February 29, 2024

HOUSTON’S

Unsung Artists NEWS

PROFILE

SHEILA V. AMANDA

KIMBERLY GAY

One of the hottest contested races in the March primary is between Sheila Jackson Lee and Amanda Edwards

The book lover is bridging the literacy gap through libraries.

Volume 93, issue 18 February 29, 2024

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DN To the POINT

NFL legend Cam Newton (in big hat) fighting off seven members of the TSP crew during a 7-on-7 tournament in Atlanta sponsored by Newton last week. Screenshot.

Associate Editor’s Message the world still exist. Blackfolk will come to Just a few weeks ago Cam Newton was blows with each other if we feel we’ve been assaulted and insulted by ESPN talking disrespected. It’s past time we use that same head Kimberly Martin, who totally ignored energy when others disrespect us.

Newton’s incredible MVP-winning and Super Bowl-appearing career. Now, just Stop the Steal… Not That One days ago, brotherman hosted an event Noted “wypipologist” Michael Harriot, in his hometown of Atlanta only to be author of the national best-selling book assaulted again. Only this time, it was by “Black AF History: The Un-whitewashed roughly seven brothers, reportedly from Story of America,” is on a mission to get the TSP Crew. They literally jumped NewBlackfolk and others to stop a great theft Aswad Walker ton, creating a seven-on-one fight situation. that has been going on for far too long.

And Newton won. Cam handled them like a collection of Recently, rapper/activist David Banner lamented that Blacks talking head scrubs. And his hat never fell off his head while too often send our best and brightest to PWIs when HBCUs doing it. In general, this Black-on-Black disrespect has got should be our only option. Harriot, however, begs to differ, to stop. More specifically, y’all gonna learn – don’t come pointing out that PWIs, quiet as it’s kept, don’t belong to for Newton. white people. “In states like South Carolina and Mississippi (where Banner’s from), the big white PWIs were initially Know When You’ve Been Insulted funded by majority-Black tax bases. Every PWI land grant So, y’all’s former president, Donald Drumpf (yes, that’s steals federal HBCU money. Not one state public univerhis real legal name, look it up), said this: “I got indicted for sity system’s [enrollment] reflects the percentage of Black nothing. They were doing it because it’s election interference. taxpayers.” In other words, our tax dollars, during and after And then I got indicted a second time, a third time, and a segregation, funded these schools and the whites-only stufourth time. And a lot of people said that that’s why the Black dent bodies that attended them for so long, literally stealing people like me because they have been hurt so badly and dollars from HBCUs and stealing admissions opportunidiscriminated against. And they actually viewed me as I’m ties from Black students. I completely understand Banner’s being discriminated against. It’s been pretty amazing.” And point, but the argument Harriot makes is compelling, as well. while in South Carolina, speaking at a gala sponsored by the It takes the position that since we paid for these PWIs, why Black Conservative Federation, which happened to have a the hell are we allowing them to remain so hyper-white? And nearly all-white crowd, Drumpf said this: “These lights are so why would we give away those things our money, blood, bright in my eyes that I can’t see too many people out there. sweat, and tears made possible?

But I can only see the Black ones. I can’t see the white ones.

That’s how far I’ve come.” Moreover, a Fox News contrib- ON THE WEB utor, Raymond Arroyo, stated this about Drumpf ’s garish • Learn how to navigate Black Love while single. gold shoes: “Even the sneaker thing… this is connecting • Dr. Kimberly Gay uses libraries to bridge literary gaps. with Black America, because they love sneakers… this is a • Houston Afrobeats artists talk growth of the genre in U.S. big deal, certainly in the inner city.” Yet, the Tim Scotts of Cam Newton vs. The World

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DN News U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 18 CANDIDATES Q&A

Sheila Jackson Lee, Amanda Edwards

By Aswad Walker

above. Please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com for my full policy plan.

Many recall that rising political star and former Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards threw her hat in the ring to run for mayor, vying to take over for term-limited Sylvester Turner. But when longtime U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee entered Houston’s mayoral race, Edwards dropped out and chose to run for the U.S. Congress District 18 seat – the one Jackson Lee has held for the past 29 years and would relinquish if she became Houston’s next mayor.

But a funny thing happened on the way to their expectations: Jackson Lee lost the mayor’s race (won by John Whitmire), and though many thought Edwards would drop out of the District 18 race, she’s all in and looking to unseat the longtime incumbent who didn’t have to give up her congressional seat as she ran for mayor.

The Defender asked these two political juggernauts to see how they compare on issues relevant to the voters who will decide who represents District 18 moving forward.

What are the main points of your platform?

