being accepted on Friday, Feb. 15 – in person and by phone – and will continue to be accepted through Saturday, March 9. The roundup will take place March 9 through Saturday, March 16. Individuals who do not settle their fines risk arrest by the Missouri City Police Department at their homes, schools and businesses. To settle a warrant fine in Missouri City call 1-800-444-1187 or pay online via the city website at http://bit.ly/2Ndplor.

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national

U.S.briefs FORMER ATTORNEY GENERAL ERIC HOLDER is in the final stages of deciding whether to seek the 2020 Democratic nomination for president and plans to decide in about a month. Holder recently met privately with Democratic legislative leaders to discuss voting rights and legislative redistricting, key areas of his concern. Asked by reporters whether there is a place for him in a Democratic field that already includes nine declared candidates and many others exploring the race, he said, “I’m going to decide whether I’m going to try to find that space in the next month or so.”……..THE SENATE UNANIMOUSLY PASSED LEGISLATION that designates lynching as a federal crime. The anti-lynching legislation’s chief Democratic backers, U.S. Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Kamala Harris of California, are both seeking their party’s presidential nomination in 2020. The Senate passed the bill in December, but the House did not act in time to send the measure to President Donald Trump’s desk.

This year, the Democratic-controlled House is more likely to advance the legislation with more time left in the congressional session.

Sponsors of the bill, also backed by GOP Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, have tallied nearly 200 past failed attempts to approve anti-lynching legislation over the past several decades……..A POLICE SHOOTOUT IN NEW ORLEANS on Feb. 17 left five people injured. Detectives had been investigating two armed robberies in the city’s Sixth District when they identified a person of interest near a bus stop. The detectives called uniformed officers to help question the suspect, but when they attempted to engage, the individual pulled out a weapon and began firing. A detective and one of the officers returned fire and five bystanders – all adults – were struck during the exchange. Four are in stable condition and one is in critical condition. The suspect died after being hit.

Official fired over Obama comment accused of fraud been damaged by the floodwaters. In reality, Taylor lived in another town and her home was never affected.

The lies didn’t stop there. Taylor also admitted to The West Virginia official fired from her job in 2016 giving her work address for the nonprofit Clay County after making racist remarks about then-First Lady Michelle Obama has been accused of defrauding the Federal Development Corp. and telling officials it was her primary address.

Emergency Management Agency.

Clay faces up to 30 years in prison and up to a Pamela Ramsey Taylor, 57, pleaded guilty to cheat$500,000 fine. ing FEMA out Under the terms of more than of the agree$18,000 in flood ment, she is also relief benefits ordered to pay intended for $18,149.04 in those who’d restitution. She been impacted is expected to be by the June 2016 sentenced by a floods that killed judge on May 30. more than 20 Taylor was people and ravbooted from her aged several area job in December homes.

2016 after she Taylor wrote a racist registered for the social media benefits shortly Pamela Ramsey Taylor Former First Lady Michelle Obama post likening after the floodObama to an “ape in heels.” It was after the outcome ing, falsely claiming that her home had been damaged of the Nov. 8 presidential election that Taylor took to and that she was staying in a rental property. However, Facebook to express relief that Melania Trump, wife her primary residence was undamaged and she was still of President Donald Trump, would be the nation’s new living there at the time. first lady.

As part of her plea agreement, Taylor admitted to “It will be refreshing to have a classy, beautiful, registering with FEMA in 2016 while at Clay County dignified first lady back in the White House. I’m tired of High School. At the time, she told agency representaseeing [an] ape in heels,” she wrote. tives that her permanent residence on the Elk River had Defender News Services

More details emerge about Aurora shooting Associated Press

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 17 FEBRUARY 21, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

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

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

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An initial background check failed to detect a felony conviction that should have barred the man who killed five co-workers and wounded six other people – including five police officers –at a suburban Chicago manufacturing plant from buying the gun.

Gary Martin, 45, was killed in a shootout with officers at the Henry Pratt Co, ending his deadly rampage at the plant on Feb. 15. His state gun license permit was revoked in 2014, Gary Martin Aurora Police Chief Kristen Ziman said.

But he never gave up the .40-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun he used in the attack.

Martin was able to keep the gun because of a flaw in the 1968 law that requires residents to get a Firearm Owner's Identification card, or FOID card, to purchase firearms or ammunition. They must pass a background check, but the law does not mandate that police ensure weapons have been removed if a red flag is raised later.

Records stemming from his 1995 conviction in Mississippi described an extremely violent man who abused a former girlfriend.

After serving less than three years, he moved to Illinois and landed a job at Henry Pratt. The conviction was not detected in a company background check.

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entertainment

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Smollett developments leave some baffled Associated Press

The national outrage that simmered after actor Jussie Smollett said he was attacked by people shouting racial and anti-gay slurs was fueled in part by celebrities who spoke out loud and strong on social media.

But the outrage has now been replaced by surprise, doubt and bafflement as the singers, actors and politicians who came out in support of the "Empire" star struggle to digest the strange twists the case has taken. Some conservative pundits, meanwhile, have gleefully seized on the moment.

The narrative that seemed cut-and-dry has become messy and divisive – and it's all playing out again on social media.

Smollett, who is Black and gay, said he was physically attacked last month by two masked men shouting racial and anti-gay slurs and "This is MAGA country!” – a reference to the Make America Great Again slogan used in President Donald Trump's election campaign. Smollett said the attackers looped a rope around his neck before running away as he was out getting food at a Subway restaurant.

Celebrities including Ariana Grande, Zendaya, Kerry Washington, Shonda Rhimes and Andy Cohen rallied behind Smollett immediately. They focused on the alleged hate crime as a microcosm for the ills of America in 2019 and how intolerance can lead to violent acts.

Smollett's own celebrity and activism for the rights of the LGBTQ community helped raise the profile of the case even more.

Then published reports emerged that police believe Smollett may have staged the attack –something the actor has vehemently denied through his lawyers – or that a grand jury may hear evidence in the case. The reports cited unidentified police sources.

Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said the

Brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo were questioned in the case.

“Empire” co-star Jussie Smollett denies that the attack on him was staged.

trajectory of the case had "shifted" and two brothers who had been questioned had been released without charges and investigators wanted to speak to Smollett again. He issued a statement saying that police "are not in a position to confirm, deny or comment on the validity of what's been unofficially released."

