Macrh 28, 2024

WHY BLACKS IN HOUSTON SHOULD CARE.

Haiti in crisis NEWS

SPORTS

TURKEY LEG HUT

BLACK WOMEN IN SPORTS

The popular Third Ward restaurant has been plagued with issues and has now filed bankruptcy to deal with them.

Volume 93, issue 22 March 28, 2024

We highlight five women who have taken on leadership roles in Houston pro sports.

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DN Section To the POINT

Jermaine Dupre is an executive producer of the Freaknik documentary. Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Message from the Reporter Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told debuts on Hulu

us to respect and acknowledge other cultures and backgrounds while supporting our friends who observe Ramadan.

There are the Essence Festival, HBCU events, and then there is Freaknik! GenZers, you’ve got to sit this one out because Regina King’s biopic of Shirley Chisholm this conversation might not be for you. Hulu has brought back all the nostalgia for ‘80s and As we count down the last week of ‘90s babies with “Freaknik: The Wildest Party Women’s History Month, it is only fitNever Told,” showcasing the picnic’s humble ting to shout out Regina King and her beginning to becoming a pivotal role in hipportrayal of Shirley Chisholm in the new hop and Atlanta’s broader cultural influence.

Laura Onyeneho biopic that aired on Netflix this month.

Freaknik began in 1983 as a small picnic creIt’s a poignant tribute to a trailblazer ated by students attending college in Atlanta but couldn’t whose contributions to American politics have too often afford to return home for spring break. In the 90s, it grad- been overlooked. Chisholm’s audacious run for the presually expanded into concerts, dance contests, and basket- idency in 1972 shattered barriers and paved the way for ball tournaments until reports of sexual assault and safety future generations of women and people of color in politics. concerns caused law enforcement to shut it down in 1999. The film delves into Chisholm’s remarkable journey from If you haven’t watched it, do you think you’ll see any of your Brooklyn to Capitol Hill, highlighting her historic achieveuncles or aunties in any archival clips? Kids these days don’t ments as the first Black woman elected to Congress and know that folks back then knew how to have a good time. her groundbreaking bid for the Democratic nomination for president. And Regina, as usual, does what she does best!!

Happy Ramadan to all our The story also serves as a reminder of the importance of Muslim brothers and sisters representation and the archiving of our nation’s history From March 10 to April 9, Muslims worldwide celebrate to be taught to the younger generations because I can tell the revelation of the Qur’an, a book that Muslims consider a you now, if you ask young folks who Shirley Chisholm was, source of wisdom and direction for all people. During Rama- many of them probably couldn’t give you an answer. Black dan, people fast during the day to become closer to God by history is American history. practicing self-control, appreciation, and even compassion for those less fortunate. Those observing Ramadan must fast ON THE WEB from sunrise to sunset throughout the month. When Rama• Meet Grace Africa, from nurse to viral comedic TikTok dan ends, Muslims get together to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, also sensation. known as the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast. It’s a time • HSPVA has a history of game-changing performances. of fasting and spiritual growth. It’s also important for all of • Tap into some news you can use for your everyday life.

March 28, 2024 |

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DN News

Turkey Leg Hut files for bankruptcy

By Terrance Harris

The drama continues for one of Houston’s most popular restaurants.

The Turkey Leg Hut owners filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the 127th Judicial District Court in Harris County. The filing, made on behalf of estranged couple Nakia Holmes and Lyndell Price is specifically aimed at former co-owner Steve Rogers and his $931,111.12 lawsuit against the Turkey Leg Hut owners for failure to pay.

According to court records, Holmes listed 19 creditors with an estimated liability of $1 million to $10 million. Two of the largest accounts include the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts in the amount of $1.95 million and a disputed amount of $931,111.12 by former co-owner, Steven Rogers.

Rogers, now the owner of Bar 5015 in Third Ward, filed a lawsuit against his colleagues in 2020. In his suit he alleged the restaurant’s majority owner, Nakia Holmes, formerly Price, was diverting “funds, customers, and supplies” to her other food trucks and catering businesses without compensating Rogers and other shareholders.

Rogers filed his lawsuit earlier this year after the couple failed to continue paying the redemption fee as a result of his withdrawal from the business. Rogers was to be paid $1,547,500, which was agreed upon in September. Rogers said in court filings that the Prices made three of the five agreed payments but stopped after that. Rogers was only paid $616,388.88.

Under Section 362 of the bankruptcy code, all collections are required to cease immediately.

In a statement, Holmes said, the company chose bankruptcy in order to reposition and strengthen as they continue to serve the community.

“The Company has initiated a voluntary court-supervised Chapter 11 process that will allow it the necessary flexibility to continue ongoing discussions with all financial stakeholders. In connection with the filing, the Company has sought approval to continue its operations while meeting its obligations to all stakeholders, employees, suppliers, and vendors,” Holmes said in a statement.

While this is the biggest hit for the embattled restaurant, it hasn’t been the only issue over the years.

The Turkey Leg Hut faced legal issues from many homeowners in the area over traffic, parking and smoke from the Turkey Leg. Holmes and Price also have gone through a messy split. And earlier this year, Holmes fired Price and several other workers.

Holmes said none of these troubles will change their purpose of serving the Houston community.

“As we go through this process, we ask for continued support. We are determined to achieve a positive outcome. We thank our loyal customers, employees, and the greater Houston community for their support. The story of Turkey Leg Hut is not yet written. Our goal is to make you proud,” she said.

