03.20.2025_Defender-e-FULL

Five Years Later

COVID IMPACT Volume 94, issue 22 March 13, 2025

NEWS

SPORTS

LAUREN SIMMONS

NATALIE GREENE

The new Texas State Rep. has big plans as she leads District 146.

The deaf Willowridge basketball player is defying all odds.

facebook.com/defendernetwork twitter.com/defendernetwork

instagram.com/defendernetwork defendernetwork.com

FREE

2 | March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN To the POINT DEFENDER ROUNDTABLE

Christian Dashaun Menefee is an attorney and politician currently serving as County Attorney for Harris County. Former City Councilmember Amanda Edwards ran against Sylvester Turner for the Congressional seat in Nov. Credit: Houston Public Media.

Message from the Culture Reporter 18th Congressional District seat candidates line up

Teaching his sons to say “yes sir, no ma’am,” to open doors, to take care of their mother— those aren’t outdated ideals. That’s instilling pride, accountability, and responsibility in young Black boys in a world that often tries to strip them of it.

Yes, masculinity has evolved, and yes, we should allow space for people to define it in their own ways. Society constantly tells Black men they’re either too soft or too aggressive—too weak or too threatening.

It’s exhausting.

When I heard that Christian Menefee was stepping down as Harris County Attorney to run for the late Congressman Sylvester Turner’s seat, my first thought was: Who else is running? It wasn’t long before Amanda Edwards also threw her hat in the ring.

(Edwards ran against Turner for the seat this past November).

I’ve been wondering who would step Laura Onyeneho up to fill this role, and while I respect both Menefee’s and Edward’s leadership, I can’t help but hope for more young, vibrant candidates to enter Losing music Icons: Angie Stone, the race. We need fresh faces with new ideas—people who Dwayne Wiggins, Roberta Flack understand the urgency of this moment and have the grit to The recent deaths of music icons, Dwayne Wiggins, Roberta fight for real change.

Flack, and Angie Stone feels like losing pieces of my own life’s Texas’ 18th Congressional District has been hit hard with soundtrack. These aren’t just artists; they’re the voices that loss. In less than a year, we’ve lost not one but two sitting carried us through heartbreak, love, joy, and every complicated members of Congress. Sheila Jackson Lee, who held this seat feeling in between. for nearly three decades, passed away last July. Just two months Dwayne Wiggins, with Tony! Toni! Toné!, gave us music into succeeding her, Turner—who had already left an indelible that felt like family cookouts, first loves, and Sunday rides with mark as Houston’s mayor—died suddenly in March. That’s a the windows down. His guitar work and production shaped heavy blow for the nearly 800,000 people across downtown, R&B in ways we still benefit from today. It’s hard to imagine Acres Homes, Third Ward, and beyond who relied on their that sound without him. leadership.

Roberta Flack gave us R&B, soul, and ballads. From The Turner’s legacy is undeniable, but legacies shouldn’t just be Closer I get to you to Killing Me Softly, she’s had the ability preserved—they should inspire the next wave of leadership. to strip a song down to its rawest form and still make it feel rich and full.

Anthony Mackie’s discussion And Angie Stone? She made us feel soul music in a way that on masculinity goes viral wasn’t flashy but deeply felt. Songs like No More Rain and I When I first heard Captain America star Anthony Mackie’s Wanna Thank you always gave me nostalgic vibes. comments about raising his sons to be “real men,” I braced We’re watching generational talent slip away, and it hurts. In myself for the backlash. Anytime a Black man talks about mas- this popcorn generation its hard to get young folks to underculinity in today’s climate, people get defensive. But honestly? stand the magnitude of “old school” musicians like them.

I understood exactly where he was coming from.

In an recent interview on The Pivot podcast, Mackie ON THE WEB expressed concerns over diminishing traditional male roles • Dr. James Douglas: Houston-area elder shares wisdom and his commitment to raising his sons as “young men” who gems to empower. embody respect and responsibility.

• The Houston Arts Alliance appoints Taylor Jackson as Mackie wasn’t attacking anyone—he was simply speaking its new CEO. on what it means to him to be a present, intentional father. And • Terrance’s Take: Violent baton attack at Virginia State as someone who values structure, discipline, I respect that.

Track Meet.

March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 3

DN News

District D grapples with illegal dumping crisis

By Tannistha Sinha

District D Council member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz is dealing with a persistent issue in her district—illegal dumping.

The problem exists when someone dumps waste, such as household trash, construction debris, old appliances, and hazardous materials, on public and personal property without permission.

Evans-Shabazz District officials say it is a major contributor to the degradation of the district’s environment.

To tackle the problem, Evans-Shabazz said the district has its own HOT team, comprising four people, two trucks and two trailers.

She recommended her constituents to call 311 to report incidents and ask to be transferred to District D with their service request number for a faster response to complaints. She also advised residents to “safely” take a photo of a license plate if they notice a car dumping trash in a neighborhood.

“I want somebody to be made an example of,” Evans-Shabazz said, adding illegal dumping makes up a significant portion of all waste produced in the Third Ward, Sunnyside, and South Park. “Unfortunately, a lot of times, they don’t even live in the community, or they’re within blocks of their own home…a lot of times they are dumping that material on that road that leads to the legal dumping [site].”

Illegal dumping can result in citation charges or misdemeanors, which could result in fines of up to $10,000 for offenders.

What residents said Shamika Martin, a contractor for the state of Texas and resident of District D, said that in underserved communities in District D, where many families struggle to pay rent, utilities, child care and medication, combating illegal dumping is not one of their priorities, suggesting council members focus on community-based resources instead.

“We need to find a different mechanism in order to report illegal dumping,” Martin said. “Simply prosecuting someone in an underserving community where there is little to no resources is not a better solution.”