JACKSON LEE: Having served almost 30 years in the U. S. Congress, I am very familiar with critical issues that mean the most to us including: (a) the need to continue to bring billions of federal dollars back to the city and the 18th district that will enhance the overall quality of life for Houstonians; (b) providing affordable health care services for all as well as protecting the right of reproductive rights and freedom for women; (c) begin prioritizing projects that will rebuild our crumbling infrastructure and provide jobs due to the historic bi-partisan Infrastructure & Jobs Act; (d.) focus more on global warming and how we can better protect our environment to reduce climate change.

EDWARDS: The voters I meet every day in the district believe it is time for a community where everyone can thrive, and I agree. Therefore, my priorities as a member of Congress will be to expand access to quality, affordable health care; to expand economic opportunity, including for small-business owners and those seeking jobs in an evolving economy; to work to lower the rising costs of higher education; and to protect our democracy and safeguard our civil rights. I have discussed some of my approaches to these issues in detail in response to questions

What are the top 1-3 issues Dist. 18 voters want to see addressed?

JACKSON LEE: From my discussions with constituents, they are concerned about the state of our democracy being wiped out, the status of world peace, and not being able to provide for their families with the onset of inflation while not having decent wages, as well as losing their social security and retirement benefits.

EDWARDS: I hear every day from voters who are worried about the future.

Many women are afraid because they live in the most dangerous state in the nation to become pregnant because of our restrictions on women’s reproductive health.

Many people feel shut out of our region’s dynamic economy and from healthcare access. These voters need someone to hear them, but most importantly, they need someone who will work for them and deliver real, transformative change for the community.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

What is the biggest thing that

Amanda Edwards

JACKSON LEE: Primarily the level of experience that has allowed me to learn a great deal about the inner workings of Congress; because of established relationships, I have the capability to work across the aisle to work with those whom we may have differences but can discuss issues and compromise when necessary.

EDWARDS: I was born, raised, and educated in this district, my family is from the district, and I have lived in this District.

In all those years, the people of this district have continued to struggle with the same challenges: A lack of economic opportunities; A health care system that fails to adequately serve us; A justice system that too often leaves us feeling unsafe. It is time for a new approach based on identifying real solutions to our lingering problems.

It is also time for a leader to come in with a bold vision for our future who is able to pass policy that can lead to the transformative change the community deserves. As with any journey, there comes a time where a new approach, a fresh perspective and new leadership is needed. We are at that moment in our collective journey. I will lead us to not just address the challenges of today, but to realize our full potential and win tomorrow, as well.

separates you from your opponent?

Candidates address: The difference between political parties; an under-the-radar important issue; and what they admire about their opponent

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DN News

Poor people mobilize to vote

By Aswad Walker

The Texas Poor People’s Campaign (TPPC) means business when it comes to impacting the upcoming elections in November.

The organization recently announced a statewide major effort in the fall to mobilize millions of poor and low-wage voters. They hope that this often-ignored and under-voting demographic will be in position to swing local, state, and national elections.

In essence, TPPC is refusing to accept poverty as the fourth leading cause of death in America, and in so doing, the organization is declaring that the votes of those millions of Texans they plan to mobilize will be directed towards fighting for issues important to them.

These issues include access to living wages, protected voting rights and other policies TPPC and a vast majority of Texans believe with not only save lives, but save democracy itself.

During a recent press conference, TPPC organizers pledged to “wake the great, untapped power of the ‘sleeping giant’ of poor and low-wage people.” And to make that happen, TPPC will train hundreds of people locally on how to effectively engage voters and drive them to the polls.

Campaign tri-chairs across the country also participated in simultaneous press conferences, where leaders explained that the reason poor and low-wage voters participate

Photo by Matthew Dae Smith/Lansing State Journal via AP.

in elections at lower rates is not because they have no interest in politics, but because politics is not interested in them.

“The reality is poor and low-wage people have the power to fundamentally shift elections up and down the ballot,” said Alex Monatvo, one of the organization’s tri-chairs. “And

we are going to mobilize the sleeping giant of poor and low-wage voters by mobilizing around living wages, voting rights, healthcare for all, environmental justice, and more.”

“We declare today that poor and low-wage voters are coming together with religious leaders and moral advocates to say, ‘our votes

are demands.’” added Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, national co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign and co-chair of the 2024 mobilization. “We are not voting for personality; our votes are for policy. If a candidate wants our votes, then they must talk to the very voters they have been leaving behind.”

“The Poor People’s Campaign is waking up the sleeping giant of low-wage voters who have been ignored for far too long,” added Barber.

Local Poor People’s Campaign leaders joined impacted voters in announcing plans for simultaneous actions on March 2 at state capitols to further the campaign and highlight the policies being promulgated in state houses across the country that are hurting the poor, or distracting from addressing the real issues facing poor and low-wage people.