Smollett's attorneys said that he would continue to cooperate with police but that he felt victimized by the suggestion he played a role in his attack.

The response from Smollett's celebrity supporters has ranged from silence to confusion and disbelief.

But if there is a consensus among those who very vocally supported Smollett from the outset, it's that no matter what happens in this case, they will still believe victims.

what’sup A grand jury has been convened in Cook County, Illinois, in connection with new allegations against singer R. KELLY. It comes on the heels of attorney Michael Avenatti announcing that he handed over to the State’s Attorney’s Office a videotape that he said shows Kelly engaging in sex acts with an underage girl. CNN has seen the VHS tape that appears to show Kelly having sex with a girl who refers to her body parts as 14 years old. Avenatti is representing a man he calls a whistleblower against Kelly……..ALFONSO RIBEIRO lost his fight with the U.S. Copyright Office to copyright his famous “Carlton Dance.”

Ribeiro created the dance in the early 1990s while playing WILL SMITH’S cousin Carlton on “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” In December, the actor sued video gaming companies Epic Games, the creator of “Fortnite,” and Take-Two Interactive, which owns the “NBA 2K” series, for including the dance in their games without his permission.

The copyright office rejected the registration because Ribeiro’s “choreographic work” was just a “simple dance routine.” Ribeiro is the host of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and a “Dancing With the Stars” winner…….The New York Police Department is investigating allegations

that a precinct commander threatened rapper and actor 50 CENT. Deputy Inspector Emanuel Gonzalez, who is commander of the city’s 72nd precinct in Brooklyn, allegedly told officers to shoot 50 Cent “on sight” during a roll call in the station house. New York police did not confirm the date the alleged comment was made. Gonzalez reportedly tried to pass off the comment as a joke. The rapper responded on Twitter, saying, “The sad part is this man still has a badge and a gun. I take this threat very seriously and [I am] consulting with my legal counsel regarding my options moving forward.”

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 defendernetwork.com

health

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

Reduce your risk for heart failure

BY GEORGE ADESINA, M.D., M.S.P.H.

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ecause the heart cannot be easily repaired or replaced, heart failure is a serious issue.

It’s also common. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 6 million Americans live with heart failure.

While heart disease George Adesina, M.D., M.S.P.H. impacts all Americans, African-Americans are more likely to experience heart failure. We’re also more likely to experience it at a younger age. A New England Journal of Medicine paper reported that African-Americans are 20 times more likely to go into heart failure before age 50.

Studies consistently find that African-Americans experience nearly every major risk factor for heart failure at extreme rates: hypertension, which makes the heart work harder, coronary heart disease, heart attacks, and cardiac arrest. There are other risks, too. AfricanAmericans have a higher risk of diabetes, sleep apnea, and obesity.

As an African-American doctor, I can’t stress enough the importance of regular doctor visits to assess your heart disease risk factors. Identifying a heart condition early gives doctors time to tailor a treatment plan and recommend lifestyle modifications.

In addition to your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, you should discuss the following with your doctor: • Your family history of heart disease.

• Heart disease symptoms you may have had, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or increasing fatigue.

• How much stress you have and any symptoms of depression.

Signs aren’t clear cut

You may be surprised to learn that not all heart attacks are obvious. Sometimes, symptoms are subtle, especially in women. Signs and symptoms to be aware of are: • Chest discomfort, including pain, tightness, pinching, burning, or pressure in your chest.

• Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or stomach pain.

• Pain that spreads down to the arm.

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

• Throat or jaw pain.

• Sudden fatigue, sometimes for days.

Reduce your risk

Do your part to help reduce your risk factors for heart disease. Don’t smoke. Get 20 to 30 minutes of exercise at least five times per week. Physical activity can help control your weight and reduce your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart. Even something as simple as walking, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or dancing can make a difference.

Watch your diet. Eat foods that are low in salt, sugar, animal fats, and saturated fats. Aim for five to 10 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables a day. Doing so not only can help prevent heart disease, but also may help improve your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes. Two or more servings a week of certain fish, such as salmon and tuna, may also decrease your risk of heart disease.

Know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers. Regular screening can tell you whether you need to make some changes.

Dr. Adesina is a cardiologist at Kelsey-Seybold’s Pasadena, Clear Lake, and Berthelsen Main Campus locations. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

INSIDE

Yesterday, today & tomorrow

2B – 10 local schools named for Black Americans 3B – Houston libraries celebrate Black History 4B – Texas Trailblazers 6B – The Black community’s history of volunteerism 7B - Dr. Earl Allen recalls civil rights struggle 8B - Activist Jean Wilkins-Dember remembered

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2B DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH 10 local schools named for Black Americans death. He died in a plane crash while on a mission to Ethiopia.

Defender News Services

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McGowen Elementary – The school, formerly known as Houston Gardens, was renamed in 2013 in honor of the late Houston City Councilman Ernest McGowen Sr. (1925-2012), who also served as an HISD trustee. He helped establish the first vocational technical high school in HISD.

HISD has more than 30 schools that recognize the contributions of African-Americans by bearing their names. Here are 10 of them.

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Attucks Middle School – Crispus Attucks, who was born into slavery in Massachusetts around 1723 and died in 1770, was a leader of American colonists opposing British troops. He was killed when British soldiers fired into a crowd of protesters and became an icon of the anti-slavery movement.

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education.

Elmore Elementary School – Bennie Carl Elmore (1909-1973) was a highly regarded North Forest ISD principal and pioneer in African-American

Harper Alternative School – Born in Baltimore, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825-1911) was an abolitionist, suffragist, poet and author. In 1894, she helped found the National Association of Colored Women.

Barbara Jordan High School – Barbara Jordan (1936–1996) of Houston was the first African-American woman elected to the Texas Senate (1966) and the first southern African-American woman elected to the U. S.

Audrey Lawson

Mickey Leland

House of Representatives (1972).

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Lawson Middle School – Audrey Hoffman Lawson (1932-2016) was the founding first lady of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, along with her husband, Rev. William “Bill” Lawson. She created community education and outreach programs that touched the lives of thousands of students.