Martin said the Solid Waste department is “overworked and underappreciated,” and is understaffed to address the city’s demands. She suggested creating a

“Illegal dumping and heavy trash are significant issues in the Third Ward area,” said Mark Wilfalk, Solid Waste Management Department director. Credit: A Houston Southeast

volunteering program for high school students, providing incentives like gift cards to keep them motivated to support the existing HOT team.

Other residents said that despite calling 311 for a follow-up and providing their reference number, no action was taken. Some residents complained of 311 closing cases without resolving the issues.

“311 does not independently close cases,” said Paula Walker, senior trainer of the Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department at 311.

She explained the complaint process: A resident calls 311 to file a complaint, A 311 operator asks residents for their contact information and creates a case after entering a service request, The operator then submits it to the correct department, The department then sends an inspector to investigate the case, who then creates a work order or resolves the case Departments handle closures after investigations, though work orders may still be pending. Residents can track service requests online, while illegal dumping reports depend on property ownership and location-based classifications.

Prosecution of illegal dumping cases Illegal dumping cases that reach the municipal court are conducted by a prosecutor, confirmed Oswald James Scott, Jr., administrative judge for the City of Houston. The judges “act as a referee in a case.”

He explained that if a case goes to trial and a resident does not show up, the case gets dismissed.

Urging residents to report illegal dumping and provide evidence like photos and license plate numbers to assist prosecutions, Scott, Jr. said most residents do not come forward. He stressed that stopping illegal dumping requires community engagement.

“Everybody has a right to confront the accuser,” said Scott, Jr., “If you as a witness do not show up in court, that case is probably going to be dismissed. You may

NEWSBITE

not want to be a rat, but if you don’t take the opportunity to come forward and face that person, then you are really not going to stop the problem.”

Mark Wilfalk, director of the Solid Wa s te Ma na gement De pa r t ment , expressed concerns about the department being undervalued, despite its critical role.

He contrasted Houston’s solid waste budget of $100 million with Tampa’s $125 million budget, despite Houston being three times larger.

Last year, the department introduced an on-demand heavy trash pickup program to tackle illegal dumping, allowing residents to schedule pickups online. Wilfalk said Solid Waste employees would only pick up heavy trash once residents call for help, instead of driving around the city looking for trash to pick up.

The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into Rice University and 44 other institutions over allegations of racial discrimination in their admissions and academic programs.

Scan the QR code to read the story and more bites.

4 | March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

Rep. Lauren Simmons Texas State Leaders Series

Pledges to defend District 146

on enrollment, then of course schools in our predominantly Black neighborhoods...are gonna be even more under-resourced than campuses that are attracting more students.”

By Tannistha Sinha

The new State Representative in District 146 Lauren Ashley Simmons has pledged to fight against abortion bans, censoring the teaching of Black history in schools, banning books in school libraries, discriminating against LGBTQ+ families, suppressing Rep. Lauren voting rights Simmons and millions of Texans being kicked off health insurance.

“When my community is under attack, I’m under attack,” she told the Defender. “I’m very defensive about not protecting just myself but others who aren’t able to…it’s time for us to be bold, to be brave, and not cower because that’s what they want. They want to erase us and remove us from public life.”

Simmons represents parts of south and southwest Houston, including neighborhoods such as Westbury, the Willowbend area, Brays Oaks and Sunnyside. She defeated incumbent State Rep. Shawn Thierry in the 2024 March primary, receiving 64.6% of the votes. In the Nov. 5, 2024, elections, Simmons (77.7%) defeated Republican Lance York (22.3%).

Looking back Simmons, a graduate of Jack Yates High School and the University of Texas, became a mother in her

It’s time for us to be bold, to be brave, and not cower because that’s what they want.”

LAUREN SIMMONS DISTRICT 146 REPRESENTATIVE

Rep. Lauren Simmons has been a vocal labor organizer before running against incumbent Shawn Thierry. Credit: Lauren Simmons’ website

freshman year at 19 and battled poverty. She said she did not understand “how expensive it is to be poor.”

“I truly was able to connect the dots between what it means to be working class in this society, and just how much our lives are dictated by the jobs that we have access to, by the education we have access to,” Simmons said. “And I just wanted to help people fight for their rights.”

After joining the labor movement and finding a purpose in life, Simmons says that she now advocates for policies and working groups in the 89th legislative session.

On public education Simmons, the mother of a high school senior and a 10-year-old, said her “deep passion” for public

education stemmed from having family as educators, who instilled a “deep love and understanding of just how critical public education was, especially in a Black community.”

Today, she believes that education, or what she calls the “great equalizer,” is “under attack” after the Texas Education Agency takeover of the Houston Independent School District.

Simmons said the TEA takeover is a political move.

“I hate to sound conspiratorial, but you can’t tell me there’s not some type of connection between our governor who spent the whole almost last legislative session, and then four special sessions trying to push a voucher plan through, and then the takeover of the largest school district in the state,” she said. “If funding is based

On MAGA policies and the Texas legislature Simmons expressed her frustrations about the dismantling of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies, inaction on book bans, gender-affirming care and attacks on critical race theory, which can lead to funding issues at universities, particularly HBCUs. “Especially now when we’re talking about banning books that contain history and antiDEI measures…but there is a reason why those things were in place,” Simmons said. “It was because, for a really long time, our stories were not told.

Our stories did not matter, and our voices did not matter.

I really, now more than ever, am so adamant about not just me but all of us getting back to our history, getting back to our roots and pushing our legacies forward that our ancestors left for us.”

VOLUME 94, NUMBER 22 - MARCH 20, 2025 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Content Manager Terrance Harris Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Culture/Lifestyle Reporter Laura Onyeneho Education Reporter Tannistha Sinha Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison Video Editor Bryan Erdy

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 2025 copyright.

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

March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 5

DN Opinion

HISD exodus impacts charter schools

By Tannistha Sinha

Houston Independent School District (HISD) is facing a crisis: thousands of students are leaving traditional public schools and enrolling in charter schools instead. HISD’s student transfer data shows that in the last school year alone, more than 50,000 students who live within HISD boundaries opted to attend a charter school network and more than 4,000 transferred to another traditional school district.