In Texas, the 2024 voter mobilization plans include door knocking, coordinated actions, building a beloved community, and GOTV (get out the vote) efforts.

The voter mobilization and March 2 actions will take place not only in the Lone Star State, but in 30 other states nationwide.

The March 2 event will take place at the Texas State Capitol (1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701)from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

2/ For more information visit https://www. poorpeoplescampaign.org/committee/ texas/.

BARBERS HILL VERDICT

Lawmakers, family continue fight for CROWN ACT

By Aswad Walker

Houston lawmakers are looking to revamp Texas’ CROWN ACT after a Houston-area judge ruled that Barbers Hill ISD was justified in repeatedly suspended Darryl George, a Black student, for the length of his dreadlocks, even though that length was within the bounds of the Barbers Hill dress code.

Barbers Hill ISD is thus free to

Darryl George. Photo by Lucio Vasquez, Houston Public Media.

continue punishing George in any way they see fit. George’s attorney, Allie Booker, plans to appeal the ruling and push for a federal injunction against the school district.

“Cases like this are exactly what appeals are for,” Booker said. “If, in the end, you’re only affecting a small class, it’s discriminatory… Over my body, we’ll be back here.”

Rep. Ron Reynolds, co-author of the CROWN Act, which became law in Texas last Sept .1, says he intends to create a new version of the CROWN Act that includes protections for hair length during next year’s legislative session.

Barbers Hill High School junior George (18), has been repeatedly suspended from the school located in Mont Belvieu, just east of Houston, for refusing to cut or alter his dreadlocks – a natural hairstyle protected by the CROWN Act. George’s family and legal team say his hair is protected under the CROWN Act, which prohibits race-based hair

discrimination against students and employers, while the school district claims George has been in violation of the district’s grooming policy due to the length of his hair, not the style.

According to the district’s student handbook, a male student’s hair cannot “be gathered or worn in a style that would allow the hair to extend below the top of a t-shirt collar, below the eyebrows, or below the ear lobes when let down.” George has refused to cut his hair but has worn it up in a style that doesn’t go past his neck, eyebrows, or earlobes.

The trial comes months after the district filed a lawsuit asking a district judge to weigh in.

During the recent hearing, Booker argued that the district’s policy wasn’t gender-neutral and discriminated against hairstyles like dreadlocks which, by nature, “have to be long in order to braid it and to lock it,” according to Booker.

However, Judge Chap B. Cain III sided with Barbers Hill ISD.

“It’s put a lot of emotions on me — Anger, sadness,” said George, who was frustrated after the hearing. “Throughout all these years, throughout

all the fighting for the Black history that we’ve already done, we still have to do this again and again and again. It’s ridiculous.”

VOLUME 93, NUMBER 18 - FEBRUARY 29, 2024 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Terrance Harris Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2024 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288

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It’s more than just the big screen—it’s a celebration where diverse stories and untapped brilliance in our community take center stage.

Just say ‘Black Experience’ into your Xfinity Voice Remote and embark through a curated content collection of movies, TV shows, original documentaries and much more that pays homage to Black culture, amplifies our narratives, and illuminates our imagination.

Learn more at xfinity.com/blackexperience The Black Experience on Xfinity can also be watched on the Xumo Play app and Xfinity Stream.

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Lights, Camera, Culture!

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DN InFocus

unsung HOUSTON’S

artists

By ReShonda Tate, Aswad Walker & Laura Onyeneho

W

hen it comes to celebrating and experiencing the arts, Houston is the place to be. H-Town has artists of all kinds and places where you can experience the many flavors of Black Arts brilliance. Whether it’s the Ensemble Theatre, Gite Gallery, Community Artists Collective, HSPVA (those students put on professional-level productions), Project Row Houses, etc., Houston’s artists and art scenes are making an inedible mark.

And it’s not just because of the bevy of globally established artists with Houston roots (like Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, Yolanda Adams, Lecrea, Tobe Nwigwe, etc). The Bayou City is a formidable arts force thanks to some largely unsung talent.

By no means is this a comprehensive list (there’s a slew of artists in Houston), but here are just a few of Houston’s incredible artists and art organizations you need to know about. They may not be household names (yet), but their talent is absolutely superstar-level. By the way, you can read more about each of these artists at DefenderNetwork.com.

Alex Stapleton This filmmaker is definitely one to watch. Her film, “The Price of Oil,” is a new documentary that is garnering rave reviews. It explores the impact the oil industry has had on Houstonians, particularly on Black people in Pleasantville, including multiple generations of her family.

