Houston Defender: March 17, 2022

AKAs converge on Houston Conference expected to pump millions into local economy.

NEWS

SPORTS

RUTH SIMMONS

DESHAUN WATSON

The accomplished PVAMU president has announced that she’s stepping down.

Volume 91, issue 19 March 17, 2022

Cleared of criminal charges, but legal battle continues facebook.com/defendernetwork twitter.com/defendernetwork

instagram.com/defendernetwork defendernetwork.com

FREE

2 | March 17, 2022 |

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DN On the web

Kanye West’s relationship with his mother, Donda, seen here supporting his Grammy wins in 2006, is explored in a new Netflix docummentary. Getty Images

Message from the Associate Editor ‘JEEN-YUHS’

and Black women’s brilliance is again being “Jeen-Yuhs,” the Netflix documentary trilooverlooked. And Brittney Griner still ain’t gy on the life of Kanye West, for me, has been home. Basketball tournaments be damned. We a reminder that there is a human being underneed a March win for Black women. neath all our memes regarding, jokes about and condemnations of Ye. I’m not dismissing his OVERDUE ANTI-LYNCHING LAW craziness, MAGA fascination or the stalking of It took over 100 years before there were his ex-wife, etc. But watching his rise, his strugenough white elected officials to sign off on anAswad Walker gles and his insatiable drive to be great gave me ti-lynching legislation. Put another way, the vast a newfound respect for the brother. And it remajority of white lawmakers and the people they minded me that we are, in a way, all Kanye. represent gave zero Fs about Black people being lynched.

We’re all geniuses who have gone through some things. Put yet another way, these folk fought for over a century We’re all guilty of doing things we’re not all that proud AGAINST a law to punish murderers who lynch(ed) Black of. We’re all dealing with stresses and demons of some people. THIS IS AMERICA. And just in case you have any kind. And Lord knows, we all need a Donda in our lives; doubts, it took over 30 years for the U.S. House to pass a repsomeone who believes in us so wholeheartedly they pro- arations bill. Not to give reparations to the descendants of vide a consistent comforting presence. We could all use enslaved Africans. Just to study the idea! The bill, originally a Coodie Simmons too; a homie willing to ride with us introduced by the late U.S. Rep. John Conyers Jr. in 1989, through all our ups and downs. So, if you haven’t seen it, was voted down or ignored over a gazillion times before ficheck out “Jeen-Yuhs.” But more importantly, check out nally seeing the light of day. Why is this important? To rethe “Jeen-Yuhs” in you! mind us of two things: 1) the amount of energy folk put into denying our rights and 2) our ability to fight through that MARCH MADNESS madness and keeping moving forward in spite of.

March Madness is alive and well, and it seems everyone’s all in. No, not the NCAA Men’s and Women’s bas- IN THIS WEEK’S DEFENDER ketball tournaments. I’m talking about the fact that it’s • The AKAs are in town, bringing big bucks, as well as their Women’s History Month, and sisters are still catching it beauty & brains. from all sides. Naomi Osaka was recently brought to tears • State Rep.Garnet Coleman endorses Jolanda Jones as his by hecklers at the Indian Wells Tournament. After losing replacement. a match and enduring negative crowd comments, Nao- • Let the People Be Heard: Africans in Ukraine crisis. mi grabbed the mic and told spectators that she’s been heckled before and it was no big deal. But the fact that ON THE WEB it happened at the same place where decades ago, Venus • Black women find emotional, physical health freedom in and Serena experienced the same treatment, worked her ‘big chop’. last nerve. And sisters had to recently march on Washing- • Check out the Defender’s mini-publishers: Black Women, ton to make sure those D.C. lawmakers (our employees) Under 40 & Community Central. move with the quickness to get Ketanji Brown Jackson • Peep the pics from award-winning photographer Jimmie sworn in to the Supreme Court. Plus, it’s awards season, Aggison in “Jimmie’s Journey Around Town.”

March 17, 2022 |

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DN News VOWS TO STAY ON SIDELINE BUT....

Garnet Coleman endorses Jolanda Jones Houston Public Media

Councilmember Edward Pollard at podium during a recent press conference announcing District J license plate cameras.

Councilmember Edward Pollard using license plate cams to deter District J crime

By Aswad Walker

City Councilmember Edward Pollard announced details of his plan to combat crime in District J, including the acquisition of Flock License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras.

At a recent press conference, Pollard was joined by representatives from the Houston Police Department command staff, Police Officers Union and management districts, as he laid out his plan for crime deterrents in his district, and the need for them.

“The only way to reduce crime is to have deterrents, and these license plate cameras should be able to deter, because if there’s one thing criminals do not like is to be on camera,” said Pollard.

In response to the uptick in crime in the city of Houston, Pollard allocated funds to HPD to purchase the LPR cameras. In addition, District J is engaging in a public/private partnership with management districts to fulfill a

goal of installing 100 cameras in the district.

“We want to send a strong message that if you commit crimes and you ride through our district, we will see you, and we will catch you,” said Pollard.

The LPR cameras use license plate recognition technology to aid law enforcement in the prevention and solving of crimes.

The cameras will be exclusively used in capturing still photographs to identify vehicle

make, type, color, license plate, and other unique vehicle details. They are not capable of video recording or live streaming.

“We want people to know that we will be tracking every single car that comes through these intersections where we have the license plate cameras.

And if it has been found that you have been involved in a crime with that vehicle, we will see you and we will be coming after you,” said Pollard.

We want to send a strong message that if you commit crimes and you ride through our district, we will see you, and we will catch you.”

