Houston Defender: June 30, 2016

DICKINSON HIGH SCHOOL REBUILDING WITH 7-ON-7 FOOTBALL P11

HS ZONE

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 85 | Number 35 JUNE 30, 2016 | FREE

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NEWSTALK MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER wants to curb Kush

P2 NATIONAL JUSTICE SONIA SOTOMAYOR opposes illegal police searches

P3 FEATURE DR. RHEEDA WALKER leads youth suicide study

P8 TOP EVENTS

Carolyn Scantlebury (f), Willie Iles Jr., Roland Martin and Judge Joel Clouser at Yates High School gala

P12

SUMMER FAMILY FUN

H PAGE 6

Mahershala Ali

Raevyn Rogers

Actor Mahershala Ali is fast becoming one of the most indemand faces in Hollywood with his impressive background in film, TV and theater. Read about his role in the new movie “Free State of Jones.” Learn about the film’s all-star cast.

Houston native Raevyn Rogers, a sensational 800-meters champ, has her sights set on the Summer Olympics in Brazil. See what’s next in Rogers’ quest for a gold medal.

Hear about her notable track and field background and her local ties.

stars in film

runs for gold

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DEFENDER | JUNE 30 | 2016

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newstalk

Grant helps ex-offenders get jobs Defender News Services

Thousands of formerly incarcerated individuals in Harris County will soon have access to services to provide them with the skills needed to re-enter the workforce thanks to a U.S. Labor Department $1.35 million grant.

The non-profit SER-Jobs for Progress is the recipient of the federal grant to implement the Training to Work program.

“This program is specifically for people in work-

release programs, including halfway houses, some drug treatment facilities, and any type of modified sentencing that allows individuals go to work and return to that facility,” said SER Grants/Communications Manager Ciara Major.

The program will begin enrolling near December.

No exact date has been set.

“This grant will provide the resources needed so that Houstonians who have paid their debt to society can reintegrate, learn skills, and contribute to their communities and families,” said Congress-

man Gene Green.

The Training to Work program will offer returning citizens in a state or local work release program an opportunity to participate in a career pathway program. The program encompasses education and workforce skills training designed to create skilled workers able to meet the needs of local employers.

“Thousands of individuals return to Harris County following incarceration with little to no support in reintegrating, so there is a major need for these services and resources,” said SER CEO Nory Angel.

Mayor plans to curb Kush Defender News Services

Mayor Sylvester Turner is devising a plan to increase patrols of Hermann Park in an effort to curb Kush use and other illegal activity.

A section of the park dubbed “Kush Corner” was the site of a local mass health emergency. The regular and rampant use of Kush, a synthetic form of marijuana, is identified as the cause of at least 16 unconscious people being loaded into ambulances at Hermann Park and rushed to local emergency rooms.

“There is an epidemic of Kush use across the nation,” Turner said. “It is not unique to Houston. I am putting together a plan to hire more park rangers and increase HPD patrols. The park rangers will be outfitted with HPD radios and receive direct HPD training on policing, trespassing laws, what to look for with homeless populations and what to look for with mental health populations. “

Turner stressed that there is a big difference between drug use and being homeless.

“Some Kush users are homeless, but a lot are not,” he said. “The dealers like to blend in with the homeless and prey on the young and vulnerable. It is a serious problem and we are going to clean it up.”

While EMS workers tended to the unconscious, park-goers told media that the widespread use of the substance at Hermann Park is no secret, a fact confirmed by HFD Captain Ruy Lozano.

“It's rampant among our homeless population,” Lozano said. “It taxes a lot of our EMS resources, and our firefighters come here multiple times a day,” Lozano added that many of the unconscious park-goers used Kush in combination with other substances. He described the mixture of substances, combined with the Houston heat, and likely poor health of the users as “a cocktail for disaster.”

localbriefs TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY’S Mickey Leland Center for Environment, Justice and Sustainability in the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs was awarded funding by Houston Endowment to support the planning and development of a Community Based Organization (CBO) Incubator/Accelerator. The project will research Houston’s diversity in a more scientific way. Houston Endowment awarded $200,000 for the project. Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs Dean Dr. Robert Bullard prepared the grant and will lead the research group. According to Bullard, Houston, unlike other major cities, has

not been able to capitalize on its diversity to foster a robust multi-racial, multi-issue network of CBOs. A network of strong CBOs would have expertise in organizing, educating, and mobilizing people of color to take a lead role in research, policy and decisionmaking and civic engagement……..A GROUP OF TAXPAYERS filed a lawsuit to block HISD from renaming schools named after Confederate officers, claiming the vote was illegal. The group added that HISD’s decision is financially imprudent, and argues that the money needed for the identity overhauls should instead be used to benefit students in the classroom. The lawsuit also seeks to protect

the schools as monuments under state law……..A GRAND JURY DECLINED TO INDICT a McKinney, Texas police officer who was seen on video slamming a teenage girl to the ground outside a pool party last year. Eric Casebolt was thrust into the spotlight after video showed him tossing a 15-yearold, bikini-clad Black girl to the ground before pinning her with his knees. Casebolt also pulled his gun on two other youths who came running to help the girl. A Collin County grand jury ruled that there was not enough evidence to press criminal charges against Casebolt, who resigned after the incident. The family of the teenage girl said they will sue Casebolt.

