Houston Defender: June 16, 2016

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ENTERTAINMENT AJ MCQUEEN spreads spoken word

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 85 | Number 33 JUNE 16, 2016 | FREE

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Juneteenth

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FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE & FREEDOM

OPINION JULIANNE MALVEAUX wants Dylann Roof spared

P17 SPORTS RONNIE DAWSON drafted by Houston Astros

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P18 TOP EVENTS

Amanda Edwards

Mike Epps

Houston City Councilmember Amanda Edwards, an attorney, is the recipient of a prestigious award from the National Bar Association. See why the nation’s Black legal organization chose Edwards.

Learn what’s special about the number 40.

Actor and comedian Mike Epps can be seen in the new ABC sitcom “Uncle Buck,” based on the movie of the same name. Read about Epps’ fun-loving character. Meet his co-stars in the series. See why he says there’s an “Uncle Buck in every race.”

receives honor

New TSU President Dr. Austin Lane, Loren Lane and Reginald Van Lee at For the Sake of Art Fashion Show

P20

stars in sitcom

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

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newstalk

Black high schools last in state rankings

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Five historically Black HISD high schools occupy the lowest spots on this year's state rankings according to an annual report by the non-profit Children at Risk. The report analyzed 1,159 area high schools, with the top schools receiving an A-plus and the bottom schools receiving an F. The bottom five were Worthing (ranked 1,155), Wheatley (1,156), Kashmere (1,157), Sterling (1,158) and Yates (1,159).

Four of the five schools made last year’s bottom five list. Madison escaped the dubious honor this year, replaced by Worthing.

Schools were ranked based on performance on STAAR Reading and Math tests; improvement over time on standardized test scores in reading, English and math; and college readiness, which includes graduation rates, SAT/ACT participation rates and scores, and Advanced Placement participation rates and scores.

HISD also received some good news concerning school rankings. Nine HISD high schools received A-plus grades, with five schools ranked in the top 12. Moreover, DeBakey High School for Health Professions was listed as No. 1 in the state for the

seventh consecutive year.

T.H. Rogers, which serves students in grades Pre-K through 8, has remained No. 1 among the top middle schools in Houston since 2011, and has ranked first at the elementary level since 2012. However, this year, River Oaks Elementary, another HISD school, has taken the No. 1 ranking, while T.H. Rogers now ranks No. 4.

According to Children at Risk, the rankings have proven to be instrumental in generating conversations among educators and the public regarding methods for improving the public education system.

“As a research and advocacy organization, the purpose of the rankings is not only to provide a tool to parents and students, but also to provide information to campuses and districts on how they perform relative to their peers, comparing them against successful models of high-performing public schools,” the organization said.

Texas ties car registration renewal to child support

By MADLIN MEKELBURG The Texas Tribune

The Texas Attorney General's Office has found a new way to punish parents who are behind on child support payments – blocking their vehicle registration renewal.

The agency plans to employ the new tool beginning this fall against parents who haven't paid child support for at least six months. The attorney general's

office is already able to revoke driver's, professional or recreational licenses of evaders, but the agency said adding vehicle registration should shore up compliance.

"We're going to use every tool that we can to collect support that is due to children and families, and that's why this initiative is being pursued," said Janece Rolfe, a spokeswoman for the Child Support Division.

But some family law attorneys question whether the policy will actually make it even tougher for some

parents to catch up on their payments. Tim Mahoney, an Austin-based attorney who frequently litigates child support cases, said in his experience, most cases of overdue child support arise when a parent can't afford to make the payments they owe, not because they're actively avoiding them.

"I think it's really bad in terms of public policy," he said. "Because if you're wanting people to pay child support, it would be really good if you could provide them with the means to earn a living."

to cost $3.6 million this year……..THE SUPREME COURT will hear appeals from Bobby Moore and Duane Buck, two Texas African-American deathrow inmates. Moore was sentenced to death more than 35 years ago and says he is ineligible to be executed because he is intellectually disabled. A jury voted to sentence Buck to death after a defense expert testified that Black people were more likely to commit violence. Buck’s lawyers have fought for years to win a new sentencing hearing. Buck’s appeal focuses on a claim that Buck’s legal representation was constitutionally deficient……..TEXANS WHO SUFFERED DAMAGE or loss from the April

storms and flooding have until Friday, June 24, to register for FEMA disaster assistance. Register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 (FEMA)……..THE HISD $1.89 BILLION BOND PROGRAM is reaching a critical turning point with construction underway at about two dozen campuses and six new school buildings planned to open at the start of the new school year.

Through the program, approved in 2012 by Houston voters, 40 schools will be rebuilt or renovated, including Yates, Sterling, Worthing and 26 other high schools. The program also includes work designed to benefit students across the district.

localbriefs MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER called on the state of Texas to declare the Zika virus a public health emergency and dedicate funds toward local efforts to fight it. “Local governments are in a position to do the door-to-door, neighborhood-byneighborhood hard work necessary to mitigate Zika,” Turner said. “There is a critical need for help in paying for this massive effort. We have programs already underway and would welcome state help in funding them.” Since February, the City of Houston Solid Waste Department has been cleaning up illegal dump sites to help reduce mosquito breeding sites and combat the spread of Zika. The effort is expected

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JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs TWO MORE BALTIMORE POLICE officers charged in the death of Freddie Gray, a Black man in police custody, have filed suit against the city’s top prosecutor. Officers Edward Nero and Garrett Miller, who were charged with misdemeanors in the death of Gray in 2015, have sued State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby and Maj. Sam Cogen of the sheriff’s office for defamation of character, violation of rights and false imprisonment.

Nero was acquitted last month. Miller is scheduled to stand trial in July. The suits allege that Mosby intentionally filed false charges against the officers……..THERAPISTS DISCRIMINATE against Blacks and the poor according to a mental health study. AfricanAmericans and those of lower socioeconomic classes are less likely to receive requested therapy appointments, creating another source of disparity in mental health care, according to a behavioral research report. The Journal of Health and Social Behavior showed that middle-class Black participants experienced higher rates of racial discrimination over their white counterparts who were three times more likely to receive scheduled appointments over working -class African-Americans………

POLICE CLAIM NO RACIAL BIAS in the case of a Black teen from Staten Island, N.Y. who was chased and died. The mother of the teen who was chased to death by a crew of white and Hispanic teenagers is urging police officers to hold the group accountable for the attack. Three weeks ago, Dayshen McKenzie, 16, suffered a fatal asthma attack while fleeing a mob of teenagers, who were allegedly waving a gun and shouting racial slurs at him. “He died of a pre-existing medical condition,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce.

“There is no evidence nor do we have any witnesses to indicate that he was assaulted. Our investigation has determined that this stems from a possible gang-related dispute.” Rev. Al Sharpton has called for a federal investigation.

VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 33 JUNE 16, 2016 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby

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

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

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Ex-offenders get second chance at higher ed

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By ASWAD WALKER Defender

second chance at higher education is being offered to ex-offenders by 25 colleges and universities that signed the White House Fair Chance Higher Education Pledge.

An estimated 70 million Americans could be impacted by the pledge, which outlines admission practices designed to remove barriers for enrollment often encountered by individuals with criminal records.

All manner of colleges, from every part of the country, have signed on to the pledge, including Arizona State University, Auburn University, Boston University, Columbia University, Howard University, Union Theological Seminary and the entire University of California System.

