Houston Defender, March 23, 2017 by Defender Media Group |DefenderNetwork

FEATURE

BLACK MILLENNIALS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT FUTURE DESPITE RACISM P9

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Volume 86 | Number 21

MARCH 23, 2017 |FREE

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NEWSTALK JOLANDA JONES Why vote no on HISD recapture

P2 NATIONAL MURIEL BOWSER

DC Mayor dispels missing girls spike

P3 H.S.ZONE ANGEL JOHNSON sprinting for Marshall

P11 TOP EVENTS

Karen Haller and Wanda Adams attend the Project Prom Dress Drive.

P12

GETTING OLD?

10 Things To Do H PAGE 6

David Oyelowo stars in new film

James Harden looking to playoffs

The multiple Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actor and producer has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. He talks about his latest movie, “A United Kingdom.”

With less than four weeks remaining in the NBA regular season, Harden is poised and determined to help the Rockets win big in the NBA playoffs.

H PAGE 5

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DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017

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newstalk

HISD Trustee Jones against recapture

May 6 election could hurt Black schools

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

n Saturday May 6, HISD voters will be faced with a special call election to deal with the same Proposition 1 they voted down last November. At issue is the process by which HISD, considered a property-rich district, will fulfill its recapture obligation as mandated by state law. The fact that a rare May election will determine the outcome of this highly divisive issue has HISD Trustee Jolanda Jones upset. “No school district has ever fought recapture like we did in November,” said Jones, who wants voters, particularly Black and Latino Houstonians, to vote against the measure again. What is recapture? It began with the Robin Hood law passed in 1993, in which property-rich districts must send money to Austin each year to be redistributed to property-poor districts in an attempt to create more equity in educational opportunities. The question put before voters is how should this obligation be paid. A “For” vote in November would have authorized the HISD board to purchase tax credits from the state with local tax revenues. In other words, voters would have said “yes” to recapture and HISD would annually write a check to the state with funds from local property taxes. But voters overwhelmingly voted “Against” recapture, which was essentially an endorsement of detachment. Under detachment, the state removes the most valuable non-residential, commercial properties from the district’s tax roll. These valuable properties are then assigned to a poorer school district for taxing purposes, thereby

Jolanda Jones

allowing that district access to more money. The school district designated to receive HISD’s funds or properties is Aldine ISD. Jones led the charge to fight against recapture last year, stating she felt it important that HISD make the state legislature act to address the Robin Hood law that trustees both for and against Recapture believe is the real issue. Even the Texas Supreme Court labeled it a grossly imperfect system. Still, trustees view both recapture and detach-

Next week:

Why vote for recapture

ment as troublesome options, and vary strongly on which they believe is the lesser of two evils. Jones sees recapture leading to unemployed teachers and closed schools, which she argues is Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s ultimate goal. “They are actively seeking to destroy public schools so they can pass vouchers, which currently has no chance in Texas,” said Jones. Jones said the first-year recapture payment of $77.5 million is misleading, because over a fouryear period, HISD would pay $1.114 billion, a figure much higher than payments made over the same period via detachment. “During a February 2017 hearing on the issue 100 percent of the people who spoke, spoke against recapture, saying the same thing: recapture leads to gentrification and raised taxes. One school district said 67 percent of their new tax revenues goes to pay recapture annually,” stated Jones. With detachment, several properties, including the Galleria, Greenway Plaza, JPMorgan Chase Tower and others would be removed from HISD tax rolls and given to Aldine ISD. Both sides believe serious funding challenges lie ahead for HISD, regardless of the election’s outcome. “With recapture Black and Latino communities will experience fired teachers, closed schools, cut programs, raised taxes, and more money paid to the state,” said Jones. “And recapture is permanent. Once in, you can’t get out.” “The Greater Houston Partnership, who has never done anything for poor people, is launching a campaign supporting recapture. With a May election in which we’ll be lucky if 1,000 people actually vote, conservative forces will be out to support recapture. We have to spread the word and turn out for this election ready to once again vote against it.”

localbriefs TEXAS HOUSE DEMOCRATS ARE PITCHING a variety of proposals in hopes of increasing pay for some of the lowest-paid Texans. State Rep. Senfronia Thompson’s proposal would increase the minimum wage incrementally, reaching $10.10 per hour by 2022. A separate measure by State Rep. Chris Turner of Grand Prairie would ask voters to approve a constitutional amendment to set the minimum wage at $10.10. The minimum wage would go up to $15 under proposals by State Reps. Roberto Alonzo of Dallas and Ron Reynolds of Missouri City. Another proposal by State Rep. Armando Walle of Houston would also ask voters to approve a hike to