Candice D’Meza Candice D’Meza’s body of work spans theater performance, multiple literary genres, activism, dance, critical pedagogy, ritual, social practice, and film. And they all reflect her commitment to afrofuturistic “world-building.”

Michelle Barnes

David Michael Wyatt

Will North

Dance Africa

Ashley

Candice D’Meza

Uncle jumbo

Reginald Adams

DJ Flash Gordon Parks Parks, a self-described “ethnomusicologist, collector, and documentarian,” is known near and far for his skills on the “ones and twos,” but he’s a skilled photographer.

He also hosts the “Flash Gordon Parks Show” on KPFT (90.1 FM), where he spotlights Houston’s incredible pool of under-appreciated artistic talent.

Michele Thibeaux If this world made sense, Michele Thibeaux would be a global household name.

Folk in H-town know of her musical skills as she’s worked with some of the city’s brightest talents including Russell Guess, H.I.S.D., Alycia Miles, Bel Ami and the late Zin, just to name a few. Listening to Thibeaux will put you in the mind of Sassy Sarah Vaugh, Ella Fitzgerald, Amel Larrieux and Nina Simone.

Reginald Adams It’s hard to place Adams on a list of artists you “need to know” because his name, works, and influence have gone global. Yet, you can still catch him walking through the Houston hoods without being mobbed by fans. Adams has made his mark on the world of public art via countless works. The one he may best be known for is the Juneteenth Mural in Galveston, “Absolute Equality.” But he does so much work here in H-Town (ex: Discovery Green, the Gregory School, and Kashmere HS) that is worthy of checking out.

Teylor Bonner Talk about a triple threat! Teylor Bonner is just that. This Gen-Z photographer, cinematographer and cosmetics diva will film your award-winning movie, take photos of you receiving your awards and have you looking right while you take your redcarpet stroll.

Gite Gallery

Michele Thibeaux

Alex Stapleton

Read more about each of these artists.

Michelle Barnes As the founder and director of Community Arts Collective, a nonprofit organization created to meet the needs of African American artists, Barnes is at the forefront of art in the Houston community. She and fellow artist Dr. Sarah Trotty founded the CAC to fill the gap left by a lack of art curriculum being taken out of schools in underserved areas.

William North This Houston artist is praised for his in-depth examination of African Diaspora customs, and currently has a powerful solo show at The Anderson Center through April 5 called “The

Conjuring Man Lives.” North is recognized for his lifetime affinity for the visual arts, particularly drawing, during his tutelage at Mufasa’s Pride. He was born with a natural knack for artistic expression. North’s turning point— which he later revealed to be his dual identity as an artist—came from his involvement in the community.

Uncle Jumbo James Pendleton (also known as Uncle Jumbo), has made a mark making music for children. He considers his work family-involved so therefore families love it. His album “Taste The Sky” was up for best children’s music album

at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards.

Ashley Lazarre This Houston-based storyteller and content creator, emerges as an unstoppable force in the global justice and Black women’s empowerment movements. Hailing from Haiti, she infuses a unique flair into the realms of activism, academia, and style, redefining the standards with her remarkable presence.

David Michael Wyatt With a background rooted in the church, Wyatt’s journey embraces his soft vocals and heartfelt covers. Despite challenges as an

Teylor Bonner

independent artist, he made waves with features in NBA 2K, the 2020 NBA Finals Apple commercial, and appearances on Jimmy Kimmel’s Late Night TV. Designed 2 Dance & Tracee Davis Designed 2 Dance, students are using their classes as a starting point to a college education.

Dancers have different classes where they’re able to learn ballet, jazz, hip-hop, pointe and also Broadway-style dance and production.

Dance Afrikana & Dr. Lindsay Gary Dance Afrikana is founded by Houston

area dancer, choreographer, and educator Dr. Lindsay Gary. The organization has become an important resource for traditional African dance education. It provides weekly dance classes for adults and teens, connecting Africans in the diaspora through rhythm and movement. Beyond the dance floor, Dance Afrikana nurtures the Houston Black Dance Collective (HBDC), supporting local artists and dance entities.

Gite Gallery The house in Houston’s Third Ward is more than just a home. Inside is an explosion of modern African art, from statues to masks

Flash Gordon Parks

and paintings. Houston native Lloyd Gite, a journalist turned gallery owner, started selling art more than 30 years ago.

Meow Wolf This $42 million entertainment venue is in the works and will feature multi-media art installations from local artists, art gallery spaces, restaurants and retail shops. It’s the city’s latest effort to highlight its thriving diverse communities. The museum is expected to bring in over 100 jobs and plans to use 32,242 square feet of a historic 115,000-squarefoot warehouse with hopes of attracting more tourism for visitors and residents.