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JUNE 30 | 2016 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCATES are calling on Congress to act on legislation to restore a key provision of the Voting Rights Act the Supreme Court eliminated three years ago. June 25 marked the third anniversary of the Shelby County v. Holder decision, which threw out a provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act that determined which states and other jurisdictions with a history of voter discrimination had to obtain preclearance from federal officials before making any election changes.……A STATUE OF LEGENDARY EDUCATOR and activist Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune will be recommended to replace a statue of Confederate Army General Edmund Kirby Smith in the U.S. Capitol. After a call to action to remove the Confederate statue, the Department of State released a list of recommendations and asked for the public’s input. Bethune received the most support with 1,233 votes……..

PENNSYLVANIA CONGRESSMAN CHAKA FATTAH’S 30-year political career appeared to crater after a federal jury convicted him of laundering federal grants and nonprofit funds to repay an illegal $1 million campaign loan and help family and friends. Fattah submitted his resignation after a jury found him guilty of all counts surrounding accusations that he misused funding to repay an illegal loan from his 2007 mayoral run. The jury sat through a four-week trial as prosecutors argued that Fattah, 59, had been at the center of an elaborate conspiracy to pay back the campaign contribution in question........FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA was welcomed to Liberia’s capital with a red carpet and traditional dancers wearing the red, white and blue colors of the American and Liberian flags. After meeting Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Mrs. Obama traveled 43 miles along a heavily potholed road to Kakata. The first lady is traveling with her mother and daughters.

Education for girls is the central theme of the first lady’s trip.

VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 35 JUNE 30, 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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Supreme Court rulings have major implications

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conservatives to challenge affirmative action protections. Central to conservatives’ case was 2013 plaintiff Abigail Fisher who sued UT after ecent rulings by the U.S. Supreme claiming she was denied admission to the school Court will have a direct impact on in 2008 because she was white. It was revealed Texans, and more specifically, Black and Latino state residents. From inter- later that Fisher’s grades did not meet admission requirements. actions with law enforcement to the The high court’s ruling means the school will pursuit of higher education and a better quality of be able to continue using race as one of multiple life, here is a rundown of three rulings: factors in admissions decisions.

Illegal police searches admissible “Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is a Illegal searches and seizures are back on the victory in the quest for increased diversity in our table for law enforcement, which could put even institutions of higher education,” said Houston more Black and Latino lives in danger of harassCongressman Al Green. “It is my hope that this ment and arrest by police. ruling will enable The Supreme the U.S. to continue Court ruled in making progress a five-to-three toward the inward decision that and upward incluevidence obsion of all groups in tained unlawfully our nation.” can be used in Obama imcourt. No longer migration plan do police need blocked probable cause The high to stop, frisk, or court’s four-to-four detain people. ruling leaves in Previously, place a lower court U.S. citizens order preventing were protected President Obama against such from shielding unlawful stops millions of people because they from deportation were viewed as The Supreme Court ruled that police evidence obtained unlawfully can be used via the Deferred violating the in court.

Action for ParFourth Amendents of Americans ment.

The Supreme Court reversed a Utah ruling that policy (DAPA) and an expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy (DACA). declared unconstitutional and unusable evidence Obama viewed the ruling as a temporary setcollected unlawfully by a police officer. back to an inevitable victory.

In Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s dissenting opin“I promise you this though, sooner or later, ion, she said, “[It] is no secret that people of color immigration reform will get done. Congress is not are disproportionate victims of this type of scrugoing to be able to ignore America forever,” said a tiny…If we announce your rule what stops us from hopeful and confident Obama. “It's not a matter of becoming a police state?” if, it's a matter of when.”

Explaining the implication of the court’s rulThough the ruling will not jeopardize individuing, Sotomayor said, “You are not a citizen of a als protected from deportation under DACA, the democracy but the subject of a [prison] state, just president acknowledged the disappointment for waiting to be cataloged.” millions.

Race-conscious admissions safe “[The decision] is heartbreaking for the milThe University of Texas at Austin can continue lions of immigrants who’ve made their lives here, using race-conscious admissions programs thanks who’ve raised families here, who hoped for the to a four-to-three Supreme Court decision that opportunity to work, pay taxes, serve in our milireaffirmed diversity is a crucial factor in college tary, and more fully contribute to this country we admissions. all love in an open way,” he said.

The victory came in spite of efforts by Defender News Services

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DEFENDER | JUNE 30 | 2016 defendernetwork.com

Defender wins Merit Awards The Houston Defender continued its winning ways by taking home three national Merit Awards for journalistic excellence. The awards were presented by the National Newspaper Publishers Association during its convention held in Houston.

The Defender won first place for Best Layout and Design, third place for Best Business Section and third place for Best Youth Writer (age 16-23). It was the second time that Defender Contributing Writer Jasemine Knowles won the Best Youth Writer Award.

“Congratulations to the Defender team for a job well done,” said Publisher Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah-Jiles. “I am proud of the staff for continuing to produce an excellent print product and website.

