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Volume 87 | Number 39 JULY 26, 2018 |FREE

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NEWSTALK SYLVESTER TURNER pushing cooling centers in midst of energy crisis

P2 NATIONAL TIA COLEMAN grieving loss of 9 family members in boating accident

DEMOCRATS APOLOGIZE TO BLACK VOTERS

FEATURE SHANE EVANS shows off pro boxing talent

H PAGE 3

Shonda Rhimes

health

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JULY 26 | 2018

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al Edition

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Netflix and Shondaland have finally revealed the long list of projects they’re cooking up as part of Rhimes nine-figure deal. Find out what are the first 8 projects scheduled to hit the streaming service. H PAGE 4

Living longer

TOP EVENTS

special edition

LI FE EX PE

CTAN CY:

now Things to k

such as poverty, ic conditions, Blacks Social and econom health differences between in lower that Blacks had contribute to gaps analysis showed ip and nearly and whites. The nt and home ownersh These risk educational attainme unemployment as whites. t of disease. of poverty and on and treatmen twice the rate access to preventi s for Blacks include factors may limit health outcome affect that Other risk factors physical activity. obesity and less death of the leading causes g Compared to whites,earlier in adulthood, includin seen for Blacks are such as heart disease chronic diseases homicide and and diabetes.

N MARSHALL By MARILY Defender

news when news and bad here is good number of years the average it comes to ricans will live. most reAfrican-Ame e side, the On the positiv for Disease Control s from the Center African-Americans cent figures the death rate for to 2015. On show that the t from 1999 to die percen 25 more likely declined (79 Blacks are still negative side, (75.6 years) than whites r age at a younge n-Americans years). ancy of Africa CDC. The life expect report released by the t of a living was the subjec as a group are Blacks while between Blacks It found that ties still persist longer, dispari from the U.S. and whites. analyzed data cs System Researchers Statisti Vital , National SurveilRisk Factor Census Bureau influBehavioral and the CDC’s examine factors that may to lance System across the life span. eties able improv ence dispari some remark in “We have seen for the Black population rates Liburd, ments in death Dr. Leandris years,” said of Minorthese past 17 the CDC’s Office of r directo . associate Health Equity to ity Health and gaps are narrowing due popula “Important of the Black in the health long way improvements still have a we er, to . Howev tion overall ntions can lead sing health interve to go. Early particular, diagno death er lives. In longer, healthi leading diseases that cause the step for saving ant and treating import is an at earlier stages lives.” things to know: Here are 10

other death rates than ns have higher g breast, prosAfrican-America cancer types, includin groups for many stomach cancer. tate, cervical and

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of in other causes improvements of about 80 percent There have been a dramatic decrease olds from 1999death, such as 49-yearamong 18- to seen in HIV deaths deaths were also seven c drops in HIV 2015. Dramati remains with Blacks Still, a wide disparity HIV. among whites. die from to likely to nine times more organizations and community to rePublic health agencies programs proven to implement should continue es and partner with other sectors, dispariti tation, and duce health n, business, transporthat promote including educatio conditions health and economic close the gap in in their 20s, 30s, to create social d to continue to the fact that Blacks or die from condi- housing One concern is starting in childhoo with live health to likely ins. and 40s are more occur at older ages in whites, factors outcome such as tions that typically stroke and diabetes. Risk ion measures d tobacco Proven prevent cluding heart disease,blood pressure, may go unnotice physical activity, healthy eating, screenings and medi, such as high diseases disease some for years. nt to cessation, during these early ce remain importa and untreated cation adheren Blacks did not for homicide among ly, and early death. The death rates years of the study. Tragical reduce disease 17 change over the years and 35-49 years are nine from hs Blacks ages 18-34 respectively, as likely to die es of U.S. deat times, times and five Leading caus groups. e in the same age 1. Heart diseas homicide as whites have to es r likely more 2. Cance tory diseas are 50 percent lower respira Blacks ages 35-64 than whites. 3. Chronic high blood pressure 4. Accidents 5. Stroke disease 6. Alzheimer’s to die times as likely 7. Diabetes years are two & pneumonia Blacks ages 18-49 8. Influenza than whites. e from heart disease 9. Kidney diseas 10. Suicide e Control s for Diseas Source: Center

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Adding years to your life is possible with discipline and determination. Learn ways to avoid an early grave in the Defender’s special health edition. Find out about AfricanAmericans’ longevity and see the diseases taking a toll. H PAGE 1B

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Johnna Wilson-Broussard, James Prince and Vicky Pink at the Kashmere High School reunion.

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Former superintendent Carranza blasts HISD Defender News Services

Mayor Sylvester Turner wants Houstonians to be cool and safe.

Texas deals with heat wave, energy crisis Texas Tribune

With a heat wave sweeping the state, Texans’ demand for power is breaking records, prompting the state’s electric grid operator – which predicted the scenario months ago – to offer assurances that the electric sector “is doing what they can to keep the power on for consumers.” The Electric Reliability Council of Texas said that it “has issued an advisory to power companies in advance of the extreme heat anticipated over the weekend and into next week.” That came as the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning or heat advisory for almost the entire state. So how concerned should Texans be that the power – i.e. air conditioning – will go out at a time of year when they need it most? Not very, said University of Texas at Austin energy guru Michael Webber, deputy director of the university’s Energy Institute, although he said it’s still concerning enough that customers should do their part to decrease their electricity usage. Webber said the public is generally bad

at heeding the calls from grid operators and utilities to turn up the temperature on their thermostats, flick off unnecessary lights in the middle of the day and wait until the evening to run dishwashers and clothes dryers. If everyone in the state took those measures, Webber said, it would make a big difference.

Houston cooling centers To help Houstonians beat the heat Mayor Sylvester Turner opened multiple cooling centers during business hours. “I’d rather you be cool and safe and out of harm’s way than to try to be living at home or an apartment you name it and the heat is 100 degrees or more,” Turner said. “I’m especially sensitive to our elderly population and to our children.” Locations are: • Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery • Kashmere Multi-Service Center, 4802 Lockwood • Southwest Multi-Service Center, 6400 High Star • Sunnyside Multi-Service Center, 9314 Cullen • Houston Public Library (Downtown), 500 McKinney

Former Houston ISD superintendent Richard Carranza is speaking out about his disappointment in the district’s failure to pass major reforms while he was here. Carranza, who now leads the New York public school system as chancellor after abruptly quitting HISD, said the district lacked the appetite for changes that would boost outcomes for lower-income and minority students. “As soon as I left, it seemed like people just didn’t have the Former Houston ISD superintendent Richard Carranza stomach to take the fight,” Carranza said. place some really sexy magnet schools in In an interview with Atlantic Magathose African-American neighborhoods. zine, Carranza who was with the district No! They were all concentrated in white, for 18 months, said HISD leaders resisted upper-middle-class neighborhoods, so that changes that would benefit historically if you’re an African-American student, you underserved students, creating inequitable have to leave your neighborhood to go to access to quality education among students those programs,” he said. from all backgrounds. Ultimately, HISD trustees tweaked the The article largely focused on his imdistrict’s current campus funding model and mediate reform efforts in New York City, shelved the magnet proposals, to Carranza’s but Carranza didn’t mince words as he dismay. However, it is arguable whether talked about HISD’s current campus fundtrustees resisted Carranza’s proposal being model and the geographic layout of its cause they “didn’t have the stomach to take magnet schools, which he said have favored the fight.” students from more affluent and white Some trustees embraced Carranza’s backgrounds. proposal, but others thought the district In the months before his departure administration was moving too hastily and from HISD, Carranza proposed shifting did not provide enough details about the toward a more centralized funding model proposal’s merits. that largely would benefit schools in lower“Carranza didn’t leave any definite income and predominantly Black and plans on the table. Only ideals,” HISD Hispanic neighborhoods. Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones “You would think if you want to said. “For me, there were conceptual changintegrate schools and really provide a robust es that were never fully vetted or fleshed out push for the entire system, you would by the administration.”

localbriefs A HOUSTON FAMILY IS MOURNING THE DEATH of a 3-year-old boy whose lifeless body was found inside a hot day care van. Raymond Pryer returned from a field trip with 28 other students at the Discovery Me Academy around 2:30 p.m. When the boy’s father came to pick him up, however, the child was nowhere to be found. After a frantic search, he and day care workers discovered Raymond had been left in the hot van, where temperatures inside reached 113 degrees. The 3-year-old was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead……..DARIAN WARD, THE FORMER

PRESS SECRETARY for Mayor Sylvester Turner, has posted bond after turning herself in on charges of failing to comply with the Texas Public Information Act. Ward was indicted on a felony charge for failing to turn over thousands of pages of work emails in response to a public records request. She faces up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. The source of Ward’s legal problems started in 2014, when she became press secretary for then-Mayor Annise Parker. Over the next four years, Ward allegedly used government time to try to promote a number of side projects, including a proposed TV show called “My

First Million.” Ward failed to turn over emails showing how she was using her city work time, leading to the public records indictment…….. THE DEADLINE FOR FLOOD INSURANCE policyholders seeking additional money for flood damage caused by Hurricane Harvey is approaching. Aug. 25 is the deadline to file a proof of loss form. After Harvey, in an effort to get money in the hands of policyholders more quickly, FEMA decided to waive the initial proof of loss requirement. If a proof of loss form is not submitted by the deadline, a policyholder’s claim will be closed.

