Houston Defender: July 28, 2016

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Volume 85 | Number 39 JULY 28, 2016 | FREE

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NATIONAL CORNELL WILLIAM BROOKS pushes police reform

P3 OPINION MARC MORIAL calls for gun control

Donald Trump

Hillary Clinton

BLACK ISSUES WHERE DO POLITICAL PARTIES STAND?

P4 ENTERTAINMENT JULIANNE MALVEAUX promotes new book

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P5

Rep. Al Green

Michelle Obama

Houston Congressman Al Green is among the elected officials supporting a court ruling that declares Texas’ voter identification law discriminatory. Find out which Texans have been impacted by the ruling. See what’s next for voter ID.

First Lady Michelle Obama won praise for her speech at the Democratic National Convention, defining differences between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump and sharing family experiences. Hear what other well-known Democrats had to say.

supports ruling

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speaks out

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Trae tha Truth and Mayor Sylvester Turner at Trae Day Celebration

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

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Victory for voter ID opponents Defender News Service

Voting rights activists are claiming a partial victory in a federal appeals court’s ruling that declares Texas’ voter identification law – which many have called the strictest in the nation – to be “discriminatory.” The ruling has election authorities scrambling to make necessary changes for the upcoming elections in August and November.

The recently overturned law, SB 14, required Texas voters to have photo IDs and other strict identification requirements that the recent ruling says placed undue burdens on voters. Countless seniors who let their drivers licenses expire because they stopped driving have been

unable to vote, as have college students, said Congressman Al Green. and recently divorced individuals who “It is my hope that this decisive judgment lacked access to birth or marriage will mean that a multitude of citizens who were certificates, or divorce decrees. ineligible to vote due to this law will now be Republicans say the law was eligible to vote once again.” intended to curb voter fraud. Democrats The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth counter that the law sought to reduce Circuit upheld part of a 2012 District court turnout of minorities, seniors, college decision in Veasy v. Perry, saying that Texas’ students and the poor, who tend to vote voter ID law, “has a discriminatory effect in Democratic. violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.” Congressman Al Green “The preservation of the Voting The Appeals court also instructed the lower Rights Act is about the preservation of the core of our court to find a remedy for those minority voters who may democracy, as well as the positive progress we have be experiencing problems obtaining identification needed achieved by extending equal voting rights to all citizens,” to vote in November’s presidential election.

Memorial Hermann program empowers teachers Defender News Services

Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital business development director Jason Glover (far left) is shown with (l. to r.) Mellonie Lowery, Jo Nez Harlan, Ellen Prestage, Chardai Grays, Nestor Corpuz, LaTrondria Preston and Rory Anderson.

Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital is expanding the world of high school students one teacher at a time through its Teacher Externship program.

For three years the hospital hosted HISD high school teachers of a variety of subjects to shadow medical professionals. The goal is to allow teachers to learn about different industries and associated careers to better craft curriculum that is meaningful and relevant to students, hence, expanding their students’ world of possibilities.

“The program has exposed me to healthcare career options that you don’t hear about unless you know someone in health care,” said Chardai Grays, a two-time program participant, and Heights High School algebra teacher.

Grays said she learned organizational and collaborative skills from hospital professionals that can transfer to her classroom.

The week-long program allows teachers to rotate and shadow hospital personnel in various departments including engineering, lab, food and nutrition, emergency, and the pharmacy.

“I was able to interact with several departments,” said Heights science teacher Jonez Harlan, who learned about jobs ranging in requirements from no education to advanced degrees, providing him valuable information to pass on to his students.

Susan Jadlowski, senior vice president & CEO of Memorial Hermann Greater Heights, hopes the experience opens “doors for learning opportunities that will help to cultivate future healthcare professionals.”

localbriefs A FORMER WALLER COUNTY JAIL guard admitted, under oath, that he falsified entries on a jail log before Sandra Bland’s death, according to the lawyer for Bland’s mother. He noted in the records that he looked in on Bland an hour before her death was discovered. According to his new admission, he did not check on her. A source familiar with the state’s investigation of Bland’s death corroborates the guard’s story. Bland, 28, was found dead in her jail cell on July 13, 2015, three days after she was arrested during a traffic stop for failing to put on her turn signal. Her death was ruled a suicide, but speculations about how

Bland died have called the officer’s story into question……..A TRAFFIC STOP VIDEO shows a white Austin police officer violently throwing a Black woman to the ground during a stop, followed by another white officer telling her Black people have “violent tendencies” and whites are justifiably afraid. Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo condemned both officers’ actions, calling their comments “disturbing” and said a criminal investigation has been opened against the officer who arrested Breaion King. The traffic stop occurred in June 2015 but was not made public until recently. Both officers have been taken off street patrol and are on

desk duty pending new internal investigations…….

