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Volume 87 | Number 33 JUNE 14, 2018 |FREE

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LOCAL SIR ROMEO MILAM shooting causes community outrage

RIHANNA

Black colleges in

Shines in ‘Ocean’s 8’ H PAGE 5

NATIONAL BARACK OBAMA hosting meetings for 2020 presidential contenders

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SPORTS CAMERON BURRELL leading with UH track

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Oprah Winfrey

Added to Smithsonian An exhibition of over 240 objects and artifacts in five sections is the first comprehensive look at Oprah’s life and career and is now on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. H PAGE 4

Judson Robinson III

TOP EVENTS

reflects on HAUL

The Houston Area Urban League’s president and CEO discusses the past, present and future as the organization marks its 50th anniversary on Juneteenth. Learn how HAUL works to empower Houstonians through its programs.

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Grant Hill and artist Prinston Nnanna at the For the Sake of Art (FSOA) wearable art competition.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

newstalk

Answers sought in child’s shooting Defender News Services

It has been nearly four weeks since 4-year-old Sir Romeo Milam was hit by a stray bullet while sitting with his family in their Sunnyside apartment. As he continues to fight for his life in the hospital, his family is blasting the “no snitching” mentality that is hindering justice. Sir Romeo remains in critical condition at Texas Children’s Hospital. His grandmother says he is on dialysis, a breathing machine with tubes in his stomach. He has been through 10 surgeries. His family and friends want to make sure the tragedy doesn’t happen again to any other child. “He’s still in critical condition,” Loriann Milam said. “But he’s stabilized a lot more than what he was, which is a blessing because I don’t want to bury my grandchild. If we keep allowing the Armageddon warfare to go on that was going on out there, we have no future. They’re killing our young children.” The shooting sparked outrage across Houston. Sir Romeo was just sitting in

Sir Romeo Milam

an upstairs apartment watching TV when a gunfight erupted outside the apartment and a stray bullet hit him in the abdomen. “I know somebody’s seen something, but nobody wants to say anything,” said Sir Romeo’s uncle Rashad Milam. “When a child is shot or a crime committed, I would come and tell that family even if I didn’t talk to the police.” A GoFundMe account under Sir Romeo’s name has raised only $325.

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Civil rights lawyer Lewis Myers Jr. dies Defender News Services

Noted Chicago civil rights attorney and native Houstonian Lewis “Lew” Myers Jr. died on May 24 at age 70. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 15, at 11 a.m. at Windsor Village United Methodist Church, 6000 Heatherbrook. Lewis served as general counsel to Minister Louis Farrakhan, Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton. He was a professor at DePaul University School of Law, several City Colleges of Chicago, Roosevelt University and Chicago State University. Myers attended Fifth Ward schools and graduated with honors from Wheatley High School. As a teenager, he was active in the NAACP and helped initiate a student boycott of HISD over segregation. Lewis enrolled in Tennessee State University and joined the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He transferred to Howard Univer-

Lewis “Lew” Myers Jr.

sity, where he was active in student government and organized campus demonstrations. He continued his activism as a student at Rutgers University Law School. He received a law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law and later worked as a staff attorney with North Mississippi Rural Legal Services. Survivors include his wife, Celestine Narcisse-Myers, son, Lewis Myers III, a sister and niece.

Wesley Pastor Emeritus E.E. Coates dies Defender News Services

Rev. Dr. E.E. Coates, pastor emeritus of Wesley Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Third Ward, died on June 4 at age 96. Visitation will be held Friday, June 15 from noon-6 p.m., at Johnson Funeral Home, 5730 Calhoun, and Saturday, June 16 at 9 a.m. at Wesley, 2209 Emancipation Ave. The

funeral service is 11 a.m. Saturday at Wesley. During the 37 years that Coates pastored Wesley, it grew to become the largest AME church in Texas. Under Coates’ leadership, the affordable housing project Wesley Square was built in 1968. He retired as pastor in 2002. Coates was born in Bellville, Texas and entered the ministry at age 16. He received his bachelor’s and Doctor of Divinity degrees

from Paul Quinn College and served on the Paul Quinn board of directors. He was former president of the Texas Conference Ministerial Alliance and was named Prairie View Ministers’ Conference Minister of the Year in 1990. Survivors include two children, Lucille Coates and Edward Coates, a daughter-in-law, grandson and sister. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Paul Quinn College.

Rev. Dr. E.E. Coates

localbriefs LAWMAKERS GATHERED AT THE TEXAS CAPITOL recently to discuss new school safety measures that might prevent another tragedy yet stopped short of rallying behind ideas like adding metal detectors to schools or updating school architecture. The meeting came after Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a Republican, created the Senate Select Committee on Violence in Schools & School Security to study ways to limit violence in Texas public schools before they reopen in August. Prior to those orders, Gov. Greg Abbott released a 40-page school safety plan with dozens of proposals of his own in response to the shooting at Santa Fe High School…….THE

SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS TEAMING UP with Harris County Public Health and the non-profit Got Child to help raise awareness about hot car deaths. They’re urging parents to hang reminders on rearview mirrors to remind them to check on their child. They also urge residents to look before they lock, keep something you need in the backseat, always lock the doors, put the keys and fobs away, have a plan with childcare provider, and if you see something, do something…….ENTERPRISING HOUSTONIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO vie for more than $30,000 in cash and prizes during the 6th annual Liftoff Houston Start-Up Business Plan Competition

sponsored by Capital One Bank. Liftoff Houston has helped dozens of Houstonians turn their business ideas into reality. Participants receive essential information, resources and support to develop a sound business plan. They will be invited to pitch those plans to a panel of experts. They will select three winners who will each receive $10,000 in seed money. To be eligible, applicants must have a for-profit business that is less than one year old, has earned less than $10,000 in revenue, and whose owners live and operate the enterprise within Houston’s city limits. Enrollment is open through July 16 at www. liftoffhouston.com.