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U.S.briefs HOME DEPOT REVERSED ITS DECISION TO FIRE a Black employee after receiving a ton of criticism from people who applauded his calm demeanor in dealing with a racist customer. The company offered to rehire Maurice Rucker after taking “another look at this situation,” the mega store said. While working in the store’s garden center, Rucker asked a white customer with a dog to leash his pet while in the store. The man then launched into a racist tirade. Rucker replied, “You’re lucky I’m at work, because if I wasn’t you wouldn’t be talking to me like this.” Home Depot didn’t like how Rucker, who worked 10 years for the company, handled the situation, saying he should have contacted a manager. But scores of people on social media called out the company’s harsh reaction, some of them threatening to boycott the chain……..THE MOTHER OF A BOY WHOSE KILLING sparked the Stand Your Ground defense is running for Congress. Lucy McBath is set for a runoff election against Atlanta tech businessman Kevin Abel for the Democratic nomination in Georgia’s 6th Congressional District. McBath is a gun control activist and the mother of 17-year-old Jordan Davis, who was murdered in Jacksonville, Fla. in 2012 when he was shot by Michael Dunn, a white man angered that he and his friends would not turn their music down. Dunn, who attempted to claim the shooting was in selfdefense because he felt “threatened” by the boys arguing back at him, was convicted of first-degree murder……..THE NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE is preparing for its annual conference Aug. 1-4 in Columbus, OH. Facebook CEO Sheryl Sandberg will participate along with numerous business leaders, politicians, celebrities and national and local community leaders, as well as Marc Morial, CEO and president of the National Urban League. Over 20,000 people are expected at the conference.

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 39 JULY 26, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Videographer

Jodie B. Jiles

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Editor Max Edison Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

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

Nine members of the Coleman family, shown in a photo taken shortly before the tragedy, died July 19 in a duck boat accident near Branson, Mo.

Survivor recounts boat accident that killed 17 Associated Press

“Grab the baby!” Those were the last words Tia Coleman recalls her sister-inlaw yelling before the tourist boat they were on sank into a Missouri lake, killing 17 people, including nine of Coleman’s family members. A huge wave hit, scattering passengers on the vessel known as a duck boat into Table Rock Lake near Branson, Coleman said. When the Indianapolis woman came up for air, she was alone. She prayed. “I said, ‘Lord, please, let me get to my babies,” she told reporters from her wheelchair in the lobby of a hospital where she’s recovering after swallowing lake water. “’... If they don’t make it, Lord, take me too. I don’t need to be here.’” Coleman recalled spotting the rescue boat and managed to reach it, “somehow.” Earlier, from her hospital bed, she recounted her sister-in-law’s last words.

Coleman’s husband and three children, ages 9, 7 and 1; her 45-year-old sister-in-law and 2-year-old nephew; her mother-inlaw and father-in-law and her husband’s uncle all died July 19 in the deadliest accident of its kind in nearly two decades. Others killed included a retired pastor who was the boat’s operator. None of the 31 passengers on board wore a life jacket. State and federal investigators were trying to determine what sent the vessel, originally built for military use in World War II, to its demise. An initial assessment blamed thunderstorms and winds that approached hurricane strength, but it wasn’t clear why the amphibious vehicle even ventured into the water. Suzanne Smagala with Ripley Entertainment, which owns Ride the Ducks in Branson, said it was the company’s only accident in more than 40 years of operation. Tia Coleman said her family initially lined up for the wrong tour so they had to switch out their tickets for the 6:30 p.m. ride. She said the crew showed passengers where the life jackets were but said they wouldn’t need them.

Democratic Party apologizes to Black voters Defender News Services

It’s a complaint that has resonated in the AfricanAmerican community – Democrats take the Black vote for granted. Usually, Democratic leaders try to explain why that’s not the case, but Democratic National Committee chairman Tom Perez shocked a predominantly Black crowd by apologizing to those voters. “I am sorry,” Perez said, speaking at a fundraiser in Atlanta. At first, it seemed like Perez was voicing regret for the 2016 election that put Donald Trump in the White House. Perez, however, soon made it clear that

his apology was much more specific. “We lost elections…because we stopped organizing,” he said. “We stopped talking to people. “We took too many people for granted,” Perez continued, “and African Americans – our most loyal constituency – we all too frequently took for granted. That is a shame on us, folks, and for that I apologize. And for that I say, it will never happen again!” High turnout among Black voters was key to Barack Obama’s two presidential victories, and dips in participation when he was not on the ballot contributed to Democratic wipeouts in 2010 and 2014, and to Hillary Clinton’s narrow losses in some states in 2016.

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Shonda Rhimes brings shows to Netflix Defender News Services

Netflix and Shondaland have finally revealed the long list of projects they’re cooking up and we have all the details about what to expect from Shonda Rhimes and executive producer Betsy Beers. “I wanted the new Shondaland to be a place where we expand the types of stories we tell, where my fellow talented creatives could thrive and make their best work and where we as a team come to the office each day filled with excitement,” Rhimes said. “[Network executives] and everyone at Netflix have been incredible partners in making that happen. This is Shondaland 2.0.” Ever since news of Rhimes’ jump from ABC to Netflix broke, many fans have been on pins and needles about what would be coming their way from the woman behind shows like “Scandal,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice” and “How to Get Away With Murder.” “From the world of Regency England all the way to present day Manhattan, we at Shondaland have a wonderful opportunity to explore new worlds and tell these stories in many different ways,” Beers said. Here’s what we know about the first eight projects from Shondaland 2.0: Untitled Shonda Rhimes Project – It is based on the New York Magazine article “How Anna Delvey Tricked New York’s Party People” by Jessica Pressler. Manhattan makes a new friend like no other. But is she the stuff American dreams are made of or is she New York’s biggest con woman? Is it a con if you enjoy being taken? Untitled Bridgerton Project – It is based on Julia Quinn’s best-selling series of novels and is a feminist take on Regency England romance. The project unveils the glittering, wealthy, sexual, painful, funny and sometimes lonely lives of the women and men in London’s high society marriage

mart as told through the eyes of the powerful Bridgerton family. “Scandal” veteran Chris Van Dusen will adapt the series. “The Warmth of Other Suns” – The series is based on Pulitzer-Prize winning author Isabel Wilkerson’s awardwinning book of the same name. It tracks the decadeslong migration of African-Americans fleeing the Jim Crow South in search of a better life in the North and the

West between 1916 and 1970. Anna Deavere Smith, a National Humanities Medal recipient, MacArthur Genius Grant recipient and two-time Drama Desk winning playwright, is set to adapt. “Pico & Sepulveda” – Set in the 1840s against the surreal and sensual backdrop of the then-Mexican state of California, the series tracks the end of an idyllic era there as American forces threaten brutality and war at the border to claim the breathtaking land for its own. Emmy Awardwinning writer Janet Leahy will create the series. “Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change” – Netflix and Shondaland acquired the rights to Ellen Pao’s groundbreaking memoir detailing her life and career, including the lawsuit she brought against her former employer that sparked intense media scrutiny and shook Silicon Valley to its boys’ club core. “The Residence” – Netflix and Shondaland also acquired the rights to Kate Andersen Brower’s nonfiction book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House,” which offers a vividly accurate insider’s account of White House residence staffers and the upstairsdownstairs lives they share with the first families at one of the most famous homes in history. “Sunshine Scouts” – In this darkly comedic half-hour series, an apocalyptic disaster spares a rag-tag group of teenage girls at sleepaway camp who must then summon their moxie and survival skills to weather the fallout and ensure all that remains of humanity abides by the Sunshine Scout Law. Writer/actress Jill Alexander will create the series. “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” – This documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy’s awardwinning reimagining of the classic ballet, “The Nutcracker.” The production, with its inclusive cast of all ages and its blend of dance traditions, has further cemented Allen’s legacy as one of the greatest forces for good in dance.

what’sup “Black-ish” star ANTHONY ANDERSON is being investigated in connection with an alleged sexual assault. A woman claimed Anderson assaulted her while meeting to discuss business opportunities. Anderson’s rep denies all wrongdoing. It’s not the first time Anderson has been accused of sexual assault. In 2004, an extra on the set of the Academy Award-winning movie “Hustle & Flow” accused Anderson and an assistant director of raping her in a trailer on the Memphis set. That case was later dropped after a judge ruled there was no probable cause to try the case……. Native Houstonian TRAVIS SCOTT, KYLIE

JENNER’s boyfriend, said he doesn’t believe in the so-called “Kardashian curse.” In an interview with GQ magazine, rapper Scott said that the legend that men’s lives turn to mush when they date members of the Kardashian family isn’t even on his radar. The curse theory grew on social media because of RAY J, whose career hit a bump after dating KIM KARDASHIAN; LAMAR ODOM, who overdosed and slipped into a coma after his divorce from KHLOE KARDASHIAN; and most recently, KANYE WEST and his seeming mental breakdown after two years of marriage to Kim. Jenner, 20, said the reality is that men

who date members of her family are not ready for their extreme fame and can’t handle the intense spotlight…….WENDY WILLIAMS revealed that she was once addicted to cocaine during the early part of her career as a radio host. Williams, 54, who revealed earlier this year that she has Graves’ disease, didn’t exactly specify the time period but said she was a functioning addict. She previously talked about her issues with addiction in 2012 following the death of Whitney Houston and said that it could’ve been her. Williams is telling the story now in order to help others battle substance abuse problems.