THE TEXAS PREPAID TUITION PROGRAM enrollment deadline is July 31 for Texas families to enroll their newborns in the Texas Tuition Promise Fund and prepay for all or some future tuition and school-wide required fees at Texas public colleges and universities. Newborns are children younger than one year at the time of enrollment. Under the promise fund, the state’s prepaid college tuition program, participants can purchase tuition units and lock in costs based on today’s prices. Visit TuitionPromise.org or call 1-800-445-GRAD for information.

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national

U.S.briefs CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS members and other minorities were well represented on the committee that drafted the Democratic Party’s platform, a groundbreaking document presented at the national convention.

“This is, without a doubt, the most progressive platform we have all seen in a long time,” said Congressman Elijah Cummings, who chaired the Drafting Committee. The process resulted in a 50-page document – which the 187-member DNC Platform Committee only slightly amended – that Cummings said he is “excited about” and one that addresses several specific concerns that impact Black lives. Chief among them is voting rights.

“We have very, very strong language over the right to vote,” Cummings said……..

THE POLICE SHOOTING of an unarmed Black man in North Miami brought renewed attention to the problem of criminal justice.

SWAT team member Jonathan Aledda shot Black mental health therapist Charles Kinsey in the leg. Bystander video showed Kinsey lying in the street on his back with his hands up shortly before the shooting. Kinsey said he had been trying to calm a patient with autism who had run from a nearby group home. The patient’s toy truck apparently was mistaken for a gun by a 911 caller. Aledda was placed on administrative leave and a police commander accused of fabricating information about the shooting was suspended.……..

AN UNREPENTANT REP. STEVE KING (R-Iowa) declined to backpedal on his statement that non-European cultures made no contributions to civilization. King said it’s time for this nation to stop promoting the idea of cultural equality.…….PRESIDENT OBAMA’S HALF-BROTHER, Malik Obama, announced that he supports Donald Trump’s policies, particularly his focus on security, and he also likes the nominee’s straightforwardness.

Trump himself sent out a tweet about the endorsement. Malik Obama, who used to live in Maryland, intends to fly in from Kenya to cast his vote for Trump in November.

VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 39 JULY 28, 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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Democratic convention builds momentum for November

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Sanders and his supporters claimed as much months ago.

Sanders’ delegates voiced their displeasure throughout the DNC, yet seemed to take steps toward backing Clinton fter stumbling out of the gate, the amid urgings to do so from multiple speakers, including Democratic National Convention (DNC) Sanders himself, whose speech closed out the DNC’s first headed into its final evening with a day. momentum built upon calls for party unity “Based on her ideas and her leadership, Hillary from President Barack Obama, First Lady Clinton must become the Michelle Obama, Sen. next president of the United Cory Booker, former States,” Sanders said. “The presidential candidate choice is not even close.”

Bernie Sanders, and others.

Democrats placed police Democrats hope the reform atop their platform momentum will build and while showing support carry through to the Nov. 8 for #BlackLivesMatter by elections. featuring as speakers the “Don’t let anyone “Mothers of the Movement,” ever tell you that this women who lost children country isn’t great,” Mrs. to violent encounters with Obama said on day one of police or citizens, including the DNC. “This, right now, the mothers of Sandra Bland is the greatest country on and Trayvon Martin. earth.”

Moreover, the DNC The first lady garnered showcased a ceremonial praise for her speech that breaking of the glass ceiling many said stole the show symbolizing the significance by defining the differences of Clinton becoming the between party presidential first woman nominee for candidates Hillary Clinton president from a major and Donald Trump without First Lady Michelle Obama gave an inspiring speech at the political party. ever mentioning Trump’s Democratic convention.

Clinton’s husband, former name.

President Bill Clinton along “When they go low, we with current Commander-in-Chief, Obama, each gave go high,” chided Mrs. Obama, in reference to Republican what attendees classified as memorable and unifying attacks up her entire family, and Clinton. speeches. Still, heading into that last night, when Hillary Proceedings began with Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s exit as chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee Clinton will officially accept the nomination, many DNC attendees are declaring the first lady the convention’s amid leaked emails that revealed the party committee biggest winner. favored a Clinton nomination rather than staying neutral.