These transfers, among other factors, have impacted HISD’s enrollment numbers, leading to a net loss of more than 30,000 students over the last 10 years when you consider new students coming into the districts.

The decreasing enrollment trend raises concerns about the reasons behind their departure and how it will impact the school district’s future. It is important to ask what is driving families away from traditional public education in Houston and choosing other avenues.

For some parents, charter schools provide an alternative opportunity to remove their students from HISD, a school district undergoing an overhaul with Superintendent Mike Miles at the helm. Since he introduced the New Education System (NES) that follows a centralized curriculum and test-based evaluations, parents and teachers have been vocally protesting against his measures.

The rise in charter school enrollment In the 2023-24 school year, a majority of the students who transferred [56,219] went to these five charter schools: KIPP Texas Public School: 14,221

HISD Enrollment 2019-2024

Credit: Tannistha Sinha

YES PREP Public School: 13,363 Harmony Public Schools: 2,863 International Leadership of Texas: 2,346 Houston Gateway Academy: 1,948 Enrollment at Houston-area charter school campuses grew by 25% from the 2014-15 school year to 2023-24, according to a recent analysis. By comparison, enrollment at a traditional public school campus decreased by about 3%.

Charter schools: Is it a better choice?

Supporters of charter schools believe that they give parents more options, especially in areas where public schools have struggled for years. Charter school curricula are often flexible and more specialized focusing on STEM, arts, or project-based learning, and they may more efficiently adapt to the needs of

their students.

Opponents argue that charter schools siphon money away from public schools, which are already underfunded and disproportionately serve low-income and minority communities.

While they are publicly funded, charter schools are managed by unelected board members who are not directly accountable to taxpayers. This could lead to a lack of oversight.

Also, public school funding in Texas is tied to student enrollment. Therefore, each student who leaves HISD for a charter school takes those dollars with them. However, this is no different than when a student moves away or transfers to another school district.

This exodus may also put additional pressure on teachers who remain in public schools. With fewer resources and smaller budgets, they are forced to do more with less.

What can HISD do?

District leadership considered dwindling enrollment in its budget considerations while discussing HISD budget strategies and long-term fiscal sustainability, and suggested potential school closures and additional sources of funding.

Miles’ preliminary budget overview accommodated a $47 million decrease, including teacher position cuts, a loss of 30,000 students in the last decade and a projected 8,000-student decline in the next school year.

HISD has tough decisions ahead. It is imperative to understand the root causes of why families are opting for charter school enrollment and address them, aside from taking measures that already anticipate more loss in numbers.

New Diamond Verification Device Introduced Natural Vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Know What You’re Buying A new device, the DiamondProof, can rapidly and reliably distinguish natural diamonds from laboratory-grown diamonds and other diamond simulants noting the ability to rapidly and easily screen One of the most common misconceptions both loose diamonds as well as stones set in in the ongoing debate between natural and jewelry. non-natural diamonds is that it’s impossible to tell “Natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds the difference between the two. Research shows are two fundamentally different products. Natural that almost half of consumers are unaware that diamonds are rare, one-of-a-kind miracles of nalaboratory-grown diamonds (LGDs) can be detected ture that come to us from the earth through heat, from their natural counterparts. For consumers who pressure and time.” notes CEO of De Beers Brands are investing in diamonds and diamond jewelry, Sandrine Conseiller. “This incredible journey is this means there is perhaps a lack of assurance that what makes them the ultimate marker of life’s they are getting what they think they are paying most profound emotional moments. Consumfor. ers should be able to have confidence in such a This spring, with the introduction of a new Karen Blanchard testing jewelry at the Bernard James Jewelry store in Brooklyn, NY. Image courtesy of Bernard James and Miller Lyle. meaningful purchase, and DiamondProof allows verification device, the DiamondProof, to retail retailers to offer them greater peace of mind. We stores for the first time, consumers will be able to are in a new era of transparency at retail, and customers deserve to know make informed purchasing decisions and distinguish natural diamonds from what they are buying.” non-natural diamonds, like LGDs and other diamond simulants, with a zero “By rapidly and reliably identifying whether a diamond is natural, Diamondpercent ‘false positive rate’.

Proof is instrumental in enhancing consumer confidence in natural diamond Developed by De Beers Group, the DiamondProof technology is able to depurchases. Consumers deserve clarity and having DiamondProof available in tect the distinct chemical compositions of natural diamonds, allowing for preretail settings helps them make informed decisions, while appreciating the cise and rapid identification. Early adopters of the DiamondProof include some unique value and story behind each natural diamond. With decades of leaderof the largest jewelry retailers in the U.S., and the device will also be available ship in synthetic detection technology, we are committed to providing the level in a number of independent retail outlets to ensure that any diamond consumof transparency that consumers expect,” stated Sarandos Gouvelis, SVP, Pricing, er is able to try out the technology and gain assurance on their own jewelry, or Product and Technology Development at De Beers Group. diamonds they are planning to purchase.

For anyone looking to evaluate and verify their own diamond jewelry, or The first DiamondProof prototype instrument was unveiled last June at looking for assurance in new diamond purchases, a major retailer near you will the JCK show in Las Vegas, the premier jewelry expo for retail professionsoon have a DiamondProof available. als. Many quickly jumped on board and ordered the device for their stores,

6 | March 13, 2025 |

| 7

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus

COVID IMPACT FIVE YEARS LATER

T

By ReShonda Tate

he most significant pandemic of our lifetime arrived at a time when the United States was already grappling with deep societal fractures.

The growing partisan divide, declining trust in institutions and an increasingly fragmented information landscape all shaped the nation’s response to COVID-19 in March of 2020. These pre-existing conditions fueled a polarized reaction to the crisis, with nearly three-quarters of U.S. adults (72%) now believing that the pandemic did more to divide the country than bring it together.