“We are committed to bringing our readers news they can use, and work hard every day to serve as Houston’s Leading Black Information Source.”

Houston Housing Authority honored The Department of Housing and Urban Development designated the Houston Housing Authority (HHA) as a “High Performer” Public Housing Agency for fiscal year 2015.

The designation is a part of the department’s Public Housing Assessment System, which is used by HUD to annually evaluate and measure the performance of housing authorities across the nation.

HHA’s program was evaluated on the basis of four operational areas: physical, financial, management and capital funds. HHA earned a score of 94 out of a possible 100, including a perfect score for financial management and capital fund oversight.

The score ranks HHA among the best of the nation’s more than 3,000 housing authorities and makes for the third “High Performer” designation for the authority in the last five years.

“The scores are difficult to achieve given the age of many of our developments and the declining financial resources,” said George D. Griffin III, HHA vice president for Housing Operations.

“There is a lot of strategic thinking and planning that goes into running the Public Housing Program, and it is through this process with all involved that we can achieve this kind of success.”

HHA provides affordable homes and services to more than 58,000 low-income Houstonians.

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JUNE 30 | 2016 | DEFENDER

entertainment Mahershala Ali stars in ‘Free State of Jones’

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

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orn in Oakland and raised in neighboring Hayward, Mahershala Ali received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications from St. Mary's College. He made his professional debut performing with the CA Shakespeare Festival in Orinda, Calif. He later earned his master's degree in Acting from New York University.

Mahershala is fast becoming one of the freshest and most in-demand faces in Hollywood with his wide-ranging background in film, television and theater.

He reprised his role in the “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2,” and other film credits include “The Place Beyond the Pines,” “Crossing Over” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”

On TV he appeared in Lifetime's “The Wronged Man,” for which he received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Best Actor Here, Mahershala talks about his role in “Free State of Jones,” a Civil War saga starring Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Keri Russell and now playing in theaters.

KW: What interested you in “Free State of Jones?”

MA: The story, first off. I had never heard of Newton Knight. So, the narrative as a whole was really attractive to me because it was a refreshing departure from the homogeneous depictions of the Civil War where the North wanted to abolish

education who learns to read and write and really becomes a leader and an active participant in the democratic process who mobilizes others.

KW: How was it working with such an accomplished cast?

MA: It was very inspiring and also humbling.

It was a difficult shoot, being in the swamps in both the heat and the cold for four months, but everybody arrived ready to go, all-in and totally committed. It all started with Matthew and [director] Gary Ross who had a wonderful energy and approach to the work every In “Free State of Jones,” Mahershala Ali is Moses (a former slave with a metal guard bolted to his neck) and Matthew McConaughey is Newton Knight. day that trickled down to the rest of the cast and crew. slavery while the South wanted to keep it intact.

KW: How was it being directed by four-time OscarHere, you had an example of a Southerner nominee Ross? who spoke out against slavery during the war and MA: Pretty phenomenal, starting with the audition process. who later became an activist for civil rights and this He was very curious about my ideas in terms of fleshing out new idea of equality for all people regardless of one's the character, and he also wanted to know my perspective as an skin color, race or creed.

African-American and whether I felt it reflected the AfricanKW: What interested you in playing Moses?

American experience…I would work with him again at the drop MA: I had never seen a character in this time period of a hat. who had such agency and mobility for someone living in the KW: What message do you think people will take away South. He had run away with a group of former slaves and from the film? was really living life on his own terms in the swamps. And he MA: That the struggle for freedom continues. And if was determined to be pro-active in his people's emancipation. you're a person like Newton, it becomes your responsibility to Also, seeing his evolution over the course of the narrative really empower those in close proximity to you. inspired me. He's a disenfranchised, runaway slave with no

what’sup Actress ANGELA BASSETT has teamed up with Dr. Barbara Sturm, her friend and a well-known skincare expert, to launch a skin-care line that addresses the specific needs of women with darker complexions.

Bassett has struggled with skin issues herself and initially used Sturm’s original line to treat her breakouts and irritations, but she realized it didn’t address skin issues that darker women deal with, such as hyperpigmentation. That’s when they decided to extend the line and after two years of research, “Darker Skin Tones by Dr. Barbara Sturm” came into fruition……..

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SHAQUILLE O’NEAL’S family has landed a reality show. O’Neal officially gave the green light for his kids to star in a new reality show for VH1. The project has been in progress for years, and sources say it took some time for Shaq to warm up to the idea but the NBA legend has given his blessing. The show will feature Shaq’s four kids with ex-wife Shaunie, along with her child from a previous relationship, and will primarily focus on the kids trying to forge their way into various careers. One of the kids wants to be a comedian. Another is interested in music. Shareef O’Neal, 17, is

a top high school basketball player who’s being recruited by some of the best colleges in the country. The recruiting process will be featured on the show…….. Former Death Row CEO MARION “SUGE” KNIGHT has filed a lawsuit against CHRIS BROWN over the 2014 shooting that left him injured at an event in Miami hosted by the R&B singer. Knight’s lawsuit accuses Breezy and owners of the nightclub 1 Oak of having inadequate security during the 2014 party.