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JUNE 14 | 2018 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT IS DEFENDING officers who were caught on camera handcuffing and detaining a 10-year-old boy during a search for a teen suspect, saying they followed all of the rules and protocols that are in place. Video shows the fourth-grader handcuffed and crying in front of a police car. The officers were investigating multiple reports of a teenager who’d allegedly been seen “passing out a gun.” A woman in the video can be heard questioning the officers about their reason for detaining her grandson. One of the unidentified officers can be heard saying the police were in the area searching for “a person who broke out of juvenile hall” and that her grandson fit the description and ran when approached. Someone off camera said, “He’s scared, y’all killed his father.” The boy was detained for about 15 minutes before he was released……. SOME CITIES ARE ACKNOWLEDGING racial disparities in low-level marijuana arrests and promising changes. About 61 percent of Americans say marijuana should be legalized, a sentiment that has increased steadily in recent years, according to the Pew Research Center. However, that changing attitude hasn’t stopped the police from disproportionately targeting Black and Brown people for marijuana arrests. Marijuana use is roughly equal among Blacks and whites, yet Blacks are 3.73 times as likely to be arrested for marijuana possession, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. The glaring disparities prompted the Manhattan district attorney to announce that he will no long prosecute low-level marijuana arrests. In New Jersey, the governor is pushing for statewide legislation to end the injustice…….THE PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT decided to try de-escalating confrontations with individuals accused of trespassing on private business property, nearly two months after officers infamously arrested two Black men at a downtown Starbucks. Going forward, officers will attempt to defuse situations before making an arrest.

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 33 JUNE 14, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Videographer

Jodie B. Jiles

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

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).

Democrats run to Obama as Trump’s chances improve Defender News Services

Several Democratic presidential hopefuls have been lining up to meet with former President Barack Obama as it appears more likely that President Trump’s re-election bid could be successful. Among the potential candidates who Former President Barack Obama secretly met with Obama at his Washington office to seek private counseling were Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, former Vice President Joe Biden and former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick. The former president has reportedly been “eager to be a sounding board.” “The president was generous with his time and advice, and he was excited to talk about the future,” a person with inside knowledge told Politico. There’s good reason for Democrats to worry about Trump winning a second term in office. Despite the strong opposition against his presidency, the president is doing surprisingly well in polls. He has identical numbers to Obama and President Bill Clinton at the same stage in their first terms before midterm elections, according to a Gallup poll. Thirty-seven percent of registered voters said Trump deserves re-election. Obama and Clinton

Former Gov. Deval Patrick

polled at 37 percent and 38, respectively. At the same time, Trump has been on a charm offensive to “woo” Black voters, USA Today noted. His strategic effort includes pardoning boxer Jack Johnson, commuting Alice Johnson’s sentence and staging the infamous photo-op with heads of historically Black colleges and universities. “Anyone who thinks that Trump didn’t gain some Black votes by those actions last week doesn’t understand the power of connecting with the disconnected,” the newspaper commented. Meanwhile, top Democrats – such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez – are urging Obama to help them raise money for a successful 2018 midterm run. The nation’s first Black president has clearly become the go-to guy for worried Democrats.

NAACP awarding Spingarn Medal to Brown Defender News Services

Willie Brown, the first African-American to serve as mayor of San Francisco and speaker of the California State Assembly, will receive the prestigious Spingarn Medal at the NAACP’s national convention next month in San Antonio. The medal is awarded “for the highest or noblest achievement by a living African- American during the preceding year or years.” Previous winners include Carter G. Woodson, Mary McLeod Bethune, Justice Thurgood Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks, Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sidney Poitier and Oprah Winfrey.

“For the past 103 years, we have honored leaders who have served as pillars in the fight for justice. This year’s selection of the Honorable Willie L. Brown Jr. is no exception as he has been a true advocate in this work for over 50 years,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO. Brown, 84, is a native of Mineola, Texas. After retiring from office he established the Willie L. Brown Jr. Institute on Politics and Public Service, a nonpartisan non-profit organization at San Francisco State University dedicated to training future municipal administrators. The NAACP convention will be held July 1418 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Visit www.naacpconvention.org.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

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‘Watching Oprah’