Councilmember Edward Pollard

Former Houston State Rep. Garnet Coleman has endorsed former Houston City Councilmember Jolanda Jones in both the special election and the runoff primary to fill his seat in the state Legislature.

Coleman had previously said he would not make an endorsement, leaving the choice of his replacement entirely up to the voters.

Asked why he had reversed his position and endorsed Jones over Realtor Danielle Keys Bess, Coleman told Houston Public Media he hesitated to wade in to the original seven-person primary race. But things became clearer when the race narrowed to two.

“I thought about the last session of the Legislature and particularly in the House and how it requires someone to fight and probably will for a while, and I think that Jolanda is best suited for that,” Coleman said.

In a statement, Jones said she was proud to have the outgoing lawmaker’s endorsement.

“For him to pass that baton of trust to me is humbling and awe-inspiring,” she said. “For that, I am grateful.

No one can truly replace him, but I will continue to be guided by his work, his passion and his dedication.”

Coleman said he wants someone who’s willing to fight the Republican leadership on issues that matter to him, like strict new election laws, abortion issues, the rights of transgender children, and Medicaid expansion. He added that he believed Jones was also capable of working across the aisle when necessary, saying he believes, “she knows when a good deal is to be had.”

Coleman represented House District 147 for 31 years, before announcing his retirement in November 2021. He then decided to retire early, on February 28, triggering a special election to fill out the remainder of his current term.

Danielle Keys Bess, Jones’ rival in the May 24 runoff election and opponent in the May 7 special election, did not respond to requests for comment.

Political watchers expected Bess to benefit from the support of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston. The congresswoman has not openly endorsed Bess, but she has close political ties to Bess’ employer, Gerald Womack.

Garnet Coleman

Jolanda Jones

Danielle Keys Bess

Coleman’s endorsement could counter Jackson Lee’s support, should she choose to weigh in on Bess’ side.

“It’s a signature endorsement and a huge feather in (Jones’) cap.” said Michael O. Adams, a political science professor at Texas Southern University, “and it will also help her in terms of her fundraising.”

4 | March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News Police reform: Blacks doubtful

Associated Press

Few Americans believe there has been significant progress over the last 50 years in achieving equal treatment for Black people in dealings with police and the criminal justice system.

Most Americans across racial and ethnic groups say more progress is necessary, according to a new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. But Black Americans, many whom may have held hope in Democrats’ promises on racial justice initiatives in 2020, are especially pessimistic that any more progress will be made in the coming years.

Overall, only about a quarter of Americans say there has been a great deal or a lot of progress in achieving racial equality in policing and criminal justice. Roughly another third say there’s been “some” progress. An

overwhelming majority of adults say more progress is needed for racial equality, including about half who say “a lot” more. “ There’s more attent ion around certain issues and there’s a realization — more people are waking up to a lot of corruption in the system,” said Derek Sims, a 35-year-old bus driver in Austin, Texas, who is Black. He considers himself more optimistic than pessimistic that change will happen.

However, Sims said: “People don’t really want to come together and hash out ideas.

There’s just too much tribalism.”

The AP-NORC poll results reflect what some criminal justice advocates have warned elected leaders about for more than a year: that unless something definitive is done soon to begin transforming police and the criminal justice system, it

31%

BY THE NUMBERS:

Think more progress is needed on achieving fair treatment for Blacks

47% whites

70% Blacks

38% 20%

Optimistic that progress will be made soon

60% Other

40% Black

A lot more needs to be done

Made no progress at all

could become more difficult to mobilize dissatisfied Black voters in the midterm elections.

The poll shows there is common ground on the issue across racial and ethnic groups, but also

Pessimistic

60% Others/ No opinion

30% whites 10% Blacks

Country has made significant progress with racial equality in policing

suggests there is urgency felt among Black Americans more than white Americans.

2020 Census misses millions of Blacks, Hispanics NNPA News Service

The COVID-19 pandemic and an administration that appeared to sabotage accuracy led to a consequential undercount in the number of Black, Hispanic and Native American residents during the 2020 U.S. Census.

Further, census officials admitted that they overcounted white and Asian residents. The bureau reported the overall population as 323.2 million.

“The undercounting of Black, Latino, Indigenous and other communities of color rob us of the opportunity to be the directors of our fate, reducing our representation and limiting our power while depriving policymakers of the information they need to make informed decisions about where the next hospital will be built or where the next school should be located,” said Damon Hewitt, the president and executive director of the Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. “In addition, the undercount exacerbates underfunding of our communities because census data is used as the basis for hundreds of billions of dollars of federal, state, and local appropriations each year,” Hewitt said.

The census population count

the stakeholders and the public to leverage this enormously valuable resource fully.”

The bureau estimated that the 2020 census incorrectly counted 18.8 million residents, double-counting some, wrongly including others, and missing others entirely, even as it came extremely close to reaching an accurate count of the overall population. The Times reported that

the “estimates released... — in essence, a statistical adjustment of totals made public last year — are based on an examination of federal records and an extensive survey in which the bureau interviewed residents in some 10,000 census blocks — the smallest unit used in census tabulations. Bureau experts then compared their answers to the actual census results for those blocks.”

VOLUME 91 - NUMBER 19 - MARCH 17, 2022

determines how many representatives each state has in Congress for the next decade.

It also decides how much federal funding communities receive for roads, schools, housing, and social programs. Hundreds of billions of dollars are at stake each time the census occurs.

Robert L. Santos, the bureau’s director, displayed little regard for the undercount of minorities. He said the 2020 results were consistent

with recent censuses.

“This is notable, given the unprecedented challenges of 2020,” Santos said in a statement. “But the results also include some limitations — the 2020 census undercounted many of the same population groups we have historically undercounted, and it overcounted others.”