Defender News Services

NAACP policies address today’s ‘lynchings’ Defender News Services

Declaring the recent rash of police shootings of Black males 21st century lynchings, the NAACP is pushing for two specific policies the organization believes will directly address the issues.

“What will put us on the path to justice is the passage of the Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act (LETIA) and the End Racial Profiling Act (ERPA). Radical reform of policing practices, policies, and laws at all levels must be made – immediately – because the current system is taking too many lives,” NAACP President and CEO Cornell William Brooks said.

The push was made in the wake of the deaths of Alton Sterling (Baton Rouge), Philando Castile (Minnesota), and the killing of five officers in Dallas.

“There was a 21st century lynching yesterday.

And the day before that, too,” Brooks wrote.

“Activists created the NAACP more than a century ago to fight racialized violence. Then, we called it ‘lynching.’ Today, we call it ‘police brutality,’ but the effect is still the same – our lives are in danger.”

Brooks also denounced violence against police, saying such actions “[did] not end the execution of Black Americans,” but believes LETIA and ERPA will provide the policing reforms necessary for major change.

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

opinion

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Tragedy debunks myth blocking gun reform

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By MARC H. MORIAL National Urban League

Daryl Cagle, CagleCartoons.com

ne of the more unsettling revelations about the tragedy in Dallas is that the mentally unbalanced gunman was rejected, after a background check, for membership in an extremist group but was legally able to purchase a high-capacity assault rifle.

According to media reports, Micah Johnson was labeled “unfit for recruitment” among a network of extremist groups, including some designated as “hate groups” by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Yet within months of that rejection, Johnson was able to meet in a parking lot with a gun seller he contacted online, and take possession of a military weapon designed to slaughter human beings as quickly and efficiently as possible.

What kind of a world do we live in when hate groups that actually encourage violence against law enforcement officers are more circumspect than our current firearm safety laws?

The man who sold Johnson the AK-47 said Johnson “didn’t stand out as a nut job” during their 15-minute meeting – as though dangerous mental instability is written across someone’s face.

“It’s my belief he would have passed a background check,” the man said. But it wouldn’t have mattered, not in Texas.

Federal law requires only licensed gun dealers to conduct background checks. Millions of guns are sold each year online or at gun shows through private sellers. Felons, domestic abusers, the violently mentally ill are able to acquire firearms and the law does nothing to stop them.

More than 90 percent of Americans support universal background checks.

Legally-required background checks have blocked more than two million gun sales Kap, La Vanguardia, Spain to dangerous people since the system was instituted.

The background check database must be Maybe Micah Johnson’s background would complete, and the types of incidents that warrant have slipped past the system. Seung-Hui Cho, who prohibition must be thoroughly examined. killed 32 people and wounded 17 on the Virginia Prior to the attack in Dallas, each mass-shooting Tech campus in 2007, was banned from buying guns incident in the United States has prompted a bizarre because a court found him severely mentally ill. chorus calling for even more guns in our society. “The But he passed a background check because his only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good records never made it into the system. And if the guy with a gun,” as the saying goes. current system wouldn’t have deemed Johnson’s Setting aside the impossibility of distinguishing bizarre behavior a red flag for a gun purchase, it a “good guy” from a “bad guy,” there were plenty certainly should have.

of people with guns at the scene of the Dallas massacre and not one of them was able to stop the sniper. The police were armed. About 30 of the marchers at the demonstration where the attack took place were armed. Not one of them managed to stop Micah Johnson with a gun.

Every modern study concludes that more guns equal more crime.

Right-to-carry laws are associated with significantly higher rates" of aggravated assault, robbery, rape and murder.

American children are 16 times more likely than children of other high-income countries to be killed in gun accidents, with as many as 100 children dying each year.

Our firearm safety system is broken – tragically, fatally broken. Lobbyists for the firearm industry hold our lawmakers in an almost literal death grip, blocking commonsense reform at every turn.

Call your U.S. Senators and Congress member and demand action on gun violence. Learn the truth about gun violence in America and educate your friends and family. And work for a nation that puts the safety of its citizens ahead of profits for the gun industry.