The Turkey Leg Hut is one of the most popular restaurants in Houston. Facebook: The Turkey Leg Hut

Read the filing that has been obtained by the Defender.

Mayor Whitmire plans City Council rules shakeup

By Aswad Walker

Responding to the complaints of Houston residents who find the rules for speaking at council meetings confining, Mayor John Whitmire says he will revamp those rules.

However, the changes he proposes will more than likely do little to change the wait time for residents to have their moment at the podium to speak directly to council members.

Whitmire is pushing to change the rule that requires residents to sign up to speak at least 23 hours before council meets. He advocates sign-ups on the day of public comment sessions.

“I just can’t believe the way we all talk about involvement, inclusion, and you can’t get up and read something in the paper … you can’t come down and testify because you didn’t sign up the day before. So, that’s the direction we’re going in terms of the rules,” he said during a recent council meeting.

Additionally, Whitmire is floating the idea of allowing public comments at night and taking council meetings on the road to different H-Town neighborhoods.

As it stands, speakers who have not commented at any of the prior four meetings can choose to talk between one and three minutes. However, if the scheduled time for speakers goes over 2.5 hours (150 minutes)

Mayor Whitmire leads a recent Houston City Council meeting. Screenshot Fox26 News.

all speakers are confined to one minute.

During sessions, the mayor and council members have the leeway to grant speakers more time.

Whitmire has also appointed District G Councilmember Mary Nan Huffman to oversee a new committee (Proposition A committee) to vet council ordinances now that council members have the added power to place items on the agenda.

Whitmire has stated he wants to give council members more opportunities

to engage in debates on issues in a way that mirrors the workings of the Texas Legislature.

Though the Prop A charter amendment went into effect months ago, no rules exist to guide the process. The Whitmire administration expects Proposition A committee members to change that reality by drafting rules outlining the process for council-proposed ordinances. Those specifics were not spelled out in the charter amendment.

“We wanted to create a path that lets

them have a more robust discussion about the policy itself,” said Deputy Chief of Staff Steven David.

The ability for council members to place items on the council agenda may not sound groundbreaking, especially since the practice is common in several other cities across the country. However, in Houston the change is a big deal because it provides a change from the city’s traditional “strong Mayor” system that places all agenda-setting power with the sitting mayor.

4 | March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News ‘TRUMP TRAIN IS MOVING’

Fani Willis forges ahead Associated Press

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis says that the election interference prosecution against Donald Trump hasn’t been delayed by proceedings over her romantic relationship with a special prosecutor she hired for the case.

“I don’t feel like we have been slowed down at all,” Willis told CNN in an interview. “I think there are efforts to slow down the train, but the train is coming.”

Her latest comments come as defense attorneys continue to press claims about her handling of a sprawling prosecution against the former president and current GOP presumptive nominee. Trump faces four felony indictments — including separate federal and state cases for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election that he lost to President Joe Biden — but has fought to delay and dismiss the cases, arguing that political opponents are wrongly targeting him.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, left, and prosecutor Daysha Young speak to each other during a hearing.

Willis spoke days after a Georgia judge allowed attorneys for Trump’s codefendants to appeal

his ruling that she could stay on the case after the withdrawal of the special prosecutor, Nathan Wade.

That may allow defense attorneys to amplify allegations of impropriety between Wade and Willis.

Defense attorneys have alleged Willis hired Wade to profit from the Trump prosecution through their romantic relationship. Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee said there wasn’t sufficient evidence to prove those claims but rebuked Willis for what he called a “tremendous lapse in judgment.”

Willis told CNN that she didn’t think her reputation needed to be reclaimed and that she hadn’t done anything embarrassing.

“I’m not embarrassed by anything I’ve done,” Willis said. “I guess my greatest crime is that I had a relationship with a man, but that’s not something I find embarrassing in any way.”

Anthony Michael Kreis, a Georgia State University law professor who’s been following the case, criticized her comments in a post on X. “If I were Fani Willis, I would simply not talk to the media at all at this point just out of an abundance of caution,” Kreis said.

NEWSBRIEFS SOME HISD SCHOOLS MUST MAKE 12% BUDGET CUTS NEXT YEAR

Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles has mandated approximately two dozen schools to trim 12% from their budgets next year as enrollment declines necessitate adjustments. These cuts will affect schools not enrolled in Miles’ “New Education System” (NES), whose Michael Corey Jenkins, third from left, and Eddie Terrell budgets are managed by campus Parker, right, stand with supporters outside the courthouse principals. While HISD over- in Jackson, Miss. sees the budgets of NES schools with higher funding levels, non- MS ‘GOON SQUAD’ 17.5-year term. Four other forNES principals will need to make SENTENCED FOR RACIST mer officers involved in the abuse reductions capped at 12% due to TORTURE OF 2 BLACK MEN await sentencing later this week. dwindling student numbers. An Two former white Mississippi The brutal attack stemmed from estimated 25 schools will face the law enforcement officers received a racist call reporting the presmaximum 12% cuts, while around yearslong prison sentences for the ence of Black men in a white 35 schools may witness racist torture of two woman’s home. Deputies, calling budget increases. HISD Black men last year, in themselves “The Goon Squad,” has not disclosed the a disturbing case that barged in without a warrant, specific schools facing underscored ongo- assaulting the victims with stun the deepest cuts. With ing racial tensions guns and other objects, includpandemic relief funds in the state. Hunter ing a gun shoved into one man’s depleting and HISD Elward, 31, was sen- mouth in a mock execution gone projecting a $250-300 tenced to around wrong. They poured milk, alcoREAD MORE million deficit, Miles 20 years, while Jef- hol, and chocolate syrup over the OF THESE NEWS asserts the necessity of frey Middleton, 46, victims, subjected them to racial BRIEFS. aligning spending with leader of the “Goon slurs, and falsely accused them of student enrollments.