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R. Kelly sings about battles in new song Associated Press

R. Kelly sings about his troubles and battles in a new 19-minute song, addressing sexual abuse claims against him that have put a screeching halt to his career. The song, “I Admit,” was recently posted to Soundcloud. The track begins with the lyrics, “I admit I have made some mistakes/And I have some imperfect ways.” R. Kelly gets personal throughout the track, singing that he likes “all the ladies, that’s both older and young ladies,” following it up with: “But tell me how they call it pedophile because that (expletive) is crazy.” The embattled entertainer has long been accused of behavior that has ranged from quesnot arrested, dragged my Did R. Kelly’s confession move you? tionable to criminal. He was name in the dirt/All this Talk about it accused of child pornograwork to be successful, www.Facebook.com/defendernetwork phy after a widely circuwhen you abandon me lated videotape appeared to ‘cause of what you heard.” show him having sex with, R. Kelly is one of pop and urinating on, a teenage girl. He was acquitted music’s best-selling artists and his hits include of all charges in 2008 and continued to rack up hits “Ignition,” ‘’I Believe I Can Fly,” ‘’Step in the and sell out stadiums around the country. Name of Love” and “Bump N’ Grind.” He has also On “I Admit,” he sings that he’s “not convicted, written hits for artists ranging from Celine Dion to

Michael Jackson to Lady Gaga. While he’s written classic love songs and even gospel music, he is defined by sexually explicit songs such as ‘’Your Body’s Calling Me,” ‘’Sex Me” and even more explicit fare. On the new song, he says he was sexually abused as a child, singing “a family member touched me” and revealing he was “so scared to say something, so I just put the blame on me.” “I Admit” was not released on Sony’s RCA Records, where R. Kelly is signed. The label said it had no comment about the song. R. Kelly posted a link to the song with the caption: “Today is the day you’ve been waiting for.” Despite having a plethora of hit songs, he said he had to borrow money from his record label to “put food on the table.” “I was told I had to sell my cars, I was told I couldn’t get a loan/Said I owed 20 million to the IRS and they were coming to get my home,” he sings. “Now the truth in this message is I’m a broke (expletive) legend/The only reason I stay on tour is ‘cause I gotta pay my rent.”

Good paying jobs, equal opportunity, and an economy that works for all Texans Our economy isn't working for everyone when black Americans have 10 times less wealth than white Americans. Let's level the playing field by ensuring access to good jobs, higher pay, skills training, and a fair shot at economic success.

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PVAMU looks at county health disparities Defender News Services

Since 2010, Texas has seen more rural hospitals close than has any other state, leaving huge gaps in health care. Prairie View A&M University and Waller County have been confronted with this dilemma as the county’s population continues to grow. Last summer, Dr. Mark Tschaepe, an associate professor of philosophy at PVAMU, was conducting research about HIV testing and treatment accessibility in Waller County and became interested in a wider scope of issues concerning health care in the area. He discovered that Waller County was what he calls a “medical desert” or health professional shortage area (HPSA). “Talking with people in the area, I was told by many that there used to be hospitals in Waller County: one on campus and

one in Hempstead,” he said. The original Prairie View hospital, which was opened in the early 1900s, underwent various changes through the years before eventually being demolished. Waller County Hospital opened in Hempstead in 1951 and from the beginning suffered from a lack of physicians, economic strife and political battles. It closed in 1985. With a grant from the Office of Research at PVAMU, Christian Farley is assisting Tschaepe in collecting data from Waller County residents about health care needs in the area. “Thus far, we have found that around half of the residents we have surveyed believe that primary health care is largely unavailable in the area, and they indicate a lack of proximity and transportation as an issue,” Tschaepe said.

Additionally, research shows that residents have difficulty securing local specialist care, and language barriers can also be an obstacle to care. The team continues to conduct surveys and plans on extending research in the county to include specific issues of mental health in the fall. From Tschaepe’s perspective, the university and county should work together to address health care issues in the area. “Right now, I am assembling a Waller County Health Care Ethics Network on Prairie View’s campus,” he said. Over 30 people are involved, including faculty, students, administrators, outside healthcare consultants and community members. The first meeting will be in September, and the purpose will be to begin discussing specific problems regarding healthcare in the county.

Former students can apply for diplomas Defender News Services

Christiana Okafor (left) of Houston appeared on “Good Morning America” as a participant in Disney Dreamers Academy earlier this year.

Applications open for Disney Dreamers Academy Applications are being accepted now through Oct. 31 for the Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine. The annual outsidethe-classroom mentoring program is scheduled for March 21-24, 2019, at the Walt Disney Resort in Florida. The program helps 100 select high school students, ages 13-19, from across the United States jump-start their life goals and pursue their dreams. Disney Dreamers Academy turns Walt Disney World into a vibrant classroom. Students participate in a series of sessions and workshops designed to help them imagine bright futures, make exciting discoveries and learn how to put their goals into action.

Students participate in handson career seminars and learn how to improve their communication skills, among other skills. They are also inspired by celebrity speakers and other special guests who share their stories and provide insights on how to achieve their life goals. Applicants must answer essay questions about their personal journeys and dreams for the future. Students are selected based on a combination of attributes, including strong character, positive attitude and determination to achieve their dreams. A parent or guardian accompanies each student on the four-day, all-expenses-paid trip. For more information or to apply, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com.

Former FBISD students who completed all graduation-required coursework but failed to pass the state’s previously administered and required exit-level exams may be eligible to receive a high school diploma under new rules established by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Senate Bill 463, adopted by the 84th Texas Legislature, provides an opportunity for students who have earned all the necessary high school credits to earn a high school diploma and graduate from high school through the use of an Individual Graduation Committee (IGC) utilizing state determined criteria. Following rules established by TEA, the district established an application process for students who are eligible for consideration. Once former students complete an application, FBISD will establish an IGC to determine whether the student qualifies to graduate under all of the required components of the law.

It is important for former students to understand that the opportunity provided through SB 463 is only valid through September 2019, so it is important for those who may be eligible to act promptly and contact the district for the application. To be eligible to graduate and receive a diploma via the IGC, a student must have: • Entered the 9th grade before the 2011-12 school year • Earned all required high school course credits, • Attempted any required state assessment which the student has not passed at least three times • Provide documentation that they have Military experience, successfully completed college courses and received college credit, acquired a GED equivalency/other assessment equivalency or possess industry certification. Eligible individuals who were last enrolled at a FBISD campus can call 281-634-1004 or visit www.fortbendisd.com/Page/291.

Thomas Middle School facelift Thomas Middle School, located at 5655 Selinsky, is getting a facelift this summer thanks to the help of the HSID Facilities Services team. The school is being updated to accommodate incoming middle school students from Woodson, which is transitioning this summer from a prekindergarten through eighth-grade campus to a prekindergarten through fifth-grade academy. “I am excited for the students,” said newly appointed Principal Vernitra Shivers. “We will be growing in numbers over the summer, so this is needed.” Campus upgrades include repainting of hallways, restrooms and classrooms. In addition, crews will re-stain the gymnasium and the school stage and install landscaping around the main entrance.

health

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JULY 26 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Defender Special Edition

LIFE EXPECTANCY:

Things to know

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

here is good news and bad news when it comes to the average number of years African-Americans will live. On the positive side, the most recent figures from the Centers for Disease Control show that the death rate for African-Americans declined 25 percent from 1999 to 2015. On the negative side, Blacks are still more likely to die at a younger age (75.6 years) than whites (79 years). The life expectancy of African-Americans was the subject of a report released by the CDC. It found that while Blacks as a group are living longer, disparities still persist between Blacks and whites. Researchers analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau, National Vital Statistics System and the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to examine factors that may influence disparities across the life span. “We have seen some remarkable improvements in death rates for the Black population in these past 17 years,” said Dr. Leandris Liburd, associate director of the CDC’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity. “Important gaps are narrowing due to improvements in the health of the Black population overall. However, we still have a long way to go. Early health interventions can lead to longer, healthier lives. In particular, diagnosing and treating the leading diseases that cause death at earlier stages is an important step for saving lives.” Here are 10 things to know:

Social and economic conditions, such as poverty, contribute to gaps in health differences between Blacks and whites. The analysis showed that Blacks had lower educational attainment and home ownership and nearly twice the rate of poverty and unemployment as whites. These risk factors may limit access to prevention and treatment of disease. Other risk factors that affect health outcomes for Blacks include obesity and less physical activity.