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entertainment

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Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Book asks ‘Are We Better Off?’

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By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

r. Julianne Malveaux has long been recognized for her progressive and insightful observations. She is a labor economist, noted author, colorful commentator and former president of Bennett College, an HBCU for women in Greensboro, N.C. Her contributions to the public dialogue on issues such as race, culture, gender and their economic impacts are shaping public opinion in 21st Century America. Her weekly column regularly appears in the Defender and other newspapers.

Malveaux is the founder and president of Economic Education, a non-profit focused on personal finance and economic policy education and their connection. Here, she talks about her new book, “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama and Public Policy."

Kam Williams: What inspired you to publish “Are We Better Off?" Dr. Julianne Malveaux: People will be talking about the Obama legacy for decades, and I wanted to include my voice in the analysis of this presidency. This is a column collection, or as one colleague called it, “history in real time,” recounting my perspective on the highs and lows of this presidency from an African-American perspective.

More than simply a column collection, the book has a substantial introduction that frames the Obama presidency, explores the way Obama was treated by the political establishment and also how this first Black president treated “his” people. In the epilogue, I use numbers to tell the story of African-American gains and losses during this presidency.

KW: How did you decide which articles to include in the book?

JM: It was quite a process to narrow more than 400 columns down to 80. I write weekly, though, and I don’t always write about President Obama, so that was the easy elimination. Sometimes, I repeat myself, and that was a second elimination. I worked with a team, including a great editor who, as the project came together, suggested other additions and eliminations. It was a process.

KW: Well, are we better off after eight years of Obama?

JM: The economy is better than the one President Obama inherited, and unemployment is lower, but the unemployment rate gap remains large. Black child poverty is higher. As I write in the epilogue, “Yes we can. No he didn’t.

President Obama didn’t push Black people backward, but he missed the opportunity to move us forward.”

KW: In the introduction, you ask, "How does President Obama treat his people?" before criticizing him for not reciprocating the overwhelming support he's received from the African-American electorate…What do you think he could have done in terms of jobs, housing and education?

JM: If some of the recovery money had gone to cities instead of states, the urban population, read "Black" and "Brown," would be better off with recovery jobs. While the banks got big bailouts, a sizeable chunk of African-American wealth evaporated because so many people lost homes. Some of the federal programs to help homeowners were never fully implemented.

And President Obama’s pick of Arne Duncan as secretary of education was abysmal. Cutting HBCUs was unconscionable. Implementing new regulations on Parent Plus loans, which cost HBCUs 28,000 students, was hostile. At the same time, it is important to note that, except for his first two years, which were a missed opportunity, President Obama faced rabid opposition from the Republicans. Indeed, as soon as he took office, Senator Mitch McConnell announced that his top priority was to deny President Obama a second term.

The president did introduce a jobs bill that could not clear Congress. The Republicans simply would not work with him.

KW: What grade would you give President Obama?

JM: Overall he gets a solid B, but for his work with Black America he gets a low C, at best.

what’sup Houston hip-hop artists opened accounts with Unity Bank in a show of economic support.

SLIM THUG, PAUL WALL, WILLIE D and TRAE THA TRUTH were just some of the rappers who recently came together to discuss gun violence with Houston Mayor SYLVESTER TURNER and they decided to put their money where their mouths are by opening accounts at the Third Ward bank to support Black businesses and help them flourish……..“Ghostbusters” star LESLIE JONES returned to Twitter after a twoday hiatus, which was prompted by a series of hateful and racist tweets directed at her

account. But the 48-year-old comic couldn’t stay silent for long. As Jones continues a publicity tour to promote her film, the “Saturday Night Live” star returned with a tweet that said, “Thanks for the love and support I received! Made me feel real special.”……..The IRS smacked SHEREE WHITFIELD with another tax lien. This is the latest in a string of liens for the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star, dating back to at least 2011. Documents reportedly filed in Georgia accuse her of owing $4,011 in back taxes for the year 2014, $134,728 for 2012 and 2013, $111,000 for the year 2011, and

$41,752 for 2009 and 2010. Her property and assets are at stake if she fails to pay up.……

Fox News anchor HARRIS FAULKNER won a key first hurdle in her lawsuit over a plastic toy hamster named “Harris Faulkner.” The “Fox Report Weekend” anchor sued Hasbro for allegedly violating her likeness and causing her emotional distress via the toy, which hails from the company’s Littlest Pet Shop product line. Hasbro filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that its hamster toy looked nothing like the plaintiff and that “name-sameness is not enough to state a claim for a violation of one’s right of publicity.”