“We remain proud of the job we accomplished in the face of immense challenges,” Mr. Santos said.

“And we are ready to work with

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Photographers Jimmie Aggison

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DN News PVAMU PRESIDENT

Ruth Simmons to step down The Texas Tribune

Ruth Simmons, president of Prairie View A&M University and a leading voice in higher education for decades, plans to step down.

Simmons announced her decision in a message to the Prairie View community Friday, writing that “it is evident to me that a new leader must assume responsibility for advancing the University to a new level of excellence in student outcomes, faculty achievement and research output.” She has been at the helm of the public, historically Black university since 2017.

“When I took on this challenge, I did not know that the country would experience social and political upheaval unlike any I had seen in my previous leadership roles.

I did not know that a historic flood would affect the community so grievously,” she wrote. “I did not anticipate a pandemic that would upend the way we work and experience the educational environment. I did not imagine that I would feel so grateful to be able to lead PV through this series of challenges and that PV would emerge stronger after such a perilous period, gaining in resources and reputation.”

Before leading Prairie View A&M, Simmons served as president of Smith College in Massachusetts and Brown University, where she was the first Black woman to preside over an Ivy League school.

Simmons said she will continue to serve in the president’s position until a successor is chosen, if Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp wishes. In a statement, Sharp said he has no intention of “allowing Ruth to leave the service of Prairie View and we will work hard to keep her here at a higher capacity.” Sharp said that he and Simmons are discussing ways for

her to continue serving the A&M System.

A Houston native who grew up going to Prairie View sporting events, Simmons thought she was retired from higher education when Sharp came calling in 2017. She initially agreed to be only the interim president — declaring herself “old and retired” — but later said the determination and commitment of the university’s students convinced her to agree to becoming the permanent hire.

“Talking Ruth Simmons into coming out of retirement to lead Prairie View A&M University is one of the things I am proudest of,” Sharp said. “In five years, she has transformed the university and set it on a path to success and I am thankful for her time as president.”

When she was hired, she said she would focus on three elements: the state of the faculty, the financial support of students and the financial health of the school.

“I am pleased to say that while we have not made anywhere near the progress I had hoped for, there have nevertheless been quite substantial gains in all of these categories,” she wrote in her letter.

During her time at the helm, the university increased its endowment by 40%, dramatically increased fundraising in all areas, launched multiple building projects and boosted financial aid, she wrote. In 2020, billionaire MacKenzie Scott donated $50 million to the university.

“Even as I reflect on these and other changes, I am humbled by how much remains to be done,” she wrote. “Prairie View A&M is nowhere near what it could ultimately achieve as an institution of the first class. Our students deserve more, and we must provide it for them.”

Ruth Simmons

United Airlines, TSU partnership underway Defender News Service

Officials from United Airlines have announced a partnership with the Texas Southern University’s Aviation Science and Technology program, including the Professional Pilot concentration.

United Houston Hub Vice President Phil Griffith presented the university with a $100,000 check for the first two years of the scholarship program. The partnership also includes ongoing mentorship activities between United employees and students in the program.

Representatives from United, TSU, and the Aviation Science and Technology advisory committee then toured the program’s flight simulation labs in the Spearman Technology

Building. The event concluded with a mentorship meeting between United professionals and TSU students.

“This partnership is a game changer for our Aviation Science and Technology program,” said Director of Aviation Terence Fontaine.

“United’s investment of financial resources and time through the mentorship component will enable more TSU students to walk out of here ready to contribute immediately to an industry in which people of color have been underrepresented.”

United’s Griffith, who is an HBCU graduate, feels that the new program, especially the mentorship component, will be a game changer for the aviation industry.

Texas Southern University President Lesia Crumpton-Young (center) stands with TSU aviation students (l. to r.) Jacorey Adams, Lubianka Lanza, Katherine Cabrera, Brionne Nixon and Farhan Ahmed.

“[Aviation] is an exciting place, and it has room for folks from all kinds of backgrounds to get in and play a material role in making it better,” said Griffith. “It is helpful [for TSU students] to see living, breathing examples of aviation professionals, and to channel young people who have even the smallest interest in exploring aviation as a career path. What we’re doing here at TSU is another step in that direction.”

Jacorey Adams, a student in the program, said that he was thrilled that United is partnering with TSU. “They care for us and want to see us succeed. The mentorship provides us with leadership, encouragement and guidance.”

Five students are recipients of the United scholarship this year.

2022_CTW-100057_Q1_Houston GO_IO_1490_The Defender_FP_ENG_9.75 x 13_3-17_F.pdf

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DN InFocus

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Convention brings much-needed infusion to Houston’s economy

By ReShonda Tate

but we are ready to eat, shop and just enjoy Salmon pink and apple green are taking one another’s company.” over the Bayou City as more than six thousand When you add the thousands registered for members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incor- the conference, the food and beverage, transporated converge on downtown Houston for portation, and souvenir shopping, along with their 90th South Central Regional Conference. the sold-out hotels, tourism leaders say it’s a Conference leaders expect the event to generate win for the city. millions for the local economy.