Smithsonian exhibit like viewing America Defender News Services

It’s easy to get engrossed in and even overwhelmed by “Watching Oprah,” an exhaustive examination of Oprah Winfrey’s legacy as a media mogul and cultural icon. Now on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, the exhibition of over 240 objects and artifacts in five sections is the first comprehensive look at Winfrey’s life and career, according to the museum. A 2016 podcast from WBEZ Chicago, “Making Oprah,” covered similar territory in audio form, tracing her rise as daytime television pioneer through interviews with Winfrey and Oprah Winfrey’s legacy is examined in a Washington, D.C. exhibit. longtime producers and staffers on her show. created independently of the mogul, who is a major The exhibition builds on existing items related champion of and donor to the museum. to Winfrey that have been on display since the mu“This was not a show done for Oprah or done seum’s opening in September 2016. Curators knew by Oprah,” Bunch said at a preview of the exhibifor several years that they wanted “a more comtion. plicated portrait,” according to museum director To some degree, it succeeds in bringing nuLonnie Bunch III. ance to Winfrey’s persona. It does not just applaud Though Winfrey’s staff helped curators gather her triumphs but points out contradictions in her objects and fact-check information, the content was work and urges viewers to grapple with the issues

that she has confronted throughout her career, including race, gender, power, celebrity and body image. For example, in a section devoted to Winfrey’s fashion and style, the exhibition notes that while she used her role as a public figure to emphatically “challenge perceptions of beauty and encourage women of all body types to accept and love themselves,” she also struggled with her own body image and whether to conform to conventional beauty standards. Her show aimed to empower women, but its episodes on makeovers “reinforced ideas that improving one’s style and physical appearance would also improve one’s life,” according to the exhibit. The heart of the exhibition – and its greatest asset – is its meticulous deconstruction of Winfrey’s pioneering talk show and cultural legacy, demonstrating how the show tackled major social issues and shaped viewers’ consumer and literary tastes. In other words, watching Oprah was like watching America. “These shows were an amazing snapshot of the issues that America faced – or in some cases, refused to face,” Bunch said.

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JUNE 14 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

‘Ocean’s 8’ brings added diversity to series

A study by the Center of Women in Television and Film shows that out of the top When director Steven 100 films of 2017, 68 percent Soderbergh rebooted the of all female characters were classic heist film “Ocean’s white, while 16 percent were 11,” the ensemble cast Black, 7 percent were Asian, sought to capture the spirit 7 percent were Latina, and of the 1960s Sinatra-led Rat 2 percent were identified as Pack while paying homage another race or ethnicity. to the original film: same Rapper and actress name (with “11” becoming Awkwafina, who plays thief “Eleven”), same setting (Las Constance in the film, said Vegas) and recognizable – what she appreciates about and male – names. “Ocean’s 8” is that for the The 2001 “Ocean’s people of color in it, that’s Eleven” was a box office not the only thing that defines success, and now 11 years them. after the last film in the fran“My character of Conchise, a new pack is picking stance isn’t defined by her up where the “Ocean’s” ‘Asianess,’ ” Awkwafina said. trilogy left off: “Ocean’s 8” “There’s many ways Asiantells a similar heist-themed Americans are misused in plot with a slew of recognizmovies – they’re seen as the able names but this time, it’s joke or stereotypes. People the women who are front Rihanna (right), Sarah Paulson and Sandra Bullock are three stars of “Ocean’s 8.” Other stars include Cate Blanchett, Anne should let them speak in their and center of the story. American voices and give them “We’re celebrating eight Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Helena Bonham Carter and Awkwafina. unique, complex characters distinct women from eight recalled the first discussion he had with Rihanna that aren’t a brooding ‘tiger mom’ or overachieving distinct backgrounds, and this is what the world about the character’s costume. student.” looks like, not just what Hollywood has made the “The first conversation she and I had was about She added that films that are trying to create world look like,” director Gary Ross said. leaning into her Caribbean roots,” said Ross. “We more opportunities for real representation shouldn’t “Ocean’s 8” follows Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bull- both love Bob Marley, and I mentioned dreadlocks be defined by dollar numbers at the box office. ock), who has been released from jail after five years and she jumped up and down. Then we decided on “Diversity and inclusion should not be based and assembles a team of experts to rob the Met Gala a green army jacket draped over her. This is just upon the success of one movie,” said Awkwafina, in New York City. different than Rihanna gets to be in most her public who will also star in this summer’s rom-com film Singer Rihanna co-stars as “Nine Ball,” a master appearances, and she really loved all that.” “Crazy Rich Asians.” hacker with a penchant for smoking blunts and not Beyond the conversation of including more “If these films don’t do whatever we think taking any flak about her name. In addition to the women on the silver screen, the cast and crew of they’re supposed to do, it doesn’t mean more movies namesake pool ball which she uses as a mouse, Nine “Ocean’s 8” emphasized how important it was for Ball sports long dreadlocks and spends most of the them to include a diverse cast who come from a vari- shouldn’t be made.” movie in a military green army jacket and jeans. Ross ety of backgrounds. Defender News Service

what’sup Actor KOFI SIRIBOE of “Queen Sugar” and “Girls Trip” is using his platform to spread awareness about mental health issues in the Black community. Siriboe released a short film in efforts to spark conversations surrounding the stigma that AfricanAmericans face when trying to seek help. The film – dubbed “WTF Is Mental Health?” – captures the stories of seven young people of color who have continuously battled with mental health issues. Each person featured in the documentary candidly shares their experiences coping with their internal issues and how they’ve navigated their healing process. Siriboe’s own experiences inspired him to create