“Too many Americans are denied opportunities to lead fulfilling and productive lives because of a past arrest or conviction, including opportunities to access a quality education," said Attorney General Loretta Lynch.

“Expanding access to higher education for justiceinvolved individuals can help them step out of the shadow of their pasts and embark on the path to a brighter future.

“I commend the Department of Education for its commitment to expanding opportunities for returning citizens, and I look forward to continuing to work with them, and with our partners across the Obama Administration, to give every deserving American a meaningful and fair second chance,” she said.

There are currently 2.2 million Americans behind bars, and more than 600,000 inmates are released each year. Almost one in five Americans, and almost one in three Americans of working age, has some sort of criminal record.

President Obama highlighted the importance of reducing barriers facing people who have been in contact with the

criminal justice system and are trying to get their lives back on track, and emphasized that a smarter approach to reducing crime and enhancing public safety must begin with investing in communities, especially in educational opportunities.

The Department of Education released The “Beyond the Box” Resource Guide. The guide provides information for colleges and universities to help remove barriers that can prevent citizens with criminal records from pursuing higher education.

The guide also encourages alternatives to inquiring about criminal histories during college admissions and provides recommendations to support a holistic review of applicants.

Blacks, Latinos experience education gaps Defender News Services

Educational gaps in equality for Black and Latino students are evident in school discipline, access to college prep courses and teacher equity, according to a U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) report.

“The Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC) data are more than numbers and charts – they illustrate in powerful and troubling ways disparities in opportunities and experiences that different groups of students have in our schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King.

“The Obama Administration has always stressed how data can empower parents, educators and policy

makers to make informed decisions about how to better serve students.”

Data from every U.S. public school and school district from 2013-14 was used to compile the report. It shows that students of color, on average, are disciplined more often than their white classmates.

Also, predominantly Black and Latino high schools offer college “gateway” courses such as algebra II, calculus and physics at much lower rates than their predominantly white counterparts.

Regarding teacher equity, 11 percent of Black students attend schools where more than 20 percent of teachers have no prior experience teaching, compared to five percent of white students.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

Edwards named to 40 Under 40 First-year Houston City Councilmember Amanda Edwards (At-Large Position 4) is a recipient of the National Bar Association’s (NBA) 40 Under 40 Nation’s Best Advocates award for 2016.

The awards recognize the nation’s top lawyers under the age of 40 who exemplify a broad range of high achievement in the legal field, including advocacy, innovation, vision, leadership and overall legal and community involvement.

Recipients will be honored during the NBA’s 91st Annual Convention in St. Louis in July.

“In the last few years, we have Councilmember Amanda Edwards seen more and more demands on lawyers to help lead the way in seeking social justice and economic advancement,” said NBA President Benjamin Crump.

“Each one of our 40 Under 40 recipients brings something special to the practice of law and this group puts on display the bright future of our profession.”

Breaux lands education post Darlene Breaux recently became the new director of special populations for the Teaching and Learning Center at Harris County Department of Education.

Breaux, an Alief resident, is a national trainer, former principal and special services coordinator with 19 years of service in education. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Southern University and a master’s in educational Darlene Breaux management with principal certification from the University of Houston Clear Lake, where she graduated with high honors.

As director, Breaux oversees continuing professional learning opportunities for teachers who educate students in special population programs.

Her credentials include state teacher certifications in both English as a second language and special education.

She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi National Honor Society and a board member for the Alief YMCA.

OUR

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JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

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TSU receives half million for housing initiative Pappas Restaurants is donating more than half a million dollars to Texas Southern University in support of its student housing initiative. Chris and Harris Pappas presented a $540,000 check to the university.

TSU is scheduled to open a new, 800-bed dormitory in August, complete with state-of-theart technology, a rooftop garden, and first-floor retail space. The new dorm will be a major step forward as TSU continues its First Generation program.

First Gen is designed to provide academic, social and career guidance to incoming freshmen and sophomores to increase retention and improve graduation rates.

“Our university family is grateful for this generous gift from Pappas Restaurants as we embark on the next phase of Present for the Pappas donation to Texas Southern University are (l. to r.) TSU Board Chairman Derrick providing a quality collegiate experience,” said TSU President Mitchell, Harris Pappas, TSU President Dr. Austin Lane, Chris Pappas, Frank Pappas and TSU Foundation Chairman Gerald Smith.

Dr. Austin A. Lane.

Chris Pappas, co-owner of Pappas “On behalf of Pappas Restau“TSU is dedicated to the total rants, my brother Harris and I are Restaurants. well-being and success of every stu“The work that TSU does enrichdent, including an optimum academic proud to partner with Texas Southern University with this donation of more es not only the lives of the students on experience for all seeking higher than a half a million dollars,” said their campus, but also the entire Houston education.”

community. As native Houstonians, we strongly believe in supporting higher education in our hometown, and we are excited that our contribution will provide a place for students to live, study and support one another while pursuing a college degree.”

The Pappas restaurants include Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito’s Cantina, Pappas Seafood House and Pappas Bar-B-Q. “We are glad that Pappas is honoring their commitment to higher education with a gift to Texas Southern,” said TSU President Emeritus Dr. John M. Rudley.

“This relationship is paying off and is a win-win for our students. What a wonderful way to end my tenure as president of TSU.” The First Generation initiative at TSU is dedicated to supporting deserving underprivileged students in the Houston area and across the nation.

Approximately 48 percent of new TSU students are from low-income households and are the first in their families to attend college.

According to the university, this designation comes with a unique set of challenges that must be met to ensure students’ educational success up to the point of graduation.

Comcast program awards students scholarships Fifty-nine local high school graduates their achievements, and excited to support ers Scholarship instituted in honor of Ralph prepare to head to their respective colleges them as they continue their educational jourJ. Roberts, founder and chairman emeritus of with support received from Comcast NBCUneys.”

Comcast Corporation. niversal’s Leaders and Achievers Scholarship One student, Asiah Byers, a graduate of Scholarship recipients also participated in Program.

Goose Creek Memorial High School, rea financial literacy workshop, “How to SurCollectively, these Houston-area students ceived an additional $4,000 Comcast Foundvive College Without Going Broke.” Led by were awarded $63,000 in scholSusan Kizer, economic education arships for the 2016-17 school coordinator at the Federal Reserve year. The gathering of scholarBank, the workshop sought to ship winners took place at the educate participants on topics such Federal Reserve Bank of Dallasas banking, budgeting, credit, colHouston Branch. lege financing and how to stay out The scholarship program proof debt. vides $1,000 scholarships to stuThe philosophy behind the dents who strive to achieve their Leaders and Achievers Scholarship full potential, who are catalysts Program is to give young people for positive change in their comevery opportunity to prepare for munities, who are involved in the future and to engage them in their schools, and who serve as their communities. The program models for their fellow students. also demonstrates the importance “Our Leaders and Achievers of civic involvement, and the Scholarship winners exemplify value placed on civic involvement leadership and are committed to by the business community. academic excellence and commuSince 2001, more than $25 nity service,” said Ralph Marmillion has been awarded to nearly tinez, senior vice president of 25,000 high school seniors across Asiah Byers (center), a graduate of Goose Creek Memorial High School and recipient of an Comcast’s Houston region." the country as part of the scholaradditional $4,000 Comcast Founders Scholarship, is congratulated by Ralph Martinez, senior We are honored to recognize vice president of Comcast’s Houston region, and Charisse Lillie, vice president of community ship program. investment of Comcast.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

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JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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AJ McQueen

Writer’s Block founder wears multiple hats

By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

"My life flashed before my eyes," said author, poet, philanthropist, rapper and community activist AJ McQueen, whose teenage, near-death experience changed his life forever.