“Having well-established and respected That’s good news for Houston First, which groups such as the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has been struggling to rebuild return to the Hilton AmeriAnticipated after the COVID-19 pandemic cas-Houston is not only an shuttered a normally bustling economic impact: optimistic sign for the hotel, convention hotspot. but for Houston as well,” said “It’s always a pleasure to Jacques D’Rovencourt, Genhost a prestigious organieral Manager, Hilton Amerzation, such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Soror- icas-Houston. “These gatherings play an ity, Incorporated. Whether it be a boule or a important role for non-profit organizations to regional conference, this organization makes its celebrate their hard work and raise funds for presence known and embodies what it means charitable efforts, while serving as a launchpad to be great leaders. The contributions that they to help make positive change in the city. To see make to their respective communities on both a organizations such as Alpha Kappa Alpha back local and national level are unmatched, and we in our meeting spaces is an inspiring sight and are thankful for all that they bring to Houston we look forward to hosting them.” each time they visit,” said Houston First PresThe last time the organization held a convenident & CEO Michael Heckman. tion here, it was the national conference in 2018.

Operating under the theme, “Reigniting the That event reportedly generated more than $60 Flame of Excellence and Sisterhood” members million for the local economy. While the numfrom Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and New Mex- bers aren’t expected to be as high this go-around ico, hope to shine the light on issues impacting as this is a regional conference, city leaders say the African American community while also par- it will definitely have a lasting impact. ticipating in business meetings, social activities, A RICH HISTORY community service, and honoring local leaders at The Houston region is special to the the George R. Brown Convention Center.

114-year-old organization. Members turned “The contract for the Houston conference out in droves to help during Hurricane Harvey, was actually done in 2018, for 2020,” said Joya putting in countless volunteer hours cleaning Hayes, who serves as South Central Regional up, manning food pantries and attending to Director for the sorority. “We, along with the those in need. Two AKA past national presicity, have really been working together to dents – Dr. Mattelia B. Grays and the late Faye make sure that some kind of way we made it B. Bryant – called Houston home and the city happen. We put it off year after year, but we boasts 14 graduate chapters, six undergraduate didn’t cancel it because we wanted to come to chapters, and two interest groups.

Houston and we wanted to make sure we did it in a place that was safe.”

$2.1 mil

JOYA HAYES

EMBRACES LEADERSHIP AS AKA REGIONAL DIRECTOR

By ReShonda Tate

Houston native, Joya T. Hayes grew up surrounded by women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Her mother, and grandmother were both members. So she knew she wanted her legacy to be not just one of living as a service to all mankind, but leading those who serve as well.

Now, as South Central Regional Director, Hayes is doing just that.

Poised with directing the operations of the 10,000 women who make up the third largest region out of the ten regions of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Austin resident is excited about returning to her hometown for an in-person event for the first time since COVID shut down the country.

Hayes talked with the Defender about this monumental event.

Defender: This is one of the first in-person conferences coming back to the city, especially of this magnitude. What does that mean for you, and the sorority?

Joya Hayes: We are very excited

City Hall

See the photo gallery as AKAs turn downtown pink and green.

to come back to the city of Houston. This is very important as it represents the first time in three years that the sorority in this region has come together for the regional conference. And so it’s not only symbolic of the service that we always do in Alpha Kappa Alpha, but it represents the fact that we made it through and despite all of the obstacles of the pandemic, we are still here, healthy and ready to serve the community.

Defender: Why is this a big deal for the downtown Houston economy?

Members of the Chi Omicron Omega Chapter at a recent MLK service project with members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Hayes: We’re really excited to have sold

out five hotels in 22 minutes, which the Hilton told us was an absolute record.

We’re thrilled to be able to come in with such a significant financial impact to Houston and to do it in a way that supports everything that Houston is trying to accomplish. The city has endured so much and to be able to come back and have the impact of 6,200 women coming to the space, selling out the hotels and spending money is something that we’re excited to take part in as we move through these tough economic times.

Defender: What type of COVID protocols are in place for such a large gathering?

Hayes: There are 6,200 people that

are registered for the conference, but 1,200 of those are supposed to be virtual. But when I saw those rooms in 22 minutes, I realized that there was going to be some visitors that are not a part of the registered group. So I can certainly tell you what our numbers are, but we know that we are expecting over a thousand people who did not register for the conference, who are just coming to be a part of the space. We have hired an external vendor to come in and help us with COVID testing. We’ve established some national COVID protocols for Alpha Kappa Alpha, and we have done a little bit more in the South Central Region. There’s mandatory testing for our workshop presenters. Every person who comes to the conference will have

Joya Hayes

to have had a COVID test within the last 72 hours. And we have monitors that will ensure face masks are always on, as well as temperature controls and we’ve created spacing in our sessions and workshops. And if anybody is sick, we will be sending them to our triage area. We’re also ready for those members who are not just quite ready for big crowds. As a part of our registration, we do have a live stream. So people can come to some pieces of it and then live stream from their homes or hotels. We’ve done as much as we could to ensure that we created a conference that really supported anybody in whatever safety level they are comfortable with.

Read more at www.DefenderNetwork.com

Members of Xi Alpha Omega after a service project.

Members of Tau Zeta Omega celebrate their program accomplishments.

DN ONLINE

Members weigh in about returning to an in-person conference.

ECONOMIC BOOM

The group’s presence is expected to bring a significant economic boost to the city, to the tune of $2.1 million.

“We come to work, but we spend some money,” Hayes said. “We shop, we eat. Many of the local restaurants are having specials to welcome us back into the Houston area. We have shopping with over a hundred vendors that are going to be a part of our safe space for vendor shopping. And so, yes, we are not only ready to do work and get the business done,

Members of the Mu Kappa Omega Executive Board celebrate the sorority’s founders at a recent event.

Omicron Tau Omega members with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who is also an AKA.

Members of the Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter, along with Gamma Psi (TSU), Epsilon Lambda (UH) and Omicron Gamma (UHD) present a check and items to Open Door Mission.