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Compared to whites, the leading causes of death for Blacks are seen earlier in adulthood, including homicide and chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

One concern is the fact that Blacks in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are more likely to live with or die from conditions that typically occur at older ages in whites, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Risk factors for some diseases, such as high blood pressure, may go unnoticed and untreated during these early years. The death rates for homicide among Blacks did not change over the 17 years of the study. Tragically, Blacks ages 18-34 years and 35-49 years are nine times and five times, respectively, as likely to die from homicide as whites in the same age groups. Blacks ages 35-64 are 50 percent more likely to have high blood pressure than whites.

Blacks ages 18-49 years are two times as likely to die from heart disease than whites.

7 8 9

African-Americans have higher death rates than other groups for many cancer types, including breast, prostate, cervical and stomach cancer.

There have been improvements in other causes of death, such as a dramatic decrease of about 80 percent in HIV deaths among 18- to 49-year-olds from 19992015. Dramatic drops in HIV deaths were also seen among whites. Still, a wide disparity remains with Blacks seven to nine times more likely to die from HIV. Public health agencies and community organizations should continue to implement programs proven to reduce health disparities and partner with other sectors, including education, business, transportation, and housing to create social and economic conditions that promote health starting in childhood to continue to close the gap in health outcomes.

Proven prevention measures such as healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco cessation, disease screenings and medication adherence remain important to reduce disease and early death.

Leading causes of U.S. deaths

1. Heart disease 2. Cancer 3. Chronic lower respiratory diseases 4. Accidents 5. Stroke 6. Alzheimer’s disease 7. Diabetes 8. Influenza & pneumonia 9. Kidney disease 10. Suicide Source: Centers for Disease Control

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Heart disease cuts American lives short

Defender News Services

Heart disease is an equal opportunity killer. In the United States, it is the leading cause of death for AfricanAmericans, Hispanics and whites, and the second leading cause for Asian-Americans and Native Americans behind cancer. It is also a costly disease and costs the U.S. about $200 billion each year in terms of health care services, medications and lost productivity. In addition, an analysis recently released by the American Heart Association projects that the cost of informal caregiving for Americans with heart disease and stroke will more than double from $61 billion in 2015 to $128 billion by 2035. “Informal caregivers are indispensable assets to our health care system and often play a significant role in the recovery and well-being of heart disease and stroke survivors,” said American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown. “By 2035, the number of Americans living with heart disease and stroke will rise to 131.2 million – 45 percent of the total U.S. population. Understanding the escalating burden this will place on the family members and friends who care for these individuals is essential if we are to address this looming crisis.” Here are some additional facts about heart disease from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the CDC:

MOST COMMON TYPE

Coronary heart disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease. It is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart and other parts of the body. CAD can weaken the heart muscle over time and can lead to heart failure, a serious condition where the heart can’t pump blood the way that it should. An irregular heartbeat – arrhythmia – can also develop.

K HEART ATTA7C90,000 Americans

RISK FACTO R

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d r and An estimate ack each yea tt a rt a e h a e . It ochav the first one is it 0 0 ,0 0 uscle for 58 f the heart m o rt a p a n e w. The curs wh gh blood flo u o n e e iv ce doesn’t re eart attack ptoms of a h m sy r jo a m five or back. are: the jaw, neck in rt fo m co is d faint. 1. Pain or t-headed or h g li , k a e w 2. Feeling rt. or discomfo shoulder. 3. Chest pain rm rt in a s or fo m co is d r o 4. Pain of breath. 5. Shortness

MORE SYMPTOMS, WHAT TO DO Other symptoms of a heart attack could include unusual or unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting. Women are more likely to have these other symptoms. If you notice the symptoms of a heart attack in yourself or someone else call 9-11 immediately. The sooner you get to an emergency room, the sooner you can receive treatment to prevent total blockage and heart muscle damage or reduce the amount of damage. Health care professionals can run tests to determine whether a heart attack is occurring and decide the best treatment.

Message from the Publisher

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Leading a long, productive life is a common goal. Fortunately, there are many steps we can take to try and reach that goal. In this special edition, the Defender focuses on what we can do to live longer. We begin by looking at life expectancy and the longevity of African-Americans. Next, we explore heart disease, the No. 1 killer. We examine ways of fighting cancer, the No. 2 killer. We also look at five key healthy behaviors that have been proven to lengthen lives. In addition, we would like to thank our partners – Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, Legacy Community Health, MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children’s Hospital – for their valuable advice on other health matters.

As we look at various health issues and the connection to longevity, we can’t help but see a pattern. Barring an accident, living a long life has a lot to do with our lifestyle choices. It’s clear exercising and eating right in the fight against heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes are important. We can start with the little things, like using the stairs instead of the elevator, taking a walk instead of lounging on the sofa, drinking more water, consuming more fresh fruits and green vegetables, eating less sugar and salt, and cutting back on fatty meats, fried food, junk food and unhealthy fast food. With discipline and determination, a longer, healthier life could be in your future.

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JULY 26 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Take steps to reduce

cancer risks

example. So, reduce the consumption of things like hotdogs, deli meats and sausage. One of every four We are also finding that Afdeaths in the United States rican-Americans present cancer is due to cancer, but if it at later stages than other groups. is detected and treated While other groups may present early, cancer can often be at stage 1 or stage 2 we’re more stopped. likely to show up at the doctor Preventing cancer is with stage 3 or stage 4 cancer. critical in the Black comBy the time you show up at that munity. According to the stage it increases your mortality. American Cancer Society, The way we reduce incidents African-Americans have and mortality is to get screenthe highest death rate and ings for cancer. For Africanshortest survival of any raAmericans insurance status has cial and ethnic group in the a lot to do with whether we get U.S. for most cancers. screened. Even for AfricanThe most commonly Americans with insurance we diagnosed cancers in still don’t get screened at the African-American women same rate. The one screening are breast (32 percent of all test we generally do as often cancers), lung (11 percent) and colon and as whites is for breast cancer. For mamrectum (9 percent). The most common canmograms we do pretty well. But for colon cers in African-American men are prostate cancer, pap tests and HPV tests for cervical Cancer can cause many different symptoms. Some of them are: (31 percent), lung (15 percent) and colon cancer we do those at lower rates. • Skin changes, such as a new mole, a change in an existing and rectum (9 percent). Defender: Given African-Americans’ mole or a sore that does not heal To gain more insight into the disease, higher rates of obesity, which cause is more • Breast changes, such a change in size or shape of the breast the Defender spoke with Dr. Lorna Mcprevalent – an unhealthy diet or lack of or nipple or a change in texture of breast skin Neill, PhD, MPH, department chair for the exercise? • A thickening or lump on or under the skin Department of Health Disparities Research O’Neill: It’s both. We have high obesity • Hoarseness or cough that does not go away at MD Anderson Cancer Center. rates and low physical activity rates. Blacks • Changes in bowel habits Defender: What is the number one and Hispanics are less likely to exercise • Difficult or painful urination thing African-Americans can do to recompared to other groups. Some neighbor• Problems with eating, such as discomfort after eating, a hard duce their cancer risk? hoods we live in aren’t conducive to physitime swallowing or changes in appetite McNeill: Up to 50 percent of cancers cal activity. We might not live in neighbor• Weight gain or loss with no known reason are preventable in general. For Africanhoods that have gyms. We might live in • Abdominal pain Americans, the main thing we can do to neighborhoods with parks but those parks • Unexplained night sweats reduce our risk is to engage in preventamight be run down or there is fear of crime. • Unusual bleeding or discharge, including blood in the urine, tive behavior, starting with not smoking. In terms of our diet there tends to be vaginal bleeding or blood in the stool Tobacco use is the number one preventable higher caloric intake in various forms from • Feeling weak or very tired factor for cancer. If you don’t smoke, don’t fat or carbohydrates. Culturally we have a These symptoms may not be due to cancer. They may also start. If you do smoke try to quit. preference for great tasting food that has be caused by benign tumors or other problems. If you have The second group of factors is the link higher caloric content. Ultimately, we have symptoms that last for a couple of weeks, see a doctor so that between diet and physical exercise. Many to change some of the ways we eat. You can problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. people don’t know that obesity is a risk faceat whatever you want but in moderation. Source: National Cancer Institute tor for cancer. Given the high obesity rate Instead of macaroni and cheese three times in African-American communities this a week cut back on it and incorporate is definitely one area we need to spend a other healthier foods in order to maintain For info on cancer screening guidelines visit lot of time focusing on from a prevention a healthy weight and not have it creep up www.mdanderson.org/prevention-screening/get-screened.html perspective. over time. It’s unclear if you lose weight if you We also live where there’s a density reduce your risk your risk for cancer but There are other certain factors concerning diet. of more fast food restaurants and some [research] definitely shows if you gain weight over We are finding that processed meats are being imof us live in neighborhoods where there often aren’t time you increase your risk for cancer. plicated in certain cancers like colorectal cancer for enough supermarkets that have fresh produce. By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

Symptoms of cancer

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Avoid summer learning loss By DR. ADIAHA SPINKS-FRANKLIN Texas Children’s Pediatrics

Summer learning loss refers to the amount of academic information children and adolescents forget over the course of summer break that puts them further behind in school. Research suggests that students can lose up to three months of reading skills and one month of math skills if they do not practice those skills over the summer. In fact, a student can fall behind one year in reading skills just from summer reading loss over several summers. The recommended reading rule for the summer is only 30 minutes per day. If children read 30 minutes a day all summer, they will actually gain reading skills. In fact, children who read 30 minutes per day can gain one to two months of reading skills over the course of the summer. Here are suggestions for making summer reading fun: • Read WITH your children 30 minutes daily. Take turns reading to each other. • Keep a book in the car and have your children take turns reading aloud while riding in the car. Discuss the book while in the car.