Squad,” received a drug possession.

ADVOCACY GROUPS WANT U.S. TO ADDRESS TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT RACIAL BIAS

A coalition of advocacy groups is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to tackle racial bias in traffic enforcement, spotlighting its inefficacy and disproportionate impact on Black

drivers. According to a recent report, of approximately 20 million annual traffic stops in the U.S., Black motorists face a higher likelihood of being stopped and searched, especially for minor infractions, raising concerns about racial profiling and safety. The coalition’s report proposes reforms at state and local levels to address these issues.

VOLUME 93, NUMBER 22 - MARCH 28, 2024 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

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

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

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

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

March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News PVAMU STUDENT

Jaquavous Doucette Runs for city council

By Aswad Walker

Most college students, like most adults in general, are politically apathetic at best, and aggressively apolitical at worst.

Jaquavous Doucette, known by his friends at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) as “Quaa,” is not like most college students – or most adults of any age, for that matter.

Doucette, a dedicated student leader and PVAMU’s reigning Mister Sophomore has officially declared his candidacy for Prairie View City Council Position 5 in the upcoming May 5, 2024, primary election.

“Beyond my academic endeavors, I am deeply passionate about civic engagement and community empowerment,” said the Orlando, Florida native. “That’s why I’ve taken the bold step of running for City Council Position 5 in Prairie View.”

And to listen to the 20-year-old, he already sounds like a polished, long-tenured politician.

“My goal is simple yet profound: to be a voice for the residents of Prairie View, advocating for progress, and actively listening to the community, ensuring that the city moves forward in a positive direction.”

With a passion for community empowerment and a vision for a brighter future, Doucette announced that his campaign is all about 1) embodying the principles of transparency and accountability, 2) advocating

PVAMU Mr. Sophomore Jaquavous Doucette, Isiah Carey and PVAMU SGA president, Gabrielle Orji during a February 2024 appearance on Carey’s Fox 26 show, ‘The Isiah Carey Factor Uncensored.’ Courtesy Jaquavous Doucette.

for residents, and 3) building a better Prairie View.

Doucette’s campaign platform focuses on key issues such as food insecurity, economic development, and community engagement.

Drawing on his experiences as a student leader and community organizer, he seeks to bridge divides, foster dialogue, and implement solutions that benefit all residents of Prairie View.

Through transparency, advocacy, and proactive leadership, Doucette is committed to building a better Prairie View for all residents. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, he aims to create a city that is inclusive, vibrant and responsive to the needs of its residents.

The launch of Doucette’s campaign comes at a pivotal moment for PVAMU. The com community continues to advocate for greater representation, transparency, and inclusiv inclusivity in local governance. Notably, PVAMU students have played a significant role in this effort, fighting tirelessly to secure voting rights on campus and ensure their voices are heard in the democratic process.

Doucette, along with three other PVAMU students, was recently featured on an episode of “The Isiah Carey Factor Uncensored” for his leadership and contributions to the community. Doucette seeks to continue contributing to the Prairie View, TX community by directing his commit commitment to excellence toward bringing solutions to city issues.

“In everything I do, from my studies to my passion in local poli politics, I am driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those around me. I believe in the power of communication, justice, and collaboration to create lasting change.”

| 5

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO), will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 12:00 noon to receive public comment on the proposed June 2024 changes to METRO service. The public is invited to attend the hearing and provide comments in person.

The public may also join the hearing and provide comments virtually on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85739405888 or by dialing: 346-248-7799 or 1-888-475-4499 (toll-free), meeting ID: 857 3940 5888. Additionally, if you do not want to provide comments during the public hearing, visit RideMETRO.org/LiveStream to view a livestream of the event.

A video recording of the meeting will also be archived on METRO’s website at RideMETRO.org/Stream for review.

The proposed service changes may include: The restoration of the 265 West Bellfort Park & Ride, route changes to the 5, 11, 152, 269 bus routes, and schedule changes to bus routes 36, 45, 49, 50, 65, 75, 82, 84, 86, 96, 102, 137, 151, 161, 270, 298, 314, 344, 363, 433, and Park & Ride corridors serving Downtown. METRO will continue to make temporary service adjustments in response to changing ridership and workforce availability.

Copies of proposed route maps and available timetables will be available beginning on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, for public review online and in the lobby of the METRO RideStore, located in the Lee P. Brown METRO Administration Building at 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The public hearing will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 12:00 noon in the 2nd floor Boardroom at 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas (served by bus routes 6, 11, 32, 44, 51, 52, 54, 82, 85, 102, 137, 160, 161, 162, and METRORail).

HOW TO COMMENT ABOUT THE SERVICE CHANGES If you would like to make public comments in person or virtually, please register as a public speaker with the METRO Board Office at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing. Call 713-739-4834 or send an email to BoardOffice@RideMETRO.org and provide your name, address and telephone number. As explained above, you may attend the public hearing in person or virtually on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, to provide comments. If you pre-register, your comments will be heard first at the public hearing. Your name will be called at the appropriate time to make your comments.