the documentary……..Following numerous reports that KENYA MOORE has been demoted and downgraded to “friend” status on “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” comes word that her peach has been snatched up by model and actress EVA MARCILLE. After appearing on RHOA season 10 as a friend of the cast, Marcille has earned a permanent place on the reality series. The “America’s Next Top Model” alum was initially introduced to the RHOA group by longtime cast member NENE LEAKES. Marcille bagged the full-time gig because she’s a new mom again and her engagement to Atlanta businessman Michael Sterling is sure to entice viewers. There are

also rumors that her forthcoming wedding will be a major theme during season 11. …….A decade after his signature album “Tha Carter III” dropped, LIL’ WAYNE and Cash Money Records have finally settled their years long lawsuit, giving Wayne full ownership rights to his music and assets. The relationship between Wayne and Cash Money chief BIRDMAN was once like father and son. However, the two have been at odds over the past few years, culminating in 2015, when Wayne sued Cash Money for $51 million, claiming the record label violated his contract terms and withheld millions of dollars after repeatedly delaying his album.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

JUNET

Judson Robinson III (bottom), HAUL’s president and CEO, joined area residents at a pop-up shop for Hurricane Harvey relief. Robinson said he is grateful for the strong support of HAUL’s partners and donors, staff, board members, other volunteers and the overall community.

L U A H t u o b a w o n k o t s g n 10 thi

isDepartment offers ass kforce Development or W ye plo Th em to es yed d recruitment servic UL staffers were deplo tance to job-seekers an Hurricane Harvey HA ter rtment provides clients Af lm Pa the sionth intake and orkforce Training Depa fes W wi e pro ist Th . ess ass ers to sin bu ers of elt up sh by a gro training, integrates to major nter. HAUL was founded pational and soft skills med into a resource ce ease, Leo cu for M oc ns tin d tra en fie s rti Qu wa ce ing on th ati wi lud loc inc ders, Center anes National Center for als and community lea a collection site for cle Gerald Hines, technology and includ , as t d Sr. -ar n ve the so ser ofbin on teRo ati . sta W loc n on Juds with CCER) training. The downtow Linbeck, Dan Arnold, ms. HAUL partnered rs. Clarence ucation & Research (N ite M l Ed y, na on err rso sb cti pe Su tru d . ns an J.J , Co ter rdy wa g s, C.G. Ha ing supplies, p-up shops for shoppin ickliff Theodore Hogrobrook es leton, Aloysius M. W , Inc. to launch local po od idd M Go es ng eri Jam itiative provides servic liv er, De alk W Higgins, Carl alth and Wellness In en’s Club. He M re e al ca Th on h ssi alt he ofe le Pr d ab an siness experiences. ality and afford Sr. and the Houston Bu rtaining to access to qu pe nt. include First Time and health manageme Department services istered Blacks to vote, reg ing us UL , Ho HA op ar sh ye ork st W fir on In its secretarial ancial Educati s. ob training program, a Homebuyers Class, Fin of two auxiliary group ement d an established an on-the-j uth yo a ogram, Credit Enhanc e HAUL Guild is one d Pr Th an n on, ce tio ati en offi ev s cip Pr rti air pa aff ure r ’s los tee an Forec moting volun ogram. Pr pro e ce lud rvi training center, a veter Se inc ort als pp go Su Its Housing erest in programs and titute. Program and Veteran education summer ins draising, generating int fun cy. The us attention on the agen t Center works foc en Na rm ich the we wh th s po wi itie Em ted tiv ic lia ac g om (HAUsponsorin agency and affi The Houston Econ s and helps enYoung Professionals rce ue rou cu ag HAUL is a United Way res Le the t n d rofi an ba np Ur ard no bo ea d r an Ar be ct has a 32-mem with private, public opportuni- Houston sitive community impa tional Urban League. It to pursue new business r of KPRC-TV. In mission to create a po ills a ge s sk na n ha m 21 ma tai P) fro ral ob e LY ne ag urs ge in ne in, ge pre art tre . Members ran cy e. ca Av rent chair is Jerry M s vo xa ad Te d an 01 e 13 vic at g. ser n” cin and through o a “Home of Its Ow s and qualify for finan efforts, public forums 1998, HAUL moved int d foundations. In tie ities include outreach an s tiv ion Ac . rat 40 rpo to co jor ma rt of ter to rs. with the financial suppo lopment programs ca res Homes. The developmental semina ucation & Youth Deve nation a building in Ac do Ed gement. via ga ed en eiv tal rec ren d pa UL e an lud ild bu inc 2005 HA d to an UL es ag HA young people of all Network later selected Oprah Winfrey Angel e area. ark Cl ram Hi the in ter operate a community cen