$15…….A BILL REDUCING FEES FOR GUN LICENSES statewide is heading to the full Texas Senate. Jacksonville Republican Sen. Robert Nichols originally wanted to scrap the entire $140 fee for first-time licenses to carry concealed and holstered handguns, as well as the $70 charge to renew licenses after five years. But the Legislative Budget Board estimated that doing so would cost Texas $55 million-plus so Nichols introduced a modified version reducing the first-time and renewal fees to $40 each.…….A LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL seeks to have nonprofit organizations do the same work as Child Protective Services workers. Under House

Bill 6 — part of a sweeping plan to revamp Texas’ child welfare system — the state would slowly create a “community-based care” model, which would allow contracted organizations to monitor children in foster care and adoptive homes and those who have been placed by the state into a relative’s home.……. INTERNATIONAL ART CURATOR Dr. Alvia Wardlaw of Houston will sign copies of her books “Charles Alston” and her article in the catalogue “Thornton Dial in the 21st Century” at a reception at the Community Artists’ Collective, Saturday, April 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. at 4101 San Jacinto, Suite 116. Visit www.thecollective.org for more information.

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national

U.S.briefs MICHELLE OBAMA’S HEALTHY LUNCH PROGRAM could be in jeopardy due to the efforts of a nonprofit organization called the School Nutrition Association, which is asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture to allow saltier foods and halve whole grain requirements. While the “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act” has been celebrated for bringing the focus on school lunches to health and nutrition, it has also been derided as not impacting participation levels for school meals as well as for having the unintended consequence of meals that the students simply didn’t want to eat, resulting in food being thrown out……FOUR FLORIDA PRISON GUARDS have been cleared after the gruesome shower death of inmate Darren Rainey. A guard had put Rainey in the shower after he had smeared feces on himself and other parts of his cell. Rainey’s family said water temperatures reached 180 degrees and the mentally ill man was left in the shower for several hours before being found dead. After a two-year investigation, authorities say the death was accidental…….AT&T IS BEING ACCUSED OF DIGITAL REDLINING by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance and Connect Your Community, who say the company is “systematically discriminating against lower-income Cleveland neighborhoods in its deployment of home Internet and video technologies over the past decade.” The group says “AT&T has chosen not to extend its ‘fiber-to-the-node’ VDSL infrastructure – which is now the standard for most Cuyahoga County suburbs and other urban AT&T markets - to the majority of Cleveland Census blocks, including the overwhelming majority of blocks with individual poverty rates above 35 percent.”…..FBI DIRECTOR JAMES COMEY has confirmed that there was no basis to Trump’s claims of being wiretapped by the Obama administration. During a Congressional hearing, Comey testified that he had no information to support four tweets by Trump alleging the former administration wiretapped his New York office.

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 21 MARCH 23, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby

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

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

Unemployment rate rises for Blacks under Trump NNPA Newswire

During President Donald Trump’s first full month in office, the Black unemployment rate rose as the white unemployment rate fell, according to the latest jobs report. Key employment indicators show that Black workers lost ground in February. The unemployment rate for Black workers increased from 7.7 percent in January to 8.1 percent in February. The labor force participation rate, which is the share of the population that is employed or looking for work, ticked down from 62.4 percent to 62.3 percent in February. The employment-population ratio, which is the share of the population that has jobs, also declined for Black workers from 57.5 percent to 57.3 percent in February. The white unemployment rate inched closer to 4 percent, decreasing from 4.3 percent in January to 4.1 percent in February. The jobless rate for white men 20 and over dipped below 4 percent in February (3.8 percent). The unemployment rate for white women 20 and over decreased from 3.9 percent in January to 3.7 percent in February. Black men fared worse than other adult groups in the job market last month. The unemployment rate for Black men over 20 increased from 7.3 percent in January to 7.8 percent in February. Not only did the unemployment rate for both Black men and women 20 and over move in the opposite direction to their white counterparts, the share of Black men and women who looked for jobs

and found work decreased from January to February. Before his inauguration in January, Trump often questioned the Labor Department’s monthly jobs report, but when the latest report was released, White House officials expressed their enthusiasm about the results. During the press briefing after February’s jobs report was released, Press Secretary Sean Spicer was asked if Trump believed that the report was accurate. Spicer answered, “[President Trump] said to quote him very clearly, ‘They may have been phony in the past, but it’s very real now.’” In a statement about the February’s jobs report, Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.) said that Trump inherited a growing economy from his predecessor.