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Mickey Leland College Preparatory Academy for Young Men – The school was renamed for Leland (1944-1989) in 2014. Leland served in the Texas legislature from 1972-1978 before moving on to the U.S. House of Representatives where he served until his

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Paige Elementary – The school is named for Dr. Rod Paige (1933-), who served on the HISD Board of Education from 1989 to 1994 and became the district’s superintendent of schools. He left the district in 2001 to become the first African-American to serve as U.S. secretary of education.

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Booker T. Washington High School – Washington (1856-1915) was an educator, author, orator and advisor to U.S. presidents. Born a slave in Virginia, he worked his way through what is now known as Hampton University and was the first leader of Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. He wrote five books, including “Up from Slavery.”

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Carter G. Woodson PK-8 School – Woodson (1875-1950) was a historian and writer who founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. In February 1926, he introduced Negro History Week, which eventually became Black History Month.

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH Houston libraries celebrate Black history The Houston Public Library continues to offer various activities during the month of February:

tions and vendors. Activities include hair care and grooming demos, cooking demos, music book club, swing dance presentations and screenings for AIDS/HIV, mental health, sickle cell anemia, blood pressure and diabetes.

• SPIKE LEE MOVIE MARATHON –

A celebration of the trailblazing filmmaker is now showing at a library near • GREGORY SCHOOL LECTURE – you. Enjoy popcorn, candy and giveaways.

The African American Library at the Gregory Movies include: School, 1300 Victor St., will host another monthly “BlacKkKlansman (rated-R),” Friday, lecture series featuring prominent professors and Feb. 22, 1 p.m., Shepard-Acres Homes scholars on Saturday, Feb. 23, from 2-4 p.m. The Neighborhood Library, 8501 West Montspeaker is Dr. Bernadette Pruitt, associate professor gomery. of history at Sam Houston State University. She will “Crooklyn,” Friday, Feb. 22, 3 p.m., discuss "Community, Work, War, and Blackness: Kashmere Multi-Service Center, 4802 The Second Great Migration and Long Civil Rights Lockwood.

Movement in Houston, Texas.”

“Inside Man (R),” Saturday, Feb. 23, Pruitt has been a member of the Department of 1 p.m., Oak Forest Neighborhood Library, History since 1996 and teaches classes on race and Spike Lee’s “Malcolm X” starring Denzel Dr. Bernadette Pruitt of Sam Houston 1349 West 43rd. ethnicity, internal migrations, slavery, recent United Washington is a featured marathon State University will speak at the Gregory States history and the African Diaspora. She was “Malcolm X,” Wednesday, Feb. 27, movie.

School. noon, Central Library, 500 McKinney. the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in History ebrating the life and culture of African-Americans in “Do the Right Thing (R),” Thursday, from the University of Houston and obtained her Houston will be held Saturday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m. at the Feb. 28, 5:15 p.m., Morris Frank Library, 10103 undergraduate and master’s degrees from Texas Southern Northeast Multi-Service Center, 9720 Spaulding. There University.

Fondren. will be live demonstrations, workshops, free health For more information on events visit www.houstonli• AFRO X FESTIVAL – screenings and meet a variety of community organizabrary.org The Houston Public Library’s first expo cel-

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.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

BLACK HISTO

TexasTrailblazers

Black educators touched countless lives

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Defender News Services

n observance of Black History Month, the Defender presents condensed profiles of five African-Americans who left legacies in education. They are featured in-depth in the Texas Trailblazer Series edited

by Patricia Smith Prather and the late Bob Lee.

L. C. ANDERSON (1858-1938)

Two brothers were among the early leaders of Prairie View Normal and Industrial College. Professor E. H. Anderson served as the second principal of the college and when he died in 1884 he was succeeded by his brother, L. C. Anderson. Both were graduates of Fisk University in Nashville.

When L. C. took the baton, he had been running alongside his brother as his assistant so he had a head start. That same year L. C. became a major force in the formation of the Colored Teachers State Association of Texas. The organizing meeting was held on the campus of Prairie View and L. C. was elected as the first president.

As principal and one of the state’s top educators, L. C. Anderson had a full agenda. A major concern during his early tenure was the mission of the college.

Anderson began adding industrial education courses and the school grew under his direction.

Anderson later accepted the job as principal of the high school in Austin named for his brother, E. H. Anderson. His influence was so great that the school name was changed to L. C. Anderson High School. In 1935, Prairie View also honored him by dedicating Anderson Hall.

MARY ELIZABETH BRANCH (1881-1944)

As president of Tillotson College in 1930, Mary Elizabeth Branch became the first of her gender to hold such a position in Texas. When she arrived in Austin, she joined a very small club of Black women, including Mary McLeod Bethune who founded Bethune-Cookman College in Florida.

One of the first things she did was initiate a five-year plan for Tillotson. Paramount was the need to attract more students and to improve the library. A key factor in Branch’s success toward improving Tillotson was her community outreach.

She established a rapport with faculty members at the University of Texas and nearby Samuel Huston as well as with public school administrators and teachers.

Although not a native Texan, Branch laid a foundation for women administrators as the first African-American woman to serve as a college president in Texas. She also served as president of the Austin Chapter of the NAACP. She led her institution in becoming one of the first to join Frederick W. Patterson, president of Tuskegee, when he founded the United Negro College Fund in 1943.

She was a member of the Texas Interracial Commission formed to improve race relations. Her other involvement included Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

One of her visions that came to pass after her death and was the merging of Tillotson with Samuel Huston College, now Huston-Tillotson University. A building on the campus, located not far from the state’s capitol, is named in her honor.

WILLIAM S. HOLLAND (1904-1981)

William S. Holland became the coach at Jack Yates High School in 1927 and one of the pioneer African-American coaches in HISD. He led the Yates sports teams in many battles. Perhaps the sweetest victories were when his team won football games against Wheatley High School.

The rivalry between the two Houston schools became legendary and every Thanksgiving, thousands of fans would attend the Wheatley-Yates Football Classic.

In 1940, he was promoted to principal and had helped Yates become widely known for both academic and athletic excellence.

Holland became one of the most outspoken critics of unequal education in Houston during days when defying the school board meant almost automatic expulsion from the system.

He was in the forefront of the fight to get Black teachers’ pay equal to that of white teachers. He fought for Black students to have new books and supplies equal to that of white students. He even had to fight to get Black marching bands a rightful place in parades – not behind the horses whose manure soiled their shined shoes and crisp uniforms.