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TEENTH

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years of empowerment

Houston Area Urban League has history of providing opportunities

In an interview with the Defender, he discussed HAUL’s legacy of providing opportunities to the disadvantaged and what lies ahead. he Houston Area Urban League is observing 50 Defender: What is the greatest impact the Urban years of helping local residents, whether they League has had on Houston? need assistance acquirRobinson: I would say the ecoing a house, growing a nomic impact. We have been in business For more information business or finding a job. 50 years and that’s a statement in itself HAUL was established because that takes strong leadership and on HAUL or its on June 19, 1968 – Juneteenth – and being able to sustain the ups and downs of June 16th Equal remains determined to empower Housthe economy. Opportunity Day Gala tonians a half century later. We have really strong programs, Judson Robinson III, HAUL’s visit www.haul.org including home ownership. This past president and CEO, took charge of year we had 400-plus people who went the agency 10 years ago following through the First Time Homebuyers the retirement of Sylvia Brooks. He is a former Houston Class and roughly 50 of them actually purchased a home City Councilmember and Harris County Precinct 2 deputy with an average price of $160,000. That’s a pretty strong commissioner. His grandfather, Judson Robinson Sr., was a economic impact, about $8 million. If you look at the last HAUL founding board member. His father, Judson Robinson 50 years and what we’ve done with home preservation Jr., was Houston’s first Black City Councilmember. and ownership, that’s significant because that’s the key to passing on generational wealth. One of the highlights of 2010 was the formation of HAUCDC, a separate 501c3 created to develop affordable housing for low to moderate-income families. Some eight years later they have acquired and revitalized 75 homes throughout various communities and recently jointventured on a 124-unit affordable apartment development. We have plans to continue our efforts in housing and find new ways to meet the exploding need for affordable, safe and decent housing in our city. Defender: What do you feel is the biggest problem facing people of color in Houston today and what is the solution? Robinson: I think keeping pace with the middle class. Our unemployment rate has dropped and more people are working, but what kind of work are they doing? What kind of salaries are they paid? The average median income for our white counterparts is $63,000 a year, vs. $38,000 a year for African-Americans and $46,000 for Hispanics. What are we doing to make sure we’re closing that inequality gap? We’re working, and we’re working hard, but we’re not bringing home the resources necessary to really have a sustainable life or the ability to miss a paycheck or two and not set the family back or be on the verge of homelessness. We have to start looking at jobs that will give us the l ability to close the gap that exists. na tio Na r me ft) and for Quentin Mease (le were g Minorities have to do better and I think a lot of it has un Yo y ne HAUL co-founder hit W n. ecutive director lishment in Housto Urban League ex tab es to do with education, poverty, poor schools and lack of ’s ue ag Le n Urba visionaries of the opportunity in neighborhoods. Policy is a big piece for us, making sure that this administration doesn’t strip away more than it already has. We have to be more active at our state level and at our federal level to make sure dollars are flowing

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

Houston area for over 85 years

Making an impact • 10,432 people were served by HAUL programs in 2017, 40% of them AfricanAmerican and more than 25% Hispanic. • 97 new businesses were created that participated in the Small Business University Training. • 258 people were enrolled in health insurance with the HAUL Health Navigator. • 50 people in HAUL’s home ownership program bought a home with an average purchase price of $160,000. • 1,324 people received workforce training at HAUL; 555 were placed in jobs and still employed after 90 days with an average yearly salary of $37,440.

and programs that have been working although marginally are not slashed even further. We have to make sure our kids get math, science and engineering training, and instill in our children and families that this is what helps to close the gap and give them the type of lifestyle we all aspire to have. We have to pivot more toward high-tech jobs and formulate partnerships with tech companies. We have to move from jobs that start at $38,000 to those that start at $50,00, $60,000 or $75,000 a year, so we have to really press relationships with those big tech companies that aren’t really known for hiring African-Americans or other minorities. Defender: What is the Urban League’s greatest strength? What are some of its challenges? Robinson: The strength still lies in our ability to be resilient as an organization and be an entity that believes in the capacity of other human beings once given the opportunity to be successful. It’s important to get in front of funders and make sure the message we have to share is heard by those who are in a position to help us be more successful. Logistically, instead of waiting for people to come to our downtown location we have expanded our Palm Center location and moved more services to that area. We have to expand that model to other locations.

DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

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JUNETEENTH

Celebrate Juneteenth in Houston and beyond Gospel star Brian Courtney Wilson is a special guest r at Mayor Sylveste Turner’s Annual e Juneteenth Parad in Acres Homes.

Defender News Services

This year’s Juneteenth festivities offer something for everyone, from parades to concerts to discussions. Here is a list of events compiled by the Defender.

SATURDAY, JUNE 16

Mayor Sylvester Turner’s Annual Juneteenth Parade begins at 10 a.m. at the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 West Montgomery. It features marching bands, dancing groups, horses, floats and vintage cars. Special guests include gospel singer Brian Courtney Wilson, the UniverSoul Circus (they will hand out tickets to their performances at Butler Stadium), rapper Z-Ro, bobsledder Seun Adigun who represented Nigeria in the winter Olympics and ran track for the University of Houston, super middleweight boxer Raphael Igbokwe, African-American country singer/songwriter Imaj and native Houstonian and former Tennessee Titan QB Vince Young. Former Rocket great Clyde Drexler will give away tickets to the three-on-three competition in Houston. “Juneteenth: Commemorate and Celebrate,” is noon-3 p.m. at Johnson Neighborhood Library, 3517 Reed Road. Celebrate freedom, learn the history of Juneteenth and dance, sing and feast. Barbecue will be donated by Bud’s House of Meat. Info: houstonlibrary.org The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF) hosts three free events. The “It Takes a Village” Community Art Exhibit is 2-6 p.m. at the City Hall Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway. A “One Mile of Smiles” Parade begins at 7 p.m. at Texas Parkway (FM 2234) and Court Road, and features bands, floats and dignitaries. Festival Under the Stars is 6-11 p.m. at Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence Blvd. Guest performers are Howard Hewett (9 p.m.) and Chante Moore (10 p.m.). Info: www.mcjcf.com The Juneteenth Scholarship Gala sponsored by Broken Chains Awareness Development Group is at the Shrine Cultural Center, 5309 Martin Luther King Blvd. A meet & greet is at 6 p.m., African Holocaust Museum tour at 7 p.m. and gala at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for children 12 and under. Info: www.brokenchainsadg. com The Galveston Juneteenth parade is at 7 p.m. It begins on 20th and Strand and travels to 25th Street and Seawall Boulevard. Info: 409-599-0155 or www.galveston.com

The One Mile of Smiles Parade takes place in Missouri City.