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DN Profile

Kimberly M. Gay Bridges literary gaps with libraries

By Laura Onyeneho

disseminate resources. The cultural offerings In the face of mounting challenges and of libraries, ranging from art and literature the profound responsibility of acting as cat- to music, become even more crucial in the alysts for bridging cultural divides, libraries face of digital dominance. stand at a critical juncture. Kimberly M. The Defender spoke with Gay to hear Gay, a distinguished faculty expert at Prai- her insights on libraries’ challenges navirie View A&M, passionately advocates for gating the digital age, their responsibility in the enduring significance of these bastions of bridging cultural divides, their role in politknowledge, emphasizing their pivotal role in ical community life, and their unwavering fostering cultural understanding, particularly commitment to fostering awareness and among Black youth. discourse.

Motivated by her transformative workstudy experience at the Blagg-Huey Library DEFENDER: Was being a librarian of Texas Woman’s University, Gay embarked something you’ve always wanted on a career devoted to providing equitable to do? access to information. Recognizing librarKimberly Michelle Gay: Yes. As Head ies as “great equalizers,” she champions of Reference and Information Services. I their role in addressing digital serve as a supervisor to almost and information divides and six other professional librarians. underscores their crucial conThis was not my calling; this was tribution to nurturing multiculGod’s calling. I have an undertural awareness. graduate degree in broadcastIn an era where digital ing and journalism and another resources dominate, Gays background in fashion merbelieves that libraries’ cultural chandising and marketing. My KIMBERLY’S MESSAGE TO and community dimensions mother was an avid reader, and PARENTS are sometimes undervalued. because of the libraries at PraiShrinking budgets and technorie View, I became a ferocious logical revolutions pose chalreader. This journey to become lenges, yet she sees libraries as resilient spaces a librarian is now my calling and what God offering more than books and computers. has called me to do. I walk in it with grace They remain vital community and cultural and humbleness because I understand what centers where individuals come together to he’s trying to promote and say, to be a beacon explore, interact, and imagine. of literacy and cultural awareness through Gay emphasized a pressing issue—too the role of librarians. often, American children are not exposed to materials reflecting their culture. As a DEFENDER: How do you see libraries librarian, she believes in the value of com- playing a role in cultural awareness? munity services and libraries’ critical role Gay: Libraries will always continue to in helping individuals collect, organize, and promote cultural awareness. We are great

is a free 17 week training course for individuals living with or affected by HIV. The purpose of the program is to train people to effectively help plan HIV prevention and care services in the Houston Area. Topics covered include the history of HIV in the Houston area, local HIV trends, supportive services available for people living with HIV, and much, much more!

The class is 4 hours, one day a week (Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm) starting at the end of July and ends with a graduation ceremony in early December. Lunch and class materials are provided.

A brief application and personal interview are required Project LEAP is held in a hybrid format (in person and on Zoom)

If you have questions or would like to receive an application, please contact Diane Beck at 832 927-7926 or diane.beck@harriscountytx.gov RYAN WHITE PLANNING COUNCIL OFFICE OF SUPPORT Phone 832 927-7926 Fax 713 431-4880 http://rwpcHouston.org

equalizers, combating digital and information divides. Libraries help communities learn about their areas, fostering lifelong information literacy skills. Libraries with innovation labs contribute to technology imagination. Libraries are crucial in strategic research and promoting different environments. Even during the COVID pandemic, libraries remained open, providing access to students who lacked laptops and desktops.

Libraries play a significant role in cultural awareness by addressing community needs and challenges.

DEFENDER: What challenges do you see libraries facing these days?

Gay: The biggest challenge is

staying new, fresh, and innovative. People claim physical libraries won’t exist, but librarians create and manage digital collections. Libraries remain relevant in the growing information age. Politics often impacts libraries, influencing ac c ess to information and literacy skills.

There is a constant need for

libraries to stay innovative and adapt to societal changes.

DEFENDER: What programs or initiatives within libraries have successfully fostered literacy skills among diverse communities?

Gay: One successful program is the

Human Library, where individuals can check out a human story. People on campuses who are ordinary but doing extraordinary things are available for an hour-long conversation.

Libraries continue to adapt to the digital era by staying relevant and understanding community needs. Hosting events with influential figures like Common helps attract diverse audiences and promotes education.

Kimberly M. Gay says a library has a critical role in helping individuals collect, organize, and disseminate resources.