• Find books that are fun and interesting for your children to read. Think of a variety of topics – sports, science, adventure, fantasy – and different formats – prose, comic books, graphic novels, magazines, poetry. If a child is interested in the book, she is more willing to read the book with you. Research suggests that choosing books that reflect a child’s home culture can also enhance reading enjoyment and reading comprehension.

• Consider introducing graphic novels. Graphic novels are books written in comic book format. Evidence suggests that when children read graphic novels, their reading comprehension skills are enhanced by the accompanying pictures. Evidence also suggests that graphic novels use higher level vocabulary words since the author must succinctly tell the same story. Several classic novels have been turned into graphic novels including “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien, “Kindred” by Octavia E. Butler and “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. • Plan a read-and-watch night. Read a book as a family; then watch the movie. Take on the role of movie critic and discuss how the book and movie are similar and different. • Choose books that are easier for your child to read in order to build his reading fluency skills. If a child has to sound out four or more words on a page, then that book is too hard for him to read independently. The goal is for your child to feel successful when reading to you. • Join your public library summer reading program. Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin is a developmental pediatrics expert at Texas Children’s Hospital

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Making the most of media:

Understand technology in your child’s life By DR. STAN SPINNER Texas Children’s Pediatrics

If you are a parent, it is important to be proactive about your child’s media usage because too much media can have negative effects. To help monitor media usage, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends parents develop a family media plan that takes into account the health, education and entertainment needs of the child and family. Dr. Stan Spinner It is recommended you begin exposing your child to media no earlier than 18 months. At this age, children have developed the cognitive ability to learn simple things from screens, like new words. You should watch media with your children to help them

understand the content. It is especially important to use highquality programming, such as “Sesame Street” and other PBS shows, which include educational content in their programs. Here are AAP recommendations for your child’s screen time depending on their age: • Younger than 18 months: Avoid use of screen media other than video-chatting. Parents who want to introduce digital media should choose high-quality programming and watch it with their children to help them understand what they’re seeing. • Ages 2 to 5 years: Limit screen use to one hour per day of high-quality programs. Parents should co-view media with children to help

them understand what they are seeing and apply it to the world around them. • Ages 6 and older: Place consistent limits on the time spent using media and the types of media, and make sure media does not take the place of adequate sleep, physical activity and other behaviors essential to health. Media can have a powerfully positive impact by initiating learning and building relationships. Technology can also be used to strengthen relationships, such as video-chatting grandparents your child might rarely see. But be aware of the risks of media as well. If used poorly or obsessively, media can be addicting and distracting. Too much media is related to adverse behavioral, development, sleep and obesity outcomes. Dr. Stan Spinner is chief medical officer at Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Texas Children’s Urgent Care.

DEFENDER | JULY 26 | 2018

HOW TO LIV

Five healthy behaviors hel

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

eading a healthy lifestyle has numerous benefits and can make a difference in the quality and length of your life. If you’re already practicing good health habits, keep up the good work. If you have some unhealthy habits, you can decide to make a change for the better. Elizabeth Brierre, RN, ANP-C, a nurse practitioner with the Geriatrics Clinic at Harris Health System’s Quentin Mease Hospital, has identified five behaviors that can lead to longevity. Here, she shares them with the Defender.

Eat a healthy diet Brierre said one of the most crucial and challenging behaviors is sticking to a healthy diet. “There are lots of components to that,” she said. “They include low salt to help with blood pressure and low sugar, especially reducing or eliminating soda. We’ve also learned that the more sugar in your diet the more inflammation of your body. Inflammation can contribute to heart disease, diabetes and even dementia. “The recommendation is if you look at your plate, more than half of it should be vegetables, and an adequate protein serving is about the size of a deck of cards, which is a lot smaller than most people think. As far as food restriction, it’s more important that you have an appropriate size on your plate, not necessarily cutting out this and cutting out that, but moderation.”

Exercise regularly “Another important health habit for longevity is working some type of exercise into you day,” she said. “The main thing is to get your blood pumping because it has a lot of benefits for your heart and your lungs and those are the two most important organs, especially when it comes to heart and lung disease. There are also weight loss benefits from exercise.” Brierre added that exercise is the best therapy for arthritis to keep your joints limber and keep the supporting muscles strong to take the stress off those joints. “When you exercise with arthritis you’re strengthening all those supporting muscles,” she said. “It’s also true that if you don’t use it, you lose it, and that’s true at any age. If you’re

just sitting down and not moving your body or moving around or challenging your heart and your lungs and muscles, you’re going to decline and those muscles are going to get more difficult to use.” She said exercising can take various forms, and the main thing is to get moving. “Living in Houston where it’s so hot, it’s hard to get out and walk around the block after 9 a.m.,” she said. “I encourage my patients, even my homebound patients, to just walk in the house and beat a path throughout the day. People can even do exercises during commercial breaks or while watching TV or washing dishes. “Incorporating activity throughout the day does not necessarily mean hitting the gym every day but increasing your movement and working that into your lifestyle.” Don’t smoke or abuse alcohol “You can’t talk about longevity without talking about vices, especially smoking,” Brierre said. “That is something that some of the longest living people have in common, is that they have not used tobacco products or they have cut them out of their lives. There is absolutely no moderation on tobacco use. There is nothing beneficial or helpful about tobacco. It’s all harmful – harmful for your arteries, heart, lungs and circulation. It’s just terrible for every part of you. “As far as alcohol goes, moderate consumption is okay. That would be about a 5-ounce glass of wine a day for women or two for men. Cutting down on those extra things in life are really helpful and have been shown to extend life,” she said.

4 ger.

Maintain social relationships Spending time with family or friends can also help you live lon-

“In the UK, they’re starting to address social isolation as a public health problem,” Brierre said. “As we age it gets more difficult because perhaps we are able to leave home as often as we once were or our family and friends have passed away as we’ve gone through the years. “But it’s very important to maintain those social relationships because they challenge you mentally with conversations and discussions, and they provide emotional support to

help through times of stress times of stress or crisis incre mostly due to health reasons sons of our family and frien “There’s also the though people close to you may enc take care of yourself better, you to put down that cigaret with your doctor.” Brierre noted that lonel linked to heart disease, canc and diabetes. “Whether it’s through yo neighbors or your family, it’ tant to stay out in the world maintain relationships as lon

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VE LONGER

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lp you avoid an early grave

or crisis. Those ease as we age s and health reands. ht that having courage you to might encourage tte or check in

liness has been cer, depression

our church, your ’s really imporand nurture and ng as you can.”

Understanding your weight

Get regular medical check-ups Brierre said regular check-ups are a must and are essential to longevity. “Patients should find a primary care provider they can connect with and follow up with, whether it’s a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. Once you establish that relationship, it’s important that if you have diagnoses to learn about them,” she said. “If you’re taking any medications, prescription or over the counter, learn about those medications and side effects and the appropriate dosage. Often, I will see patients who are taking way too much Tylenol or ibuprofen and they think because it’s available at the drugstore it’s safe, and that’s not true. Every medicine has a side effect,” she said.