You may also provide comments by: • Writing to us at METRO, ATTN: June 2024 Service Changes, 1900 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 • Faxing comments with a subject line referencing "June 2024 Service Changes" to 713-652-7956 • Calling or texting METRO Customer Service at 713-635-4000 • Submitting comments on the METRO website at RideMETRO.org All comments should be submitted to METRO by 12:00 noon on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES For individuals with disabilities, assistive services or copies of public documents in an alternate format can be provided. Individuals with impairments may call 713-750-4271 a minimum of five (5) working days prior to the public hearing.

LANGUAGE ASSISTANCE Upon request, METRO provides free language assistance to help patrons who have a limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English, in accordance with its language assistance plan. Please call 713-739-4018 or email METROPublicAffairs@RideMETRO.org to request language assistance or other accommodations at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing.

OTHER 1. This public hearing conforms to requirements described in the Federal Transit Administration's Circular 9030.1E, published January 16, 2014, page VI-7.

2. METRO does not discriminate based on disability in the admission or access to, or in treatment or employment in, its services, programs, and activities.

3. METRO is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, its transit services based on race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

RideMETRO.org • Call or text 713-635-4000

6 | March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 7

DN InFocus

Haiti in crisis U.S. REP. AL GREEN DISCUSSES HOUSTON IMPACT

W

By Aswad Walker

ith the current crisis in Haiti, the island nation’s history of 200p l u s yea rs o f gross economic abuse inflicted by France and the U.S. that has robbed the nation of well over $20 billion in 2024, according to a New York Times investigative report, is becoming more widely known.

It’s a history literally keeping the country in debt and setting it up for political and economic disaster, according to Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson and multiple generations of historians and economists. Hence, the current crisis, which comes on the heels of the assassination of Haiti’s president, Jovenel Moïse, in 2021, followed by its prime minister, Ariel Henry, assuming leadership and promising democratic elections that have yet to materialize in three years.

The unrest and outrage have exiled Henry, reportedly by gangs, creating a government-less situation. Over one million people have fled the Caribbean nation, with 33,000 people fleeing Haiti’s capital alone in a span of nearly two weeks.

Roughly 17,000 Haitians have been left homeless.

Adding to the madness is a broken hospital system, food shortage and an overwhelmed police force in the Port-au-Prince

metropolitan area.

The Defender spoke with U.S. Congressman Al Green to get his views on the situation and why Houstonians should care.

DEFENDER: What’s going on in Haiti currently?

Green: As a result of the death of the

president and the failure of the prime minister to hold elections as people perceived that they should have been held, we now have the prime minister indicating that he would resign and that he would do so when a transitional government could be brokered. And there are parties that are working to broker this transitional government. They are the United States and some of the Caribbean nations. Hopefully, this can be done so the people in Haiti will be pleased. Many of them believe that this transitional government would not be satisfactory because they’d like to see Haitians come to a resolution to the conflict rather than have foreign intervention.

And one can understand some of why they feel this way, because they’ve had foreign intervention [France, the U.S.] that has not served them well.

DEFENDER: What’s been the impact of that negative foreign intervention?

Green: As a result, about 40% of Haiti’s

income was from France and the United

Women scuffle for plates of food for their children at a shelter for families displaced by gang violence, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Friday, March 22, 2024.

(AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

States. It’s had outside intervention that hasn’t been beneficial as the Haitians would see it. They’d like to try to resolve their problems within. But in so doing, they still need a lot of help from without, which is why I have penned this communiqué to the Speaker of the House, asking the speaker to have the $40 million that has already been allocated and appropriated released so that it can be made available for security in Haiti.

DEFENDER: If the funds have already been designated, what’s the holdup?

Green: The concern seems to be that

people want to get a better sense of how the money’s going to be spent. And there are two people holding it up. I’d rather not call their names. If they would but only sign off, the money would go to Haiti and it would be used to support the security efforts. Kenya offered to provide an international security force. If we can get that $40 million there, we can at least start to secure the country to deal with the gang violence that is not only disturbing people, but people are also killing people. Roughly 8,400 people were killed, injured, or kidnapped in 2023.

DEFENDER: Why should this concern Blacks in the U.S., and specifically, Houston?

Green: It should concern people wher-

ever they happen to be. Dr. King has a

quote, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Well, if you truly believe that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, then you would want to end the injustice that’s taking place in Haiti. Haiti is closer to the United States than Houston is to El Paso. Haiti has been disrespected by us over the years… Under a policy known as “Wet Foot, Dry Foot” [Cubans fleeing Castro by boat could arrive in the U.S.] and they could have an opportunity to work and become part of a pathway to citizenship. The Haitians were not given similar opportunities. They could get here, fleeing violence, but they would be returned to Haiti. Haiti is also suffering in part because of the United States. We have had a hand in their suffering… So, because our fingerprints are on the conditions that they’re having to endure, there’s a moral obligation, a moral imperative to do what we can to eliminate the suffering that’s taking place.

DEFENDER: What’s your justification for the $40 million?