Credit: PVAMU

CLASSIFIED Pursuant to Chapter 59 Texas property Code, Neighbor Storage will hold a Public Sale of Property to satisfy Landlord's lien on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 online through Storagetreasures.com. Tenant is Randall Burns and the storage space is located at 8565 W Sam Houston Pkwy S, Houston, Texas, 77072 Property will be sold to the highest bidder (credit card payment). Property must be removed within 72 hours and space broom swept. Seller reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw property from a sale. Said properties are: furniture, like chairs, headboard speakers, tools and some boxes.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) is planning to issue the procurement documents listed in this advertisement.

IFB No. 4023000183: Addition of Second Hydraulic Elevator at West Bus Operating (BOF) Facility. Solicitation will be available on or about 02/20/2024. Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements If you are unable to download the documents or are having difficulty, please contact 713-615-6125 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.

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DN Feature

UHD celebrates 50 years of educational excellence Aswad Walker

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) has already experienced multiple transforming moments under the leadership of its new president, Loren J. Blanchard. Now, the institution is celebrating another powerful moment – the school’s 50th anniversary.

Founded in 1974, UHD celebrates its 50 years of teaching excellence and student success with a series of events throughout 2024.

It officially kicked off its 50th anniversary during Welcome Week, the first week of classes for the spring semester.

“Across our first half-century, the University of Houston-Downtown has been a beacon, especially for first generation and nontraditional students, by providing all students with exceptional experiences,” said Blanchard. “Our students come from across our region, with myriad backgrounds, and we offer them an education that propels them to further success. We are proud of what they – and we – have accomplished

as a university, and we continue to strive for future success as we strengthen our position as an anchor institution for Houston.”

Jordan Williams, a native of Oklahoma and a UHD student who transferred in from San Jacinto College, expressed his appreciation for what’s happening at UHD. “I didn’t have a lot of Black role models in the field of STEM,” said Williams. “It’s a good feeling to attend a school where people look like me in high positions. What I do in the next two years is going to lay that foundation for me, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

UHD is the second largest university in Houston with one of the lowest tuitions in the region, and its students graduate with the lowest student debt in the state. UHD offers 45 undergraduate programs and 12 master’s degrees through its four colleges: College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Public Service, College of Sciences and Technology, and the Marilyn Davies College of Business. Ranked one of the most diverse

Full details can be found at www.uhd.edu/50years.

UHD President Loren J. Blanchard delivers the State of the University address, Sept.

26, 2023.

Credit: www. uhd.edu.

institutions of higher education in the nation, UHD is designated as a Hispanic-Serving

Institution, Minority-Serving Institution and Military-Friendly School.

Concert with Famed Jazz Composer and Trumpeter Terence Blanchard 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 Venue to be announced

UHD 50TH CELEBRATION Anniversary Gala 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024 Hilton Americas-Houston, 1600 Lamar Street

This elegant evening will celebrate 50 years of UHD with dinner, dancing, and awards highlighting the achievements of UHD alumni. Proceeds from this fundraiser will directly benefit UHD students through the Scholarship Fund.

Grammy Award-winning composer, jazz trumpeter, and pianist Terence Blanchard will perform this concert in honor of UHD’s 50th anniversary. Blanchard has composed more than 40 film scores and performed on more than 50. A frequent collaborator with director Spike Lee, he has been nominated for two Academy Awards for the scores for Lee’s films “BlacKkKlansman” (2018) and “Da 5 Bloods” (2020).

VO TE D E M O C R AT

Amanda Edwards Primary Day is Tuesday, March 5th Polls open 7 AM – 7 PM Early voting runs from February 20th–March 1st Visit harrisvotes.com for vote-by-mail and polling place information

IS FIGHTING FOR YOU In 2020, Christian was elected as the youngest person and the first African American to serve as Harris County Attorney, the chief civil lawyer for the largest county in Texas.

FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 18

He has consistently used that office to: Protect Voting Rights Fight for Reproductive Freedom Stand up to Extremists.

Paid for by Amanda Edwards for Congress

WE’RE WITH LIZZIE Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis Fort Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan Houston City Controller Chris Hollins Texas State Representative Ron Reynolds Houston City Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries House Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn

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PAID FOR BY ELIZABETH PANNILL FLETCHER FOR CONGRESS

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Menefee came in on a promise to expand the environmental enforcement and he delivered.”

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10 | February 29, 2024 |

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DN Sports Prairie View guard Kayla Smith came off the bench to lead the Panthers with 20 points in 6657 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Sports Briefs Could Saquon Barkley join the Texans?

The speculation is growing that New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley favors joining the Saquon Texans, when the Barkley former No.2 overall pick and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Rumors have it that Barkley has reached out to quarterback C.J. Stroud.

The addition of Barkley would be exactly what the Texans need to take some pressure off Stroud and add a needed punch to the ground attack. Miami cornerback Xavier Howard has also expressed interest in joining the Texans.