ng the Houston area for over 85 years

1. Reaching an d maintaining a healthy weigh and control va t can help you rious diseases prevent and condition and give you m s, fe el good about ore energy to yourself enjoy life. 2. African-Am erican women have the highes weight or obes t rates of bein e compared to g overother groups in 3. About four the U.S. out of five Afr ican-American obese. women are ov erweight or 4. There are m any factors ca n contribute to ing environmen a person’s wei t, family histor ght, includy and genetics, your body chan metabolism (t ges food and he way oxygen into en habits. ergy) and beha vior or 5. In addition to being physic ally active, if yo obese, you can u are overweigh reduce your da t or ily intake by 50 loss. While pe 0 calories for ople vary in th weight e amount of ph for weight cont ysical activity rol, many can they need maintain their 300 minutes (2 weight by doin ½ to five hour g 150 to s) a week of m such as brisk w oderate-intens alking. ity activity 6. People who want to lose a large amount percent of thei of weight (mor r body weight) e than 5 , and people w weight that th ho want to keep ey’ve lost, may off the need to be ph than 300 minut ysically active es of moderat for more e-intensity activ 7. Assessmen ity each week. t of weight an d health risk in measures: Bod volves using th y mass index (B ree key MI), waist circum tors for diseas es and conditi fe re nc e an d risk facons associated 8. Your BMI w with obesity. ill tell you if yo u are underwei overweight or ght, a normal obese. weight, 9. While BMI is a useful measu re of overweigh overestimate bo t and obesity dy fat in athlet it may es and others build and may who have a m underestimate uscular body fat in olde who have lost r persons and muscle. others 10. To calculat e your BMI visi t www.nhlbi.nih lose_wt/BMI/bm .gov/health/edu icalc.htm cational/ Source: U.S. Dep t. of Health & H uman Services

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Nine sunscreen tips for the summer By MD Anderson Cancer Center

For many of us, summertime means long sunny days spent by the pool or at the beach. However, many of us are incorrectly applying sunscreen or questioning the need for it altogether. Saira George, M.D., a dermatologist at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, says many patients still ask about the necessity or safety of sunscreen. “I understand the concern,” George says. “What’s more natural than sunlight? But we have to understand that there are carcinogens in nature, and too much UV radiation from the sun is an example of that.” Here are nine sunscreen tips to help keep your family safe from skin cancer, including melanoma.

More is better. The biggest trouble people get into with sunscreen is not using enough and missing spots. “Just because you use sunscreen doesn’t mean you can’t get sunburned or get skin cancer. Those who use it tend to be in the sun more, and we all tend to under-apply sunscreen,” says George. Be generous and thorough in covering every part of your body that is exposed to the sun with sunscreen, including your ears, back of your neck, and toes. The average adult should use one ounce of sunscreen per application. That means the bottle should be gone within a few applications. A family of four on summer vacation should pack one bottle of sunscreen for every two days. But most only use 1.5 bottles of sunscreen per year.

is far more effective than using sunscreen only when it’s sunny outside or when you’re expecting sun exposure. So, make this your family’s new morning routine: apply sunscreen, get dressed, put on shoes and enjoy the day.

Sunscreen doesn’t last all day. Apply and then reapply every two hours. If you’re swimming or sweating, reapply sunscreen even more often. No sunscreen is

Always check the expiration date on your sunscreen. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the effectiveness of sunscreen and requires each bottle to have an expiration date. Sunscreen is usually good for three years, so check the expiration date and throw out anything past its date.

It takes time for sunscreen to reach optimal protection. Before your kids get dressed, apply the first coat of sunscreen. Most sunscreens don’t hit their maximum protection until 30 minutes after you apply them.

Spray sunscreens may not give you full coverage. Spray sunscreens bring additional challenges, including covering the body. The best practice is to rub in sunscreen after applying, or it will not work very effectively.

Make applying sunscreen a daily habit. Even on cloudy days, the sun’s UV rays shine through and can cause skin damage or sunburns. Adding the application of sunscreen to your daily routine

thing over SPF30. It’s also important to keep in mind that sunscreen is just one way to protect your skin from the sun. “I think the biggest danger of using sunscreen may be the false sense of security it provides,” says George. Additional effective ways to protect your skin are to seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing (including a hat that covers your ears) and sunglasses with UV protection, and avoid being outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are most harmful.

All skin types, from fair to dark, need sunscreen and sun protection. Anyone can get skin cancer, no matter their age or skin color. No skin type is completely safe from sun damage and skin cancer.

truly waterproof. If your kids participate in applying their sunscreen, they will be more likely to want to apply it and remember to do so themselves.

Higher SPF does not equal more protection. No sunscreen provides 100% protection from the sun. SPF 30 provides 97% protection, SPF 50 provides 98%, and SPF 100 provides 99%. In other words, there’s little benefit in using any-

The best sunscreen is the sunscreen that works for you. There is a lot of talk about what ingredients to look for or avoid in sunscreens. “I advise my patients who are still worried about sunscreen safety to stick with the simple mineral sunscreens,” says George. First, find sunscreens that have been approved by the FDA, and then find one that feels good and that you’ll actually use and reapply often. To learn more on how to reduce your risk of skin cancer, visit mdanderson.org/reduceyourrisk.

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“The best way to fight cancer–prevent it” Dr. Saira George | Cancer Physician Up to 50 percent of cancer cases in the U.S. could be prevented. It’s true. Up to half the cancer cases in the U.S. could be prevented through lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, not smoking, preventive vaccinations, sun safety, and screenings. The first and best way to fight cancer is to do everything you can to reduce the risk of getting cancer. To make an appointment today or to learn more, call 1-855-894-0145 or visit mdanderson.org/reduceyourrisk.

Ranked one of the top cancer centers in the nation for 29 years by U.S. News & World Report.

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Mental health is as important as

your physical health

By Dr. Chad Lemaire Legacy Community Health

Nine out of 10 Texans say it’s more difficult to discuss mental than physical health. Yet mental health should be discussed – and treated -- like any other health condition, be it diabetes or hypertension. The Houston area has an alarmingly higher rate than the national average of people experiencing Serious Psychological Distress (SPD). A small fraction of folks actually get treatment. Why? Stigma. Stigma is a real problem when it comes to treating depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic

stress. But there is nothing shameful about having a mental health issue. Taking care of the mind is just as important as taking care of your body. Mental illness is quite common: One in five adults in America experience a mental illness, and nearly one in 25, or more than 10 million American adults, live with a serious mental illness. Much progress has been made in decreasing stigma in recent years; many who previously were not willing to seek help for their struggles now are. However, many are still not getting treatment. Studies in recent years from the National Institute of Mental Health and the Child

Mind Institute have shown similar numbers for children – about 2/3 with a diagnosable mental illness have not received treatment. Legacy Community Health provides nonjudgmental behavioral health care at many of its more than 30 neighborhood clinics to help meet the robust community need. We provide culturally competent care to adults and children in the diverse communities we serve, including Fifth Ward, Northside, and Southwest Houston. It’s so important for those dealing with a mental health issue to know it’s okay to talk about it and get treatment. We all go to the doctor for aches and pains, the flu, and to manage diseases affecting our physical health. The same must also be true for the very common issues impacting our minds. Dr. Lemaire is Medical Director of Behavioral Health at Legacy Community Health.

Bringing Healthy Change to our Communities – and the Families in Them. We believe that good health is one of life’s greatest necessities – and that makes it one of our greatest priorities. With locations across Houston, Baytown, Beaumont and Deer Park, we make it easy to find a Legacy health care provider near you.

To learn more about our quality care for the entire family, visit LegacyCommunityHealth.org or call (832) 548 5000 to make an appointment today. • Pediatrics • • Behavioral Health • • School & Sports • Physicals • • Vaccinations & Immunizations

Obstetrics & Gynecology Free Pregnancy Testing Adult Primary Care HIV/STD Testing, Prevention & Treatment

• • • •

Dental Pharmacy Vision And more!

We accept most health insurance plans including HMO/PPOs, Medicaid, Medicare and CHIP. We also offer programs to reduce the cost of your health care.

(832) 548 5000 LegacyCommunityHealth.org

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Lupus attacks African-American women BY JEANENE SMITH, M.D. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic

ow much do you know about a disease called lupus? It’s not a well-understood condition. Normally, the immune system protects the body from infection. However, with lupus, the immune system inappropriately attacks tissues in various parts of the body, leading to Jeanene Smith, M.D. tissue damage and illness. African-American women are especially at risk for lupus.

Tricky to diagnose

Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because many of the signs and symptoms are similar to other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lymphoproliferative disorders (a disease in which cells of the lymphatic system grow excessively), and chronic infections like HIV, hepatitis, and Lyme disease. Black women are three times more likely to develop lupus than any other race. This disease often

affects females ages 15-44, but the onset for black women can occur earlier. Having lupus increases the risk of cardiovascular events, like heart attacks, strokes, and transient ischemic attacks (TIA), often called mini-strokes. Many patients with active lupus complain of fever, weight loss, and tiredness and may develop specific problems when the immune system attacks a particular organ(s) or area(s) in the body. Specific areas of the body that may be affected during the course of lupus include the skin, joints, and kidneys. The blood may also be affected, resulting in low red blood cell count (anemia), low white blood cell count, and low platelet count. Those with lupus may experience joint pain, extreme fatigue, hair loss, a facial rash, chest pain, dry eyes, difficulty breathing, headaches, confusion, and memory loss, among other symptoms.

• • • • • • • •

No two cases are alike

Lupus treatment is highly individualized, meaning there’s no one specific course of treatment, which may include any of the following: • Steroids, both topical and systemic, to help reduce inflammation. • Immunosuppresive medications. • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. • Home remedies such as applying vitamin E oil, olive oil, and cod oil to soothe skin and help reduce irritation and pain.