Green: We help people around the

world. We’re sending billions to Ukraine and currently there is an effort to send billions more to Ukraine. We send billions to Israel. There’s an effort to send billions more to Israel. These are countries that are in distant places, but we’ve sent money to them. We’ve sent money to Egypt. There are many places that we use our largesse

Motorcyclists navigate around a charred body lying in the road as pedestrians walk past, in the Petion-Ville neighborhood of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

In Haiti, a mother holds her child. Since February 29, 2024, heightened gang activity, including clashes with police in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, has worsened food insecurity and exacerbated the country’s conditions. Nearly 3 in 4 of its 11.4 million population, are currently experiencing food insecurity. (© 2023 World Vision/ photo by Guy Vital-Herne)

to gain the opportunity to have influence. Haiti is right here in our hemisphere, sort of like our neighbors, and we ought to be able to send $40 million that we’ve already set aside for Haiti.

DEFENDER: Besides helping to form the transition government and releasing that $40 million, what else do you want to see happen?

Green: We should allow Haitians the

opportunity to enter our country that we have allowed to the Cubans fleeing Castro.

They were allowed to come to this country just by getting one foot on dry land here. We never allowed the Haitians to have that same privilege. When Haitians come here to our country, they do very well. We have a Haitian community here [in Houston]. They are hardworking people. They obviously care about their country, but they come here and they do well. They’re business-minded. They want to succeed in life. And I think that there’s still room enough here for Haitians.

HOUSTON HAITIAN UNITED WORKS TO RAISE AWARENESS

Januelle Datka, her baby girl Princess and her 15-yearold daughter Titti were raped by gang members and both became pregnant.

(AP Photo/ Ariana Cubillos, File)

FACTS Haiti is on the brink of a hunger emergency, and thousands are attempting to cross into the neighboring Dominican Republic through unofficial routes. Looting at Haiti’s main port has depleted critical fuel, water, and food supplies to alarming levels, intensifying an already severe food insecurity crisis. Vulnerable children and their families are desperate for shelter, food, water, and medical assistance. Here are some other facts about the crisis: WIDESPREAD POVERTY: Even before the current crisis escalated, Haiti, ranked as the most impoverished nation in the Latin America and Caribbean region by the World Bank, struggled with economic challenges that deeply impacted the daily lives of its people.

FOOD INSECURITY: Haiti teeters on the brink of a hunger crisis, with acute hunger affecting more than 4.3 million people, nearly half of the Haitian population, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Additionally, 1.4 million people face emergency levels of hunger.

DISPLACEMENT: Ongoing conflicts and natural disasters have displaced approximately 362,000 people within the country.

HEALTHCARE CRISIS: The COVID19 pandemic hit Haiti hard, worsening economic difficulties and straining an already fragile healthcare system.

The upheaval in late February has pushed Haiti’s health system to the brink of collapse. Violence has forced the closure of three major hospitals, while armed attacks and shortages of medicine and staff have led to scaling back or the shutdown of many health centers.

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: Women and girls bear the brunt of the escalating violence, as gang activity has further increased gender-based violence.

NATURAL DISASTERS: Natural disasters, including the 2010 earthquake, Hurricane Matthew in 2016, and the August 2021 earthquake compounded the hardships facing Haitians. Haiti has also faced repeated cholera outbreaks, with the latest 2022 outbreak continuing to spread throughout the country. *Source: WorldVision

8 | March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Education

Veteran educators share wisdom with next generation of teachers

Laura Onyeneho

The first years of teaching can be a scary, lonely time, and with the public education system consistently changing, it can be hard to navigate at times.

Teachers will have the herculean task of engaging students starting the school year already behind, learning loss, dealing with emotional and mental traumas, and other costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, sometimes without enough guidance.

For Ocie Miles Jr., a two-year educator at Aldine ISD, the decision to become an educator was deeply rooted in his desire to empower and inspire the next generation.

As an educator, he aimed to “expand student’s knowledge, give them opportunities, and prepare them for life after graduation.”

However, Miles quickly discovered that teaching was far more complex than anticipated.

“Some of the barriers Black educators encounter in the education system [is that] our voices are barely heard or considered,” he said. “We cannot teach the way we want to; extra READ micro-managTHE TIPS ing; and the lack VETERAN of freedom to be EDUCATORS yourself in and HAVE FOR outside of the YOUNG BLACK classroom.”

TEACHERS Navigating the intricacies of

Jordan Victorian spent the last two years working in the Houston public school system. Credit: Jordan Victorian

classroom management, addressing the diverse needs of his students, and balancing the demands of the classroom are challenging. Still, Miles said he is privileged to work with an excellent department and school administrator eager to support teachers’ professional development.

“I’ve asked for the help of Black educators,

and the replies have had a significant influence,” he said. “Having a group of people who can offer advice on teaching has been beneficial to me because not everyone is suited to be a teacher. This is not an easy career path.”

Jordan Victorian, a 26-year-old educator in Spring ISD, found himself drawn to

the history subjects in school and learning about different historical events that have shaped our society. The transplant from Louisiana grew up in a small area called Opelousas, where the only examples of stable professions were in healthcare or offshore oil industry-related jobs. There weren’t many people he grew up with that had people they looked up to. And he wanted to be that person for other Black and Brown youth.

The challenges he’s learned in his short time as a teacher are the lack of accountability students with poor behaviors have in school and the strict nature of the curriculum.

“I’m not saying every parent is terrible.

Some parents are very involved, but my expectations in my classroom will always be second place to what is being taught to a child at home, and sometimes it conflicts,” he said. “In the school system, certain rules are supposed to be in place, but there is no way to give those proper consequences, and it will be a very different ball game when they enter the real world, and I worry about that for students.”

As for the curriculum, he said students have different learning styles, and schools need to be places where students are excited to show up and learn new things.