Knight, who is in jail awaiting trial on an unrelated murder charge, was shot in the abdomen, chest and left forearm.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 30 | 2016

cente

SUMMER FAMILY FUN Grab the kids and have a great time

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By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

ummer is in full swing and if you are still looking for something to do with your family, the Defender has rounded up activities that appeal to adults and children alike. Plan a visit and treat your family to one of the city's fun-filled, actionpacked adventures that are as entertaining as they are educational. Some activities are also free or low-cost.

Adventure

If you’re looking for fun for the whole family, there are plenty of places to get out and take on a new adventure.

• Galveston Beach is a great place to go hang out, and have fun. And with the new Pleasure Pier, families can enjoy the beach or take in the amusements on the boardwalk. Other activities include fishing, golf, shopping, sightseeing and performing arts. Visit www.galveston.com • Moody Gardens in Galveston is ideal for families and groups alike.

Delve into the ocean's depths at the Aquarium Pyramid, explore the world of science at Discovery Museum, experience the action of MAX and enjoy gulf breezes aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat. Visit www. moodygardens.com • Kemah Boardwalk - This coastal getaway features themed restaurants, retail shops, and amusements for the whole family. This 35-acre carnival-like atmosphere has a 36-foot carousel, a 65-foot Ferris wheel and rides like the Aviator, the Inverter and the Boardwalk Tower. Visit www. kemahboardwalk.com • The Crocodile Encounter in Angleton allows you to follow the activities of Houston's largest wildlife show and find out what it's really like to live and work with the nation’s largest group of Nile crocodiles. Visit www.crocodileencounter.com • Space Center Houston - Kids can experience the rich history and the awe of space at Space Center Houston. From the popular Build-A-Rocket to Mission Kidtrol, children will explore and learn the concepts of space. For a real behind-the-scenes look at NASA, take your kids on the exclusive Level Nine Tour. Visit www. spacecenter.org

Entertainment

There’s no shortage of places to go to keep your kids entertained this summer.

• Miller Outdoor Theater is a tradition for

Visit a local water park or swimming pool and cool off this summer.

countless residents. Families can bring picnic baskets, blankets and lawn chairs. Upcoming events include Children’s Hilltop Festival performances of “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “My BFF the Dragon” and “The Great Switcheroo.” Visit www.MillerOutdoorTheater.com • UpStage Theatre is a non-profit organization and group of talented volunteers dedicated to providing the highest quality, yet affordable and family friendly theatrical experience for both the young and the young at heart. Visit www. upstagetheatre.org • Theater Under the Stars is a non-profit based in Houston, which offers a world-class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Visit www.Tuts.com.

Etcetera

• Get a CityPASS and see the city. For families looking to stretch their vacation budget, the Houston CityPass offers tickets to five of Houston’s top attractions and museums at a fraction of the cost.

Visit www.citypass.com/houston • Since 2012, the Sugar Land Skeeters baseball team has provided affordable, family-fun entertainment at Constellation Field in Sugar Land. The 360-degree ballpark includes a carousel, inflatable kids’ zone, splash pad, playground and The Astros and their mascot Orbit invite Houstonians of all ages to enjoy a baseball game.

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ch more. Visit www.sugarlandskeeters.com/ • Houston Astros – Get single game tickets to watch Houston’s professional baseball team ction at Minute Maid Park. Special activities include Family Sundays, $1 Hot Dog Wedness and Big & Bright Friday Nights. There are also daily tours and game-day tours. Visit www. ston.astros.mlb.com/

useums/Cultural

Spend your day exploring Houston's museums, without breaking the bank.

• The Children’s Museum of Houston is packed with 90,000 square feet of innovative, ractive bilingual exhibits for kids. Free Family Nights are offered every Thursday from 5 to 8 . Visit www.cmhouston.org • The Houston Museum of Natural Science, one of the most heavily attended museums in U.S., features the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, Burke Baker Planetarium, Cockrell Butterfly nter, permanent exhibit halls and traveling exhibitions. The permanent exhibit halls are free on ursdays from 2-5 p.m. during normal hours and on Thursdays from 3-6pm during the summer holidays. Visit www.hmns.org • The Houston Museum of African American Culture is one of the city's newest museum itutions and is dedicated to telling the story of Africans and African Americans in Houston and ond. Opened in 2012 inside the Houston Museum District, HMAAC offers programming, ures and exhibitions that involve people of color. There are also film series and educational ses. Visit hmaac.org • Set in Houston's Third Ward, Project Row Houses is a nonprofit art initiative aimed at ating a positive place for local artists to work. Some of the shotgun-style houses are dedicated rt and photography, while others are devoted to the literary and performing arts. Visit projecwhouses.org • The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated primary to preserving the legacy and honor of the African-American soldier. The 23,000-square-foot storic armory space allows for reenactments, exhibits and lectures. Visitors will see artifacts om the Revolutionary War through both world wars to present day conflicts. Visit www.buf-

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falosoldiermuseum.com • The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature sanctuary with total of 5 miles of walking trails that wind through forest, meadow and wetland habitats. Visit www.houstonarboretum.org • The Shrine of the Black Madonna Cultural Center is a great place to get up to speed on history, as well as experience African culture. A Buy Black Marketplace is held each month and includes a vendor market, book and art fair. Visit www.theyearofrestoration.org/Houston.html

Recreational

A limited budget is no reason not to have fun. Houston has a number of parks and activities for the whole family.