In 1958, when Yates moved to a new school building, Holland was not named principal. This was loudly protested by parents, students and activists who picketed the HISD administration building.

Holland remained principal at the old school, which became the James D. Ryan Junior High School. He remained in that position until his retirement in 1974. His contributions to education were recognized when Holland Middle School was dedicated in Houston.

T. T. POLLARD (1866-1957)

Charlton-Pollard High School in Beaumont was legend among Texas AfricanAmerican schools. The school was named for two Beaumont educators. One, Professor T. T. Pollard, began his career in 1889 in a dilapidated, one-room structure in Beaumont. He was the only teacher.

With the aid of parents and friends, Pollard improved that first little school, beautified the campus with trees, flowers and shrubbery and added extracurricular activities.

Within a span of 20 years, the school expanded to a large frame building with 12 teachers.

Years later, two schools, the Pollard School and the Charlton School were merged to create the Charlton-Pollard High School and Professor T. J. Charlton was named principal.

Pollard was then appointed supervisor of the Negro Schools of Beaumont – a first in the state of Texas. He brought additional accolades to Beaumont when in 1926 he was elected president of the Colored Teachers State Association of Texas.

The Charlton-Pollard High School became widely known throughout Texas for academic and athletic excellence. Graduates became educators, doctors, businessmen and politicians.

Thomas Titus Pollard was born near Conroe and received his early schooling at Willis. He became a pioneer graduate of Prairie View A&M in 1888.

After schools were integrated, Charlton-Pollard High School was closed and the landmark building was bulldozed.

JAMES D. RYAN JR. (1872-

As one of the most influential educators in Tex years as R at Prairi membe was pro R master’ Teacher In principa and ove R Yates Fo before b A scholars Ryan was a board member of Emancipation P and basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Houston C In 1958, when Yates moved to a new facility, th

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ORY MONTH

-1940)

xas, James D. Ryan Jr. influenced thousands of students during his 50 s a teacher and principal.

Ryan, who rose from humble beginnings, was born in Navasota. He enrolled ie View, graduating about 1890, and soon began teaching in Houston. He was a er of the first faculty of Houston’s Colored High School when it opened in 1893. He omoted to principal in 1912.

Ryan served as a board Member of Wiley College in Marshall, Texas and was awarded a ’s degree from that institution. In 1916, Ryan was elected as the 29 president of the Colored rs State Association of Texas and was widely respected throughout the state. n 1926, when a second high school opened for African-American Houstonians, Ryan was named al of Yates. He built the high school from a faculty of 18 and over 700 students to a faculty of 50 er 2,500 students within 14 years.

Ryan was a staunch supporter of extra-curricular activities and helped organize the annual Wheatleyootball game. He also supported Houston’s first Junior College for Negroes which was housed in the Yates building becoming Texas Southern University.

Although they had no children, Ryan and his wife were philanthropists who gave financial aid to college students before ships were available.

Park and Houston Negro Hospital (now Riverside). He was also vice president of Watchtower Life Insurance Company Chapter. he original building was renamed in memory of its first principal, becoming Ryan Middle School.

he Houston area for over 85 years

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5B

Blacks and education:

10

t h i n g s to know

1

According to the ce nsus of 1850, 58,558 African-Americans lived in Texas. Fewe than 1 percent, or 39 r 7, were free, of wh ich 217 were believed to be liter ate.

2

Available data indi cate that a portion of the enslaved populatio n had received instruc tion in reading and writing basics.

3

The U.S. Congress instituted the Freedmen’s Bureau in 18 65 . Its function include coordinating a vast d educational enterpr ise in Texas, 16 other states and the District of Colu mbia.

Most Freedmen’s Bu reau teachers were from the North and supplied by the Am can Missionary As erisociation. Educated AfricanAmericans were lat er recruited to teach .

4

5

In 1870, the various Freedmen’s Bureau schools in Houston we re consolidated at Gregory School, th e city’s first public school for Blacks.

6

The first Black colle ge established in Te xas was Paul Quinn Co lle ge, founded in Austi in 1872 by AME Ch n urch pastors. After operating in a church building fo r five years, the scho ol moved to Waco. It relocated to Dallas in 1990.

7

Colored High Scho ol, Houston’s first high school for Blacks, op ened in Fourth War in 1892. It was rena d med Booker T. Was hington in 1928.

8

In the 1920s to 1930 s, Texas spent abou t a third less for the ed ucation of AfricanAmerican students than for white stude nts.

9

Black teachers were paid significantly les s than white teachers – $91.60 a month, co pared with $121.03. m-

10

By 1940 there were 222,715 Black students in 116 accr ed ited Texas high schools. Approxim ately half of the 6,43 9 teachers had degrees.

Source: Texas State Historical Associa tion

6B DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH C O M M E N TA R Y

Black community has history of volunteerism

By CHARLENE HUNTER JAMES AARP

A

s we observe Black History Month, I cannot help but think about the AfricanAmericans who give their time to causes and about the African-American organizations who make life better.

The spirit of volunteerism in the African-American community has long been rooted in a culture of taking care of each other and of the community at large. By pitching in to take care of a friend or family member, volunteering at church, advocating for civil rights or helping promote scholarship and educational enrichment programs, we have all become stronger through volunteering.

Church participation and social involvement are important predictors of volunteerism. The church provides an avenue for determin-

ing needs. Many well-known orga- continued to serve by volunteernizations in the African-American ing for her church, community community have a long-standing fundraisers and the Blue Triangle record of service and advocacy, in Houston’s Third Ward, which was including the originally founded as a NAACP, the place where women and National Urban girls of color could come League and many together to learn. prestigious frater“I volunteer because nities and sororimy passion to serve is ties. greater than anything There are else,” said the former countless volteacher at the DeBakey unteers, whose High School for Health names you may Professions. “God has not know, giving given me good health of their time and and the ability to give talents for the back.”

Volunteering may betterment of the also be helping to keep community and Charlene Hunter James is the AARP Texas all-volunteer Executive Council Bryant healthy and acsociety each day. president.

One such tive. Studies show it’s Texan is Housgood for your health and ton octogenarian Charlotte Kelly can even decrease anxiety, depresBryant, who knows how important sion, loneliness and isolation, espeit is to give back. Since retiring cially in volunteers who devote at from teaching in 2002, she has least 100 hours annually.