“I love history, but I get bored even during lectures. So, I never want to give my students that kind of experience,” he said. “The students I work with have so much energy, and we have to reach out in the ways that they understand, and redesigning the curriculum would help.”

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

IFB No. 4024000106: METRO Rail – 4 Bridge Repairs. Solicitation will be available on or about 03/19/2024.

Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements. If you are unable to download the documents or are having difficulty, please contact 713-615-6125 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ ridemetro.org.

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March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 9

DN Profile

Carol Guess

Uses her business acumen in ministry

By Aswad Walker

Carol Guess, former interim president of the Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC), is currently serving as the vice chair of the Texas Association of African American Chambers of Commerce. But her real boss, is an even higher authority, as everything Guess does is fueled by her ministerial calling and her family legacy of business leadership and community service.

The Defender spoke with Guess about how her work advocating on behalf of Black businesses at the state level also serves as her mission field.

DEFENDER: What are you most excited about regarding Black businesses in Texas statewide?

Guess: First of all, I’m excited about

the fact that Texas, last time I checked, had the most African Americans population-wise, in the country. That means they have seen something of value in moving here. We don’t have a state income tax, and I think a lot of people are taking advantage of the opportunity to start businesses here because of that. We also have a lot of athletes here.

There’s a lot of money in Texas. And from the Black business perspective, we look forward to taking advantage of that. We have 30 Black Chambers across the state, and I’m sure people would be surprised to hear that. But we’re looking forward to strengthening the member businesses that are part of our chamber statewide.

DEFENDER: What are you most proud of regarding your work with the GHBC? Guess: One of the things I am

most proud of and our board could be extremely proud about was for the 2021 Pinnacle Awards; we won two Emmy awards and three Tele awards for that virtual Pinnacle Award experience. We had people on our team who were executive producers of the program that can now say they are Emmy Award winners.

There was COVID and George Floyd during that time that affected our businesses, and none of our members who applied for PPP were denied because they had their back office intact. And that’s another thing that we can be proud of at the Chamber. We’ve always been around to assist our members with training, with growth, to answer questions. We gained new partners and

were able to sustain the ones we had.

We were able to stay in operation and serve our members during COVID. A lot of nonprofit organizations did not make it, unfortunately.

DEFENDER: When did your calling to ministry come and what does ministry look like for Reverend Carol Guess?

Guess: I was called in 2007 and I

did not become licensed until November of 2015. And during that time, I was going through a ministers-in-training program at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church where I grew up and am still a member. The Lord has taken his time in making sure I’m fit for the call.

And at that time, although I knew he had called me, I entered our ministers-in-training program and I understood that I was not yet mature enough spiritually to continue. I couldn’t serve with authenticity because there were things happening in my life that I didn’t understand and I was angry about. So, I dropped out of the program at least twice, because I knew I had to get myself in alignment with God being in charge. And after 30-something years of doing it on my own, always having a sense of God, going to church, always being curious, and reading the word, I had not yet been convinced of God. As a lot of believers are right in that same space; still not convinced of his authority and power. So, after I finally got that squared away, I finished the program. I had to do a trial sermon, and I did that on Nov. 22, 2015. And then I was given the title of reverend by our church.

DEFENDER: Are you looking to pastor a church or is your ministry taking you in other directions?

Guess: No, I don’t feel the pastorate.

I’m a marketplace minister. That’s what God clearly said to me. I’m called to the areas of the marketplace. So, wherever he wants to use me in the marketplace, that’s where I will be. Business has been the area that I’ve been operating in so far. It’s always been of interest to me, even when I was in college. Then, when I went to law school and started working as an attorney, I always represented businesses. Even when I was practicing law in the entertainment business, most of my clients were record labels. They were businesses. So, that is the mission field I operate in.

Carol Guess, Tolu Opeloye, Carla Lane and Marguerite Williams. Photo by Aswad Walker.

Carol Guess (center right) and family. Photo

by Aswad Walker.

I’m a marketplace minister. That’s what God clearly said to me.

I’m called to the areas of the marketplace.

So, wherever he wants to use me in the marketplace, that’s where I will be.

CAROL GUESS

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Carol Guess, HAUL president Judson Robinson III. Photo by Aswad Walker.

10 | March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports University of Houston guard Emanuel Sharp scored a game-high 30 points in helping the Cougars to the 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M.

Rockets guard Fred VanVleet had 34 points and seven assists during the 147-119 victory over the Utah Jazz.

Sports Briefs

HOUSTON-BASED

Kelvin Sampson a finalist for Naismith Coach of the Year

UH head coach Kelvin Sampson has been named a finalist for the Naismith Coach of the Year Award. He is joined on the list by Kelvin UConn’s Dan Hurley, Sampson Iowa State’s TJ Otzelberger and South Carolina’s Lamont Paris. Sampson guided the Cougars to the Big 12 regular season championship, a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and they will be playing in their fifth consecutive Sweet 16 in Dallas where they will take on fourth-seeded Duke on Friday night at 8:39 p.m.

Rice names Rob Lanier new basketball coach

Rice has hired former SMU coach Rob Lanier as the Owls’ new men’s basketball coach. Lanier, who Rob Lanier has spent the last two seasons at SMU, was unexpectedly fired once the season ended. This is Lanier’s fourth head coaching stop, having also headed up Siena and Georgia State and led both programs to NCAA Tournament bids.