From gang-banging in his native St. Louis to “spittin’ verses,” the Houstonian has become a well-known spoken word artist whose work has caught the attention of BET and President Obama. He was featured on BET’s “106 & Park” as an advocate against teen violence and received a White House achievement award.

"Activism for me came from St. Louis,” he said. “I have a passion for speaking up for the people who can't speak up for themselves to make a change…Now God has shown me that I can express my feelings and speak on things in many different ways."

McQueen is CEO and president of the performing arts company Writer’s Block, Inc. The company uses elements of

hip-hop, spoken word and writing to “spread the gospel and to communicate our sentiments” on issues affecting society.

"When I started the Writers Block back in 2012, my mission was solely to inspire and engage youth of this generation through the spoken word," he said.

"Since then it has grown into a powerful millennial movement offering a platform and outlet for artists to express and allow their voices to be heard."

Using his “God-given gifts,” McQueen seeks to push Black culture forward by helping youth speak their truth.

"The Black Lives Matter movement was started and led by young adults, but the narrative of the movement is constantly formed by the media and an older generation that is often disconnected," he said.

"It will continue to happen like this until this generation is given the opportunity to speak for themselves."

McQueen believes millennials are the curators of change, through whose voices will come the ideas and solutions needed today.

Epps is ‘Uncle Buck’ Coming up

What: Writer's Block Live Friday When: June 24, 7 p.m.

Where: Social Junkie Sports Bar & Grill, 2412 Washington Ave. Who: Spoken word artists Preston Perry, Choice The Poet, FBC KLIK, Jabari Johnson, Jaylon Ashaun, Mandela Dunamis, Mic Tunez, Roland Champaine, Trevor Lee, The Story and Self The Poet!

Hosted by Shawn Flowers Info: www.wearewritersblock.com

Based on the 1980s movie of the same name, the new comedy “Uncle Buck” is alive and well on ABC, and airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m.

Mike Epps is Buck, a fun-loving but irresponsible guy who needs a job and a place to stay. By coincidence, his nieces’ and nephew's nanny just quit and his brother and sister-in-law need his help. His unconventional personality just may make him the right fit for the family, and they may be the answer to his problems.

Nia Long stars as Alexis, James Lesure as Will, Iman Benson as Tia, Sayeed Shahidi as Miles and Aalyrah Caldwell as Maizy.

Asked about possible concerns over stereotypes, Lesure said the portrayals are both comedic and “real.” Epps said, Uncle Buck (far right) stars Mike Epps as Buck, Nia Long as Alexis, James “There is an Uncle Buck in every race.”

Lesure as Will, Iman Benson as Tia, Sayeed Shahidi as Miles and Aalyrah Caldwell as Maizy.

what’sup For the first time in Tony Award history, all four acting awards in musicals were presented to performers of African descent – LESLIE ODOMS JR., RENÉE ELISE GOLDSBERRY (who was raised in Houston) and DAVEED DIGGS of “Hamilton,” and CYNTHIA ERIVO of “The Color Purple.” Eleven awards went to “Hamilton,” created by LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA........A new BET show follows the lives of Black police officers. “Rebel” examines the unique and conflicted relationship officers of color have with their jobs, and takes a look at Oakland Black female police officer Rebecca “Rebel” Cole. After her brother is slain by police, Rebel soon becomes disillusioned with the

system and is forced to take matters into her own hands and become a private investigator and a champion for her community. The show is executive-produced and directed by JOHN SINGLETON……..An independent filmmaker filed a federal lawsuit against BEYONCÈ alleging that ideas from his 2016 short film were used to create the trailer that accompanied her new visual album “Lemonade.” Matthew Fulks alleges that his film “Palinoia” had been seen by members of the team working on the “Lemonade” video, which was created months later and was “visually similar.”

The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary damages……..

Singer CISSY HOUSTON, the mother of WHITNEY

HOUSTON, was disappointed by BOBBY BROWN’S recent “20/20” interview, which was supposed to be promotion for his new memoir “Every Little Step: My Story.” Houston thinks it was a tell-all about her late daughter’s life. “My problem with Bobby has always been that he became her husband, but not her helpmate or protector,” she said. Houston, 82, briefly addressed some of the accusations Brown made about her daughter’s drug use and the family’s opinion of him during the televised interview. Houston asserted that no one blames Brown for starting Whitney on drugs. She also expressed disapproval of the timing of Brown’s statements.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016 defendernetwork.com

Anderson, Ellis Ross to host 2016 BET Awards Defender News Services

For the second straight year, Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross will host the BET Awards which will air live on Sunday, June 26 at 7 p.m. from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on BET. Anderson and Ellis Ross, who star as a married couple on ABC’s “Black-ish,” are nominated for Best Actor and Best Actress as “Black-ish” stars Tracee Ellis Ross and Anthony Anderson return to the BET Awards stage. they prepare to reprise their roles as hosts of the 16th annual event.

“Tracee and I are thrilled that BET brought us back to host the awards for the second year in a row,” Anderson said. “We had a great time last year and can't wait for viewers to see the new surprises we have in store on June 26.”

“The [show] is going to knock it out of the park again with a night full of amazing performances and presenters being honored in music, movies, television, and sports,” Ross said.

Drake leads the list of entertainers with nine nominations, including Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Video of the Year and Best Collaboration for his hit “Where Ya At” with fellow hip-hop artist Future.

Drake leads the BET Awards nominations with nine.

Beyoncé and Rihanna follow with five nods each. Beyoncé is nominated for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Video of the Year and Best Collaboration for “Feeling Myself” with Nicki Minaj. Other nominees include newcomer Bryson Tiller, Chris Brown and more.

BET Networks recognizes artists, entertainers, and athletes across 20 categories with the 2016 nominations.

classified The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following service:

AGENCY WIDE CLINICAL LAB SERVICES Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7304 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER’s website, www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Wednesday, June 22, 2016. The deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Proposals must be submitted to The Purchasing Department, 9401 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in a sealed envelope marked “PROPOSAL – DO NOT OPEN UNITL – WEDNESDAY, JULY 13, 2016, “AGENCY WIDE CLINICAL LAB SERVICES ”.

Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Marguarette Washington, Senior Buyer via fax (713) 970-7682 or email to marguarette.washington@mhmraharris.org cc: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. The HARRIS CENTER reserves the rights to reject any and/or all proposals it deems to be in its best interests, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following service:

Courier Services: Mail, Pharmaceuticals, Medical Records Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7116 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER website www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Tuesday, June 21, 2016.

Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Tuesday, June 28, 2016. Proposals must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 14, 2016 in a sealed envelope marked "PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL - THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2016, “COURIER SERVICES: MAIL, PHARMACEUTICALS, MEDICAL RECORDS ". Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to James Blunt, Buyer II via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail questions to james.blunt@mhmraharris.org cc: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following service:

CONSUMER RELATED SERVICES FOR ECI Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7304 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER’s website, www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Thursday, June 23, 2016.

The Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Thursday, June 30, 2016. Proposals must be submitted to The Purchasing Department, 9401 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 11:00 a.m., Thursday July 14, 2016 in a sealed envelope marked “PROPOSAL – DO NOT OPEN UNITL – THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2016, “CONSUMER RELATED SERVICES FOR ECI”. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Marguarette Washington, Senior Buyer via fax (713) 970-7682 or email to marguarette.washington@mhmraharris.org cc: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. The HARRIS CENTER reserves the rights to reject any and/or all proposals it deems to be in its best interests, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

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Juneteenth

JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

9

Emancipation Park Juneteenth opening delayed

By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

Though Juneteenth is right around the corner, Texas’ oldest public park's makeover is not quite ready for the summer's festivities.

Historic Emancipation Park, located at 3018 Dowling in Third Ward, was scheduled to be ready for this year’s Juneteenth celebration. Nefertiti Jackmon, the executive consultant to the conservancy of the park, said the completion date of Renderings show what Houstonians can expect when Emancipation Park’s renovation is completed. the park has moved up.

Brock, Rev. Elias Dibble, and Richard Allen – who from proceeding. She said celebrations will be "The official grand held around the city. together contributed $800 to buy 10 acres of land opening is now officially November 6,” Jackmon During the park’s grand opening later this said. “The rainfall we've experienced over the past to create a space for other freedmen. year, there will be more opportunities to celebrate The founders not only secured a block of land couple of months delayed the building process. to implement their vision of a space for celebrating its rich history.

However, as far as the current status of Emancipa"The programs that we are currently developfreedom, but created a place of cultural pride for tion Park goes, it's about 93 percent complete." ing will focus on art, culture and history, as well many Houstonians.

The $34 million restoration project will result Although the completion of the new park's as the genealogy of African-Americans who are in a major facelift for the park, which dates back design is still underway, Jackmon added that the interested in connecting and further understandto 1872. The original park was the vision of the delays will not halt the festivities for Juneteenth ing their culture," Jackmon said. four former slaves – Rev. Jack Yates, Richard

Gene L. Locke Harris County Precinct One Commissioner

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

Junete

Black ne Houston Defender

FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE & FREEDOM

The Defender was founded in 19 Richardson Sr. Following his death in Richardson Jr. took the helm of the pa paper to current Publisher/CEO Sonc in 1981.

Messiah-Jiles said the Defender and freedom through its print editions social media.

“The Defender empowers the co the facts, gives clarity to the complex community to act on issues impacting and confronts leaders both Black and accountable.”

She added that the fight is on ma Defender exposes the education gap, disparity gap and confronts the crimin “The Defender has been there fo community for over 85 years,” Messi will continue to provide news and res strengthening and defending our com Messiah-Jiles said the Black Pre more than ever.

“The dates and times may have incidents of injustice look very much of lynching, our sons are shot in the s being sold into slavery, our children a into prison. The numbers don't lie,” sh “As the real recorders of our his Press also advocates for change by ch quo and pointing to the inequities and “Considering the negatives imag Americans projected by general medi Press reflects the ‘real’ Black commu

Five Bla

1

The first Black newspa Freedom’s Journal, wa on March 16, 1827 in City. Rev. Samuel Cornish an Russwurm became the paper tors. They proclaimed in the “Too long have others spoke We wish to plead our own ca The list of contributors Black Press who have talents as publishers, e journalists, columnists and c ists has included some of the names in American history, i Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Bois, Ida B. Wells Barnett, L Hughes, Romare Bearden, Ja Weldon Johnson, A. Philip R Mary McLeod Bethune and D Bates.

In 1941, under the urg John Sengstacke of the Defender, representati 22 publications gathered to f

2

T

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

his June 19th – better known as Juneteenth – marks the 151st anniversary of the day slaves in Texas learned that they were free. In 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order Number 3. It read in part, "The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor." In observance of Juneteenth, the Defender is highlighting the Black Press, which continues to fight for justice and freedom in Texas and beyond.

3

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

eenth

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11

ewspapers serve as voice of the community community deal with the major issues they face and tell their stories, both good and bad, in a way that only they can receive it.”

930 by Clifton F. n 1939, Clifton F. aper. He sold the ceria Messiah-Jiles

Houston Style Magazine

fights for justice s, website and on

ommunity with x, mobilizes the g their quality of life d white to be more

any fronts, as the addresses the health nal justice system. or the Black iah-Jiles said. “We sources important to mmunity.” ess is needed now

changed but the h the same: instead street; instead of are being railroaded she said. story, the Black hallenging the status d solutions. ges of Africandia today, the Black unity, spotlighting

Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah-Jiles

positive members of our community making a difference.”

Houston Forward Times

The Forward Times was founded in 1960 by Julius P. Carter. His wife, Lenora “Doll” Carter, became publisher following his death in 1971. Following her death in 2010, their daughter, Karen Carter Richards, became CEO and publisher.

Richards said the Forward Times has always been known for reporting the truth, without fear or favor.

“In 1971 we reported a story that was not so favorable to the powers that be and subsequently our building was bombed,” she said. “Since inception, we have always believed that Houston needed a newspaper that positively reflected the African-American community, while also reporting the hard truths

ack Press facts

aper, as founded New York nd John r’s edifirst issue, en for us… ause.” s to the lent their editors, cartoone greatest including DuLangston ames Randolph, Daisy

ging of e Chicago ives of form the

Karen Carter Richards

National Negro Publishers Association. In 1956, the trade association of the nation’s Black Press was renamed the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

As the largest and most influential Black-owned media resource in America, NNPA delivers news, information, and commentary to more than 20 million people each week. The president and CEO of NNPA is Dr. Benjamin Chavis Jr., a former president of the NAACP. The Texas Publishers Association (TPA) was established in 1986, and at that time, there were 27 African-American publications in the state of Texas. TPA is comprised of newspapers serving virtually every region of Texas with the potential to reach of 2.9 million African-Americans. Sources: NNPA, TPA

4 5

he Houston area for over 85 years

Francis Page Jr.

about what was happening in our communities on the local, state and national level.

“There are so many stories that we have covered and issues we have taken on that have gained national and international attention, along with bringing about change,” Richards said.

“We believe that it is our job to tell the stories that will never get covered in the mainstream media. We believe it is our job to speak truth to power. We believe it is our job to make a difference.”

Richards emphasized the need for the Black Press.

“For those of us who are either too young to know or too complacent to remember, you would know that the Black Press has always been one of the primary catalysts in fighting for the rights of African-Americans,” she said.

“The Black Press provides a much-needed foundation for Blacks in this country to help the Black

Houston Style, an urban weekly newspaper, was founded 25 years ago by Publisher Francis Page Jr. Page said the publication is fighting for justice and freedom by always stepping up.

“We step up by not allowing racial injustices to go untold,” he said. “We also step up to fight with our words and influences by making sure those that do wrong in our community do not get away with it.

“We step up by holding our elected leaders accountable for their actions. We step up by keeping our community informed and being a trusted information source. We step up to empower others by reaching back to help them take their lives to the next step up.”

Page said the Black Press remains relevant today.

“As long as there are Trayvon Martins, Michael Browns and Sandra Blands, the Black Press is important because it informs the world that Black Lives do Matter.

“The Black Press is the communication medium that highlight injustices and bring our community news to help effect change,” Page said.

“The Black Press is needed to sound the alarm every time a person is mistreated or harmed, because of no other reason but the color of their skin. The Black Press is important to tell the stories of AfricanAmericans succeeding to help improve and erase the negative stereotypes that have been imposed on our people.”