Looking back more than five years later, three-quarters of Americans say the pandemic took a personal toll on their lives.

Among them, 27% report a major impact, while 47% describe it as minor. Beyond the personal struggles, the virus left a lasting mark on public health, work, religion, education, business and technology—key areas that continue to reflect the pandemic’s profound influence.

The lingering health crisis The pandemic’s health impact remains substantial, with millions still battling long COVID, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms long after the initial infection has cleared. Long COVID is arguably the most significant hangover from the pandemic, affecting everything from the state’s workforce’s stability to its health systems’ viability.

Dr. Noah Greenspan, founder of the Pulmonary Wellness Foundation, emphasizes the importance of targeted therapy for long

COVID lockdown lessons

By Aswad Walker

March 13, 2025, came and went with little fanfare, quite unlike the event for which that date marks. Five years ago on the 13th of March, the U.S. officially shut down in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic.

That shutdown forced businesses to

COVID patients. “Compression garments, electrolyte supplementation, balancing activity with rest and oxygen therapy have all shown to be helpful,” he explains.

Vaccine perception and public health preparedness The development of COVID-19 vaccines was an unprecedented achievement, credited with saving millions of lives worldwide. Yet, public opinion on vaccines has remained deeply divided. A Pew Research survey found that while many Democrats planned to receive the latest booster (39% had received it, 23% planned to), the overwhelming majority of Republicans (81%) said they would not get an updated vaccine.

This skepticism has bled into attitudes toward other vaccines, including those for childhood diseases. A March 2023 survey showed a 12-percentage-point drop in support for requiring vaccines in schools.

CDC data also reveals declining kindergarten vaccination rates for measles, polio and chickenpox.

Texas, which entered the pandemic with one of the highest uninsured rates and an underfunded public health system, remains vulnerable. The state now spends less per capita on public health than before the pandemic. Local officials have also seen their authority to enforce health protections weakened, making Texas less prepared for future outbreaks.

COVID-19’s psychological toll is another lasting legacy. Texas Children’s Hospital reported an 800% increase in emergency visits for mental health crises compared to temporarily and, in some cases, permanently close their doors. Remote work became a regular reality. Schools, K – college, converted to distance learning models that then transitioned into hybrid learning spaces, with some students physically present, others present online and still others absent due to the harsh realities of the digital divide.

And as the pandemic progressed, death toll numbers rose to surreal levels. Yet, still, masks and vaccines were used as political debate fodder.

Don’t forget, a mini-revolution erupted regarding whether or not to mask up. The same was true for vaccinations.

The Defender asked Houstonians what lessons they and the rest of society learned

pre-pandemic levels. Schools, already underfunded, struggle to provide adequate support for students facing pandemic-related trauma.

Economic shifts and small business resilience The pandemic triggered major shifts across industries, and Houston continues to feel the economic ripple effects, with particular impacts on businesses.

Sambuca Restaurant closed after 22 years.

The spot, which featured nightly live music, was located at the base of the Rice Hotel in downtown Houston. The owner said in a Facebook post, “In recent years we face challenges that have tested our resilience, the changing climate of our city, with rising homelessness and crime, coupled with the lingering impacts of COVID....created a perfect storm that we could not weather, though we fought with everything we had to keep our doors open. We’re closing this chapter with gratitude carrying countless memories over the past 22 years.”

A Constant Contact small business survey on the lasting impact of COVID found a number of issues, from financial strain to supply chain issues to mental and emotional toll. However, Constant Contact’s Director of Small Business Success, Dave Charest, said resilience is what they saw most in surviving businesses.

“Many businesses that maybe weren’t so keen on the shift to digital really realized and saw the value in doing that. They adapted to figure out how they could communicate with their customers and offer virtual services, and think about their businesses differently,“ he or failed to learn from the largest pandemic in generations.

Education Reports nationally suggest K – 12 students are still Jackie playing catch-up regarding Anderson the learning lost during the pandemic. Jackie Anderson, president of the Houston Federation of Teachers, contends school districts, namely the Houston Independent School District (HISD), haven’t learned the lesson of how important support systems are for healthy learning environments.

“I think that we have not provided muchneeded social and emotional support for students and teachers,” said Anderson. “No

added, ”And so they’re really focused on figuring out how they get to long-term success and they have this growth mindset. And pretty much the entrepreneurial spirit is still very much alive, and 95% of the people that we talk to actually said if they were given the opportunity again that they would still start their own business.”

From a marketing standpoint, business challenges due to the pandemic included maintaining old customers, acquiring new clientele and standing out from the proverbial crowd.

“When you start thinking about ‘What do I do right? How do I start to overcome that?’

What they’re telling us is that they’re looking to build stronger customer relationships and learning new marketing strategies and adopting new tools, but even leaning into technology like AI and automation to help them work more efficiently.”

Most say COVID-19 drove the U.S. apart

Religious institutions adapt to a changing landscape The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of daily life, including the traditional practices of worship for the Black church community.

For young Black people, the pandemic accelerated a trend that was already in motion: a growing disconnection from the church.

As churches closed their doors and shifted to online services, many young congregants found it challenging to maintain their spiritual routines, leading to a noticeable decline in attendance and engagement. Now, years after the pandemic, churches are finding new ways to bring people back into the fold.

Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Oct. 21-27, 2024. “5 Years Later: America Looks Back at the Impact of COVID-19” PEW RESEARCH CENTER

one was unaffected by COVID and yet, some legislators wanted us to resume business as usual. Not enough thought or planning to insure success for students was integral to the return process.

“The current federal/state administration is still playing the blame game when it comes to our student success. In actuality, the crisis was manufactured by the finger pointers.”