TUESDAY, JUNE 19

The annual Al Edwards Juneteenth Prayer Breakfast and Emancipation Proclamation Reading is 8:30 a.m. at Ashton Villa Ballroom, 2328 Broadway in Galveston. The breakfast is free. Info: 409-599-5520. “The Road to Emancipation: From Jamestown to Juneteenth” will be discussed by Michael Hurd at 10 a.m. at Houston Community College West Loop Campus auditorium, 5601 West Loop South. Hurd, an author and director of the Texas Institute for the Preservation of History and Culture at Prairie View A&M University, will trace the path of slavery from 1619 in Jamestown, Va. to 1865 in Texas. Info: 713-718-7868 Reedy Chapel A.M.E. Church commemorates Galveston’s first known Juneteenth celebration at 6 p.m. with its annual march from the steps of the Old Galveston County Courthouse to the church at 2015 Broadway. Info: sbgillins@gmail.com Miller Outdoor Theatre’s Gulf Coast Juneteenth Blues & Creole Music Festival is at 7:30 p.m. in Hermann Park. It features singer Irma Thomas (“Soul Queen of New Orleans”) and Grammynominated zydeco legend C.J. Chenier. There is free open seating on the hill. Free tickets for covered seating are available at the box office the day of the performance from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

Historic Reedy Chapel AME Church in Galveston is the site of a Juneteenth commemoration.

Chante Moore performs at the Festival Under the Stars in Missouri City.

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JUNETEENTH

JUNE 14 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Juneteenth observed across the country Defender News Services

What began as a Texas holiday is now celebrated nationwide, with various states officially recognizing the occasion. Cities from Sacramento to Syracuse observe Juneteenth and some celebrations were started by Black Texans who moved to other states. All of the observances are viewed as an opportunity to commemorate the historical liberation of slaves. Here are some examples: • In Lafayette, La., the Southwest Louisiana Juneteenth Committee (SWLA) commemorates the end of slavery “by celebrating the joys of liberty, educating the community about African-American heritage and by promoting positive cultural interaction.” Each year, the SWLA hosts multiple events, including a Juneteenth pageant, speech contest and concert.

• In Alexandria, La., 2018 activities include a parade, a concert featuring zydeco music and a June 19 worship service with guest minister Bishop James Dixon II of Houston. The first Central Louisiana public celebration of Juneteenth was held in 1993. One celebration attracted more than 15,000 people. • In Sacramento, Calif., the nonprofit organization Sacramento Juneteenth, Inc. has produced a festival since 2001. It mission is to, “acknowledge and celebrate one of the most momentous occasions in American History: The signing of the Emancipation Proclamation through the presentation of a historically based festival for all ages.” It is recognized by the California Legislative Black Caucus. • In Atlanta, a Juneteenth parade and music festival takes place June 15-17 this year. Georgia became the 37th state to

recognize Juneteenth with the passage of legislation in 2011. According to Juneteenth Atlanta, “Every American should commemorate Juneteenth to give thanks and appreciation to those who suffered and survived the worst conditions and atrocities ever inflicted on a people in history.” • In Minnesota, the Twin Cities

Juneteenth Celebration is held in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Founded 30 years ago, it is said to be one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the United States. This year’s activities include an Underground Railroad enactment and participants are invited to, “Take a journey through time and experience the perils, trials and dangers on the road to freedom.”

An education is one of the most precious gifts our children can have. Let's ensure that every child regardless of their zip-code has access to a high-quality education in a safe and student-centered environment.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

sports

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UH Cougars put on show at NCAA championships