NNPA members cover Black America 1827.

As chair of the National Newspaper Publishers “Further, the more diverse America becomes, Association (NNPA), Denise Rolark Barnes the louder our voices must become in an effort to represents a “historic and impactful” organization. speak truth to power,” she said.

“NNPA represents more than 200 Black-owned “African-Americans depend on the Black media companies across America,” she said. “The Press to provide an informed, thoughtful and NNPA leadership consistently seeks to break down barriers used by American companies to ignore proactive response to the issues that impact African-American consumers who are owed a return them the most. And, they expect the Black Press to promote their interests and highlight their on their investment. contributions within their communities and to “NNPA also partners with, advocates for society at large.” and promotes individuals and institutions on the Denise Rolark Barnes Barnes said NNPA also plays an important battlefield for justice and freedom in the U.S. and role in disseminating news of interest to Africanabroad.”

Americans.

Barnes is publisher of the Washington Informer, which was “The NNPA Newswire and Black Press USA are the founded in 1964 by her late father, Dr. Calvin Rolark, and serves mediums used by the association to broadcast the stories of metropolitan Washington, D.C. She said that neither the mission nor role of the Black Press freedom, justice and equality published in Black-owned media,” has changed since the founding of the first Black newspaper in she said.

NNPA holds its annual convention June 21-25 at the Houston Omni Hotel, 4 Riverway Visit www.nnpa.org for more information

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

Juneteenth

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Celebrate Juneteenth: Schedule of events Thursday, June 16

Saturday, June 18

The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration hosts a Community Service Awards Gala at 6 p.m. at Quail Valley City Centre’, 2880 La Quinta Dr. Contact: www.mcjcf.com.

Galveston sponsors a Texas Juneteenth Gala at 7 p.m. at 1859 Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway, Galveston.

Prairie View A&M University President Dr. George Wright is guest speaker.

Contact: 409-747-2791.

Mayor Sylvester Turner’s fifth annual Acres Homes Juneteenth Parade will be held at 10 a.m. starting at the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery and concluding at Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1620 Dolly Wright.

Contact: www.houstonspecialevents.org .

The 37th Annual Al Edwards Juneteenth Emancipation Proclamation Reading and free Prayer Breakfast is at 8:30 a.m. at 1859 Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway in Galveston. Contact: 409-747-2791.

Friday, June 17 Friends of Emancipation The Missouri City JuPark will host a Juneteenth neteenth Celebration hosts Parade at 10 a.m. starting at a Family Funday in the Ennis @ Wheeler and ending Park at 6 p.m. at Hunters Maceo Parker, who played with James Brown and at Holman @ Live Oak. There, George Clinton and toured with Prince, performs Glen Park, 1340 Indepenfor free at Miller Outdoor Theater on Juneteenth. at Project Row Houses (2501 dence, and will include Holman St.), the group will host a carnival at 4 p.m. with the Juneteenth Festival from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. games, rides, entertainment, and a family-friendly Contact: Juneteenthfest.com. film at dusk. Contact: www.mcjcf.com.

Metropolitan CME Church hosts its 3rd Annual Juneteenth Jazz Festival, with carnival games, prizes, food and music. Morning activities start at 11 a.m., and are free and open to the public. The evening program begins at 5 p.m. with a BBQ buffet dinner, and more music headlined by jazz saxophonist Dean James and friends. Contact: MetropolitanJazzFestival.Eventbrite.com or 713-748-5947.

The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration hosts the 14th Annual One Mile of Smiles Juneteenth Parade at 7 p.m. at Texas Pkwy (FM 2234) and will include bands, celebrities, dignitaries and floats.

A Battle of the Bands will follow at Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence. Contact: www.mcjcf. com.

Galveston will host two Juneteenth parades, with the first starting at noon at 26th @ Winnie and ending at 41st @ Ball. The second parade begins at 7 p.m., running from 20th @ Strand, and ending at 28th Street @ Avenue Q. Contact: 409-497-3203.

Sunday, June 19

Houston’s Juneteenth Celebration at Miller Outdoor Theatre will feature music from Maceo Parker and Thundersoul Orchestra and a performance from poetry slam team Meta-Four at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Contact: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.

LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING,

HAVE A HAPPY AND MEANINGFUL JUNETEENTH! M AY O R S Y LV E S T E R T U R N E R

Today, we bear witness to history

as the first African American President of the United States of America completes his second term in office. Juneteenth is the perfect time to focus on where we’ve come from, where we are now and where we are headed in the future.

POL. ADV. RODNEY ELLIS CAMPAIGN

P O L . A D V. S Y LV E S T E R T U R N E R C A M PA I G N

Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

Happy Juneteenth!

SENATOR RODNEY ELLIS

defendernetwork.com

JUNE 16 | 2016| DEFENDER

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

health

13

Obesity high among African-American children

Genetic factors can play a role in how a child’s body metabolizes food.

Some children simply burn calories at hildhood obesity is now a faster or slower pace than others due the No. 1 health concern to their inherited tendencies. Other facamong parents in the United tors that may lead to obesity include: States, topping drug abuse and • Cultural customs, beliefs and smoking, and with good reason. family income.

Today, about one-in-three Ameri• Kids have gone from eating can kids and teens is overweight or one snack a day to three, and one in obese. five school-age children has up to six The numbers are even higher snacks a day. among African-American and • Portion sizes have exploded and Hispanic communities, where are now two to five times bigger than nearly 40 percent of the children in years past. are overweight or obese. This is a Dr. Angelica Higgins • Children ages 8 to 18 spend an serious problem because children, like adults, are also susceptible to Type 2 diabetes, average of 7.5 hours a day using entertainment media, including TV, computers, video games, cell phones heart disease, high blood pressure, elevated blood and movies, and only one-third of high school stucholesterol levels, asthma and even cancer later in dents get the recommended levels of physical activity. life if they do not change their eating habits.

There are also psychological effects. Obese What Can You Do? children are more prone to low self-esteem, negaHere are just a few of the options for guiding our tive body image and depression. kids – and families – toward a healthier lifestyle: Excess weight at young ages also has been • Lead by example. Let your kids see you munchlinked to higher and earlier death rates in ing on raw fruits and veggies and drinking water adulthood. instead of soda.

By ANGELICA HIGGINS, M.D.

C

M O R E

W A Y S

T O

C O N Q U E R

• Reward with attention, not food.

• Make physical activity fun for the whole family.

• Take your kids grocery shopping with you. It can be a great opportunity to discuss food and nutrition and help your children to understand healthy choices.

Pinpointing Risks

Because prevention is the best solution to obesity, during your child’s well visits your pediatrician will work with you to identify health risks and assess current weight status. Beginning about age 2, your pediatrician may begin calculating your child’s BMI (body mass index). Your pediatrician may: • Ask questions about your child’s daily diet.

• Perform a physical examination and may order tests on blood count or urine to further evaluate your child.

This information will allow your doctor to determine the best way to respond to an underweight, overweight or obese BMI percentile.

Dr. Higgins is a board-certified pediatrician at Kelsey-Seybold’s Pasadena Clinic. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Higgins, call the 24-hour Kelsey-Seybold Contact Center, 713-442-0000. View her bio at kelsey-seybold.com/bios.