Job training Renée G. Omoyeni, MS, BSN, RN, founded CompassRN, a Houston-based, nurse-led nonprofit dedicated to mentoring and supporting students—especially those

Renée G. Omoyeni

% of U.S. adults who say that all in all, they feel the COVID-19 pandemic...

Didn’t have much impact either way

No answer 1

Did more to bring the country together

16 11

72

Did more to drive the country apart

Before the pandemic, young Black Americans were already exhibiting signs of drifting away from the church. Factors such as the increasing secularization of society, the influence of social media and a perceived disconnect between the church’s teachings and contemporary issues were contributing to this trend. The pandemic further exacerbated these issues by severing the in-person from underrepresented communities—who aspire to enter the nursing profession. Omoyeni made this move in large part because of the pandemic.

“American students have suffered profound learning loss since the pandemic, and many are not taking the challenging math and science courses needed to prepare them for college,” said Omoyeni, who hopes society has learned how critically important it is to bridge the digital divide.

“Being able to access digital study guides and practice tests can help students prepare for nursing program entrance exams anywhere at any time—whether at home, at the library, during study hall, or on a break during a parttime job,” Omoyeni explained. “Moreover, clinical simulations and virtual training courses

connections that many found vital to their spiritual lives.

The shift to online services provided a temporary solution but it also exposed the challenges of maintaining community in a digital space. Many young people reported lacking personal connection and engagement during virtual services, which often felt more like a broadcast than a communal worship experience. This led to a significant drop in attendance among younger congregants, that is just now seeing a turnaround.

“I grew up in the church,” said 22-year-old Camille Young, who attended Windsor Village United Methodist Church. “After the pandemic, I started watching online... every Sunday, then once a month, until I just started sleeping in on Sundays and never went back.

I think not being there in person just led me to find other ways to get my spiritual nourishment.”

Moving forward O ve r on e m i l l i on Americans lost their lives to the virus, and countless others suffered severe illness. Despite this, many Americans have moved on— only 21% now consider COVID-19 a major public health threat and a majority (56%) believe it is no longer a pressing concern. However, the long-term effects are far from over.

are key ‘no-fault’ ways students can continue honing the skills they will use every day with patients.”

Wellness Natasha Boyce Brown, founder, and CEO at Money Savvy Sista LLC, believes many people have internalized how Natasha important health and Boyce Brown wellness are in large part because of the devastation to the health and wellness of people all over the planet during the COVID pandemic.

“Many have adopted the life approach of wellness by any means necessary,” said Brown.

“Continue to walk, drink water, talk to family,

and make good memories. Otherwise, you will age. Your anxiety will shut you down and make your body ache. We must continue to live and protect our spiritual, physical, mental and emotional health.”

collaborative home-schooling efforts, our communities suffered with very few remedies for the absence of formal public education. I find the education deficit created by COVID had and is still having an adverse impact on our children and their educational maturity.”

Self-sufficiency Garner believes the absence of self-suf self-sufFort Bend County Judge Roderick ficiency revealed during the pandemic Garner says the pandemic spotregarding education touches all areas lighted a lesson a bevy of Black leadof life. ers over the decades have pushed “Our ability to assimilate should Black people to learn. not take precedence over our respon respon“The COVID lockdown prosibility to provide for our own in a Judge vided insight into how ill-prepared meaningful and systemic way. HopeRoderick Garner the Black and Brown community is fully, our communities will pursue when it comes to self-sufficiency,” said Garner. avenues of collaborative efforts geared toward “While our white counterparts maintained a sustaining our future through preparation, mitigated balance for their children through education and proper planning,” added Garner.

8 | March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

TSU Debate Team Wins international competition… again

By Aswad Walker

Dr. Gloria Batiste-Roberts, head coach of the internationally renowned Texas Southern University (TSU) Debate Team, just couldn’t keep it to herself.

Though her 17 students had just culminated a grueling competition—the 35th Annual International Forensics Association’s (IFA) Speech and Debate Tournament held halfway around the world Dr. Gloria in Incheon, South Batiste-Roberts Korea—Batiste-Roberts jumped on the phone and shared the news with the Defender.

“We just won first place, in the International Championship, with the International Forensic Association Tournament, and we are so excited to be a winner again,” said Batiste-Roberts. “This is our fifth win internationally.”

The team’s last international victory came in 2018 in Montreal.

In addition to winning the coveted firstplace sweepstakes award as the overall champions, the team earned 21 awards, including first place in Poetry, Dramatic Interpretation and Duo Dramatic Interpretation. They also earned fourth and fifth place in the Parliamentary Debate Speakers Awards.

The TSU Debate Team won first place at the International Forensics Association Tournament in South Korea.

Credit: TSU.

The TSU Debate Team showed out at a competition that featured 27 teams from across the U.S. and around the world.

And that’s not all.

“One of our assistant coaches, Ms. Trendi

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

RFQ No. Doc1480499775: Pre-Employment Physical Examination On An ‘As Needed Basis’ Solicitation will be available on or about 03/17/2025. 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 713-739-6886 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT MAIN STREET PROMENADE PROJECT The Houston Downtown Management District (HDMD) will receive bids for the Main Street Promenade project, located in Downtown Houston, primarily the 100 – 1100 blocks of Main Street from Commerce Street to Dallas Street. Bids will be received until 11:00 AM, local time on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, online in CivCast. Bids received after this time will not be accepted.

Beginning Thursday, March 13, 2025. Bidding Documents will be available at www.civcastusa.com.

Any addenda will be distributed online at www.civcastusa.com.

A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held online at 11:00 AM local time, Tuesday, March 25, 2025. All prospective bidders are invited to attend. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a bidder who did not attend the pre-bid conference.

Bidders shall comply with City Ordinance 95-336 (March 29, 1995) and Exec. Order No.1-2 (June 14, 1995), and City of Houston Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Procedures (June 1995). The successful Bidder will be required to make good faith efforts to achieve an M/W/ DBE participation goal of 8 percent.