D.C. disputes increase in missing girls Defender News Services

Authorities in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area say despite recent social media claims, there has not been an increase in the number of missing Black and Latino teenagers. The overwhelming number of girls posted as missing may not be a part of human trafficking like so many believed. A new law enforcement initiative to get people more active in finding missing persons may be the reason for all the discussion. “The number of missing persons’ reports has remained constant since 2014,” Mayor

Muriel Bowser said. “What has changed is our way of getting that information out quickly and the tools that we are using to get that out.” “The overwhelming majority of our missing persons quickly return home or are located,” D.C. Police Chief Peter Newsham said. “So far in 2017, 95 percent of our cases have been closed. In 2016, we had almost 1,000 fewer reports of missing persons than we had in 2012.” Juveniles are reported missing for a number of reasons. Usually, it’s because they didn’t check in at home, work or school for voluntary reasons. More concerning cases tend to revolve around conflicts in the home.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017

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MARCH 23 | 2017 | DEFENDER

entertainment

David Oyelowo

stars in ‘A United Kingdom’ DO: I had been working on the film for a long time, and it was important to find an actress who shared my passion for the projavid Oyelowo is a multiple ect. When I sent Rosamund pictures of SerGolden Globe and Emmyetse and Ruth, she had such an emotional nominated actor and producer and visceral reaction to them, it really gave who has quickly become one of me a lot of confidence that we would be Hollywood’s most sought-after bringing everything we could to the work. talents. And I think that passion for the project led He gained international acclaim in 2014 to the chemistry you see onscreen. starring as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Ava KW: This year, the Academy nomiDuVernay’s “Selma.” nated seven actors of color for Oscars Most recently, he starred opposite Lupita after not nominating any the previous two Nyong’o in ”Queen of Katwe.” His additional years. But that must be little consolation film credits include “Interstellar,” “A Most to you, since your terrific performance in Violent Year,” “The Butler,” “Red Tails,” “Selma” was snubbed. “The Help” and “The Last King of Scotland.” DO: Well, thank you, but films are for Oyelowo, who was born in Oxford, Englife. Even with what happened with “Selland, is a classically-trained actor. He received ma,” everywhere I go, people have seen his start on stage in 1999 with Britain’s Royal that film. And at the end of the day, that’s Shakespeare Company. why you do it. With the passage of time, no Here, he talks about his latest outing opone really remembers who was nominated In “A United Kingdom,” David Oyelowo portrays Seretse Khama, the first president of Botswana, posite Rosamund Pike in the true story of an or who won; it’s the film that has to stand who caused a stir when he married Ruth Williams, portrayed by Rosamund Pike (right). African king who falls for a British commoner on its own two legs. I’m very proud to say in “A United Kingdom.” that I feel we achieved that with “Selma.” DO: Becoming typecast is something that can hapKam Williams: What interested you in “A United KW: What’s the biggest difference between who pen very easily, if you are not paying attention. Look, Kingdom?” you are at home as opposed to the person we see on the the fact of the matter is that Seretse and Dr. Martin David Oyelowo: The fact that it was a story I felt red carpet? Luther King [in “Selma”] make it twice in a row now I should know, but I didn’t know. And as I dug deeper, DO: I’m a lot sillier at home. I have four kids and a that I’ve played historical, political figures. I’ve got to I appreciated that the enduring love Seretse [Khama] very rowdy house. be mindful of that going forward, despite how much I and Ruth [Williams] had for each other was a wonderful KW: I see you have an untitled project with direcadmire both of these men. You’ve got change it up to story. One of the amazing things about this experience have a long career. I won’t be playing that sort of role in tor Nash Edgerton coming up. for me has been the Google trail. There’s so much to DO: Yeah, that’s an action-comedy, which is a very the near future. learn about them and African history. different speed for me. I really loved doing that film… KW: How was it working opposite Rosamund KW: Unlike some actors, you have managed to Action is something I love to watch, and I’ve had fun Pike? How do you explain the great chemistry the two avoid being typecast. What is your secret? whenever it’s come my way.” of you generated on screen? By KAM WILLIAMS Contributing Writer

what’sup Fox News’ “The Five” host KIMBERLY GUILFOYLE recently suggested that the Secret Service should kill SNOOP DOG and BOW WOW after Snoop made a music video in which he points a gun at a clown version of President Donald Trump. Bow Wow responded with a scathing tweet. During the Fox segment, co-host Greg Gutfeld noted that “it was an actual threat” and asked Guilfoyle how the Secret Service should respond to the “Lavender” music video. “Kill them?” Guilfoyle replied. “Kill them.”…….. Felicia O’Dell, aka AUNTIE FEE, died of a heart attack on March 17 in Los Angeles. She

was 59 years old. In 2014, Fee shot to viral fame with her expletive-laced cooking videos on “good ass chicken” (in a sink) and “sweet treats for the kids.” Those videos have been watched millions of times……. Rock ‘n Roll legend CHUCK BERRY died March 18 at age 90 in St. Charles, Mo. From the time Berry hit the scene with “Maybellene” in 1955, he defined the sound. Berry’s other hits included “Johnny B. Goode,” “Sweet Little Sixteen” and “Roll Over Beethoven.” He was known for his “wicked licks” and duck walk …….TYRA BANKS is heading back to “America’s Next Top Model.” Banks,

who just signed on as new host of “America’s Got Talent,” left the reality model series last year when The CW Network canceled the show after 22 cycles. Pop singer RITA ORA began hosting the show as it moved to VH1 while Banks continued to serve as executive producer…….TYREESE GIPSON is under fire after he wrote an essay on Instagram about changes women make to their bodies. Gipson has never been shy about sharing his opinions on social media, but this diatribe was specifically pointed to those who wear false eyelashes, opt for breast augmentations, wear hair weaves and have their lips enlarged.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017

GETTING OLD? 10 THINGS TO DO By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

f you’re 65 or older, you have a lot of company. The most recent figures show that seniors account for 14 percent of the U.S. population, and nearly 45 million Americans are over 65. By 2060, there will be 98 million senior citizens. By 2033, the 65-and-older population will outnumber people younger than 18 for the first time. In recognition of older adults, the Defender presents 10 things you should know.