UH Cougars ascend to No.1 national ranking

The University of Houston Cougars have moved into the No.1 spot in the Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball Kelvin poll for the first time Sampson this season. Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars (24-3), who had occupied the No.2 spot, took over the top spot from defending national champion UConn, which had been No.1 for six straight weeks. UH is now the fifth team to hold the No.1 spot this season.

Yordan Alvarez could be moving 2nd in batting order New Astros manager Joe Espada said he is planning to move Yordan Alvarez to second in the lineup with the hope of increasing his plate appearances this season. Alveraz, who was the Astros top Yordan Alvarez hitter since 2021 under Dusty Baker, had consistently hit in the three spot and sometimes cleanup. With the shift of Alvarez, the Astros top-lineup would also include Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker. The plan is also to have Alvarez, who reported to spring training for the first time in the last three years, play in left field about 50% of the time.

University of Houston guard Jamal Shead contributed a double-double with 12 points and 10 assists during the 82-76 overtime win over Baylor.

After stints at TCU and LSU

RYANN PAYNE Finds a home at Prairie View

By Terrance Harris

Prairie View senior guard Ryann Payne has always seemed to have to fit into whatever box others thought her game belonged in.

But after two previous college stops, the 5 - fo ot - 7 c omb o guard has enjoyment and fulfillment in finally having an opportunity to be a part of defining her role in her first season with the Panthers and her final collegiate campaign.

Payne “I’m just grateful to have belief,” she said recently. “Sometimes collegiately that’s hard to come by. You are put into a position and then you are having to learn and grow under upperclassmen or sometimes politics and things that you can’t control. I’m grateful that I’m in a place where I can grow mentally and physically.”

But it took some twists and turns for Payne to arrive at this place.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF JOURNEY Payne, a four-star prospect out of Sierra Canyon High School in California, began her college basketball career at TCU before transferring to LSU where she spent parts of three seasons before abruptly leaving the team four games into the 2022-23 season.

This isn’t quite how Payne saw her college journey playing out when she decided to venture into Big 12 country from out west. But Payne believes she is better as a result of the experiences she has had.

“It’s been a big learning lesson,” said Payne, who is spending her lone season at PV as a graduate student, studying Health Sciences.

“It’s honestly shaped me into the person I am today. I wanted to go away from home to learn more about myself, become independent, and grow as a basketball player, playing at the highest level.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of a process and experience overall. But ultimately, I think it’s shaped me into the person I am today.”

That person is now a vocal leader, an allaround presence on the floor, and the Panthers’ top scorer, playmaker, creator, and defender. It’s a huge shift from her previous

stops where Payne was always a reliable reserve point guard who brought energy off the bench.

Payne was the only true freshman at TCU to appear in 32 games, and after signing with Nikki Fargas at LSU, she was one of a few holdovers who remained when Kim Mulkey took over the Tigers’ program. She was the first guard off the bench in Mulkey’s fourguard rotation before leaving the team in November of 2022.

Admittedly, Payne wasn’t too sure when Prairie View head coach Sandy Pugh and her staff first started discussing their vision for her when she first arrived on the Hill last summer. Payne had distributing the basketball and creating for others down, but scoring and becoming a more vocal leader required raising her game to another level.

“It was challenging initially,” Payne said.

“I knew I could do it. I knew I had all of the gifts within me and the capabilities within me, but for such a long time I was just torn down. So, it took me some time to build up my confidence and believe that I can do all of the things I knew I could do and they knew I could do.”

MAKING A NEW HOME AT PRAIRIE VIEW This season has not quite been what Payne and the Panthers had hoped, sitting at seventh in the SWAC race with an 11-14 overall and

ABOUT RYANN PAYNE Position: Guard Height: 5-foot-7 Class: Graduate student Undergraduate degree: Graduated from LSU with Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies Accolades: SWAC Impact Player of the Week after averaging 22 points and four assists against Alabama State and Alabama A&M in January.

Quotable: “I can honestly say in each and every moment God has blessed me with that in this collegiate process and each season I’ve learned and grew through the ups and the downs. It’s all shaped me into the person I am today.”

Courtesy: Prairie View athletics.

7-8 conference record. The Panthers were at the end of a five-game winning streak prior to Saturday’s 66-57 win at Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Monday’s 69-63 victory at Mississippi Valley State.

This is a time when teams should be peaking as the conference tournament season approaches, and Payne has confidence the team can turn it around. She is the only player averaging in double figures with 16.0 points a game, which ranks third in the SWAC. “I want them to stay encouraged,” added Payne, who came through in the Feb. 26 game with 18 points and 11 rebounds in the win over Mississippi Valley State. “As much as we needed these last couple of wins to put us in a good position in conference … We have all of the pieces we need. I think each game that we lost, we’ve gotten better and better. It’s just a matter of my teammates being confident and knowing that they can do it.