Nguyen, was nominated and elected for an office. She is the international liaison to the IFA executive committee, and that is a position we’re very proud that she will hold,” said Batiste-Roberts, of Nguyen, who also works in TSU’s Student Services Office.

TSU Debate Team members had their sights set on the South Korea competition for an entire year.

“When we competed in this competition in Ireland last year, the result wasn’t what we prepared for and it motivated us to work harder throughout the year to be ready for this moment,” said Debate Team member Jaila Hampton. “It was gratifying to compete at the level to which we knew we were capable. We are excited to bring another international championship back to Texas Southern.”

Members of the team included: Adaiah Amaechi, Aaliyah Jackson, Brooke Logan, Jaila Hampton, Erwen Little, Myesha Owens, Morgan Williams, Valerie Mulure, Jordyn Wardsworth, Kaylee Flowers-Burris, Nia Harrison, Amalia Charles, Alexander Williams, Amaya Tootle, Cherish Johnson, Zyias Richards and Justice Garcia.

The team was accompanied by seven assistant coaches - Jordon Williams, Sondera Malry, Atty.

Marcus Ester, Jessica Johnson, Chantule Baccus, Mikayla Wallace and Nguyen.

“All of our assistant coaches are former members of the Debate Team, so they understand the history of the Debate Team. We turned 76 years old this month, and under the spirit of Dr. Thomas F. Freeman, who founded the team in 1949, we are so excited about the tradition of the team and the continued outstanding performances of our students,” added Batiste-Roberts.

March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 9

DN Profile

Terence Narcisse Transforms lives in East Harris County community

By Laura Onyeneho

Terence Narcisse is the founder and executive director of the East Harris County Empowerment Council (EHCEC).

He has dedicated his life to advocating for underserved communities and ensuring that families in East Harris County have access to resources, opportunities, and a better future.

As Narcisse, 34, describes it, the East Harris County Empowerment Council is “the regional development organization responsible for bringing opportunity and resources” to this often-overlooked corner of Houston.

The organization has transformed the lives of countless individuals in the six communities that comprise East Harris County: Crosby, Channelview, Sheldon, Galena Park, Jacinto City and North Shore.

Narcisse’s passion for community service is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Raised in the close-knit neighborhood of Barrett Station, he learned the value of sharing, interconnectedness and collective responsibility from a young age.

“My family is massive,” he says, recalling a childhood spent surrounded by a sprawling network of aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. This early immersion in a culture of kinship and mutual support shaped his worldview and laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

However, like many young people, Narcisse initially felt a pull towards the opportunities that seemed to lie beyond the familiar boundaries of his community.

“My goal was to get as far away from the east side as possible,” he admits, echoing a sentiment shared by many of his peers.

But fate, in the form of the tragic loss of his friend in a car accident at the age of 18, forced him to re-evaluate his aspirations and confront the true meaning of legacy.

“It was a stark reminder that we only get so

much time here on earth,” Narcisse said. “It made me realize how important it is to give back.”

His journey as a community leader began with small acts of service – cleaning cemeteries, organizing events and providing essential resources to those in need. These efforts, born out of a desire to honor his friend’s memory, quickly evolved into a movement that resonated with the community’s deep-seated yearning for change and recognition.

The path to establishing the East Harris County Empowerment Council was challenging. Narcisse, who was only 18 years old then, encountered skepticism, opposition and even outright hostility from some within the community. With his mother’s unwavering support and his own growing conviction, he refused to be deterred.

He sought knowledge and attended a grant writing class, using part of his rent money to pay for the course. The class instructor even gave him the essential “do-it-yourself” kit for establishing a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization as a gift. At the time, he was a first-generation college student at the University of Houston, navigating higher education challenges while laying the groundwork for his nonprofit.

“Balancing school and launching community projects wasn’t easy, but I knew the work had to be done,” he said. “There was no blueprint for this. I had to learn everything—how to build relationships with donors and create programs that truly served people’s needs.”

One of the biggest challenges was convincing others that East Harris County deserved the same level of attention and resources as urban centers like Houston.

“People often overlook communities like ours because we’re not in the spotlight. But the need is just as great—if not greater—because we don’t have the same infrastructure or access to services,” he said.

The council serves five communities: Channelview, Crosby, Galena Park, North Shore and Sheldon, all managed by Harris County. Credit: Jimmie Aggison

Terence Narcisse established the East Harris County Empowerment Council to enhance the quality of life for the residents.

Credit: Jimmie Aggison

Learn how the organization is meeting the community’s needs

10 | March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports PVAMU SOFTBALL STAR

JANAE JEFFERSON Flexes in grad assistant role

By Terrance Harris

Janae Jefferson will be the first to tell you how good softball has been to her and how her goal is to give back to the sport.

But the virtual “Rockstar” softball player wasn’t sure what that looked like. That was until Prairie View softball coach Vernon Bland, who was working as an assistant coach of the Women’s Professional Fastpitch squad, the Texas Smoke, this past summer, started getting in her ear about coaching.

While the former standout at Nimitz and the University of Texas still has plenty of playing aspirations, like making the 2028 U.S. Olympic Team, some of the conversations with Bland started to resonate.

It wasn’t long before Jefferson took Bland up on his offer and decided to become a graduate assistant coach for the Panthers.

“We kind of built that relationship over time and one day at practice he was like, `Does anyone want to be a (graduate assistant coach)?’” Jefferson recalled in a recent conversation with the Defender. “I was like, ‘Yes,’ and it’s right down the street from me.”

Next thing anyone knew, Jefferson enrolled in Prairie View to pursue her MBA last summer and began her coaching journey as a graduate assistant with the Panthers’ program. The softball star didn’t see this in her immediate future a year ago but is now all in.

She thoroughly embraces her time on an HBCU campus and working with student-athletes who are similar to her.