10 | March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature TOP 5

HOUSTON EATERIES FOR VISITORS

By ReShonda Tate

Houstonians (and visitors) love to get their grub on. And there are a number of well-known spots that come highly recommended. We’ve pulled together some of the hottest top spots that visitors should check out. And while we personally know this isn’t a comprehensive list, these are just a few that leave customers raving.

Davis Street The cuisine and atmosphere of Davis St. at Hermann Park raises the bar on Southern hospitality with its fine dining, drinks, and lavish atmosphere. The food and ambiance makes this the perfect spot to chill with friends. It’s definitely worth your time. 5925 Almeda.

The Turkey Leg Hut Now you knew this Houston staple would top the list. You can get your juicy turkey leg dripping in Hennessey sauce or stuffed with dirty rice. Like seafood, you can also have that. But

be prepared to wait. The Turkey Leg Hut is known for its notoriously long lines. 4830 Almeda. the breakfast klub Another no-brainer. This downtown Houston eatery is a must-visit for katfish and grits, or chicken and waffles.

Or any of the other menu favorites that has brought international attention to this restaurant. There’s always a line here too, but it moves fast.

3711 Travis St. Lucilles Feel like sitting down and enjoying some home-cooked meals? Lucilles is your place. They offer food from culinary art curators in a cozy, welcoming environment and a progressive cuisine. 5512 La Branch St. Frenchy’s Don’t feel like getting out of your car? Swing through the drive-thru at Frenchy’s for the best chicken, fish

and shrimp. There’s a reason people are willing to wait at least 20 minutes in line. Trust us. 4646 Scott St.

*Of course this list isn’t comprehensive, but we only have so much space. Head over to DefenderNetwork.com to see more options.

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DN Health Health

AADEFENDER AND DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE CLINIC ALLIANCE

Colorectal cancer shortens lives Colorectal cancer is the secondleading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the United States. Disturbingly, compared with other racial groups, African-American men and women have the highest rate of death from this cancer.

What is colorectal cancer?

Most colorectal cancers begin as a small growth called a polyp on the inner linings of the colon or rectum. Cancer occurs when cells associated with the polyp become malignant and burrow into the wall of the colon or rectum. Men and women are affected at about the same rate.

In most cases, colorectal cancers will not exhibit noticeable symptoms until the disease has advanced. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and Kelsey-Seybold physicians recommend colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 45 – or sooner if you have a first-degree family member with colon cancer.

Lifestyle factors that increase your risks include: •Getting older, especially beyond 50 •Eating excessive amounts of red meat, animal protein, or saturated fats •Being overweight or obese •Using nicotine in any form •Over-imbibing in alcoholic beverages •Living an inactive, sedentary lifestyle

Colonoscopy: the ‘gold standard.’

Colonoscopy is considered the “gold standard” as the screening technique most preferred by the American College of Gastroenterology and KelseySeybold gastroenterologists.

Colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure to remove precancerous and cancerous abnormalities. If none are found, and depending on a patient’s overall health and family history, we usually recommend repeating the test every 10 years. However, every individual is different. Ask your doctor about a schedule that’s right for your particular situation.

Help beat colorectal cancer with preventive screenings.

If a polyp is detected and removed, most colon cancers are prevented — hence the importance of having regular preventive screenings. At Kelsey-Seybold, we offer a variety of colorectal cancer screening techniques depending on the individual patient’s situation.

What you can do.

Colorectal cancer screening is your best medical defense. However, to decrease your chances of getting this form of cancer, commit to a regular exercise regimen, maintain a healthy weight, and eat high-fiber foods.

Research suggests that eating 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day may help avert an initial occurrence of colorectal cancer.

Are you at risk?

We aren’t sure why this cancer develops more often in African Americans. However, several lifestyle factors have been identified that apply to most everyone.

By ANGELA MCGEE, MD

FROM THE DOC Dr. McGee is a board-certified physician specializing in Gastroenterology.

She cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center in Sugar Land.

For appointments, call 713-442-0000.

Now Scheduling VIRTUAL and IN-PERSON Appointments!

Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center

Whether you’re new to the Kelsey-Seybold family or a longtime patient, you have a choice of where you can safely get care. Call our 24/7 Contact Center at 713-442-0000 to schedule a same-day or next-day virtual Video Visit or, for non-respiratory illnesses, an in-person appointment at a Kelsey-Seybold Clinic near you.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU 24/7/365

Your health and safety are our top priority. We‘re screening patients upon arrival for COVID-19 symptoms, checking temperatures, and following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Please remember to wear a mask or cloth face protection while visiting our clinics.

After-Hours Nurse Hotline 713-442-0000

24/7 Contact Center 713-442-0000

Learn More About Virtual Visits kelsey-seybold.com/virtual

Kelsey-Seybold welcomes new patients and accepts more than 50 health insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and these Medicare Advantage plans: KelseyCare Advantage, WellCare Texan Plus, Aetna Medicare Advantage, and Humana Gold Plus.

12 | March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Education FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN

HISD Supt. Millard House II Q&A

By Laura Onyeneho

two kids… it’s something that we HISD Superintendent Millard didn’t take lightly. We’ve enjoyed House II released the district’s the opportunity to dig into the five-year strategic plan. What work and that is what brings us does it mean for parents, stuto today with the strategic plan. dents, teachers, and school staff?

I’m very excited about having the According to HISD, the plan opportunity with the first hundred will implement six commitments Millard House II days to listen to the community to improve work culture and edand plan our priorities and comucation outcomes while focusing the need mitments around what that looks like. to retain qualified teachers, building trust with parents and providing equal access to Defender: You came at a crucial time, especially during the challenging opportunities across all schools.