One of the best things about volunteering is that anyone can contribute.

“It’s not a glitzy job, but it makes you feel great knowing you have made a difference in the lives of so many people,” Bryant said.

Bryant, like many who have come before her, is revered by those she has served and those she continues to serve. So, the next time you feel like you have nothing to do, why not share your skills and your passion with others through volunteering? It’s good for you, and the clear payoff is also the social good you have done. Chances are you will find the experience rewarding.

AARP is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization that offers volunteer opportunities for people of all ages. Learn how you can get involved by going to aarp.org/ volunteer or by calling 1-888-6872277.

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

7B

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Advocate, writer, preacher, teacher

Dr. Earl Allen recalls civil rights struggle

H

By VON JILES Defender

oustonian Dr. Earl Allen describes himself as a “spirit-filled servant of God whose sole desire is to live a God-pleasing life as he serves God and His people.”

As an ordained minister for 54 years, Allen is the founder of Miracleland Church, CEO of Miracle Publications International, Inc., and a consultant at Windsor Village United Methodist Church. His ministry and teachings emphasize the Holy Spirit.

As an author, Allen has published books and produced recordings for the Christian education market. His most recent book is titled “How to Live Like a Christian Should: Daily Nuggets.” He also has a patent for the Kwik Study Educational System.

Allen was active in the Civil Rights Movement in Houston and Dallas and founded the Hope Development organization.

His involvement included the Weingarten’s sit-in in Houston, the Black Sunday boycott in Houston (in response to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) and drugstore and cafeteria demonstrations in Dallas.

In 1967 he testified before the Senate Subcommittee on Civil Rights following a racially charged incident on TSU’s campus.

Allen was born in Fifth Ward. His degrees include a Bachelor of Arts from Texas Southern University, a Master of Theology from Southern Methodist University, a Master of Education and Doctor of Education from the University of Houston and an honorary degree from Wiley College.

He and his wife, Jeanette, have five children.

In observance of Black History Month, Allen shared some of his recollections with the Defender.

Defender: Tell us about the movement you were involved in during the ‘60s. How did you get involved?

Allen: Though I had been quietly In 1964, Allen was jailed in Dallas for a Piccadilly Cafeteria demonstration. He was a standing up to personal incidences of Methodist pastor and regional director for the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). racism ever since I was a youth, my first involvement in the Civil Rights Movement When we went inside the store, we sat in every empty stool publicly was on March 4, 1960. On that day, Eldrewey Stearns, at the lunch counter and each chair at several tables. The assistant a law student at TSU, myself and 14 manager told us to leave, and when we other TSU students marched from the didn’t, he went to get the manager who DefenderNetwork.com campus to the Weingarten’s supermaralso told us to leave. When we still did More on Dr. Earl Allen, the Civil Rights ket which was located about a mile not leave, the police were called…The Movement and the voice of hope from the school on Almeda Road. police said they could not put us out as At the time, Weingarten’s did not long as we were not messing with any serve “colored” people at their lunch counter. So, after months of customers and Weingarten’s was open for business. planning under Eldrewey’s leadership and following the example Weingarten’s closed the counter that day, but we continued to of college students who were conducting sit-ins at lunch counters go there over a two-week period…Eventually, Weingarten’s closed around the country, we decided to do the same… the lunch counter permanently…

I was appointed the spokesperson and peacemaker for the Defender: Some called you an activist. What were some of protest…We marched two by two. The men were dressed for the the issues you addressed? most part in shirts, ties and jackets. The ladies wore their Sunday Allen: One of Houston’s community newspapers captured best with earrings and make-up… the remarks I made when I appeared before the 1967 Senate

Mayor Sylvester Turner proclaimed Dr. Earl Allen Day during a ceremony in Houston. (Photo courtesy VisualCultureLLC.com)

Subcommittee on Civil Rights: “I am a militant. The tragedy in that admission is that I may be characterized as violent, destructive, in favor of riots and bent on organizing guerilla warfare against my country – a country of which I am proud to be a citizen. I define militancy as the aggressive, positive assertion of the rights of all people, without regard to racial or ethnic background…”

Some of the issues I helped address included racists practices, discrimination based on skin color, unequal treatment and education.

Defender: What were some of the strategies you used during those days?

Allen: We practiced nonviolence – always. We were wellorganized. We exhibited discipline, courage and self-control. We refused to be intimidated. We looked professional and conducted ourselves as professionals who had a touch of class. Our communication was clear and concise, and we refused to show any signs of fear.

Defender: What advice do you have for young people today confronting the social and economic issues in our community?

Allen: I believe the Holy Spirit is looking to rectify the issues of injustice and discrimination beyond a single leader here and there. He is looking to empower individuals in the neighborhoods and communities where they live. You don’t have to be a pastor or a doctor or a lawyer to be a part of this movement. You don’t have to have a formal education or possess an abundance of material things. All you need is to be genuinely born again, to release all control to the Holy Spirit and learn to live like a Christian should.

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8B DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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Activist Jean Wilkins-Dember remembered Defender News Services

It’s up to us to lift every voice.

Dear Fellow Houstonian, As we celebrate Black History Month, we find ourselves defending the progress for which so many fought and died— from racial justice to social justice to criminal justice to economic justice and environmental justice.

Pol. adv. Sylvester Turner Campaign

Jean WilkinsDember, a Third Ward activist known affectionately as “Mother Dember,” died Feb. 10 at age 89. She was often seen at local rallies and protests wearing her signature hat Jean Wilkins-Dember was vocal in her desire for justice and peace. covered with buttons that championed varilence.” ous causes.

“She worked with those on the Mrs. Wilkins-Dember stood sidemargins of this society – mentally ill, by-side with other activists, whether she prisoners, homeless, substance abusers – was protesting police brutality, calling providing a way forward for a changed for the abolishment of the death penalty life,” Taharka said. or seeking answers in the death of SanMrs. Wilkins-Dember was born in dra Bland.

Brooklyn, N.Y. As an adult she worked She was actively involved with the with New York’s anti-poverty program, National Black United Front (NBUF) fought against police brutality and and SHAPE Community Center, and was advocated for racial equality and mental a member of SHAPE’s Elders Institute of health. She and her late husband, ClarWisdom. ence, had five daughters and one son and NBUF chair Kofi Taharka rememwere married for 60 years. She lived in bers her as a “freedom fighter par excelHouston for more than 20 years.