“We have a lot of seniors on this team, too.

So I want them to have the best year that they can, me included; because this is it. Once it’s over it’s over.”

February 29, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN Sports

MA’RIYAH VINCENT

Makes scoring history at Cy Springs

By Jimmie Aggison

Achieving a milestone of 1,000 points isn’t a simple feat, but Cy Springs’ senior guard Ma’Riyah Vincent effortlessly accomplished it, becoming just the second player in Cy Springs’ history to do so. Vincent’s remarkable performance was instrumental in guiding her team to an undefeated district record of 14-0 in 6A Region II District 16 and securing a spot in the regional semifinals.

“This team is special because we’ve had the addition of some pieces, and the chemistry on the court is just different,” said head coach Taneisha Rogers. “They genuinely are friends off the court. They hang out, have fun, and enjoy each other’s company. When you have chemistry off the court, it transpires and leads to great things on the court. They share the ball and are genuinely happy for one another.”

One of those newly added pieces is senior guard Ma’Riyah Vincent who recently played with state runner-up, Duncanville.

“Ma’Riyah’s special. Her addition to this team has been instrumental to us because she’s a special talent. She shows up early and stays late. Her pouring into the game, because she loves it so much, is infectious and it bleeds off to our other players. They see her doing it and they realize, ‘I can do this too.’ So, just adding someone who truly loves the game and gives their all to the game, it’s been special,” said Rogers.

After seeing her mom play, Vincent began playing basketball for her local YMCA at eight years old. Her mom, Richarda Outley, who attended McLennan Community College and was a basketball All-American, taught Vincent about the game.

“When I was younger, she would tell me things and I would hear her, but it didn’t sound important until I got older and then I had trainers who echoed much of what she was saying.

Then it dawned on me she was mom, but she knew everything it took to

be successful on the court and more,” said Vincent.

As Vincent began to fall in love with the game, she attended Campbell Middle School and made the eighth-grade basketball team. For high school, she attended Jersey Village where she made the varsity basketball team and played with Briana Peguero and Gia Adams.

“I was in the starting rotation, but I was more like a role player. Briana and Gia were leaders and playing with them helped me mature quickly and learn how to lead and talk to people on the court. On days they were tired or didn’t feel like talking. I picked up the slack,” said Vincent.

Vincent moved her sophomore season and the move forced her to attend Klein Cain. While at Klein Cain, she found herself once again in the varsity starting rotation, as she transitioned from a post player to a shooting guard.

“I put in a lot of work that summer, probably one of the hardest working summers I’ve ever had,” said Vincent.

“While at Klein Cain I had the ball in my hands a lot more and I was just able to score. I started to develop my mid-range and my three ball because I used to always drive. But this move allowed me to become more of an allaround player.”

As a junior, Vincent relocated to Desoto where she averaged a double-double through the playoffs and her team made it to the UIL Class 6A State Championship but fell short 42-37 to the Clark Cougars.

“I put in a lot of work that season, I sacrificed my body so much playing through injuries. And to get there and lose felt depressing,” said Vincent.

“However, playing with the Desoto team taught me how to play with other people who know how to score, allowed me to improve my leadership capabilities, and boosted my confidence. I feel Dallas has some of the best teams and while I was playing there I was still getting buckets and locking up the best players.”

For her senior year, Vincent moved to Cypress Springs where she found herself in a place to rewrite the history of her junior season as Cypress Springs found itself in the regional semifinals.

Throughout her basketball journey, Vincent has learned to handle adversity and thrive in it. Playing with various teams allowed her to become more of a versatile player. Vincent has since won First Team All-District three times, Academic First Team twice, All-State and the Naismith award.

Vincent is a three-level scorer who is continuing to work on her mid-range and her three-point shooting. She is committed to the University of Missouri where she plans to study business and law.

“The first phone call was so genuine and they didn’t play hard to get. They were very God-led and positive. It felt right when I visited the campus. Everything was smooth and everybody was nice. The team vibe was good and they all seemed like leaders, and that’s where I want to be,” said Vincent.

ABOUT MA’RIYA VINCENT

Class: 2024 IG: @mariyaonfire Twitter: @MaRiyaonFire Position: Guard Height & weight: 6-feet-0, 174 pounds Player she studies: Lebron James (Los Angeles Lakers) Status: Committed to The University of Missouri Favorite artist: Drake Favorite subject: Street Law Shout-outs: Mom, Coach Paye, NoEqualAcademy, Coach Pennington

12 | February 29, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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