By MAX EDISON Defender

hey came, they saw, they conquered – that could be the new mantra for the University of Houston track and field team after an impressive performance at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. The Cougars matched their best finish ever at the championships in Eugene, Ore., finishing third overall for the first time since the 1959 season. Houston scored 35 points as a team, matching the second-highest total alltime and the most since reaching the same mark in 1984. Out to show that last year’s win in the 4x100 relay was no fluke, the Cougars came out flying. The 2018 squad of John Lewis III, Elijah Hall, Mario Burke and Cameron Burrell blazed around the track in 38.17 to claim the gold medal and set a new collegiate, NCAA meet, Hayward Field and school record in the process. The win for the Cougars gives them three all-time in the event (1982, 2017) and marks the first time since the 1987 and 1988 seasons that Houston has won an event title in back-to-back seasons. For their efforts, Lewis, Hall, Burke and Burrell earned First Team All-America honors. “This is an amazing group of guys,” said UH head coach and Olympic gold medalist Leroy Burrell. “We’ve had five years with Brian and Cam, two John Lewis III, Elijah Hall, Mario Burke and Cameron Burrell were with John and two with Eli. They have victorious at the NCAA championships. worked their hearts out and put it all on the line for the university and I couldn’t goal that we wanted to. We grew closer as a team. With ask for a better group of guys.” the 100-meter dash, that victory was for Brian (Barraza, Assistant coach Carl Lewis, an steeplechase) because he laid it out on the line for us and I Olympic legend with nine gold medals wanted to do the same for him.” and Burrell’s former teammate, emphaFor Cameron Burrell it was a form of déjà vu since sized the success of the relay team. his dad accomplished the same feat during his tenure as a “I’m so proud of them,” Lewis student athlete. In addition, Cameron’s mother, Michelle said. “They’re the defending champions. Finn-Burrell, was an award-winning sprinter. They came into the season, they didn’t “They were super proud,” Cameron said. “I went up drop the stick one time, they won every in the stands and gave my mother a hug. It was great.” single meet. They got there, put it on Burke picked up a big point for the Cougars with an the line in the rain and ran the best race eighth-place finish in the 100 in 10.41. The trio all claimed they’ve won all year.” First Team All-America honors for their efforts in the Cameron Burrell (Leroy’s son), event. Burke and Hall returned to the track Head coach Leroy Burrell and assistant coach Carl Lewis are proud of the track team. Junior Kahmari Montgomery followed on the track as individuals later in the meet, where with two points for the Cougars in the 400-meter dash. Burrell ended his historic career at Montgomery raced one lap around the track in 45.75 to Houston in style with a gold medal in the in NCAA history to finish one-and-two in the 100-meter finish seventh. With his finish, Montgomery earned First 100-meter dash. The 2017 silver medalist in the event sped dash, and the first since 1983 (Emmit King and Calvin Team All-America honors in the event. down the track in 10.13 to win Houston’s first individual Smith, Alabama). Houston wrapped up the NCAA Championship meet title on the outdoor slate since Sam Jefferson in 1994 and Cameron Burrell said the Cougars’ accomplishments with a fifth-place finish in the 4x400-meter relay. The CouHouston’s sixth title all-time in the 100. were a testament to the success of the entire track and field gar team of Amere Lattin, Trumaine Jefferson, Burke and Hall stormed back over the last 20 meters to claim the program. Montgomery completed the 1600-meter relay in 3:04.03 to silver medal, finishing just behind Burrell at 10.17. Burrell “This has been an incredible weekend for our proscore four points for the Cougars and clinch the third-place and Hall became just the second duo from the same team gram,” he said. “We accomplished a lot. We reached every finish as a team.

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JUNE 14 | 2018 | DEFENDER

sportsbriefs TSU, PVAMU take hits Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University suffered key losses to their respective athletic departments. TSU announced that head basketball coach Mike Davis was leaving to take the job at Detroit Mercy. PVAMU athletic director Ashley Robinson has left “the Hill” and is headed back home to be the new AD at Jackson State. Davis, in six campaigns at TSU, posted a 115-89 record, winning four SWAC regular season championships and tournament titles. During his five years at PVAMU, Johnson left an impressive record. He oversaw the completion of the university’s state-of-theart, multi-million-dollar athletic complex. With Robinson as athletic director, all 18 sports are above the academic threshold for post-season eligibility and three sports have perfect scores of 1000.

Hal receives diagnosis The UIL state baseball tournament was held in Round Rock.

Baseball crown proves elusive for four teams By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

ROUND ROCK – Four Houston area high school baseball teams qualified for the 2018 University Interscholastic League state baseball tournament. In a good year one or more of those teams would garner two victories and return home with a state championship trophy in tow. Yet baseball purists realize that while 4-for-4 (four hits in four at-bats) is a rarity, a 2-for-4 is a pretty fair day. The Houston area high school baseball community gets a heartbreaking 0-for-4 in pursuit of a state baseball crown in 2018. Sweeny came the closest of the four in the Class 4A division after Caden Homniok’s 3-0 shutout eliminated Godley in the state semifinals. Jaden Bohlar had a two RBI double in the contest and Nathan Nance added a run on a Godley error. Making their first state tournament appearance since 2012 and seeking the school’s first state baseball title since 1985, the Bulldogs faced unbeaten Argyle in the 4A state championship game. Following a scoreless five innings Argyle erupted for five runs in the sixth inning to break the game open. The 5-0 victory improved Argyle to 37-0 on the season and marked the fourth time in UIL history that a state baseball champion went undefeated. Sweeny finished 35-6. Kingwood Park (32-13) put up a monumental fight in the Class 5A state semifinals before succumbing to Northwest Eaton 3-2 in eight innings. Ryan Long’s two RBI single in the third inning erased a two-run deficit the Panthers had faced since the first inning. The score remained deadlocked at 2-2 until Eaton’s