She said she was committed to equality because of the injustices faced

by African-Americans.

“We’re a phenomenal people,” she said. “We have been so marginalized, so oppressed, so traumatized. Raped, molested, murdered – nothing was left out, the atrocities that have been done to us.”

Houston City Controller

Chris B. Brown

Honoring the achievements & contributions of the AfricanAmerican community this

Black History Month!

Paid political ad by Chris Brown for Controller Campaign, James L. Robertson, Treasurer.

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

7

Turner discusses past accomplishments, goals

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Under the banner, “Promises Made, Promises Kept,” Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner met with members of local media for an open discussion on his administration’s work thus far, and his thoughts on this fall’s mayoral election.

Turner pointed out that he made good immediately on his inaugural speech promise to confront the city’s enormous potholes situation. However, when discussing his passion for continuing his efforts to meet the challenges faced by all Houstonians he stated, “It’s not about potholes in the street, it’s about potholes in people’s lives.”

Turner, who has been part of numerous election bids over his decades as an elected official at the state and city level, said this fall’s mayor’s race will be his last time running for any office, adding, “This one is personal. It’s about changing people’s lives.”

Making the case for his ability to change lives, he outlined his accomplishments, beginning with his greatest.

“A signature item was building Complete Communities; neighborhoods that have been underserved and underresourced for decades,” he said, adding that the challenge is “transform[ing] these communities for the better without gentrifying.”

The five current Complete Communities are Third Ward, Second Ward, Near Northside, Acres Homes and Gulfton.

Turner will announce four additional communities in the next month.

“If we don’t make them attractive for people who’ve come out of these communities then your political power structure ends up in Pearland, Katy and all these other places, and we create a political vacuum in our city.”

Though many nationally point to Turner’s handling of 2017’s Hurricane Harvey and the Tax Day Flood that greeted him just months into his first year, he argued that solving the city’s 20-year pension problem was as equally important.

Turner also mentioned successful efforts to reduce the number of Houston homeless by housing over 6,000 since 2016, Houston’s record number of MWBEs, the building

momentum to build an amusement park, the city’s Turn-Around program for hard-toemploy individuals and his Youth Summer Jobs Program.

“When I came into office, the city was offering only 450 summer jobs – all city jobs,” said Turner. In his first year his summer jobs program hired 1,100.

In 2017 and 2018 the numbers grew to 5,000 and 7,500 respectively.

This summer the goal is 10,000 youth ages 16-24 employed by the city and several private sector businesses.

Regarding the upcoming mayoral race, Turner said he’s running not for himself, but for future candidates who look like him.

Mayor Sylvester Turner said he is committed to changing lives. (Photo by Aswad Walker)

classifieds M/WBE Supplier Opportunity Edward Don & Company is bidding on Project 19-08-19 Kitchen & Production Disposables for the Houston Independent School District.

We are looking for possible M/WBE suppliers to provide the following: Disposable Nitrile Gloves (Blue in Color), Trash Can Liners, and kitchen smallwares. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact our office by phone at 740-821-4486. Ask for Beau.

M/WBE Supplier Opportunity Edward Don & Company is bidding on Project 19-08-19 Kitchen & Production Disposables for the Houston Independent School District.

We are looking for possible M/WBE subcontractors to provide the following products: Disposable Nitrile Gloves (Blue in Color), Trash Can Liners, and kitchen smallwares. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Beau Vastine at 740-821-4486 or beauvastine@don.com by Thursday, February 28, 2019.

Parking Operations and Management Services RFP Houston First Corporation requests proposals from experienced, highly -qualified contractors to manage and operate its convention and theater district parking facilities.

R YAN W HITE P LANNING C OUNCIL M EETINGS FOR 2019 February 14 May 9 August 8 November 14 March 14 June 13 September 12 December 12 April 11 July 11 October 10 Meetings are open to the general public; only Council members are allowed to vote but public comment is always welcome at the beginning of every meeting. The Council meets at Noon at our offices located in the Galleria area (near METRO bus route 82 on Westheimer and 32 on San Felipe). Call the office for info about meetings or check our online calendar. Meeting materials are posted on the calendar about one week prior to each meeting.  Attend a Meeting  Apply for Membership  Be a Participant 

The calendar of all Council and Committee meetings and a wealth of other information is available at www.rwpcHouston.org. Check the calendar regularly for topics of specific interest to you. We hope to see you soon!

Houston Ryan White Planning Council 2223 West Loop South, Suite 240; Houston, TX 77027 Phone 832 927-7926 TTY 713 572-2813 Fax 713 572-3740

Please visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/do-business for complete details.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

COMMERCIAL DEMOLITION CONTRACTOR FOR BLOCK 333 IN DOWNTOWN HOUSTON FOR THE DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY / TIRZ NO.3 The Downtown Redevelopment Authority (the “Authority”) will receive Proposals from commercial demolition contractors for removal and clean-up of the existing Goodyear Auto Service Center and adjacent concrete/asphalt parking lots on three quarters of Block 333 in Downtown Houston, Texas. Demolition site is bounded by Fannin, Leeland, San Jacinto, and Bell Streets. Proposals will be received until 11:00 A.M., local time on Thursday, March 21, 2019, by Ryan Leach, Executive Director, Downtown Redevelopment Authority, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted. Respective of this advertisement, telephone, mail, email queries or requests for information will not be addressed by the Authority.

Beginning Monday, February 25, 2019, this project’s Request for Proposal (RFP) may be reviewed and downloaded as an electronic file from the Authority’s website: http://www.downtowntirz.com. A mandatory Pre-submittal Conference is scheduled for 2:00 PM, Tuesday, March 5, 2019, to be held at the Authority’s offices. Following this conference, queries or requests for information will be addressed by the Authority, pursuant to the instructions provided in the RFP.