Prepare for retirement. It takes planning and commitment to become financially secure in retirement. Start saving money early. If your employer offers a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k) plan, sign up and contribute. Learn about your employer’s pension plan. Consider basic investment principles, such as knowing how your savings or pension plan is invested and putting your savings in different types of investments. Find out about your Social Security benefits (www.ssa.gov). Don’t touch your retirement savings: withdrawing early can result in penalties and the loss of principal, interest and tax benefits. Consider putting money into an individual retirement account (IRA).

Learn about Medicare. Medicare is the feder program for people who younger people with disa with permanent kidney failure req a transplant. If you’re eligible at a enrollment period begins three mo birthday. Your coverage begins on enroll. Four different parts of Med cific services: Part A (hospital insu cal insurance), Part C (Medicare A Part D (prescription drug coverag open enrollment period is Oct. 15 medicare.gov for more informatio

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. ral health insurance are 65 or older, certain abilities, and people quiring dialysis or age 65, your initial onths before your 65th n July 1 of the year you dicare help cover speurance), Part B (mediAdvantage Plans) and ge). Medicare’s annual 5-Dec. 7. Visit www. on.

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Stay active and involved. It’s true that you’re as young as you feel. Cultivate relationships with people of different ages. Enjoy time with your spouse or significant other. Have fun with your grandchildren. Take affordable outof-town trips. Volunteer with a church group or non-profit organization. Join a civic club, senior citizens’ organization or community group. Get active in your fraternity or sorority. Go to the movies or a comedy club. Find a hobby you enjoy. Stay mentally active by reading, working crossword or jigsaw puzzles, or playing board games, cards or dominoes. Connect with family and friends on social media. Keep a positive attitude.

Eat right. A healthy diet can help you fight ailments that might plague you as you age, including heart disease, hypertension and cancer. Cut back on sugar, starch, fatty meat, fried foods and junk food. Avoid too much sodium, which increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease and other health problems. Eat more fruits and vegetables — fresh, frozen, canned, juiced and dried. Look for fruits and vegetables of many different colors. For a quick, healthy meal, try a salad. Eat more whole grains.

Engage in regular exercise. Moderate exercise and physical activity can often improve your health if you are frail or have diseases that accompany aging. Studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems or difficulty walking. In addition, physical activity can help manage stress, improve your mood and possibly reduce feelings of depression. Check with your doctor before beginning a routine. Start out at a low level of effort and work your way up slowly, whether you’re walking, swimming, dancing or biking. The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (832-395-7133) offers recreation and leisure activities for Houstonians 55 and older.

Get the facts about Alzheimer’s. It’s important to know symptoms and treatment of Alzheimer’s. Of the 5.2 million Americans with the disease, 1.1 million of them are African-American. Alzheimer’s is an illness of the brain that affects a person’s ability to remember things, think clearly and use good judgment. It usually begins after age 60 and nearly half of people 85 and older may have Alzheimer’s. It is one of the most common causes of dementia, a general term for loss of memory and other mental abilities. Visit www.AfricanAmericansAgainstAlzheimers.org.

Watch your finances. If you’re on a fixed income don’t live above your means. Create a budget and stick with it. Take advantage of senior discounts, whether it’s a cell phone plan, special shopping day, lower menu price or cheaper movie ticket. Handle credit cards with care and avoid piling on debt. If your children are grown and on their own, do you still need a five-bedroom house with high utility bills and a big backyard? Consider a smaller house, condo, townhouse or apartment. Do you really need two cars? Will you save money by replacing a large van with a smaller, more fuel-efficient car? If you still need extra money, consider a part-time job in your previous career or try a different field.

he Houston area for over 85 years

Avoid scams. Seniors are attractive targets for con artists, especially those who have a “nest egg,” own their home or have excellent credit. Older Americans are less likely to report fraud because they don’t know who to report it to, are too ashamed or don’t know they have been scammed. Telemarketing scams are the most common, and often involve offers of free money or prizes, low-cost health care products, inexpensive vacations or high-profit, no-risk business deals. Don’t take phone calls from suspicious salespeople and never give them your credit card, bank account or Social Security number. Check out unfamiliar charities or companies with the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org/ houston).