Shaquille O’Neal’s son leaving Texas Southern

Texas Southern forward Shaqir O’Neal, the son of Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal has entered into the NCAA Transfer Portal Shaqir after two seasons O’Neal with the Tigers.

O’Neal averaged 1.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 0.4 assists per game this season.

Rockets Jabari Smith Jr. suspended for fighting

Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. was suspended for one game this week after throwing a punch Jabari during the game Smith Jr. against Utah. Jazz guard Kris Dunn, who started the altercation with Smith, was suspended for two games for throwing a punch.

BLACK WOMEN IN PRO SPORTS

By Terrance Harris

Ashley Clinkscale and Jasmine James have very different roles as members of the leadership team of the Houston Dynamo FC and Houston Dash soccer teams.

But they are bonded in the fact they are rarities not just as Black women working at high levels in the world of professional soccer but as women working in the realm of sports that is normally reserved for white men. They are also aligned in their goals to make an impact in an industry where they see few people who look like them and their desire to be able to open doors and create opportunities for other Black women and people of color.

“I have that responsibility,” said Clinkscale, the organization’s vice president of public relations and communications. “I have that responsibility in this building, I have it personally within my community and within my family. That is what it is for me. Me and Jasmine have a responsibility in this organization to be supportive and provide resources and be that listening ear for that next male and female.”

James quickly jumps in. It’s clear she is about thinking outside of the box in an effort to bring more diversity into the administrative side of sports.

“I always say, you can’t teach ‘give a damn,’” said James, who is the director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Dynamo and Dash. “If you just have that want to and that fight, and you want to grow, give me that underdog all day. You can be a little rough around the edges, dress a little differently. I can teach Excel or how to write an email. I can teach you all of those things, but I cannot teach you, ‘give a damn.’”

Clinkscale and James are part of a small and exclusive sorority in the city as Black women working in leadership roles for Houston’s professional sports teams. Paula Harris is the senior vice president for community affairs and also serves as the executive director of the Astros Foundation.

Long-tenured Sarah Joseph is the director of community relations for the Rockets and Anita Martin serves as vice president of human resources for the Texans.

They all have stories and varied paths to leadership roles. But they are unified in their missions to make a difference.

Ashley Clinkscale

Jasmine James

Anita Martin

“There was a place where journalists, in particular women, were not allowed in the locker room and really not being allowed to do their jobs,” Clinkscale said. “So, to have an opportunity, on and off the field, to lead the team is something I take pride in. But it has not been an easy feat.”

Clinkscale, a native of South Carolina and a product of Clark-Atlanta University, has worked in the sports industry for more than 15 years. She joined the Dynamo and Dash in January after serving as the executive vice president and chief communications officer with the Portland Trail Blazers most recently.

James, who is from Columbus, Ohio, and graduated undergrad from Kentucky State and also holds a Master’s in Sports Management, has only been in Houston a little over a year after working for the company that owns the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC. Unlike Clinkscale and James who were intentional in building careers in sports, Harris sort of fell into the world of sports a couple of years ago after retiring from the oil and gas industry following 33 years of service.

Harris wasn’t even seeking employment when a chance meeting with Astros owner Jim Crane evolved into a career she never envisioned but fully embraces now.

“It’s a big shift from oil and gas to sports

Paula Harris

Sarah Joseph

management but there are a lot of similarities,” Harris said. “It’s a lot of providing value to your customer, raising money.

When I was with oil and gas, I was looking for ways to raise money. Now, I’m looking for ways to raise money, which is increasing the income of the organization.

“It’s pretty historically male-dominated careers, so that part wasn’t new. But the main thing is that your clients see value in the products that you have. So, lots of similarities there.”

It’s not surprising with such a small circle that Harris, James, Clinkscale, Joseph, Martin and other Black women working in sports in Houston have gotten to know each other and found a support system and network among themselves.

James said, “Once people knew I was here and just the love that everybody was extending like, ‘Hey, I know you are new here. We’d love to grab a coffee. How can I help you? How can I be a support system,’ which is everything.”

“I’ve experienced the same,” Clinkscale said. “Being in the (NBA), Rockets people were like, ‘Hey, I heard you were coming from Portland. We will have to follow up.’

“It’s a small-knit circle. That synergy, that support system, that sisterhood, that allyship is so important and exists. That’s what excites me about this market. I have been welcomed.”

March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN Sports

GEORGE DAVILA NORTHSIDE HS CENTER FIELDER

Leads on diamond and in classroom

By Jimmie Aggison

Student-athletes are a vital part of any high school sporting program. Before the athlete can play, he or she must first recognize they are a student first. Passing classes is as important as having the skill to play the game. While many high school programs wrestle with having talent or enough passing players, Northside senior centerfielder, George Davila, is working so that his team isn’t lacking in either category.

“George is a fantastic player. He loves the game of baseball. He gives 100%, 100% of the time,” said Northside head baseball coach Todd Brown. “I haven’t had a player like him in many years and I’ve been doing this since 2000. He brings leadership to the team when he’s on the field, he raises the playing level of all the players playing. He’s also great with the younger players on our team, reminding them of the importance of passing classes and staying eligible.”

Davila began his baseball career as a kid playing tee ball with the Denver Harbor Little League. When he entered the 6th grade, he switched to play with Heights Norhill Little League where he played against Alberto Ramirez, a dominant player who now plays at Waltrip High School.

“We’ve been competing against each other for a long time. He’s a good competitor and a great baseball player. It’s fun competing against him,” said Davila.