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8

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

sports

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Lone Star Golf Association members are developing the next generation of golfers

Lone Star Golf Association treasures history

other top Black entertainers and athletes of the day. At one time Lone Star was the only organization in Houston if you were an stablished in 1946, the African-American golfer and there were no Lone Star Golf Associaifs, ands or buts about it.” tion has been an advocate The association has remained viable for civil rights through and will hosts its 73rd tournament in June. the sport of golf. The In addition, members have been actively organization was founded by four involved in training the next generation of friends – Charles M. Washington, Euyoung golfers. gene Harrison, Lee Powell and Howard “Around 1985 we had a president Joe McCowen – who had recently returned Solomon, who helped create our Lone Star home from World War II and wanted to Jr. Golf program,” McFarland said. “From pursue their passion of playing golf. what I’ve been told, when the First Tee Unfortunately for them the City program first came to town they actually of Houston did not have a public golf borrowed some of our kids to help get their course that African- Americans could program started because we had so play on. On June 19, 1946 the city many young people.” allowed the "colored" group to play Lone Star Golf now partners a half- day tournament. Known in its with the First Tee youth developearly days as the Houston Golf Associament organization to help train tion, the group changed to Lone Star young people. The group also Golf in 1952. awards scholarships to young Current association president golfers.

Association members are joined by recent scholarship recipients.

Johnnie McFarland recounted the early For their contribution to Memorial Park, Lone Star Golf gained a nadays.

African-American sports history in tional reputation attracting the top Black talent “Our story is similar to other predominantly African-AmerTexas, the founding four members and celebrities of the day. ican associations in America,” McFarland said. “After our World of the golf association were recently “Lone Star has a very storied history, a War II veterans returned home…they wanted to enjoy the benefits inducted in the 2019 class of the of being an American. They simply wanted to come home and play who’s who of participants in the tournament Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame. over the years,” McFarland said. “Because golf.”

“The induction is really huge McFarland said the founders’ desire was to host an annual golf Blacks could only play in certain places in for us,” McFarland said. “The Black certain cities and were not allowed in the PGA, tournament at a municipal course in the city.”

Hall of Fame is basically a who’s Lone Star sponsored the Negro Open Golf Not everyone within the city’s political structure wanted to who of Black athletes who are from Tournament, which was a staple on the Black aid the organization in hosting a tournament. Yet the organization Charles Sifford, the 1st African-American to Texas or made a career in Texas. play on the PGA tour, is shown with former Golf ‘Chitlin’ Circuit.’ was fighting to gain access to municipal courses which their tax Many are in the halls of fame from association President Eugene Floyd at the “Charlie Sifford, Lee Elder, Ted Rhodes, dollars helped to operate and maintain. After a considerable amount their respective sports as well. It’s a group’s 50th anniversary observance.

Pete Brown and Willie Brown, to name a few, of resistance and subsequent political arm-twisting, Mayor Oscar tremendous honor that acknowledges all played in our tournaments,” McFarland said.

Holcombe finally gave the group the authority they needed. the contribution of our founders and what Lone Star Golf has meant “That’s not to mention celebrities like Jim Brown, Joe Louis and With permission granted to play their annual tournament in to not only the city of Houston, but the state of Texas as well.”

By MAX EDISON Defender

E

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

9

Case settled, what’s next for Kaepernick?

Defender News Services

© Copyright 2019. Paid for by the American Petroleum Institute. All rights reserved.

It has been nearly two years since Colin Kaepernick brought a collusion case against the NFL and its team owners. Now that that tumultuous chapter in Kaepernick’s career is closed, the question is, what happens to the NFL’s most visible activist?

Kaepernick and former 49ers teammate Eric Reid agreed to a settlement with the league for an undisclosed amount. The NFL paid to keep the league’s inner workings under wraps, avoiding any potential admission of guilt. Insiders pegged the settlement payment to Kaepernick between $60 and $80 million.

While the NFL admitted no wrongdoing, Kaepernick and Reid earned validation in their claim that the league was working against them to prevent their employment due to their political views and demonstrations during the national anthem.

With his collusion complaint against the Eric Reid joined Colin Kaepernick in kneeling during the anthem. league settled and Reid firmly entrenched with the Panthers, where does Kaepernick go from here? three teams – including the Panthers or Patriots – would bring For starters, he could head to another team since he is no him in. longer embroiled in a legal battle with the NFL. Kaepernick’s Even so, it’s difficult to see any team jumping at the opattorney, Mark Geragos, told CNN that Kaepernick “absoportunity. lutely wants to play” and even said he believed that one of Kaepernick was a starting quarterback for San Francisco

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but he hasn’t played since New Year’s Day 2017. He has had no offers.

His decision to kneel during the national anthem made him a divisive figure almost immediately. Beginning in the preseason of 2016, Kaepernick either sat on the bench or kneeled during “The Star-Spangled Banner” before each game, as a way to protest the oppression of people of color in the United States and ongoing issues with police brutality.

“I’m going to continue to stand with the people that are being oppressed,” Kaepernick said last year. “To me, this is something that has to change. When there’s significant change and I feel that flag represents what it’s supposed to represent, and this country is representing people the way that it’s supposed to, I’ll stand.”

His actions soon became a powder keg of debate. President Donald Trump lobbed personal attacks at Kaepernick throughout his presidential campaign and into his presidency. The NFL enacted, then rescinded, a policy revolving around player conduct during the anthem last year. And while the conflict over whether players should be forced to stand has died down to embers, Kaepernick’s return would almost certainly fan those flames back to life.

10

DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

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HS sports

Jessica Soders & Kayla Pilson

Westside stars form forward-guard combo

Defender: Why did you decide to take your talents to Blinn?

Soders: It’s a family environment. I heard they estside High School small were looking for a rebounder and I am really big on forward Jessica Soders, a Blinn rebounding and getting trash buckets with rebounds and College commit, and shooting putbacks. So, I think they really fit my style of play. guard Kayla Pilson, an Air Force Defender: What will it take to keep this run going Academy commit, are arguably against your next opponent? one of the best forward-guard combos that the HISD Soders: We are going to have to play really disciClass 6A has to offer this year. plined because from this point forward we will be facing The Lady Wolves have been on a roll, winning really good teams. There should be some good games to 17 straight games watch, but the team that plays including their three most with the most discipline will For game & crowd photos visit IG: move on. recent playoff victories over Cy Falls, Kempner and Jersey @DefenderHighSchoolSports Defender: How do you Village. describe your style of play as Westside head coach a shooting guard?