Lupus diagnosis criteria

The American College of Rheumatology has specific classification criteria to help physicians in making a diagnosis of lupus. These criteria include: • A rash shaped like a butterfly across the bridge of the nose and cheeks. • A raised rash on the head, arms, chest, or back.

Sunlight sensitivity. Mouth ulcers. Inflammation of the joints. Heart or lung involvement. Kidney problems. Seizures or other neurological problems. Positive antibody tests. Changes in normal blood values.

Dr. Smith is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician at Kelsey-Seybold’s The Woodlands Clinic. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

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Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, you have an entire healthcare team that can share your medical history through one electronic medical record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you. Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: n

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DEFENDER | JULY 26 | 2018

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JULY 26 | 2018 | DEFENDER

NAACP troubled by rise in hate crimes NNPA News Service

The NAACP, the nation’s premier civil rights organization, said a new study shows a rise in hate crimes last year. According to new data, “hate crime totals for the 10 largest cities rose for four straight years to the highest level in a decade.” The NAACP believes there is a direct relationship between the rise in hate crimes exemplified by the continual #LivingWhileBlack incidents and other reported crimes and President Donald J. Trump’s rhetoric and racist policies. The report shows that racially-motivated crimes comprise nearly 60 percent of overall crimes, and AfricanAmericans remain the most targeted group. Overall, “Anti-Black, anti-Semitic, anti-gay and anti-Latino were the most common type of hate crimes,” said the study’s authors. “From campaign to election, this president has spewed Rev. Zedar E. Broadous, president of the San Fernando Valley Branch of the NAACP, leads a March Against Hate rally. the language of division and hate and it has manifested in designed to create “racial discord” and supcrimes, particunot only racist policies, but in press Black votes during the 2016 presidential larly those against racists acts against people of election as a possible factor in the rise in hate the disabled comcolor and other groups,” said crimes. munity, indicates Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO, said President NAACP President and CEO Trump has spewed the language of division and hate. They argued that “further research is the numbers may Derrick Johnson. needed, but there appears to be a correlation actually be higher. While the data showed a between the rise in targeted racially divisive In an op-ed appearing in the St. Louis 12 percent rise in hate crimes over 2016 in 38 social media ads and a near-contemporaneous Post-Dispatch, researchers also mentioned the of the nation’s largest cities, the failure of at rise in hate crimes.” impact of fraudulent Russian Facebook ads least 90 of the largest cities to report any hate

African asylum-seekers in U.S. face challenges Texas Tribune

After a months-long journey across the Atlantic Ocean, into Central America and through Mexico, Merlin arrived at the U.S. port of entry in Laredo full of hope. The 38-year-old who worked in hotel management said he fled violent political unrest in Cameroon seeking a new life in America, a country he viewed as a bastion of safety and freedom. But after legally crossing the border and asking for asylum, Merlin was detained by federal officials for 11 months. He lived at the South Texas Detention Complex along with people who didn’t look like him or speak his native language of French. Merlin, who asked to be identified only by his first name, because he’s fleeing political persecution, was frequently frustrated with how the reality of life as a refugee in America conflicts with the country’s image as a haven for immigrants while he struggled through an asylum process experiencing fundamental shifts under the Trump administration. This wasn’t the United States he thought would be welcoming him with open arms and

opportunity. Some days, he questioned why he came. “I was a bit disappointed for what we were thinking,” Merlin said. “In Africa, you thought [America] was paradise.” As the Trump administration implemented its now-reversed “zero tolerance” immigration policy and narrowed previous paths to asylum in the past year, thousands of Mexican and Central American immigrants became the faces of chaotic changes that federal agencies made in how they treat people legally and illegally crossing the border. But asylum seekers like Merlin who fled African countries have also been ensnared in the bureaucratic tumult. And those Black African immigrants arriving in Texas are finding a litany of racial, cultural and practical challenges that can be different from – and overshadowed by – the experiences of Latino immigrants who flood into Texas each year, advocates and experts say. “We become frustrated with the single story pushed out,” said Deborah Alemu of Undocublack Network, an organization that advocates for Black, undocumented

immigrants. The number of African immigrants in the U.S. has roughly doubled every decade since 1970, according to the Pew Research Center. The original plaintiffs at the heart of what is now a class-action lawsuit that the American Civil Liberties Union filed against Immigration and Customs Enforcement over federal officials separating families seeking asylum are from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Texas, the second-most populous state in the country, has more than 235,000 foreignborn African residents. That is more than any

other state, according to 2016 U.S. Census data. But those immigrants represent only 5 percent of the state’s total foreign-born residents, thanks mainly to the large number of immigrant Texas residents born in Latin America. Alemu said that historical racism and discrimination directed at Black people in America can exacerbate the difficulties African immigrants already face for being an asylum seeker. “You won’t be recognized as Ghanaian, Congolese or Jamaican,” Alemu said. “You’ll be recognized as Black.”

DEFENDER | JULY 26 | 2018

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feature

Shane Evans shows off pro boxing talent Evans: It presents itself in so many different ways. It could be his arm is too low and I can hit him with a left hook hane Evans has his eyes to the chin or his hand is too high, I can on the heavyweight boxing hit him to the body with a liver shot. I’m championship. The Houslooking at every possible opportunity that ton northside native and I have and I just capitalize on it and I capigraduate of Forest Brook talize on it as fast as I possibly can. High built a stellar amateur Defender: How do you plan to become career ranking sixth in the nation in the heavyweight champion of the world? superheavyweight division. His debut Evans: I will be heavyweight chamin professional boxing began with a pion of the world. I will have all the belts. first-round TKO knockout of Domingo This is a guarantee. This is not me saying Rodriguez. anything for the camera. This isn’t me tryHis next fight is scheduled for Aug. ing to sound good for the world. These are 25 in Pasadena. Evans spoke with the facts. I grind and my grind is completely Defender about his perspective on his different from everyone else’s. I know this career, boxing style and advice for other for a fact. I refuse to lose. This is the thing. amateur boxers. So many people are doing it because they Defender: How has your life want to be seen, they want the money, they changed since becoming a professional want the fame, they want to be acknowlfighter? edged. I’m doing this for my family and Evans: It’s pretty much the same legacy. Every time I step into the ring I’m thing for me: Hard work, grinding, Evans takes advice from his trainer Joseph Rivera. looking at how to better myself, how to going to the gym every day and just perfect myself, how to become that perfect putting in that work. The only difIt’s a style with no style. I just adapt to whomever I machine… ference I would say is it requires more am in the ring with. I never go in there with Defender: What are your thoughts on matches effort than it did in the amateurs. So a game plan; I’m gonna fight this guy this focusing more on I come in the gym and just go for way. Whatever he the pre-fight promoit and grind. presents to me in the tional circus than Defender: How do you dering, I pick it up the actual bout in Video: Evans and life before boxing scribe your boxing style? there and go from the ring? Evans: I am a southpaw there. Evans: I have but I don’t have a specific style Defender: some down-to-earth because I study fights, whether What goes through your head when trainers and they tell me, “You don’t get paid by the it be judo, boxing, MMA, or you knock someone out? hour, so you go in there and get the job done.” I don’t Brazilian jiu jitsu. I can do a have time to be flashy. It’s like to each his own… combination of everything. So, that’s not my thing. my style is to basically just adapt. Defender: What advice do you have for other young fighters looking to become a pro boxer one Native Houstonian day? Shane Evans has heavyweight title Evans: Keep God first, always number one. Keep aspirations. God the head of your family. Pay attention to your craft, and study your craft. It’s 24 hours in a day. Don’t take any shortcuts because there aren’t any. What you think is a shortcut is really just a faster way for you to get kicked out of your career. Stay humble, About Evans don’t get beside yourself and remember those people that are there for you. If you dedicate yourself to your Age: 30 craft and have the heart and mindset, you can’t lose. Favorite food: Anything good

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

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Favorite musician: Anything New Jack ‘90s Favorite actor: Jamie Foxx Favorite movie: “Any Given Sunday” Favorite athletes to watch on TV: Pernell Whitaker & Guillermo Rigondeaux Greatest fighters of all-time: Mike Tyson & James Toney Favorite fight to watch: Mike Tyson vs. Frank Bruno

classified Invitation for Bids Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc. is soliciting bids for subcontractors and vendors for construction of control no 0271-02-055 on IH 10 at W of FM 3538 to SH 36 that bids on August 8, 2018. Mail, fax, or email quotations to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc., 1701 Directors Blvd, Suite 1010, Austin, Texas 78744 fax: (512) 707-0798 email: bbiisw@bbiius.com. DBE/HUB contractors are encouraged to submit bids. Plans and specifications are available to be reviewed at TxDOT Plans On-line: http://bit.do/dBJ5G E.O.E. For information contact Brian Ficzeri at (512) 707-0797.