Be aware of reverse mortgages. Reverse mortgages are loans that allow homeowners 62 or older to convert part of the equity in their homes into cash. There are no income or credit qualifications, but homeowners are responsible for paying taxes, property insurance and maintenance. No loans have to be repaid until the owners move or die, in which case the bank takes its share and anything left goes to heirs. Homeowners can run into problems when they take out loans too soon and deplete their home equity early on in retirement, leaving them unable to pay property taxes and insurance. Others risk losing their homes after aggressive mortgage brokers fail to disclose terms of the loans. Get advice from a financial planner. Check a lender’s background with the Better Business Bureau or Texas’ banking regulatory agency (www.dob.texas.gov).

Know where to turn for help. There are numerous local agencies and programs that help senior citizens. The Harris County Area Agency on Aging is part of a nationwide network coordinating supportive services for the elderly. The HCAAA’s programs are tailored to meet the social, nutritional, educational and logistical needs of Harris County residents ages 60 and above. Call 832-393-4301. The HoustonGalveston Area Agency on Aging helps residents in 12 other counties, including Fort Bend, Waller, Montgomery and Galveston. Call 713627-3200. Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels for Greater Houston program provides home-delivered meals to homebound seniors over 60 and their spouses. Call 713-533-4937. Visit www.houstontx.gov/health/ MSC/ for a list of multi-service centers that assist seniors.

DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017

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Follow tips for National Nutrition Month

Defender News Services

lthough March is officially National Nutrition Month, any time is a good time to eat more nutritiously, points out the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), which offers 10 tips to help African-Americans eat more nutritiously. “National Nutrition Month is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about nutrition and try new and healthy foods. Eating healthy foods can help weight management and lower risk for many chronic diseases like heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer, which especially affects many African-Americans,” said Elaine Auld, CEO of SOPHE. Tips include: Go fresh. Choose fresh seafood, lean poultry, and beans as your protein source. If using ground meats, choose 93 percent lean ground turkey or ground sirloin beef. Measure portions. It is easy to overeat on snacks. Measure one serving so you can save room for the main course. Favor whole grains. Brown rice is a whole grain and has more nutrients than white rice. Buy or bake whole grain breads and baked goods. Use the plate method. Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Fill one quarter of your plate with a lean protein. Then fill one quarter of your plate with a starchy food, like a baked potato. Use healthy cooking methods. Grill your chicken, fish, or vegetables. You can also try baking, steaming, or broiling. Small amounts of vegetable oil, olive oil, or cooking spray are better options. Beans make a great protein source. Use dried beans when you can. They are lower in sodium than canned varieties. Always drain and rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium. Go easy on the cheese and sour cream. Cheese

is high in saturated fat and in sodium. Try reduced-fat cheeses. Non-fat Greek or plain yogurt and non-fat plain yogurt have a similar taste and texture like sour cream for much less calories and fat. Cut your portion size when eating out. If you eat out, split the meal with someone else, eat half the meal

Lab gives web access to kids in 5th, 2nd Wards Defender News Services

Comcast has partnered with the YMCA of Greater Houston to open a new mobile computer lab dedicated to providing technology and Internet access at various YMCA sites that offer after-school activities to students and their parents. The mobile lab will travel to several locations, providing access to technology to families through the YMCA, including the Willow Creek Community Center, 7575 Office City Drive, the Denver Harbor Community Center, 6402 Market St., Clayton Homes Apartment Community Center, 1919 Runnels St., and the Kelly Village Apartment Community Center, 3118 Green St. “We are very grateful for this partnership with Comcast, as it enables the Y to bring laptops to students and their parents who

otherwise would not have regular access to this technology,” said Paul McEntire, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “This mobile computer lab will allow children to complete homework assignments and do research related to their studies. It will also be available to their parents for preparing resumes, searching for jobs and finding the necessary resources for caring for their families.” Comcast and YMCA of the USA recently announced a comprehensive $15.3 million partnership that combines the Y’s commitment to strengthening communities and improving the lives of children and families and the transformative potential of Comcast’s Internet Essentials, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive Internet adoption program, to help prepare the next generation for the future.

and bring home leftovers, or order a kid-sized meal. Snack on fruits and vegetables. Keep a bowl of fruit out on a table or counter to encourage healthy snacking. Pre-cut veggies and make “grab and go” packets. Pack your lunch. Skip eating out and bring your lunch.