As Davila got older his love for baseball deepened as he began to play travel ball with the Houston ACES. “Travel ball is different. You think you’re really good until you play against better teams, and then you realize there are so many good players and maybe you’re not that good. Travel ball will humble you, but it also makes you want to work and get better as you face better

competition,” said Davila.

Freshman year at Northside High School, Davila wasn’t in the starting rotation. While sitting on the bench, he began to reflect on areas he could improve to become a more successful player, both on the diamond and in the classroom.

“Sitting on the bench made me reflect and I learned it’s important for me to be more consistent in the classroom so I could play more games,” said Davila.

With this thought process, Davila began to encourage his teammates to take schooling as seriously as they took playing in the game.

During Davila’s sophomore season, he became a starter at center field and never looked back.

“George has grown tremendously since his freshman year. When he first came to us he was an infielder only and he knew what position he was going to play. Over the years he saw what we needed were outfielders with speed. He was one of the fastest players on the team and he was willing to adapt to our needs and rise to the

ABOUT GEORGE DAVILA Class: 2024 IG: @htxgeoo Position: Centerfielder Height & weight: 5-feet-10, 150 pounds Players he studies: Drew Burress (Georgia Tech), Kyle Tucker (Houston Astros), Michael Brantley (Houston Astros) Status: Uncommitted Favorite artist: Frank Ocean, Drake Favorite subject: History Shout-outs: Family, Northside High School

occasion,” said Coach Brown.

Davila wasn’t new to fielding pop flies. In fact, earlier in his baseball career his dad made sure he got enough practice fielding balls as they would go hours upon hours on defense.

“My dad always put more emphasis on defense when I was younger,” said Davila.

“We would field balls for hours because he told us we couldn’t bat until we got three outs, and it would take us forever to get the three outs.”

The absence of hitting stuck with Davila as he got older. The love for hitting drew Davila to admire other hitters who were skilled at attacking the ball off the swing.

“I watch a lot of Drew Burress from Georgia Tech. He’s a nice hitter, he hits everything. He has a unique batting stance and a really pretty swing,” said Davila.

Burress is a 5-foot-9 freshman who currently leads the nation in home runs.

“I also enjoy watching Kyle Tucker and Michael Brantley from the Houston Astros, they’re both consistent hitters and they can move in the outfield.

Davila finds that playing baseball helps him to relax. He has yet to commit to a collegiate program but hopes to find a good fit.

“I just want an opportunity to play somewhere and get an education.”

Davila recalls the advice given to him by his dad when he looks to inspire the next group of young athletes.

“Work hard, you are not cheating anybody but yourself, don’t cheat yourself,” said Davila.

12 | March 28, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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SPECIAL PRESS AND PUBLIC ADVISORY Please find below a heartfelt plea for justice for Haiti, sent in a communique to The Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives on March 19, 2024. This communique addresses how Haiti became the poorest nation in the western hemisphere, it’s current need for aid, and the future need for mutually beneficial trade.

March 19, 2024 The Honorable Mike Johnson Speaker of the House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-232, The Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515

Re: Justice for Haiti

Dear Speaker Johnson, Sadly, I send this communique with dire concern for Haiti emanating from the brotherly love people of goodwill have within their hearts. Dolefully, the hands of history have chronicled how Haiti’s contemporary condition as the poorest country in the western hemisphere emerged from Haiti having been blackmailed/extorted by its former slave master/owner France. Haiti suffered the injustice of being forced to agree to pay more than $20 billion in today’s dollars as reparations for liberating itself from France’s enslavement. This ‘agreement’ was made under threat of re-enslavement with an armed flotilla of war ships from France. It took Haiti over 100 years to satisfy this extortion. NPR has published an article that explains this shameful behavior styled, “The Greatest Heist in History: How Haiti was Forced to Pay Reparations for Its Freedom,” published October 5, 2021.

Subsequently, the U.S. occupied Haiti from 1915 until 1934 and thereafter managed Haiti’s finances, according to the NPR article previously cited. In so doing (per NPR) the U.S. siphoned away around 40% of Haiti’s income for France and itself as debt service. Mr. Speaker, notwithstanding natural disasters, human failures, and other calamities, Haiti’s more than 100 years of being blackmailed/extorted has been the chief impediment to Haiti’s thriving. In truth, France, as the enforcer of the unjust extortion agreement, should pay Haiti back with interest on the more than $20 billion extorted.

Mr. Speaker, the Haitian interregnum notwithstanding, we need to release the $40 million available as security support for Haiti. According to Reuters, “Kenya’s government pledged 1,000 officers to lead an international security force last July, but the initiative has been tied up in court challenges and Kenya has asked to be paid upfront.” Please do not allow anything to prevent or delay our providing funds to help stabilize a country facing imminent chaos that is closer to the United States than Houston, Texas is to El Paso, Texas.

Mr. Speaker, as Congress is poised to send scores of billions of dollars to aid Israel and Ukraine, please help Haiti during its time of dire need. One final thought, I believe that aid in the short run helps a nation in need to survive. However, in the long run, it’s trade that helps a nation in need to thrive. Mr. Speaker, given our past equitably inauspicious relationship with Haiti, I unflinchingly believe we should invest in the future of our Caribbean neighbor by perfecting more mutually beneficial trade with Haiti. This would be the just and righteous thing to do.

Sincerely,

Al Green Member of Congress Progenitor of Aug. 20th As Slavery Remembrance Day Scion of Africans Enslaved in America