• The Houston Parks & Recreation Department also offers something for everyone, including 370 parks, 225 playgrounds, 23 water spraygrounds, 60 community centers, seven golf courses, 180 basketball courts and 206 tennis courts, and many activities are free.

• Memorial Park, part of HPARD, is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Grab the bikes, a picnic basket and enjoy the day. Or, take advantage of the 18-hole golf course, tennis, softball, swimming, volleyball, skating, cycling or running. Visit www.houstontx.gov/parks/ • Discovery Green’s downtown 12-acre park features a model boat pond, children's playground, interactive water features and fantastic yearlong programming geared toward families. The park also offers live music, films and story time readings. Visit www.discoverygreen.com/

Water Parks

With Houston’s blistering heat, it’s no surprise that water parks are high on the list of places to go this summer. Grab the kids and plenty of towels…oh, and a good book, because they’re going to want to stay all day.

• SplashTown: The area’s largest and most diverse waterpark located just 20 minutes from downtown. Get adventurous on the Tornado or chill out in the lazy river. Tips: Save money by buying your tickets online. Save $5 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons, check with Fiesta or online at RetailmeNot.com. Visit www.Wetnwildsplashtown.com • Typhoon Texas. One of the best-kept secrets is just up the road. The state-of-the-art waterpark in Katy offers something for the whole family. Tips: Save $5 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons. Visit www.TyphoonTexas.com • Schlitterbahn Water Park. Hot or cold, rain or shine, Schlitterbahn – located on Galveston Island – has your family covered with climate-controlled rivers, slides and pools that will put you in a tropical mood. Tips: Save money by buying your tickets online. Save $10 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons. Parking, life jackets and tubes are free. Visit www.Schlitterbahn.com/Galveston

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DEFENDER | JUNE 30 | 2016

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UH report addresses Black youth, suicides Defender News Services

Play it safe with fireworks 1

The number of Americans planning to use backyard fireworks this Fourth of July is expected to hit an alltime high. In preparation for holiday celebrations, the National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS) encourages consumers to review all safety tips before purchasing and using fireworks.

"While fireworks are the most iconic and festive way to celebrate our country’s independence, there can be dangers if fireworks are used improperly,” said Nancy Blogin, president of NCFS. “Consumers should purchase fireworks from a reputable company or fireworks stand, check local and state laws for fireworks use in your city, and check all instructions on fireworks packaging before use.”

Safety tips include: 1. Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

2. Read the cautionary

T:4.79”

Dr. Rheeda Walker studied the link between racial discrimination and youth thoughts of death.

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Suicide rates among elementary-age Black children have nearly doubled since 1990, due in part to incidents of racial discrimination, according to a University of Houston study.

The study links racial discrimination with adolescent thoughts of death and may provide parents and educators with tools to spot children at risk, and thus curb the rising numbers of Black children committing suicide.

“When a child experiences discrimination, he or she may say to themselves, ‘I’m not worthy’ or ‘I’m not good enough,’” said UH psychology professor Dr. Rheeda Walker, who led the study. “Effective interventions can offset these feelings and help a child’s self esteem.”

Through the findings of her study, “A Longitudinal Study of Racial Discrimination and Risk for Death Ideation in African-American Youth,” Walker hopes more attention will be given to the growing epidemic – Black students in crisis who are increasingly choosing to commit suicide.

While suicide rates among elementary-age Black children have nearly doubled since 1990, such rates for white children have decreased, according to a study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.

“Suicide is what can happen at the extreme of when youth and adults are marginalized and lack the resources to cope with this marginalization,” Walker said in an op-ed for Ebony. “Parents and other caregivers must protect Black children from subtle messaging that their lives don’t matter. Such messaging can be more detrimental than fractured limbs and bruised faces as it’s hard to heal what one cannot see.”

Though Walker’s study, which dealt with varying forms of racial discrimination (derogatory language, unequal treatment, etc.) did not ask student participants questions about suicide, more than one-third of the 722 Black youth interviewed reported death ideation (thoughts of death or dying), which can be a predictor of suicide.

Read more about Dr. Walker’s report at <http://onlinelibrary.wiley. com/doi/10.1111/sltb.12251/full>.

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6-21-2016 4:33 PM saved labels and performance de-at scriptions before igniting. job info 3. A responsible adult job # W52715 client TEXAS LOTTERY should supervise all fireheadline/tag JULY EOG AD work activities. Nevertrim give 4.79” x 3.25” None fireworks to children. bleed live None color setup BW 4. Alcohol and firevendor/pub HOUSTON DEFENDER works do not mix. Save media type NEWSPAPER die cut None your alcohol for after the show.

5. Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

2500 bee caves rd • suite 300 • austin, tx 78746 t 512.479.6200 f 512.479.6024 6. Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away. Do not hold a fireworks item in your hand or carry fireworks in your pocket.

8.Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.

9. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before you discard it.

10. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. When using fireworks always have a connected hose, bucket of water or other water source nearby.

Prepared by LatinWorks Marketing, Inc. 2012. All rights reserved.

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JUNE 30 | 2016 | DEFENDER

9

My Brother’s Keeper looks to live on after Obama TriceEdneyWire.com

President Obama has seven months left in office and one of the leaders of one of his key initiatives is hard at work ensuring the president’s legacy will continue after he leaves the White House.

Obama founded My Brother’s Keeper in 2014 to focus the federal government and the private and non-profit sectors on improving the lives of Black boys and young men.

James Cole, the general counsel and deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, said the initiative has expanded its mandate over its two years of existence. In January Cole began overseeing the program.

“We have had an exciting two years,” Cole said. “We are workPresident Obama announced the My Brother's Keeper initiative in February, 2014. ing hard to address opportunity gaps for young males of color and Columbia. The initiative has more than $600 million we have reached into such programs as English as a in private sector and philanthropic grants and in-kind second language and those who have been diagnosed resources, and $1 billion in low-interest financing, with disabilities. We are working hard to see that according to the report, “My Brother’s Keeper 2016 young men of color reach their full potential."

Progress Report: Two Years of Expanding OpportuMy Brother’s Keeper has programs in nearly 250 nity and Creating Pathways to Success.” communities in all of the states and the District of The report said moreT:9.75” than 80 percent of the

initiatives the task force sent to Obama two years ago have gone into effect or are on track.

One of the activities relates to opportunities in the summer.

Cole said that boys of color that are eligible for free and reduced lunch can participate in a variety of programs to strengthen their academic and social skills.

“These are the students that need the most help so we are setting them up with mentors,” he said. “We noticed that when young people go on summer vacation, they tend to lose some of what they learned so we have programs and mentors that can keep them academically engaged.”

Cole could not say whether the next president will continue the program at the federal level.

Leonard Haynes, a retired senior executive with the Department of Education, thinks highly of the work Cole has done for the initiative.

“James has been at the department for two years and I know he is committed to increasing more and better educational opportunities for young people,” Haynes said.

We invite you to attend:

Texas Lottery Commission Annual Historically Underutilized Business Forum T:6.5”

Location: Texas Lottery Commission | 611 East 6th Street | Austin, Texas

The forum will provide a brief overview of the TLC’s HUB program, procurement processes, and Mentor Protégé initiatives. The highlight of this event will be roundtable networking sessions with Lottery Commission staff and a number of our key contractor representatives. Roundtable assignments will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day of the forum.

The TLC HUB Forum is FREE of charge!

Register on-line on or before 7/15/2016 at: www.txlottery.org/hub For more information contact: Joyce Bertolacini, HUB Coordinator: (512) 344-5293 or joyce.bertolacini@lottery.state.tx.us

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Thursday, July 21, 2016 | 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm

10

DEFENDER | JUNE 30 | 2016

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sports

Olympic candidate Rogers runs for gold Raevyn Rogers

By MAX EDISON Defender

T

he 2016 Summer Olympics begin Aug. 5 in beautiful Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and thousands of talented athletes from over 200 nations will convene with one single goal – bringing home a gold medal.

One of America’s best chances for track and field gold is Houston native Raevyn Rogers, the sensational 800-meters champ, running for the University of Oregon Ducks. For Rogers, 19, success hasn’t come overnight.

“I started running when I was 5,” she recalled. “I was a third-year primary with the Wings Track Club [in Houston]. I guess when I was around 12 and I ran 2:06 in the 800-meters and the 400 meters in .53 at the same meet – and those are really Rogers, a Houston native, runs for the University of Oregon and hopes to compete in the Summer Olympics. fast times – that was my breakthrough moment. That’s when people were able around the track, but she never quit, Mitchell to get a glimpse of who I was.” recalled. By her third year as a primary we No fewer than 10 female college athletes qualified for could see the results. the NCAA Outdoor Championships this year with times “Raevyn was always a very that Raevyn ran at age 12. Rogers won this year’s Outdoor determined kid who was very coachable,” Championship in the 800 meters (2:00.75).

Mitchell continued. “She was a hard Currently a sophomore at Oregon, Rogers is now preparing worker who wanted to win. I’m for the upcoming Olympic Trials and an opportunity to compete not a bit surprised at what she’s in her first Olympics. The trials for track will be held July 1-10 accomplished. We witnessed it in Eugene, Ore. firsthand up until she finished high Rogers, a two-time All-American, is one of the world’s best school.” in the 800 meters. She first ran the 800 when she was 5, and said, Rogers, a six-time Junior Olympics “Those brutal two laps and the race stuck with me.” champion and a four-time state champion The 5-foot-9 athlete had other interest besides track at the Kinkaid School in Houston, said growing up. adjusting to “I played basketball college was easy. defendernetwork.com in middle school, and I “I was Rockets go big in the NBA draft really love volleyball. blessed with a That’s my favorite sport. smooth transition Actually if there was from high school to a choice between basketball and volleyball I would choose college,” she said. “Going to Kincaid [a college volleyball,” she said. preparatory school] really helped me. It not Long-time Wings Track Club coach Debra Mitchell only helped me with my academics, but I also remembers the younger Raevyn. was able to develop socially with networking “The first time she ran the 800 she cried all the way and communication skills that helped when I

arrived here at Oregon.”