TSU names new interim police chief Defender News Service

Texas Southern University has announced that Mary Young has been named new acting chief of police. Young, a veteran officer with the Houston Police Department (HPD), served as the community service specialist for the Southwest Patrol Division. She designed and implemented grassroots programs for youth and seniors. She established partnerships with nonprofit organizations, com- Mary Young munity leaders and local business stakeholders to bridge the gap between HPD and the community. She has trained officers and college interns in community engagement, networking and

career preparedness. “We are excited to have an officer of Ms. Young’s caliber join our University,” said TSU President Dr. Austin A. Lane. “Her experience in connecting and developing positive bonds with the communities that she serves will prove valuable as we continue in our efforts to make Texas Southern University one of the safest campuses in Texas.” Young is a graduate of James Madison Senior High School where she excelled in sports and academics, earning her diploma at 16. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications/ Law Enforcement from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Arts degree in Criminology/Sociology from Sam Houston State University.

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Black millennials optimistic about future Defender News Services

Racial issues continue to fester in America, but this has not instilled a sense of despair or hopelessness among Black millennials, a new study finds. In fact, researchers say they have found the opposite. Data from a collaborative study conducted by the University of Texas and Hispanic advertising agency Richards/Lerma reveals that Black millennials are most optimistic about their future when compared to Hispanic, Asian and white millennials. The study, titled “Millennials Deconstructed,” also has other fascinating findings about where millennials – young adults between the ages of 18-34 – who make up America’s most racially diverse generation in history, stand when it comes to having faith in the American dream and their ability to succeed in the future. Researchers – who say the study was designed to decode the relationship millennials have with America – say some of the results were surprising, even noting in the report that “the data reached out and smacked us with untold cultural stories that challenge popular notions about each race and ethnicity.” Researchers, who looked at over 1,000 respondents, say that Black millennials in particular show

some of the study’s most interesting and counterintuitive discoveries, writ-

ing: “A reasonable person may expect to uncover a sense of despair, apathy,

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or hopelessness. In this case, a reasonable person would be wrong.” “We found the opposite,” it continues. “With a heightened sense of control over their future, [Black millennials] have the

most faith that their hard work will pay off.” Pointing to the role of Black activists in calling out systemic racism and white privilege, researchers say some may interpret this as “showing disrespect for America, apathy, playing the victim [and/or] asking for handouts.” Instead, rather than reporting feelings of neglect or disrespect, 83 percent of Black millennials say they are proud to be an American. Although Black millennials (67 percent) are closely tied with Hispanic millennials (66 percent) in being less likely to

say they are satisfied with life when compared to Asian (71 percent) and white (71 percent) millennials, most Black millennials (61 percent) hold on to a sense of hope and optimism rather than feelings of apathy. “This suggests their vocalization of injustice isn’t at odds with respect for their nation,” the study says of Black millennials. “In fact, it’s possible their motivation to speak up is because of their national pride, because they hold their country to a high standard.”

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VEHICULAR WAYFINDING POWER

A PLEDGE OF COMMITMENT.

HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for the Vehicular Wayfinding Power project, located in Downtown Houston. Bids will be received until 11:00 AM, local time on Thursday, April 20, 2017 by the Director of Planning & Design, Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Beginning Thursday, March 16, 2017, Bid Documents will be available at www.civcastusa.com. Any Addenda will be distributed through www.civcastusa.com. Bid Documents may also be examined at the Minority Business Development Agency Business Center (2302 Fannin Street, Suite 165, Houston, TX 77002) or viewed online at isqft.com. A MANDATORY Pre-bid Conference will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2017, in the Downtown District’s Conference Room, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. All bidders (general contractors) are invited to attend. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a bidder who did not attend the Pre-bid Conference. Late arrivals will not be admitted to the Pre-bid Conference.

A FOUNDATION OF TRUST.

At Allegiance Bank, we don’t just serve our customers, we’re completely dedicated to their success. So it’s only natural homebuilder Johnny Hollins banks with us. Says Johnny, “Allegiance is more than a bank to your business. It’s a partner, too.” If you’re looking for a bank that feels like home, give Allegiance a call.

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/WDBE participation goal of 20 percent.

281-894-3200 16 locations AllegianceBank.com ABTCO-151 November Forward Times_MECH.indd 1

11/17/16 4:52 PM

DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

sports

James Harden

Ready to propel Rockets into playoffs By MAX EDISON Defender

ith less than four weeks remaining in the NBA regular season, the Rockets clinched a spot in the playoffs. Last year, the Rockets finished with a .500 record of 41-41, good enough for the eighth and final playoff spot. This season, the team has 50 wins (third best in the league to date) and is firmly entrenched as the No. 3 seeded team in the Western James Harden shines for the Rockets and is second in scoring in the NBA. Conference, behind San Antonio and Golden State. What’s the difference in a year? The reemergence of James Harden as a legitimate MVP candidate and team leader. Many of us scratched our heads with apprehension when new Rocket head coach Mike D’Antoni announced that he would move AllStar Harden to point guard. Little did we know that Harden, known previously as a dominant scorer, would be able to fit so smoothly into his new role as a distributor and maintain his scoring prowess. Harden leads the NBA in assists, averaging 11 per game. He is second in scoring, averaging 29 per game. Harden has 19 triple doubles on the season. In January against the 76ers, Harden scored 51 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists and became the second NBA player in history to record two 50-point triple doubles in one season. If that weren’t enough, he recently recorded back-to-back 40-point triple doubles, an NBA record, and has seven 40-point triples on the season. As Harden continues to puts up eye-popping offensive numbers for himself and his teammates, he shows he has iron man characteristics as well. While so many of the NBA’s elite take games off, Harden prides himself in his