Colbie Fritchen knocked in the game-winning run with an RBI single in the eighth. “This game was a microcosm of our season minus the fact that we just couldn’t find that one hit or that one opportunity to touch home plate one more time,” said Kingwood Park coach Bruce Cox. Northwest Eaton defeated Forney 4-1 in the 5A state title game. Two Houston area schools advanced to the Class 6A state baseball tournament. Both Cypress Ranch (2015) and The Woodlands (2013) had won state championships in their previous appearances at the state baseball tournament. Two Southlake Carroll errors by sophomore shortstop Jorge Figueroa enabled The Woodlands to tie the game at 1-1 in the fifth inning. However, it was Figueroa’s two-run double in the sixth that proved to be the game winner in a 3-1 victory. Steven Beard of The Woodlands and Carroll’s unbeaten ace Nicco Cole squared off in an old-fashioned pitcher’s duel. Cole improved to 13-0 on the season with 10 strikeouts and three hits allowed in the complete-game win. “Steven fell behind the hitter 2-0 and placed a fastball where he (Figueroa) could put a good swing on it and he hit it well,” Highlanders coach Ron Eastman said. The Woodlands won state titles in 2000, 2006 and 2013. The Highlanders finished 25-15-1 in 2018. San Antonio Reagan answered a 1-0 deficit to Cy Ranch with a five-spot in the bottom of the second inning and defeated the Mustangs 5-1 at Dell Diamond. Cy Ranch won state titles in its previous two trips to the state tournament in 2012 and 2015. The Mustangs finished 32-9-2 in 2018. Southlake Carroll’s 7-2 victory over SA Reagan secured the 2018 Class 6A state baseball crown.

Houston Texans safety Andre Hal has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He received a preliminary diagnosis from team physician Dr. James Muntz at Houston Methodist Hospital. Hal and the Texans medical team have sought further consultation with physicians at MD Anderson Cancer Center where he continues to undergo testing and evaluation and is discussing his treatment options. A statement from owner Bob McNair’s family said: “We are saddened to learn of Andre’s diagnosis. Andre is tough and faithful and we believe he is prepared to win this fight. The McNair family as well as the entire Texans organization will continue to be there for him, love and support him, and pray for his recovery.”

classifieds ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

DOWNTOWN LANDSCAPE INFILL The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for the Downtown Landscape Infill project, located in Downtown Houston. Bids will be received until 11:00 AM, local time on Thursday, July 19, 2018 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 Monday, June 18, 2018, 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 11:00 AM on Friday, June 22, 2018, 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. 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.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 14 | 2018

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

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COMCAST LEADERS & ACHIEVERS SCHOLARSHIP Virginia, Louisiana, Texas, Maryland and more. Additionally, students participated LUNCHEON……..Comcast NBCUniversal awarded $69,000 in scholarships in college prep workshops, and some even walked away with scholarship money. for the 2018-19 school year to 65 Houston-area students as part of its annual Event coordinators Veronica Johnson and Stevenia Love welcomed attendees to the Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program. Held at the Federal Reserve Bank Dallas, George R. Brown Convention Center for the event, including Amber Doss, LaDarrell Houston Branch, the event featured a welcome by Donald Bowers II, a financial Hopkins, Jorydan DuBose, Cheryl and Ahnia Leary, Demetrion Washington, literacy workshop, “How to Survive College Without Going Broke,” and keynote Bjana Adams, Randy and Rachel Smith, Angela Brooks, Lady BG (104.5 FM), address by City Controller Chris Brown. All students received Aysha Williams and scores more……..FOR THE SAKE OF $1,000 scholarships, while one student, Hannah Bilski, received 2018……..This year’s For the Sake of Art (FSOA) wearable Defender TOP EVENTS ART an additional $4,000 Comcast Founders Scholarship instituted art competition again celebrated the vibrant talent of emerging More photos on defendernetwork.com in honor of Ralph J. Roberts, founder and chairman emeritus of artists and designers while highlighting the permanent collection Comcast Corporation. Attendees included Ray Purser, Michael of African American art at TSU’s University Museum. Curator Bybee, Misha McClure, Laura Mayorga, Michael Brown, Jailyn McQueen, Dr. Alvia Wardlaw and FSOA co-chairs Evelyn Washington, Gaynelle Drexler and Jamie Travis, Nafisa Ahmed, Awah Bodunrin, Aldrin and Amari Arthur and many Mary Auzenne welcomed special guests and noted art collectors Grant and Tamia others……..TEXAS BLACK EXPO HBCU COLLEGE FAIR……..The Houston Hill and a host of supporters while honoring art icons David Driskell and Radcliffe HBCU Alumni Association in Partnership Texas Black Expo hosted their Annual HBCU Bailey. Attendees included Cesar Galindo, Gayla Gardner, Angela Daniel, Damali College Fair allowing students from surrounding school districts the opportunity to Hill, Melanie Lawson, Selven Jarmon, Prinston Nnanna, Reagan Carey, Michelle connect with HBCU representatives from Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, West Barnes and many more.

Chris Brown, Michael Brown, Ralph Martinez

Veronica Johnson Williams, Stevenia Love

Lloyd Gite, Dr. Alvia Wardlaw, John Abodeely

Arline Travis, Jamie Travis, Crystal Humphrey-White

Cheryl Leary, Ahnia Leary

Grant Hill, Tamia Hill, Aaronetta Pierce, Dr. Joseph Pierce

Aldrin Arthur, Amari Arthur, Paula Arthur

Amber Doss, LaDarrell Hopkins

Shirlette Thompson, Isabel Wallace-Green

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