Rogers still gets butterflies before a race, but said she’s getting better.

“Over the last few years I’ve gotten more comfortable and relaxed,” she said. “So much of the Wings coaching I received and things I’ve learned here [at Oregon] have helped me deal with any pre-race nervousness.”

With the Olympic Trials on the horizon and Rio looming, Rogers remains determined and focused.

“Prayer and just staying centered with God in my life has really helped me stay focused and motivated,” she said. “It’s been a really full year, with indoors followed by outdoors, then the NCAA championships and the Olympic Trials next.”

Rogers also acknowledged her parents, Rhonda Rogers-Hunt and Purvis Hunt, and other supporters.

“The other thing that really motivates me is the support I get from home. Not only do I get tremendous support from my parents, but there are so many people out there who believe in me and support me. The messages and texts I get on race day wishing me well really mean so much and that motivates me.

“With so many people that believe in me, I have to believe in myself and I have high expectations.”

Rogers also has a chance to accomplish a childhood dream and she is poised to take full advantage of the opportunity.

“Going to the Olympics was a goal of mine dating back to when I was young,” Rogers recalled. “I want to be good, I want to be better than good. I want to be an icon, a legend in the 800, in track and field period.

I’d like to win gold more than one time.

“I know that God has a plan for me so I just want to stay on the path. If it comes I’m more than blessed and appreciative about it. If it doesn’t come I’m still appreciative.”

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JUNE 30 | 2016 | DEFENDER

11

sportsbriefs Astro Correa named POW Major League Baseball recently announced that Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa has been named the American League Player of the Week for June 20-26. This marks Correa’s first career Player of the Week award. In 2015, Correa received AL Rookie of the Month (June) and AL Rookie of the Year honors. During the week, Correa hit .333 with six runs scored, four doubles, three home runs, nine RBI, and 1.282 OPS in six games. Correa’s seven extra-base hits were the most in the AL during the week, while his nine RBI and three homers were both tied for the most in the AL.

TSU golfer lands office

The Dickinson football team, which has benefited from 7-on-7 football, prepares to take the field.

Dickinson rebuilding with 7-on-7 football

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

During the dog days of summer, 7-on-7 football has built up momentum in becoming a favorite tool for evaluation, conditioning and chemistry-building among high school coaches in Texas. Some coaches caught on quicker than others.

Detractors claimed 7-on-7 wasn’t real football since it didn’t include the majority of down linemen and resembled basketball played on grass. Teams that like to run the ball questioned the value of 7-on-7’s pass-only format.

Yet even the most hesitant coaches have ultimately found positives sides to 7-on-7 football that is aimed at backs, receivers, linebackers and the secondary.

For programs that are rebuilding or going through a coaching transition, 7-on-7 can be an effective process to determine what assets a coach has to work with and a more realistic gauge on the team’s athleticism.

“It is a confidence builder,” said Dickinson head coach John Snelson, who guided the run-oriented Gators to the Region III-6A title game the past two seasons. “It lets you know that you’re on the right track.”

For the second year in a row Dickinson has qualified for the Texas 7-on-7 state championships in College Station (July 7-9). The Gators had never qualified for the state 7-on-7 tournament before 2015.

Perhaps the best sign for Snelson and his staff that things are going well is that most of the players from backto-back trips to the regional finals have graduated. This

year’s Gators are almost an entirely new cast.

Snelson has rotated Jordan Griff and Cameron Collins at quarterback during 7-on-7 games. Chris Welch, Nathan Simmons, Myles Lewis and Kaelleen Stelly have emerged as top receivers.

Among the bright spots on the defense has been safety Marques Williams. Top linebackers include A.J. Williams, Joseph Shields and Bryce Walker. D.J. Small and Terry Keys have separated themselves at the cornerback position.

While team bonding is always a key aspect of summer 7-on-7 drills, Snelson sees other benefits.

“We use 7-on-7 to get better for the fall,” he said.

“Going to the state tournament gives us two extra days of workouts and keeping that team concept going.

“Summertime has gotten so singular with all these satellite camps and combines,” Snelson said. “It’s tough to get your kids to show up for daily workouts because they want to meet college coaches.”

Organized 7-on-7 grew out of flag football, which got its start on Army bases during the 1940s as a means of recreation for military personnel.

Guidelines require games to be played on 40-yard fields with an additional 10 yards for the end zone. A 30-minute running clock is employed and all offensive possessions begin at the 40-yard line regardless of where the defense stops the offense.

No running plays are allowed and the quarterback has four seconds to release the ball or the play is blown dead.

There is no tackling allowed with one- or two-hand contact stopping the play.

Texas Southern University junior golfer Jalyn Kuykendall was selected Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC vice president for SWAC. The purpose of SAAC is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by protecting student welfare, promoting opportunity and fostering a positive image.

SAAC is comprised of two (one male. one female) student-athlete representatives from each SWAC member institution. Selection of the committee comes from consultation of each conference school office liaison. Kuykendall is captain of the women's golf team and a Houston native. She serves as TSU's SAAC president and is an active member of the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society. Kuykendall has been involved with SWAC SAAC for the past two years.