Coach Mike D’Antoni said Harden takes pride in playing.

amazing durability. He is leading the NBA in total minutes played for the third consecutive season. He has missed just one regular-season game in the past three seasons and that came via suspension. “I can’t afford to take nights off. That’s not what I get paid for,” Harden said. “I just love being out there on the court helping my teammates and playing for the Houston Rockets.” Harden’s passion to play makes for an interesting balancing act for D’Antoni. “I think he’d play the whole game,” D’Antoni said. “There are times he looks at me and says, says ‘I’m not tired.’ I say, ‘I know. But you’re only going to play 36 [minutes].’ ” Perhaps D’Antoni will follow the trend and sit his MVP candidate for a game. Don’t bet on it, at least not yet. “He loves to play and he just won’t do it,” D’Antoni continued. “I think he takes pride in playing all the games. Whether that’s good or not…he’s 27 years old and he feels good.” A runner-up to MVP Steph Curry in 2014-2015, Harden has shown the level of consistency that should make him the guy to beat in the MVP sweepstakes. Harden, however, wants no part of the MVP conversation. He has a bigger goal in mind. “My goal, our goal is pursuing a championship,” he said. “This is just the beginning. We still have a long way to go, a long way to improve, but we’re headed in the right direction.”

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h.s.zone Marshall’s Johnson sprints toward greatness By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

ngel Johnson learned something new about herself at the 2017 Texas Southern University Relays. The junior sprinter at Fort Bend ISD’s Thurgood Marshall High School thought she had already figured out what were her favorite events. Then a revelation occurred during one of the meet’s preliminary relay heats. “The 100- and 200- used to be my favorite races,” Johnson said. “Yesterday I surprised myself in the Angel Johnson (right), a Marshall High School sprinter, is shown with her coach Benita Smith. 4X400 so now I think the 200- and 400-meter dashes are my favorites.” “I have so many people to make proud Marshall head girls track coach Benita and to do this for,” Johnson said. “I want to Smith is ecstatic about the return of Johnson thank my coach for all her support and the from a hamstring injury that sidelined her for team for never giving up on me.” much of the 2016 season. A banner freshman While Johnson settles into her post-injury year made her a cornerstone of the program in routine, she looks forward to a new challenge the sprints and relays. in the 400-meter dash. As the 2017 season nears its midpoint, “You have to know how to run the 400,” Johnson is already on pace to better her pershe said. “You have to get out well and mainsonal best time of 24.6 seconds in the 200-me- tain down the backstretch. Then you must ter dash. have the strength in the last 150 meters to just “Gaining that self-confidence back is the kick it in and take it home strong.” main thing when returning from a hamstring Smith believes Johnson is just beginning injury,” Smith said. “An injury like that can to scratch the surface of what she can accomlead to second guessing from the student-athplish in the future. lete when they’re trying to make a comeback. “She’s a great athlete and has the confi“We try to make sure they are confident dence now to do whatever she puts her mind enough to put that power back into the musto,” Smith said. “I look for her to run at the cle. Once they get that confidence back, then next level in Division I and her goal is to one everything is fine,” Smith said. day compete in the Olympics. So we’re workThe 2017 Marshall High School girls’ ing on her self-discipline to get there.” track team is youthful with one senior, one Johnson says this has been an extraordinary junior and an assortment of freshmen and year at Marshall High School, especially in sophomores. Johnson is one of the team leadathletics. The football team advanced to the ers. regional final and the boys’ basketball team She learned to accept and relish responsiwas a Class 5A championship game finalist. bility at a young age. The Marshall boys’ track team is a two“It means a lot to me to be able to comtime defending state champion. pete for Marshall High School,” Johnson said. “The school vibe has been uplifted. Every“I come from a family of athletes so being one body’s spirits are high and the school spirit is of the top athletes at the school and in this sky high,” Johnson said. “Everybody is on a region is really a big deal. mission for greatness this year.”

MARCH 23 | 2017 | DEFENDER

sportsbriefs Texans chilling during FA As the NFL free agency period enters its third week, the hometown Texans have been conspicuously quiet. On the negative side the team has lost cornerback A.J. Bouye, safety Quintin Demps and linebacker John Simon, all key figures to an outstanding Texan defense in 2016, although Simon finished the season on injured reserve. On the positive side the Texans have retained the services of two of their key weapons, namely punter Shane Lechler and kicker Nick Novak. The biggest deal involved subtraction as opposed to addition. They were able to unload Brock Osweiler and his onerous contract to the Cleveland Browns along with a couple of picks. Does that mean they’ll be involved in the Tony Romo sweepstakes? Only time will tell.