House’s first 100 days as superintendent time between HISD and Texas Educaconsisted of hosting “Listen and Learn” tion Agency and the takeover. How is sessions to understand the concerns of the relationship been between your community members and their hopes and leadership team and the board? expectations of the school district.

House: It has been a positive experiHouse also focused on preparing stu- ence. One of the first things I did actually dents for the safe return to in-person learn- before signing the contract is I wanted to ing and plans around major COVID-19 re- have a conversation with the commissionlated educational topics that has impacted er of education. What I learned during the district. that conversation was that we weren’t far The Defender spoke with House about off at all on what we felt the children needthe plan for the district. ed to do in order to be successful. Many of those things are in this plan. So, I actually Defender: You came into this role have had the opportunity to have a conin June 2021. What are your honest versation with the commissioner in [February] around what’s in this plan. I can tell thoughts about how you’ve been able to lead HISD so far? you that he was excited to see where we’re House: The Houston community has going and very supportive of the work been extremely welcoming. My wife and that we’re doing. We want to continue

TSU honors Defender CEO Sonceria ‘Sonny’ Messiah Jiles

with that kind of momentum and ensure that TEA is a partner in what we do moving forward.

Defender: What other plans do you have to address recruiting, qualifications and resources for educators to properly function in the classroom, especially for educators of color?

House: We know the traditional

means of bringing teachers into the profession through a college of education.

What we also know is that the colleges of educations are not in a place right now where they have the numbers to support the vacancies that are out there. So, it’s re-

ally pushed a nontraditional approach of school districts growing their own teachers and partnering with universities to grow their own. For instance, I was a college athlete and played basketball in college, and I went to college absolutely free.

One of the strategies around this plan would allow for us to move forward and take a core group of people that we feel will be great teachers and pay for their tuition to go to college and get their bachelor’s degree. And along the way, make sure that they’re coupled with some of the best teachers during the four years while they’re working in an teaching assistant position.

CLASSIFIED 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. 4022000071: Rehabilitation of The Travel Lanes at North Shepherd Park and Ride. Solicitation will be available on or about 03/08/2022.

STATE OF INDIANA) COUNTY OF MARION )

IN THE MARION SUPERIOR COURT) SS: CAUSE NUMBER: 49D10-2109-JC-008185

IN THE MATTER OF: ZB - DOB 7/14/2005 A CHILD ALLEGED TO BE A CHILD IN NEED OF SERVICES AND CHARLIE BROOKS (FATHER) MICHELE COX (MOTHER) AND ANY UNKNOWN ALLEGED FATHERS SUMMONS FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF CHILD IN NEED OF SERVICES HEARING TO: Michele Cox and Any Unknown Alleged Father Whereabouts unknown NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the above noted parent whose whereabouts are unknown, as well as Any Unknown Alleged Fathers, whose whereabouts are also unknown, that the Indiana Department of Child Services has filed its Verified Petition Alleging the child to be in Need of Services, in accordance with I.C. 31-34-9-3, and that an adjudication hearing has been scheduled with the Court.

YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to appear before the Judge of the Marion Superior Court, for a(n) Default Hearing on 5/4/2022 at 2:00 PM. If the cause number listed above for your case starts with D09 or D15, the location for your hearing is 2451 N. Keystone Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46218, (317) 327-8300. If the cause number listed above for your case starts with D10, D14, or D16, the location for your hearing is 200 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204, (317) 327-4740. Most hearings in Marion County are being held virtually at this time. If virtual hearing information is included below you should follow the instructions to attend your hearing virtually and should not go to the Court’s address.

Regent Marc C. Carter, TSU President Lesia Crumpton-Young, Regent Albert M. Myers, AD Kevin Granger, ReShonda Tate, Regent Ron J. Price and Jodie B. Jiles.

By Aswad Walker

Texas Southern University is paying tribute to local community leaders, including Defender Publisher and CEO, Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah Jiles.

University officials recently honored Messiah Jiles during halftime of a recent men’s Sonceria basketball game for her ‘Sonny’ Jiles

service to the university and to the greater Houston community.

“Thank you for your diligent service in shaping the narrative of Texas Southern University for over 20 years,” read a statement from TSU. “We are excited to recognize and pay honor to you.”

On hand to accept the acknowledgement was her oldest son and Defender High School Sports Editor, Jodie B. Jiles and Defender Managing Editor and best-selling author ReShonda Tate.

At said hearing, the Court will consider the Petition and evidence thereon and will render its decision as to whether the above named minor child is child in need of services and shall enter adjudication accordingly.

Your failure to appear after lawful notice will be deemed as your default and waiver to be present at said hearing.

UPON ENTRY OF SAID ADJUDICATION, A DISPOSITIONAL HEARING will be held in which the Court will consider (1) Alternatives for the care, treatment, or rehabilitation for the child; (2) The necessity, nature, and extent of your participation in the program of care, treatment, or rehabilitation for the child; and (3) Your financial responsibility for any services provided for the parent, guardian or custodian of the child including child support.

YOU MUST RESPOND by appearing in person or by an attorney within thirty (30) days after the last publication of this notice, and in the event you fail to do so, an adjudication on said petition, judgment by default may be entered against you, or the court may proceed in your absence, without further notice.

Clerk Emily Gruener, 30336-49 Attorney, Indiana Department of Child Services

March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

DESHAUN WATSON Cleared of criminal charges, but legal battle continues

By Terrance Harris

There are wins. Then there are victories.

Embattled Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson certainly realized the latter last Friday when a grand jury returned nine “no bills” – meaning no criminal charges – after hearing six hours of testimony on nine criminal complaints of sexual assault or harassment presented by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

For the better part of a year now, Watson’s name has dominated headlines not for touchtouch downs thrown or winning on the NFL football field, but for 22 massage therapists who have filed civil lawsuits against him, with nine of those women also filing criminal complaints.