C A N C E R

Exceptional Cancer Care Just Got Even Better In our beautiful facility, everything is under one roof – from our connected team of experts to state-of-the-art technology for radiation therapy and radiosurgery.

Kelsey-Seybold’s nationally accredited Cancer Center is focused on not only treating patients, but providing personal, coordinated care that encourages healing.

Now, with state-of-the-art technology in our beautiful and spacious facilities, we’re better equipped than ever to help our patients be victorious over cancer. It’s just one more way our exceptional cancer care has gotten even better.

Kelsey-Seybold.com/CancerCenter | 713-442-1080

Defender-Cancer Center-0516-AK.indd 1

5/20/16 4:45 PM

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

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WINNERS

announced Father’s Day Sunday, June 19th

Defender Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Photo Contest

Obamacare shows signs of success in Texas Defender News Services

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) – also known as Obamacare – is a success in Texas according to a new report by Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy and the Episcopal Health Foundation.

The report reveals the percentage of Texans without health insurance dropped by 30 percent since the ACA went into effect, cutting the state’s uninsured rate below 1999 levels. However, the report also spotlights a “coverage gap” disproportionately and negatively impacting people of color.

The report found the uninsured rate among Texas adults dropped from 26 percent in September 2013 to 18 percent in March 2016. There also existed a steady decline in the uninsured rate for every age, ethnic and income-level group across Texas.

“These latest numbers confirm the continuing downward trend in the number of uninsured Texans that began as the ACA was implemented,” said Elena Marks, Episcopal Health Foundation president and CEO, and a health policy fellow at the Baker Institute.

“For more than a decade prior to the ACA, the uninsured rate remained above 20 percent and was rising. It’s now clear that it’s moving in the opposite direction,

and the ACA deserves the credit.”

The report states Texans between 50 and 64 years old experienced the largest decrease in their percentage of uninsured. The group’s uninsured rate plummeted from 21 percent to 10 percent since the ACA went into effect; a drop of more than 51 percent.

Researchers also found the percentage of uninsured Texans who earned annual incomes between $16,000 and $47,000 dropped by more than 42 percent.

The group’s uninsured rate declined from 23 percent in 2013 to 13 percent in 2016.

However, the report also found 46 percent of Texans earning less than $16,000 a year remain uninsured.

“The ACA as implemented in Texas offers little hope for Texans with the lowest incomes,” Marks said.

“They make too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid and not enough to get a subsidy to help pay for their premium.

They’re stuck in the ‘coverage gap,’ and unless Texas expands Medicaid or comes up with another system of coverage for this group, they will remain uninsured.”

This “coverage gap” affects mostly people of color in working families, an estimated 766,000 Texans according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

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Child obesity can be reduced during pregnancy Proper maternal levels of folate – an essential B vitamin – during pregnancy may protect children from a future risk of obesity, especially those born to obese mothers, according to a study led by researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health.

“Maternal nutrition during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on child health, as well as the health of a mother after pregnancy,” said the study’s principal investigator, Dr. Xiaobin Wang of Johns Hopkins University.

“Our results suggest that adequate maternal folate may mitigate the effect of a mother’s obesity on her child’s health.”

Obesity in children and adults is a serious health issue in the United States. Babies born to obese mothers have long-term health risks, including a higher risk of obesity in childhood.

Folate reduces the fetus’ risk for neural tube defects, which are malformations affecting the brain, spine and spinal cord. However, the role of maternal folate levels on a child’s future obesity risk was not known, especially among those born to mothers who are obese during pregnancy.

John P. McGovern Foundation

SUMMER READING PROGRAM at HOUSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Be a top reader and win a free bike!

June 1 - August 1, 2016 www.houstonlibrary.org/summer Linking YOU to the World of Summer www.houstonlibrary.org/summer

JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

15

Children’s cancer center launched in Botswana The Botswana-Baylor Children’s Center of Excellence (COE) and the government of Botswana signed a memorandum of agreement to build the first children's hematology and cancer center of excellence in the capital city of Gaborone.

“Approximately 40,000 children a year are diagnosed with cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and 20 percent of those children survive, compared with 80 percent in the U.S.,” said Dr. David Poplack, director of Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers.

“This COE, in partnership with the Botswana Ministry of Health, will change those numbers in favor of the children of Botswana.”

When pediatric oncologists from Texas Children’s Hospital began working at Princess Marina Hospital in Gaborone, it was the first pediatric oncology program on the continent.

The recent agreement expands that commitment to include the first stand-alone cancer center of excellence devoted exclusively to the treatment of children with cancer and blood diseases.

The partnership responsible for the development and management of the Children’s Cancer Center includes the Botswana Ministry of Health, Baylor College of Medicine Pediatric AIDS Initiative and Texas Children’s.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

A year after Charleston, another mass shooting TriceEdneyWire.com

Less than a week before America commemorates the racist shooting of nine African-Americans in a Charleston, S.C. church, yet another mass shooting – this time in an Orlando, Florida night club – has America astounded with grief.

“Today, as Americans, we grieve the brutal murder – a horrific massacre – of dozens of innocent people,” said President Obama in a televised statement to the nation.

“We pray for their families, who are grasping for answers with broken hearts. We stand with the people of Orlando, who have endured a terrible attack on their city. Although it’s still early in the investigation, we know enough to say that this was an act of terror and an act of hate. And as Americans, we are united in grief, in outrage, and in resolve to defend our people.”

Parts of South Orange Avenue near the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando were still blocked off after a June 12 terrorist shooting that left 49 people dead – 50 including the terrorist – and 53 people wounded.

The shooter, 29-year-old Omar Mateen, was reportedly a self-radicalized ISIS sympathizer and security guard who had legally purchased the automatic weapons he used to open fire upon people at the gay nightclub.

Mateen was killed by police.

The Sunday morning massacre stunned Obama, civil rights leaders and the general public, reigniting debates over gun control, terrorist surveillance as well as bigotry, intolerance and violence against gay people.

The tragedy also recalled the havoc of just one year ago on June 17 when 21-year-old Dylann Roof studied the Bible with South Carolina Rep. and Pastor Clementa C. Pinckney and eight of his parishioners at the historic “Mother Emanuel” AME Church, then shot them to death.

According to the Associated Press, the New York-born Mateen, described as a quiet man with a young son, was known to regularly attend evening prayer at Orlando’s Islamic Center. His father said Mateen had witnessed two gay men kissing and had become incensed by it. However, some witnesses said he had visited the club several times.

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), America’s premiere monitor of hate and violence, was not surprised.

“While the full facts are still unknown, unfortunately it is not surprising that the LGBT community was targeted,” said the SPLC. “This community has long been vilified by those opposed to LGBT rights and is too often the target of violent hate crimes.”

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JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

opinion

17

Charleston gunman doesn’t deserve death penalty

D

By JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Adam Zyglis, The Buffalo News

ylann Roof, the unrepentant racist who killed nine people at St. Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C. on June 17 of last year, is – no question – a monster. He prayed with people before reciting racist cants and annihilating people. After his heinous acts, it was discovered that he was a rabid racist who had wrapped himself in the Confederate flag.

Does he deserve the death penalty? No. The death penalty is the kindest thing that could happen to Roof, and he does not deserve our kindness. The death penalty provides some of us with immediate satisfaction; a sense of revenge. It lets him off the hook.