Peterson still available Native Texan Adrian Peterson is still unemployed and available. At age 32, the former league MVP is finding out the NFL is not knocking down doors to acquire a power running back at his age coming off knee surgery. The Vikings have signed former Oakland back Latavius Murray to fill their void at the position. Peterson’s name has been kicked around in connection with several teams looking for running back help. Most of those teams have filled their voids with younger guys. Peterson appears to have limited his search to teams that could be one heavy duty running back away from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Unfortunately for Peterson, none of those teams have been willing to take a chance on him, yet.

Player salutes mom Cypress Falls guard Trajan Wesley paid a fitting tribute to his deceased mother following the Eagles’ 63-57 victory over San Antonio Wagner in the Class 6A state championship at the San Antonio Alamodome. Ten years ago to the day (March 11, 2007) Monica Necole Wesley lost her battle with cancer. On every March 11 for the past 10 years Wesley has practiced the same ritual. “Everything I do on that day is all for her,” Trajan said. The junior point guard scored a game-high 20 points, including his team’s final eight points, as Cy Falls rallied from an eight-point first-half deficit to win the school’s first boys’ state basketball title. In the aftermath of a round of post-game interviews, Wesley took a timeout for himself. “I just talked to her and told her how much I miss her and what I still have left to accomplish,” Wesley said. “I could hear her voice telling me how proud she was of me.” Both of Wesley’s parents (Monica and Donald Wesley) played basketball at Navasota High School. Donald was a member of the 1990 Class 3A state championship team and later coached at the school. Trajan’s dad was at the Alamodome to celebrate with his son.

Stafford team honored Every year during the state high school basketball tournament the University Interscholastic League (UIL) honors championship teams from a quarter century ago. Members of the Stafford High School 1992 Class 3A state title team were honored this year.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 23 | 2017

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

topevents

66th ANNUAL TSU RELAYS……..Texas Southern University Athletics artist and HMAAC Assistant Curator Dominic Clay to pair the discussion with the hosted the 66th Annual TSU Relays. Over 115 high school and college teams HMAAC’s exhibit celebrating Ntosake Shange’s famous work. HMAAC CEO from across the state and country competed in a bevy of track and field events. John Guess greeted attendees at the event that also spotlighted artist Elizabeth Along with Texas, the states of Alabama, Mississippi, Kansas and Louisiana Montgomery Shelton who was on hand along with artist Charles Criner, sent representatives. There were even schools competing from as far away as Brilliance Jones, Keneisha Terrell, Jeanine Bryant, and many others…….. Cambridge, Mass. and Chicago. Individuals on hand included Mike Hickey, PROJECT PROM DRESS DRIVE……...HISD Board President Wanda Adams, Shakevia Fleeks, Rodney Gray, Quionna Campbell, Kianna Dunham, along with Carla Lane and This Woman’s Work, recently hosted Project Prom Edward Nduguna, Jayla Houston, Breana Dockery, Dress Drive, an initiative to obtain 100 prom dresses to give to Darryl Carter, Trevion Clayton, Abraham Adesipe, Nikki 100 homeless girls so they can attend their proms. The event’s Defender TOP EVENTS goal was surpassed as over 200 dresses were collected well Huggins, Yasmine Wells, Richard Murphy, Daisha Rose More photos on defendernetwork.com and many others……..WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH before the event, coordinated by Dorita Hatchett, concluded. DISCUSSION…….. The Blacklist Association in Heavy-hitters from Houston’s business, education, social and conjunction with the For Colored Girls Exhibit at the Houston political communities came out in force to the Gite Gallery Museum of African American Culture hosted a Women’s History Month to support this worthy cause. Those in attendance included Donna Blackshear discussion that touched on topics such as Black femininity, political engagement, Reynolds, Vernita Harris, Sharon Murphy, Jacqueline Potter, Tabitha Davis, economics and spirituality. Moderator Suraiye Myles and event coordinators Mary Garrett, Karen Hauser, Carla Blair, Oni Blair, Frederick Goodall, Aaron Brown, Ore’oluwa Akinbode, Atum Ra and Fred Bryant teamed with Ebony Lyons, Carla Brown, Naomi Hardy and Shirley Brooks.

Breana Dockery, Darryl Carter

Suraiye Myles, Ore’oluwa Akinbode

Karen Haller, Wanda Adams

Mario Lewis, Cary Hall, Dannie Luckey

Briana Simpson, Zipporah Scott, Keiarra Washington

Dominic Clay, Elizabeth Montgomery Shelton, Charles Criner, Ava Cosey

Raynese Edwards, Carla Lane

Aaron Brown, Brilliance Jones, Fred Bryant

Tiffany Davis, Sharon Murphy, Vernita Harris

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