Watson finally cleared his biggest hurdle Friday when the grand jury decided there was not sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges, which took some of the tarnish off of his name and will effectively allow Watson to resume his football career.

Watson’s career has been on pause since the allegations first began to surface.

“This is definitely a very emotional moment for me,” said Watson, who spoke to reporters for the first time since the last time he played a game at the end of the Texans’ 2020 season.

“Today is definitely a big day and I think my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for letting the truth be heard and I thank everyone that was a part of this of seeing and hearing both sides.”

Watson still has 22 civil lawsuits pending, so his legal issues are far from over. But he is no longer facing criminal charges and jail time. Ironically, Watson faced his first deposition hearhear ing in connection with the civil lawsuits Friday while the grand jury met and the depositions continued March 15.

Watson invoked his Fifth Amendment Rights in last Friday’s hearing because the criminal investigation was ongoing but he testified during Tuesday’s deposition.

“I know we’re far from being done of handling what we need to handle on the legal side, but today is definitely a big day,” Watson said Friday. “… That’s what my point and my team wanted to do, is have a fair slate of us telling our side of the story and letting the conclusion come to what happened today, and that’s what the grand jury decided on.

“I’m just going to keep fighting to rebuild my name and rebuild my appearance in the community. And on the legal side handle what we need to handle. But also ready to get on the field, and prep for that.’’

It seems that that process started in earnest following Fri-day’s decision. Watson, the Texans’ three-time Pro Bowl quar-terback, made it known in January of 2021 that he no longer wanted to play for the Texans after team CEO Cal McNair went back on his word to give his franchise quarterback a say on the impending head coach and general manager hires.

Initially, the complication with moving Watson was thought to be the four-year, $156 million contract extension he had signed with the team months earlier. But then came the first re-mas ports of allegations of sexual misconduct against Watson with massage therapists. Eventually, there were 22 civil lawsuits being brought by attorney Tony Buzbee and the criminal investigation.

Watson’s legal issues made it far more difficult for the Texans to trade him, especially with the king’s ransom that new general manager Nick Caserio was asking in return.

But with Watson no longer facing criminal charges, Watson’s stock again is on the rise and several teams are lining up to work out a trade with Texans for Watson.

| 13

14 | March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports University of Texas freshman point guard and former Cypress Creek standout Rori Harmon was named Big 12 Outstanding Player of the tournament after 20 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds in the championship win over Baylor.

University of Houston grad student and Atascocita product Fabian White Jr. scored 20 points during the Cougars 71-53 win over Memphis in the American Athletic Conference Tournament Championship win.

SportsBriefs TSU’s PJ Henry named SWAC MVP

Texas Southern’s PJ Henry was named MVP of the SWAC men’s basketball tournament.

Henry averaged 14 points during the Tigers’ threePJ game run to Henry the championship. Joining him on the All-Tournament team were John Walker III and Brison Gresham.

Andriana Avent, Ataiya Bridges make All-SWAC team UH Cougars celebrating AAC championship.

UH, TSU MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAMS

READY FOR NCAA DANCIN’

By Terrance Harris

It’s NCAA Tournament season – otherwise known as win or go home time. Houston has two teams participating in this year’s tournament, which began this week.

The 18th-ranked University of Houston Cougars, who are experiencing unprecedented sustained success under Kelvin Sampson, are back in the tournament for the fourth straight year after sweeping both American Athletic Conference regular-season and conference tournament championships.

The repeat SWAC Tournament champs defeated Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in the First Four rounds of the NCAA Tournament to set a first-round matchup with No. 1 Kansas in Fort Worth.

The Cougars, meanwhile, are looking to make another long run in the tournament this month. They advanced to the Final Four last season, and are back despite losing four starters from that squad and then losing two key players to injuries this season.

UH earned a fifth seed and will meet No. 12 UAB in the opening round in Pittsburgh.

In addition to the two local teams, the state of Texas also has plenty of reason to be excited this tournament season on both the men’s and women’s sides.

There are seven state men’s teams in the NCAA Tournament starting with defending national champion Baylor, which garnered a No. 1 seed for the second straight year and will take on No. 16 Norfolk State.

“I’m really excited about Fort Worth,” said Baylor coach Scott

Drew, whose team had a five-game winning streak snapped with a 72-67 loss to Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship quarterfinals.

“The guys worked really hard to make that happen, getting a No. 1 seed two years in a row. And with the COVID year (2020), we were set to be a No. 1 seed. That would have been three times in a row, and that’s really rare air. There are only three teams that have done that since 2010. Great accomplishment for what the guys have worked hard to achieve. The perks of that are playing in Fort Worth, so really excited about that.”

Texas Tech is a No. 3 seed and the University of Texas is back in the tournament for the first time since 2014. TCU rounds out the Texas contingent, making an NCAA Tournament appearance for just the second time in the last 24 years.

On the women’s side, the state has four teams in the NCAA Tournament with the Texas Longhorns leading the way as a No. 2 seed after knocking off perennial Big 12 power Baylor in the conference championship game to extend their winning streak to 11 games.

The Bears are back in the tournament but their untimely upset loss to UT not only cost them their 12th Big 12 title but it also cost them a No.1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

UT takes on No. 15 Fairfield and No. 2 seeded Baylor is matched up against No. 15 Hawaii in the first round.

Stephen F. Austin is in the Tournament as a 12 seed and will take on No. 5 North Carolina in the first round, while 14th-seed UT Arlington will meet No. 3 Iowa State in the opening round.