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JULY 26 | 2018 | DEFENDER

DEFENDER | JULY 26 | 2018

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sports

Astros seek to repeat in second half of season By MAX EDISON Defender

Now that the All-Star game has come and gone, the second half of the Major League Baseball season is off to the races. The defending world champion Houston Astros are sitting atop the AL West division with 64 wins, second most in all of baseball. The Astros are seeking to put some distance between themselves and the AL West’s second-place Seattle Mariners. In addition, the franchise is poised to be the first repeat World Series champions since the Yankees did it in 1999-2000. The first half of the season saw the Astros play outstanding baseball, but watching the team perform, one realizes they have yet to play at their maximum potential for a 15-20-game stretch. “To be honest, this team has not played up to its potential,” said GM Jeff Luhnow. “We’ve hit into a lot of double plays, we’ve had some guys go through extended slumps, we’ve punched out more than we did last year. Our bullpen has had periods where it’s blown a couple of leads.” The Astros are blessed with the best starting pitching staff in the MLB. Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, Lance McCullers, Charlie Morton and Dallas Keuchel collectively led the majors in ERA (3.02) and opponents’ batting average (.209) over the first half of the season. Collectively, they also led the majors in innings pitched (613). The obvious concern for manager A.J. Hinch is not to wear out the starters’ arms before the playoffs begin. “We have a good enough rotation where I don’t even have the flirtation of skipping guys or trying to bring guys back early,” Hinch explained. “That’s essentially like a six-man rotation, with the sixth man being an off-day, so I feel good about that.” As the MLB trade deadline approaches (July 31) expect Luhnow to carefully consider adding more arms to the bullpen. The team could use a bonafide closer now that the Ken Giles has been sent to Triple A Fresno. Baltimore closer Zach Britton is believed to be at the top of Luhnow’s wish list. To acquire him they would have to part with some of their top farm talent. Offensively, this year’s team continues to evolve, despite injury and adversity. Third baseman Alex Bregman, just in his second year, not only made the All-Star team but was the game’s MVP. World Series MVP George Springer has been mired in a slump that saw his batting average drop some 30 points in the three weeks leading up to the All-Star break, but first baseman Yuli Gurriel has stepped up

with clutch at bats. All-Star shortstop Carlos Correa has been on the disabled list since late June and should return to the starting line up in early August, just in time for the stretch run. Meanwhile, outfielder Josh Reddick has come through with key hits at opportune times. Outfielder Tony Kemp has shown the ability to hit consistently and adds an extra element of speed at the bottom of the order. And at the end of the day, AL MVP Jose Altuve continues to be the most consistent offensive weapon in baseball. Put all the ingredients together and you have an Astros team poised to play its best baseball over the second half of the season, heading into the playoffs. Are they better than last year’s champions? Springer offered his opinion. “I think we are,” Springer said. “But in today’s age, everybody bases that on a result. If we accomplish our goal, then yes. But I think on paper, yeah, we’re a very, very similar team, but we’re more experienced, which makes us a lot better.”

A.J. Hinch

Alex Bregm an

Jose Altuve

Tony Kem

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JULY 26 | 2018 | DEFENDER

h.s.zone

Garrison teaches tennis to next generation

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

ouston native and Olympic gold and bronze medalist Zina Garrison is providing training for the next generation of tennis players through a nonprofit that bears her name. The Zina Garrison Academy (ZGA) provides free programming for Houstonarea youth, and tennis classes are held at MacGregor ParkHomer Park Tennis Center, 5225 Calhoun. Garrison, who was trained by legendary tennis coach John Wilkerson at the same facility, is continuing the legacy. Academy staff includes Wilkerson, program director Yolanda Sadberry, assistant program director Rachel Baxley and tennis instructor Pharaoh Ra. ZGA fosters the development of model citizens in the classroom, on the tennis court and in the community by reinforcing educational support though positive role models, fitness coaching, wellness guidance and parent education. ZGA is preparing to close out the summer program and kick off the fall tennis academy beginning Sept. 10. Fall classes will be held Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The program is free, however parents are asked to make a donation. The ZGA team shared some insights about the program. Q: Describe the tennis academy. A: It takes a village to raise a kid and I would say the academy is one of the last of the villages in America. It’s not only here for teaching tennis, it teaches life skills, teaches kids how to be independent, teaches kids work ethic, teaches kids the many different things they will need to succeed in life. We have classes for all age ranges, from beginners to advanced to tournament players from ages 4-18. Q: Why is tennis a good sport for kids to learn? A: Number one, it’s an individual sport, so it’s just you and your opponent. There is no one to pass the ball to, no one to blame. It’s all pretty much on you. Tennis is also a sport you really can’t master. There is always something you can do better in tennis and competing teaches you so much about yourself. In tennis you learn so much more from losing than you would from winning. It’s one of the last beautiful games. Q: What are some of the other qualities kids learn in Pharaoh Ra the tennis program? en players. (Pho joys teaching the gam e to young tos by Jodie A: We’re not just about B. Jiles) tennis at the academy. We have so many other things that we offer young people.

Academy students pose with tennis legends Zina Garrison (right) and coach John Wilkerson (center).

reading with the kids. We also started a nutrition component and that includes our garden that opened on March 10. So, we try to teach kids how to live well and how to choose their food. Making better food choices is ) a major factor of living a fulfilling life. from left (second yers. y rr e b d a Brothers Produce helped a lot this summer on of pla olanda S include Y h future generati rs e ff a providing fruits and healthy snacks for st it Academy l Baxley (right) w e h c a R the kids. We also started working with the and police department through their PALS program. They come out and learn how to play tennis in plain clothes and hang VIDEO: One-on-One with Zina Garrison out with the kids. They develop relationships bridging that gap for the kids to know that the police can be friendly On the educational side, we have tuand are here to protect us. tors who come out and work with the Q: Tell us about your history with the program. kids in the after-school program. We A: I started here under the direction of John Wilkerson when I have a college prep program where was 11 years old coming out in the summer time just as our kids are the folks come out and work with our coming out today. My cousins and I rode the Metro bus here and students planting the seeds of going we had many great summers here. This game has been in my blood to college. We also have Academic and I still play to this day. Tennis can take you through so many Creative Engagement (ACE) training, walks of life and you can play this sport literally until your 90s. which is a curriculum made by United

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States Tennis Association (USTA) that includes tutoring and we do math and

For more information or registration visit www. zinagarrison.org

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DEFENDER | JULY 26 | 2018

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

topevents

QUEENDOM DAY CAMP……..Young ladies of color ranging in ages from Organized by Reg Rhodes and the i10Media Group, attendees heard 12 to 18 participated in the Queendom Day Camp, organized by Aisha both local and nationally-acclaimed artists. Attendees included Rudy and Freeman, founder of the local nonprofit Queendom. The camp focused Evette McNeese, Kim and Lowell Pinnock, Angela Koerner, Nathan on diverse topics pertaining to self-assurance, self-worth, public health Garcia, Chisa Sallah, Deonte Scott, Fanchon Rathers, Butterfly and more qualities related to becoming a true queen. Queendom strives Robinson, Kahili Gonzalez, Charmaine Ollie and many more. …….. to promote self-esteem, healthy living and empowerment among young KASHMERE HIGH SCHOOL REUNION……..The Kashmere High girls and adult women, and works to uplift and School Class of 1983 recently held its 35 th Class Reunion, educate through outreach, community development themed “Drifting on a Memory.” The three-day weekend Defender TOP EVENTS and education. Attendees included Courtlynn of activities included a welcome reception, Mix & Mingle More photos on defendernetwork.com Williamson, Nadiyah Beasley, Tayzah Dews, social, ’83 Kickback Party, the official 35th Reunion Gala, Zhariah Davis, Dazanai Crooms, Yocelyn Juarez, a Sunday “We’ve Come This Far By Faith” service and Arnee Crooms, Zhion Davis and others……..HOUSTON JAZZ & a Memorial Balloon Release. Five Class of ‘83 members were honored POETRY NIGHT……..As always, attendees at the Houston Jazz & during the festivities: Vicky Heilman Pink, Timothy Melvin, Vaughn Poetry Night were not disappointed with the lineup that included some Moore, James Prince and Johnna Wilson-Broussard. Other attendees scheduled and some open mic-inspired poets to bless the stage with their included Nedra Santee-Green, Lisa McGowen Robinson, Don Rayford, presence and verses. Taking place that the Alley Kat Bar & Lounge, the Rodney Bigham, Ranessa Robertson, Panatha and Paul Boyette Jr., event smoothly transitions from verses to musical vibes of jazz and R&B. Billy Washington and more.

Zhariah Davis, Aisha Freeman, Dazanai Crooms

Nadiyah Beasley, Tayzah Dews

Chisa Sallah, Deonte Scott

Kahili Gonzalez, Charmaine Ollie

Johnna Wilson-Broussard, James Prince, Vicky Pink

Yocelyn Juarez, Arnee Crooms, Zhion Davis

Kim Pinnock, Lowell Pinnock

Vaughn Moore, Nedra Santee-Green, Lisa McGowen Robinson, Elisa Steptoe

Panatha Lee Boyette, Paul A. Boyette Jr., Rodney Broussard

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years