Her campus engagement doesn’t end there. She also has experience with the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College and the 100 Black Women of TSU organization.

Baseball players honored Westside High School senior second baseman Kelwin Moore and Pearland senior outfielder Caleb Maly headline a large contingent of Houston area high school baseball players named to the 2016 Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association Class 6A all-state baseball squads. Maly earned firstteam honors while Moore was named to the second team. Other selections included Strake Jesuit pitcher Kevin Graff (1st team), Alvin pitcher Joe Dalmolin (2nd team), The Woodlands pitcher Devin Fontenot (3rd team) and Cypress Ranch freshman pitcher Matthew Thompson (3rd team). Senior catchers Bryan Sturges of Seven Lakes and Marshall Skinner of Cy Ranch were named to the second team.

Fort Bend Travis first baseman Wesley Faison was a first-team selection. Austin Adams, Clear Creek, 2B, Zach Zubia, Strake Jesuit, 3B, Zach Sweet, Langham Creek, 3B, Tyler Bielamowicz, Cy Ranch, OF and Cole Turney, Fort Bend Travis, OF were also THSBCA all-state selections.

Pair makes all-state Senior pitcher/first baseman Lindsey Honeycutt and sophomore outfielder Tate Whitley of Angleton High School were named to the Texas Girls Coaches Association 2016 Class 5A all-state softball team.

Honeycutt batted .419 for the season and has a sparkling 21-2 record as a pitcher. Whitley hit a robust .491 for the season. The Wildcats made the school’s third trip to the state softball tournament in 2016.

Angleton was coached by Cindy Rubio. The Barbers Hill tandem of junior Meagan King and senior Jade Lewis was also named to the TGCA 5A all-state team. Elgin senior Staci Johns was also selected to the 5A squad.

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JUNE 30 | 2016 DEFENDER

Happening in Houston

For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

12

HOUSTON WELCOMES NNPA……..The National Newspaper Publishers attendance were Alton Smith, Loren Lane, Booker Morris III, Algy Alfred, Association kicked off its 76th annual conference with a western-themed reception Fredric Navarre, Mike Clark, Will Walker, Ron Burnett, Ken Glover, Marine at the Buffalo Soldier’s Museum. Mayor Sylvester Turner welcomed NNPA to Corps Capt. Phillip Tate, Keith Bellinger, Matthew Blackwell, Melisa Noriega, Houston and acknowledged the Black Press of America for being the voice of the Dr. Anthony Ford, Christopher Knight, Richard Spencer, Wilma Brown, Jona African-American community. Guests were treated to Texas-style barbeque and Sargent and many others……..YATES HS FOUNDER’S ANNIVERSARY live entertainment. The function also included a tour of the museum. In attendance GALA……..The Jack Yates National Alumni Association recently celebrated were NNPA Chair Denise Rolark-Barnes, NNPA President its 90th Anniversary Founder’s Gala at the Power Center. The Dr. Ben Chavis, Defender Publisher Sonny Messiah-Jiles event’s purpose included motivating the Jack Yates community Defender TOP EVENTS to continue to build and sustain the legacy of their alma mater. and staff, Councilmembers Dwight Boykins, Jerry Davis More photos on defendernetwork.com and Larry Green, Kofi Taharka, Judge Vanessa Gilmore, During the reception, the alumni conducted a roll call for the Cindy George, Melinda Spaulding, Karen Richards, Scott classes of each decade from the ‘30s to the ‘90s. The gala was part Bolden, Rod Doss, Andre Johnson, Hiram Jackson and a host of others…….. of a three day celebration of their anniversary. The rest of the weekend included RECEPTION HONORING TSU PRESIDENT……..Achievement Through a golf tournament at the Southwyck Golf Club and Sunday worship at Antioch Leadership Foundation and the Missouri City-Sugar Land Alumni Chapter of Baptist Church. In attendance at the gala were Shelby Stewart, Congresswoman Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. recently held a private reception to honor Dr. Sheila Jackson Lee, Jacqueline Bostic McElroy, Jacqueline Bostic, Carolyn Austin Lane at the Houston City Club. Alumni and associates gathered to celebrate Scantlebury, Roland Martin, Willie Iles Jr., Judge Joel Clouser, Rev. Charles the 12th president of Texas Southern University and toast to his future success. In Dickson, Gloria Scott Randle, Maxine Williams and a host of others.

Defender staffers Max Edison, Ron Scurry

Clyde Leuchtag, Booker Morris III

Scott Bolden, Rod Doss, Denise Rolark-Barnes, Andre Johnson, Hiram Jackson

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Dr. Austin Lane, Marcolin Eakins, Will Walker

Shelby Stewart, Jacqueline Bostic McElroy, Jacqueline Bostic

Carolyn Scantlebury (f), Willie Iles Jr., Roland Martin, Judge Joel Clouser

Lafayette Barnes IV, Jason Luntz, Sam Collins, Wali Pitt

Wilma J. Brown, Jona Sargent

Rev. Charles Dickson, Gloria Scott Randle

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