The TSU women’s basketball backcourt of Andriana Avent and Ataiya Bridges earned All-SWAC honors this season. Avent, a sophomore, Andriana made the First Avent Team averaging 18.4 points while scoring in double figures 19 straight games during a stretch.

Ataiya Bridges, a seBridges nior, made the Second Team after averaging 16.7 points this season.

Texans expected to be active in free agency

NFL free agency has kicked off this week and the Texans and first-year coach Lovie Smith figure to be very active Lovie in the marSmith ketplace. The Texans have secondary, linebacker, running back, wide receiver and possibly quarterback needs.

March 17, 2022 |

| 15

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

JAMIR NORMAN TURNER SCORES ON ALL LEVELS Jodie B. Jiles

Ridge Point High School senior small forward Jamir Norman Turner is a 6-foot-5 stretch forward who can drive and shoot from every level of the court.

Turner is known for his ability to find his spots on the floor. In Turner’s senior campaign, he averaged nearly 16 points a game and 7 assists. Ridge Point finished the season 21-13 with a 9-5 district record.

The Defender spoke with Turner to discuss his style of play, court intelligence and keys to success.

STYLE OF PLAY “I like to work my way into the mid-range game. Coaches start telling me to shoot the three so I started shooting the three so it will open up my mid-range game.”

COURT IQ “I think I see the floor, make passes and know how to draw fouls too.”

KEYS TO SUCCESS “Staying to the grind and just keeping my attitude right and my composure by staying in the gym.”

ABOUT JAMIR NORMAN TURNER IG: @jamirr___ Players he studies: DeMar DeRozen, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball Favorite artists: Lil Durk and Meek Mill Shout-outs: “My mom, my dad and my brother”

16 | March 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Opinion

A student covers herself in blanket at the Medyka border crossing after fleeing from the Ukraine, in Poland, Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu

LET THE PEOPLE BE HEARD

AFRICANS IN UKRAINE CRISIS

By Laura Onyeneho

On February 24, the world watched Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In a television statement Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said that their goal was to protect Russians who were subjected to genocide and bullying as well as the “demilitarization and de-Nazification” of Ukraine.

Putin claims of Ukraine posing a threat left the country in shambles as Russia stormed in with tanks and troops attacking airports and military headquarters.

“There has been an attempt on many to label the racism that African people have been experiencing in Ukraine as one incident, a few “bad apples” or even fake.

What this does is downplay what Black people all around the world go through every single day -- anti-Blackness…

This catastrophe in Ukraine is a good moment for people to take a step back and analyze why they would view what the African people in Ukraine are going through as not racism/white supremacy. Why do you jump and immediately not see it for what it is? View it as one incident? Not believe what you see or read and discard it.” LeRon Barton

As a result, an estimated 660,000 foreigners fled Ukraine in the first five days following the start of the invasion according to the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Many were students or migrant workers from Africa who reportedly spoke out about the discrimination they faced at the Polish border attempting to escape to safety.

First-hand videos on social media have shown Ukrainian officials threatening to shoot groups of African students and a woman who was stranded at the border holding a 2- month-old in 37-degree weather. Wide-

“It’s heartbreaking to know that even in the face of violence, atrocity and warfare, some people view Black life as less than their white counterparts. However, it’s important to remember that a world that values one life over the other because of the color of their skin is still a dangerous world to us all.” Ngozi Ashibuogwu

“Many African migrants are still denied entry into Poland and are freezing in extremely cold temperatures If you are going to #StandWithUkraine you also should not forget Africans who facing racist violence and being put into precarious situations by Ukrainian and Polish forces.” K. Diallo

“Although it’s not Ukraine that colonized many parts of Africa, European ideology is part of Ukrainian culture and is fundamentally anti-Black/African. We are not seen as people and little is done on large scale to change that narrative. The poor treatment we saw was a direct reflection of the way the African government officials allow Africans to be disregarded and trampled on. There is no reason why they did not make arrangements for their citizens when the threat was first announced. It is silly to expect these white/European nations to take Af-

spread reports reveal accounts of African citizens living in Ukraine who were stuck for days in the cold without shelter or food being pushed at the end of the lines while watching Ukrainians pass through.

There are concerns that Ukraine, a country under attack, is in the same breath treating Blacks as a threat to their own safety.

Black people across the diaspora took to social media to express their thoughts about the crisis: Join the conversation on Facebook.

“What is it about Black people that makes people feel some sort of way? I am sad that people have to flee from their homes (currently taking place in Ukraine) all to be safe physically, psychologically, emotionally and I’m hopeful that other countries will treat them with empathy, compassion and love when they are entering. At the same time, I watch anti-Blackness play out since Russia invaded Ukraine. While I’m hopeful I’m also angry, disgusted, annoyed, and sad at how the Black immigrants (African, Indian, Latinos and Arabs) are being treated at borders. I continue to watch daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly how actions play out toward Black people.

Instead of accepting the immigrants who stand in fear for their lives they are being treated with skepticism and victimized in the middle of them fleeing. At some point people have to stop and pause and say don’t Black Lives Matter? Stop saying you don’t see color ‘cause it’s more than apparent you do!” Future Cain

ricans seriously when they are the same ones creating many of the issues terrorizing the continent. We have to push to be more self-sufficient and independent and reject aid and other superficial means of downgrading us.

Africa is a resource-rich continent, anything can be grown and produced there. There is no reason we should still be looked down upon as poor and destitute and needy and also disregarded so terribly. It’s truly disheartening that things happened this way but I hope it opens more Africans’ eyes and makes the leaders feel embarrassed.” Gabrielle Ohaya