Troy Gillespie said Soders and Pilson bring “a level of Pilson: I like to pass first and get everybody open, maturity and a sense of commitment” to the team. but I am a slasher who likes to shoot. I am also a great The Defender spoke with Soders and Pilson about defender. their styles of play, keys to success so far and plans as Defender: How would you describe your leadership Westside faces its greatest challenges ahead, starting style on the court? with their next round of playoff games.

Pilson: When people see me they like to follow me.

Defender: How have you have been able to lead So, I try to be the best by putting out the best effort and your team so far, winning 16 games in a row? playing the hardest, leading by example.

Soders: I am very vocal with the team. Everybody Defender: What do you believe is the team’s keys to knows that I can goof around but once I am serious, success moving on in the playoffs? they all know it’s time to get serious.

Pilson: We are going to have to play really good

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

W

About Pilson

Classification: Senior Twitter: @ kaylapilson1 World problem she would solve: Impoverished kids NBA player she watches: Jayson Tatum Shout-outs: “My family, grandma, dad, cousin David” Kayla Pilson breezed by a Cy Falls defender in the playoffs

Jessica Soders scored a quick lay-up. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison)

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About Soders

Classification: Senior Twitter: @ jsoddrs2019 Favorite subject: Math Favorite NBA player: LeBron James Shout-outs: “All the coaches that helped me, my mama and sister”

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FEBRUARY 21 | 2019 | DEFENDER

About Green

Instagram: ybg.von Twitter: ygb_von Favorite food: Shrimp Favorite Subject: English NBA players he watches: Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook Shout-outs: “My team”

Kevon Green

Madison point guard acrobat on the court

M

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

adison point guard Kevon Green draws comparisons to a circus performer when he drives to the hoop and makes a last-second move midair to score a two-point layup.

Green’s top end speed, lethal cross over and quick release pull-up are just a few of the skills that make him something special to see on the court.

Madison head basketball coach Craig Maura appreciates Green’s talent.

“He has really improved on his decision-making and is really fast with the ball creating the up-tempo style of play we like to play,” Maura said.

The Defender spoke with Kevon before Madison kicked off its playoff run to discuss the keys to success heading into the playoffs and how he decides what move to use on an opponent when driving the lane.

Defender: How would you describe your style of play as a point guard?

Green: I am the type of player who likes to keep the game up-tempo and keep the ball moving creating a face-paced game.

Defender: What have been the keys to winning the regular season divisional title?

Green: Good decision-making. Execution on offense and good defense.

Defender: When you drive and go up for a layup, how you decide what move to use midair?

Green: I have been working on that since I was small, practicing on finishing through contact, avoiding blocks and charges.

Defender: How did you fall in love with the game of basketball?

Green: My dad went to the University of Miami to hoop and a lot of my family went to college to play sports. So, I just started at 3 years old playing at the YMCA, playing all my life since then. When I am stressed and I go to the gym, basketball can relieve anything.

Defender: Now Madison has accomplished the number one ranking in your division, what will it take to be number one in the state come season’s end?

Green: Play tough defense, no inside baskets preventing layups and floaters. With the road to state we have to execute on offense. No mistakes and no turnovers because when we get turnovers, they get more possessions to score the ball. But when we have more turnovers we have more possessions to score the ball.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 21 | 2019

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

topevents

HCC BLACK HISTORY MONTH CEREMONY……..Houston Community College nation, creating a pipeline of future leaders. Attendees included Trisha held its Black History Month Trailblazer Awards Celebration recognizing AfricanCornwell, keynote speaker Jaime Casap (Google’s education evangelist), American role models who have been difference-makers locally and globally. In Gene Locke, Janicca Stephens, Chris Bell, Erin Patterson, A.J. Patterson, addition, homage was paid to the unsung African-American cowboys and cowgirls.

Adrian Patterson, Will Rice, Patra Isaac, Cierra Duckworth, Carlos Held at the Buffalo Soldiers’ National Museum, the event’s honorees included Pro Perrett, Christiana Okafor, Lisa Stone and others…….. 2019 KASINO Rodeo Hall of Famer Myrtis Dightman Sr.; Houston’s first African-American news ROYALE “DIAMONDS & BOWTIES” EDITION……..Achievement Through Leadership Foundation and the Missouri City-Sugar Land Alumni Chapter of anchor, Bob Nicholas; National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Famer, Mollie Taylor Stevenson Jr.; Howard Middleton Sr., the first AfricanKappa Alpha Psi Fraternity held its fifth annual scholarship American port commissioner of Houston and founder fundraiser, Kasino Royale, at the DoubleTree Greenway More photos on defendernetwork.com of the Black Heritage Society Rodeo Committee and Plaza with “Diamonds & Bowties” serving as the party’s PHOTOS BY: Aswad Walker Constable May Walker. Other attendees included Angela theme. Along with casino tables, food, cocktails and live Holder, Fort Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage, music, prizes like a “Porsche for the Weekend,” Ensemble Yolanda Pratt, Elicious Scott, Willie Alexander, Karen Overton, Gisela Ables, Theatre season passes, and more were up for grabs. Also, 40 area educators Jew Don Boney and scores more……..EMERGE BUILD THE VILLAGE received the “Educator of Excellence” award. Attendees included Dr. Justin LUNCHEON……..Emerge hosted its Build the Village Luncheon at the Washington, Fred Navarro, Jona Sargent, Kanisha Wiley, Jeremy River Oaks Country Club, with proceeds supporting college scholarships.

Wallace, Dr. Annetra Piper, Kimberly Joseph, Annette Moore, Jalene Emerge prepares high-performing students from underserved communities Mack, Tionna Cobb, D.J. Davis, Alexia Ladipo, Tiara Tramble, Ivy Walls and many more. to attend and graduate from selective colleges and universities across the

Defender TOP EVENTS

Ron Jackson, Dr. Gretchen Jackson-Odion, Angela Holder

Harold Cash, Bailey Prairie King, Elicious Scott, Myrtis Dightman

Will Rice, A.J. Patterson, Adrian Patterson

Dr. Justin Washington, Jona Sargent, Kanisha Wiley, Fred Navarro

Patra Isaac, Denise Smith

Denzel Young, Mary Martin

Councilmember Michael Kubosh, Mollie Taylor Stevenson Jr., Jew Don Boney

Cierra Duckworth, Carlos Perrett

Annette Moore, Kimberly Joseph, Dr. Annetra Piper

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