Imagine, instead, that this slug is sentenced to life in prison and forced to live with the consequences of his actions. Imagine that he is incarcerated with people who look just like the folks he killed. Imagine that, daily, he has to negotiate the racial realties of our nation’s prison system, a system that disproportionately incarcerates African-American men.

The death penalty is inhumane no matter how it is applied. African-Americans are more likely to be sentenced to death than others, and that is part, but not all, of the point. The rest of the point, “an eye for an

eye,” leaves us all blind.

The good people of Mother Emanuel were overflowing in their forgiveness of Roof. Do these Godfearing people now oppose the commandment that says, “Thou shall not kill?”

According to the Death Penalty Information Center, nearly 3,000 people sit on death row. While African-Americans are just 13 percent of the population, we are 43 percent of death row inmates. Most people

don’t believe the death penalty deters crime. Many believe that enforcing the death penalty is a waste of taxpayer money.

Most prefer alternatives – life sentences without parole, and perhaps with restitution.

Roof can turn into a Confederate martyr if he is killed. Instead, imagine him as a decrepit old man living his life out in prison, constantly reminded of his heinous acts. His life, not his death, will constantly remind us of the hate that hate produced.

We don’t kill white supremacist hate by killing Dylann Roof.

We don’t eliminate the ugly sentiments that propelled this extremely sick young man into a church with a gun by taking his life. Instead, it seems to me, the sole purpose of his life might be to serve as a symbol of hate, to remind us that there will be no peace without justice. Justice does not mean extracting a death penalty that is inherently unfair to African-Americans. Justice means abolishing the death penalty that is still upheld in 31 states.

I say Dylann Roof ought to be put up under somebody’s jail, allowed only a Bible and minimal bland food. I’m not wishing him violence or harassment, just reflection. Killing Roof won’t kill white supremacy.

Keeping him miserably alive may, in fact, deter others from imitating him.

Most Black fathers present, accounted for not MIA

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

For many, Father’s Day is a joke of a holiday. Why? Conventional wisdom says it’s payback for fathers, particularly Black Fathers, abandoning far too many of our children. Some point to the over-incarceration of brothers as the culprit. But whatever the reason, in the minds of many, Black fathers are M.I.A. Certainly, there’s no way to ignore the pain of children whose fathers chose someone or something else instead of them. But what about those men who defy this notion of missing Black fathers?

What about the fathers who are taking care of business – loving, caring dads who are providing for their children, families and communities? And what about the CDC report that shows, when compared to fathers of other races, not only are Black fathers present, we’re doing best of all?

Author Josh Levs dedicates an entire chapter in his book “All In” to destroy the myth that colors all Black fathers invisible. Few know that more Black fathers live with their children (2.5 million) than don’t (1.7 million). Few know that Black fathers spend more time with their children than fathers of all other races.

Few know that Black fathers absent from their children’s physical homes are least likely to be absent from their children’s

lives, compared to white, Latino, or Asian out-of-home dads.

Now, being physically present alone isn’t enough. Being present and abusive must stop. Being present and disrespecting Black women must cease.

But research and the experiences of our nation’s real “silent majority” (Black children with fathers) suggest that for every brother not worthy of the title father, there are many, many more giving their blood, sweat and tears for the wellbeing of their babies.

So, if you have an incredible father, or if you don’t, but know of one, do everything humanly possible to celebrate them this Father’s Day, because they recognize the blessing of the title “dad.”

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DEFENDER | JUNE 16 | 2016

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sports

Astros look to future with 2016 draft

By MAX EDISON Defender

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ajor League Baseball held its annual draft recently. Although the MLB doesn’t receive the same level of hype and attention that its NFL and NBA counterparts command, the baseball draft is just as important to the future success of a franchise. Locally, for the Astros, it was a prime opportunity to stock up on fresh, new talent.

The MLB draft is a marathon 40-round, threeday event compared to the sprint of the NBA (two rounds) and NFL (seven rounds). In those three days over 1,200 high school and college players were selected.

The Astros had the 17th pick in the first round and didn’t leave the state of Texas, selecting 6-foot7 right-handed pitcher Forrest Whitley from Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio. Whitley throws a power fastball that touches 97 mph. He posted a 9-1 record and a 0.31 ERA, striking out 126 batters in 68 innings in his senior season.

Whitley was named to the Rawlings-Perfect Game First Team All-America and Texas All-Region First Team. In his junior year, he was named to the Perfect Game Underclass Second Team and played on the USA Baseball 18U National Team.

The Astros were elated to find Whitley on the board at 17.

"This is somebody we watched for a few years, beginning with his work with the Team USA program over the summer, and have followed very closely in his high school career in Texas as one of the top pitchers in the state," Astros scouting director Mike Elias said.

"Forrest is a power pitcher. He's anywhere from 92-97 with his fastball. We feel it's an explosive fastball and one that gets by hitters' bats easily, and he's exhibited outstanding command given how hard he throws in his career. He also has three other plus pitches, an overhand curveball, a slider and a changeup which he has tremendous command over."

In the second round (No. 61 overall), the Astros selected Ohio State University outfielder Ronnie Dawson, 21, who physically looks like a clone of George Springer at 6-feet-2, 225 pounds. He hit .331 (85x257) with 25 doubles, 13 home runs, 21 stolen bases and 51 RBI during his junior year at Ohio State.

Among all players, Dawson entered the draft ranked by Baseball America as the No. 53 prospect available, and the No. 4 prospect in the Big Ten. The left-handed hitter was a First Team All-Big Ten Selection, and was named the Big Ten Tournament Most Out-

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Is Mike D’Antoni the answer for the Rockets? standing Player in 2016. He also earned third-team All-American honors from Baseball America and Louisville Slugger.

"He's one of the top bats in the country on the collegiate side," Elias said.

"He's a left-hander with a really good blend of power and hitting for average, and not a big strikeout guy. That's something we like to see."

"I'm ready to play now," Dawson said.

"I'm ready to get started. My ultimate goal is to have a career in the big leagues, and this is a stepping stone toward it. I can't sit on this for the rest of my life. I have to get back to work. That's the only thing I'm thinking about right now."

Of the 40 players the Astros selected, 10 are based in Texas. Included in that group was third-round selection catcher Jake Rogers from Canyon High School and eighth-round selection Houston Cougar pitcher Nick Hernandez, a Missouri City native.

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To summarize, Houston ended up taking a total of 13 right-handed pitchers, five left-handed pitchers, four catchers, 12 infielders and 6 outfielders. Of the 40 total selections, 35 came out of the collegiate ranks, and five from high school.

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JUNE 16 | 2016 | DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Korey Holland (batting) and the Langham Creek Lobos earned the school's first trip to the state baseball tournament in 2016.

Durant not interested Despite the fact the he and James Harden were once teammates on an OKC team that advanced to the NBA Finals, the Rockets are not on Durant’s radar when it comes to free agent possibilities. Harden and Durant were recently seen hanging out, but sources say that was simply social with no bearing on Durant’s decision. Rumors have been swirling in an attempt to guess where Durant, a free agent, will go if he decides to leave the Thunder. If we follow the money the odds say that K.D. would remain in OKC. The Thunder could offer him a two-year max deal this year with an opt-out clause after the first year. That would allow Durant to sign a larger, long-term deal with the Thunder since the salary cap will expand significantly in 2017.