“It’s definitely an adjustment from the PWI that I came from,” Jefferson said. “I got to experience my first Homecoming and things like that at an HBCU. That was a lot of fun for me, being around people who look like me and everything. It was just an awesome experience.

“In coaching, I feel like I fit in with the coaching style of Coach Bland and Coach (Joeseph) Lane. I feel like it’s a perfect fit. It kind of worked out.”

Bland has certainly been impressed with what Jefferson has brought to his staff and the team since the fall.

“Janae is so humble. If you didn’t know her, you wouldn’t know. You would have no clue who she is or what she has done in this game,” Bland said. “She has just come in and fit in with the coaching staff. We always laugh because she just came in and fit right in.”

But make no mistake, Jefferson is about as close to royalty as you will get in softball.

She had a stellar four years (2018-22) at

Professional softball star Janae Jefferson (right) has been someone the Prairie View players have been able to turn to in her role as the Panthers’s graduate assistant coach. Credit: Aiden Pelphrey

UT, where she led the Longhorns, her senior year, to the 2022 Women’s College Series for the first time since 2013, and they finished as runners-up. The four-time All-American infielder finished her collegiate career as the program record-holder in batting average (.424), games started (269), runs (222), hits (362), and doubles (55).

Her success has continued at the Women’s Professional Fastpitch level, where in 2023, Jefferson earned the league’s Player of the Year distinction in her first season as a pro. The fourth overall pick in the 2022 Athletes Unlimited Softball College Draft hit .438 for Texas Smoke with a .523 slugging percentage and a .580 on-base percentage, helped the team to back-to-back WPF Championships and along the way, took home the Championship Series MVP. So, not only were the Prairie View players impressed to have a coach of Jefferson’s caliber leading them, but the adulation has been extended to opposing teams and their fans.

“Having someone like her around who has that softball IQ that we might not have or know, it’s really big,” said Prairie View

I like the fact that I know I’m having an impact on the younger generation of softball and that they look up to me.

It’s cool.”

JANAE JEFFERSON

senior centerfielder Ja’Naiya Thomas, who transferred in this year from the University of Houston. “And literally, everywhere we go, people were talking about Janae Jefferson is going to be here and making posts about her and knowing that she is our coach is definitely one of the biggest flexes we can have.”

Hearing that she is considered a “big flex” brings a smile to Jefferson’s face.

“I’m humbled hearing that,” she said. “I don’t really see myself as a major flex, but I guess other people see me in that light and see me as a role model, so it is very comforting. I like to hear it. I like the fact that I know I’m having an impact on the younger generation of softball and that they look up

to me. It’s cool.”

Jefferson definitely appreciates the opportunity to work with the Panthers and is enjoying the connection with the players who aren’t too much younger than her.

“They be talking my head off,” the 26-year-old Jefferson said with a laugh.

“They ask about how professional life is, how it was at UT, my career there and how I started in the game. I’m an open book for them. I want to share my story and see how far softball can take you. I’ve traveled all over the world playing this sport. It’s something that I really enjoy doing.

“I tell them to keep following your dreams and reaching for your goals and the sky is the limit.”

March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN Sports

NATALIE GREENE Breaks barriers as deaf athlete on court, beyond

By Jimmie Aggison

Natalie Greene, a 6-foot senior post/forward at Willowridge has made a name for herself both on and off the basketball court.

Known for her incredible skill and resilience, Greene recently led the Willowridge girls’ basketball team to an undefeated 12-0 season in 4A Region III District 21. She averaged 18 points and 13 rebounds per game, earning her the title of MVP of 4A Region III District 21.

“Being the most valuable player shows that my work is paying off,” Greene said. “From not knowing anything about basketball to becoming the most valuable player for the district is very surprising.”

This remarkable feat is even more inspiring, considering Greene had never really played basketball before her freshman year.

Despite this, she quickly transformed into a four-year varsity letterman, demonstrating that hard work and determination can defy expectations.

Before basketball, Greene was into ballet, having been a member of the Banbury School of Dance since she was five years old. She attended Meyerland School for the Performing Arts, studying dance and piano, seeing the arts as a part of her future. However, her life took an unexpected turn when a teacher noticed her height in the hallway and mentioned she should play basketball.

“That was a total shock for us,” said Greene’s mother, Nakia Cooper. “I was dead set against it because I wanted a ballerina, not a basketball player. I was angry in the beginning

ABOUT NATALIE GREENE

Class: 2025 IG: @MMXNatalie Twitter: @Nataliejgreene Position: Forward Height & weight: 6-feet-0, 160 pounds Favorite artist: Domani Status: Committed to Gallaudet University Favorite subject: English Shout-outs: Coach Joseph Randolph, Coach Jason Williams, Coach Tiffany Collins, Coach Jeremy Peters, Coach Ben Simmons, Coach Cynthia Cooper

because, in my mind, they changed our plan.”

It was at this pivotal moment that Greene’s journey as a basketball player began—an entirely new path that would come with unique challenges.

Born deaf and hard of hearing, Greene faced a major obstacle from the start. She is deaf in her right ear and struggles with background noise, which can make it difficult for her to hear everything happening around her on the basketball court. While she can hear better in isolation, the chaos of the game—where the cheerleaders are chanting, coaches are yelling instructions and referees are blowing whistles—magnifies her hearing challenges.

“It’s hard to explain because my disability is normal to me,” Greene said. “Basketball is a rhythm game. On the court, I ‘feel’ the game differently. When I couldn’t hear the plays, I watched the game and reacted to others.”

In the beginning, communication was a challenge. At one point, Greene’s coaches, Tiffany Collins and Joe Randolph, believed she was ignoring plays because she wasn’t

responding. After being made aware that she was hard of hearing, the coaches and players adapted to repeating themselves during the games and all just kept moving.

Greene continued to excel in basketball, demonstrating that physical challenges don’t have to define one’s capabilities.

Off the court, Greene is just as impressive.