Hamilton wins again

Langham Creek Lobos flourish as underdogs don’t have three or four kids going to Division I schools,” Sopher said. “We have guys that work really hard every day and that goes a long way when it comes down to it. he Langham Creek High School baseball team Key contributors to the Lobos success this year completed the best season in school history included Sopher, Connor Ferguson, Mikey Hoehner, Brady by flourishing in the role of underdog. Senior Perez, Zach Sweet, Garrett Lax and sophomore Korey second baseman John Michael Sopher may Holland. have summed it up the best.

“It was always in our minds that if we got to the “Going into the season, we weren’t supposed to make fourth round of the playoffs again, we need to get past the playoffs,” he said. “I don’t think we were in the top it,” Sopher said. “To get it accomplished is awesome. It’s 25 in the city, and that made us all pretty mad because we something special.” know what we’re capable of. We know the type of team we Once Langham Creek reached the state tournament have.” at Dell Diamond in Sopher, who Langham Round Rock, the Creek head coach Armando defendernetwork.com Lobos were paired Sedeno calls his extra effort guy, against Dallas Jesuit Houston track stars shine brightly proved to be prophetic about the College Prep in the never give up Lobos.

Class 6A state semiWhile en route to securing finals. the school’s first regional baseball crown and advancing That meant they had to embrace the underdog role to the state tournament for the first time in school history, once again and get past 6-foot-6, 245-pound left-handed Langham Creek conquered the best Region III-6A had to pitcher Kyle Muller in order to reach the 6A championship offer. game.

The gauntlet included state-ranked Westside and PearMuller began the week by being named the Gatoland, No. 1 nationally and state-ranked Deer Park along rade High School Player of the Year in Texas and three with defending Class 6A state champion Cypress Ranch. days later was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the second Three times the Lobos lost the first game of a best-of-three round (44th overall) of Major League Baseball’s First-Year series. Six elimination-game victories ensued.

Player Draft.

“Teams from our district [Cypress Ranch, Cy-Fair] Dallas Jesuit scored two runs in the fourth inning and have won state titles in three of the past nine years,” SedMuller made them stand up by tossing a three-hit shutout eno said. “Once we got to the playoffs we knew we were (2-0) with nine strikeouts to end the Lobos’ season. prepared.”

“We needed that one key hit and we didn’t get a Langham Creek (30-12) was a fourth-round playoff break,” Sedeno said. “Give all the credit to Muller. He did casualty the past two years before breaking through in a great job. It just didn’t work out our way.”

2016. Sedeno has fielded more than his share of good In retrospect, the Lobos’ faithful may feel differently. teams over the course of a 26-year coaching career.

The next day Dallas Jesuit defeated San Antonio John“A lot of people see us as underdogs because we son 6-2 to claim the Class 6A state championship.

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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

Lewis Hamilton, the first Black Formula One race car driver, recently captured the Canadian Gran Prix for the fifth time, in a masterful piece of strategic racing over Sebastian Vettel.

The win puts him one step closer to winning his fourth World Champion Driver title. After winning the race Hamilton acknowledged Muhammad Ali in his post-race celebration. He broke into his version of the Ali shuffle after parking his car. “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. That’s for Muhammad Ali,” the triple world champion said over the radio after taking the checkered flag. “I was just floating out there, the car was really floating,” he said of his 45th career victory in Formula One.

Marshall wants 3-peat Fort Bend Marshall sprinter Shamon Ehiemua won gold medals in three events at the 2016 state high school track and field meet. The junior repeated as gold medalist in the 200-meter dash with a time of 20.62 seconds while the Buffalos won consecutive Class 5A boys’ team championships. The Marshall 400-relay unit of Ehiemua, Cederian Lynch, Jarmaiz Whitaker and John Isom posted the nation’s best time of 40.13 seconds. The Buffalos’ 800-relay quartet of Lynch, Jeremy Smith, Whitaker and Ehiemua also had the nation’s best time of one minute, 24.19 seconds. That came on the heels of losing three Division I athletes in Amere Lattin, Gerald Mills and Kendall Sheffield to graduation. “We’re always going to have good track athletes at Marshall,” Ehiemua said. “Coach [Lloyd] Banks said we were going to be faster this year and nobody believed us.”

Swim centers get grants The USA Swimming Foundation has awarded grants to Harris County Precinct One and the Greater Houston YMCA to provide low-cost or free swimming lessons to area youths. More than $330,000 has been awarded through the 2016 USA Swimming Foundation Make A Splash grant program to 52 Make A Splash local partners across 23 states. Since 2007 the foundation has given more than $4 million dollars to help fund learn-to-swim programs across the country. Over the last nine years nearly 4 million children have received formalized swim instruction through Make A Splash local partnerships. Call Precinct One at 713-741-1096 or YMCA at 713-473-4245.

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JUNE 16 | 2016 DEFENDER

Happening in Houston

For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

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FOR THE SAKE OF ART FASHION SHOW……..The University Museum and many more. Speakers included LaTasha Roberts, Anthony Lemon, Dr. at Texas Southern University recently held its biennial wearable art fashion Morgan Pierce and several church members and volunteers. Guest entertainment show at the Omni Houston Hotel. The fashion show and silent auction was included Ronnie Brown, Greg Foster, Josh Jenkins and I Am Pastor Chris. organized to benefit the museum. Art critic and collector Shelby Marcus and Members in attendance included Raymond Bennett, Duncan Bennett, Charles muralist Kermit Oliver were honored at the event. Guests were treated to dinner, Washington, Tristan Talbert and numerous children and adult members…….. live music, a video presentation and a spectacular fashion show featuring the UH PASTORS’ HEALTH CHALLENGE……..The Faith, Health and Family semi-finalists of the wearable art competition. Attendees Collaborative recently held its Pastors’ Health Challenge event included Reginald Van Lee, Tina Knowles-Lawson, Dr. at the University of Houston’s Athletics/Alumni Center. The Defender TOP EVENTS event was held to inspire churches and families in the Greater Austin Lane, Dr. Alvia Wardlaw, Councilmember Dwight More photos on defendernetwork.com Boykins, James Ward, Lorenz Tate, Augusta Green, Houston area to get active and practice healthy behaviors. The Melanie Lawson, D-Mars and a host of others………. event included a healthy Highlights Poster Contest for Health ANTIOCH YOUTH AWARENESS WORKSHOP ……..Antioch Missionary Ministries that have implemented programs for their congregations. First place Baptist Church partnered with Mental Health of America of Greater Houston went to Lalita Hamilton and Pippa Andrews of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Second place went to Betty Baldwin of Missouri City Baptist Church to host the fifth annual Youth Awareness Workshop Conference. The YAWC was organized to equip the youth with the tools needed to navigate the challenges and third place went to Carolyn Jones of Mt. Canaan MBC. Featured speakers faced in society and foster positive leaders for the future. The conference included Johnny Simmons, Pastor D.Z. Cofield, Melinda Perry, Dennis Young II and Dr. Marc Hamilton. included workshops on health, prayer, forgiveness, professional advisory

Austin Lane, Loren Lane, Reginald Van Lee, Melanie Lawson

Raymond Bennett, Duncan Bennett

Johnny Simmons, Angela Simmons

Tina Knowles-Lawson

Kia Jubert-Bacon, Charles Washington

Lalita Hamilton, Pippa Andrews

Genora Boykins, Dwight Boykins, Darian Ward

Joi Bennett, Laylah Bennett, Khori Drice

Pastor D.Z. Cofield

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