With a 4.1 GPA, she serves as the student body president, won the Miss Willowridge 20242025 title and is a member of the National Honor Society. She is currently in WHS’s Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program and will graduate this May with her high school diploma and an associate degree in computer science.

In college, she plans to pursue a degree in American Sign Language with a focus on Black Deaf Studies and a degree in business administration.

“I believe my hearing loss is hereditary because I have an aunt who also has single-sided deafness,” Greene said.

“Therefore, I want to study ASL because I feel the gene could be passed down to future generations.”

Finding a college that offered both a basketball program and a major in American Sign Language proved to be

another hurdle for Greene as many schools she considered didn’t offer an ASL major.

That is until a TikTok video about Gallaudet University—a renowned university in Washington, D.C. for deaf and hard of hearing students—popped up on her feed.

“I found Gallaudet on social media because a TikTok said, ‘My deaf PWI has a dance team,’ and that seemed really intriguing,” said Greene. “I quickly texted my mom and told her.”

Coincidentally, just the day before, Greene’s mother had spoken to a co-worker who is an American Sign Language interpreter and mentioned Gallaudet University.

“Me being a protective mom, I wasn’t in favor of her going so far away from home, so I didn’t think twice about it,” said Cooper.

“But after Natalie sent me that text message and learning they had both ASL as a major and a basketball program, I knew that was God working.”

After reaching out to Gallaudet University’s recruiting coordinator, Shelby Bean, and sending Natalie’s HUDL film, her mother received a call from the university’s women’s head basketball coach, Stephanie Stevens.

“They told me they were looking for a ‘big’ to join their team and were interested in meeting her,” Cooper said. “It was at that time I started to cry. We visited other schools that offered Natalie spots on their teams, but none had the total package. After visiting Gallaudet, we knew it was a perfect fit.”

Gallaudet University, which just celebrated its first conference championship in GU’s women’s basketball history, has become a beacon of opportunity for Natalie. It offers the perfect combination of academics, athletics and support for her as a deaf and hard-of-hearing individual. It’s a full-circle moment for a young woman who started as a dancer and then became a basketball standout, all while refusing to let her hearing define her.

“As a parent you always dream that your child leaves a legacy in the world,” Cooper said. “I believe Natalie will not only inspire other young Black women but will also pave the way for future generations of athletes and students with disabilities.”

12 | March 20, 2025 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

Black Women making moves

By ReShonda Tate

Every month, The Defender Network shines a spotlight on Black women in Houston who are making moves, leading in their industries, and uplifting their communities.

Black Women on the Move celebrates those who are making history now, highlighting their journeys, challenges and the impact of their work.

Taylor Jackson named CEO of Houston Arts Alliance As the new CEO at the Houston Arts Alliance (HAA), Taylor Jackson is the first woman and person of color to lead the organization during its 19-year history. Jackson brings a deep passion for Jackson the arts and a firm commitment to ensuring equitable access to cultural programming. A connection through a nonprofit certificate program introduced her to then-CEO John Abodeely, who encouraged her to apply for the Director of Grants position at HAA. “I’ve never worked in funding before. I’ve been on the side of applying for grants,” she

said. “But John told me, ‘That’s exactly why you’d be great for this job. You understand our largest stakeholder base—the artists.’”

Since joining HAA in 2022, Jackson has worked tirelessly to demystify the grantmaking process and ensure greater accessibility for artists across the city. Under her leadership as Director of Grants, applications have reached historic levels, doubling in some programs.

Launching initiatives like the Grants Working Groups has helped foster transparency and community involvement in funding decisions.

Emelda Douglas leads the Astros Foundation into a new era Emelda Douglas has spent her career at the intersection of philanthropy, leadership and community engagement. Now, as the newly Douglas appointed Executive Director of the Astros Foundation, and Sr. Vice President of Community Affairs, Houston Astros, Douglas will take over for Paula McCann Harris, who led the Foundation for almost four years.

“My initial focus is building strong com- to educating and empowering Black women munity connections through meaningful about breast health. stakeholder dialogue,” Douglas shares. “We Levingston emphasizes the stark disparities want to bring new initiatives with the most in breast cancer care for Black women—from significant community impact. I’m particu- late diagnoses to limited access to advanced larly passionate about literacy and wellness treatment. Through SurviveHER, she aims to programs for youth and women from mar- close these gaps by fostering awareness, proginalized communities.” viding screenings, and advocating for policy One of Douglas’ primary goals is increas- changes that ensure equitable healthcare. ing access to baseball for young athletes “What excites me most about my work of color. Under her leadership, the is the life-saving impact of Survive SurviveAstros Foundation will maintain 23 HER,” she says. “This is my GodCity of Houston baseball fields in given ministry and mission work, underserved communities and proand I’m blessed to serve in this vide uniforms to over 2,000 youth at capacity every day. Seeing women no cost. The Astros Youth Academy take charge of their health because of in Acres Homes offers free baseball and Livingston our work is incredibly fulfilling. Every softball instruction year-round, along life we touch, every mammogram we with career development programs in sports fund, and every survivor we uplift reminds me journalism, broadcasting and tutoring. that this is more than an organization—it’s a calling.”

Lyndsey Levingston is a Know a Black woman blazing trails? Let us SurviveHER on a Mission know at reshonda@defendernetwork.com.

For Lyndsey Levingston, surviving breast cancer wasn’t just a personal victory—it READ MORE became a mission. As the founder of SurABOUT THESE viveHER, Levingston has transformed her WOMEN journey into a powerful movement dedicated

We take care of the financing, so you can focus on growing.

There’s plenty to get done when running a small business. That’s why a Frost Business Loan includes more than just capital. From award-winning online banking tools to nationally recognized dedicated service, get all the banking solutions you need — and deserve.

Give us a call 24/7 at (800) 513-7678 or visit your nearest financial center to get started.

Exactly What You Unexpected

TM

FrostBank.com | Member FDIC