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

cente Local

By ASWAD Defen

W

ith the Demo National Co books, polar political com the airwaves, and what man contentious and issue-light p between Hillary Clinton and the horizon, the Defender sp experts on politics and histo the issues that are most impo Participating scholars also s where each party stands on

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Hillary Clinton Donald Trump

BLACK ISSUES WHERE DO POLITICAL PARTIES STAND? "The top five issues most important to Black voters are jobs/economy, criminal justice reform, police brutality, health care and education.”

Dr. Gerald Horne, a pro University of Houston, labe with law enforcement as “po Democrats pressing for chan support the status quo.

Dr. Jason Casellas, an a political science at UH, beli to address the issue of mass Democrats do so because of on individuals, families, and Republicans generally disap “You’ve seen more col two parties on justice issues policies,” said Dr. Jay Aiyer public administration at Tex “But there are still differenc debates on how to deal with

ECONOMICS

Aiyer believes the two problems and potential solu particularly regarding econo “The GOP sees things the tax burden and regulatio contend ‘You can grow you you release capital, everyon move up,’ as if they don’t se “The GOP believes the is to get out of the way and l prices, successes and failure seeing changes in these view still see the basic thrust of li involvement.

“The Democrats see th said. “The government has a higher minimum wages, ena using the tax code, and take help those who have impedi advancement. How these id voter, depend on your persp “The implicit view am orthodoxy is that the field is just give people a chance ind

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experts list African-American concerns ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

WALKER nder

On the issue of the environment, Aiyer takes an unorthodox view.

“When I say environmental justice I expand the traditional definition of that term to include the fallout and neglect in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, landfill locations because it is upon landfills that so many Blacks live, access to healthcare, and the predominance of food deserts,” he said.

Horne takes a more traditional view and said Blacks are understandably too pressed on other fronts to focus on this issue, but still need to.

“The rate oceans are rising, places like Galveston and Houston might not be here in 50 years. Look at all the floods; it’s become normal,” Horne said.

ocratic and Republican onventions in the rizing and biased mmentary dominating ny predict will be very presidential debates d Donald Trump on poke to several local ory to get their takes on portant to Black people. shared their analysis on those issues.

OTHER ISSUES

E/POLICE

rofessor of history at the els Blacks’ interactions olice terror” and sees nge, while Republicans

associate professor of ieves both parties seek s incarceration, although f its negative impact d communities, while pprove of its high costs. llaboration between the s, like changes in drug r, an assistant professor of xas Southern University. ces when dealing with h law enforcement.”

o parties see both the utions differently, omic opportunities. in the context of reducing ons,” Aiyer said. “They urself into prosperity. If ne has the opportunity to ee roadblocks. e role of government let the market dictate es, etc., though you’re ws with Trump. But you ittle or no government

hings differently,” Aiyer a role in this. They can set act income redistribution e other measures to iments blocking their deas align for you, the pective. mong traditional GOP s pretty level, and if you ndividuals will succeed or

Dr. Jay Aiyer

Dr. Jason Casellas

fail based on their effort. Democrats see the field as not level, and thus you need to create opportunities because they just don’t organically happen,” Aiyer said.

EMPLOYMENT/INCOME

Casellas asserts the Democrats promise to improve economic outcomes by creating more jobs, spending more money on education, and addressing the incarceration problem.

“Republicans promise to create jobs by giving tax cuts to businesses and reducing the corporate tax rate,” Casellas said.

Horne believes Blacks view the fight for a minimum wage increase as their biggest economic issue, and says the Democratic base has embraced the “Fight for 15 [as in $15 an hour].”

Horne also contends that the Republican base stands to benefit just as much from a minimum wage increase, “yet they would be an impediment to change” because they are not willing to support the issue because it will increase business overhead.

“Of all the issues, I’m most optimistic about [the minimum wage battle] because there is a movement already in motion,” Horne said.

he Houston area for over 85 years

Dr. Gerald Horne

VOTING/CIVIL RIGHTS

The local scholars all believe the fight for basic civil rights is still an issue that needs addressing.

“With voter rights, voter restrictions, felony voting, there are differences due to the ways people have lined up politically,” said Aiyer. “Part of the rationale to restricting the vote, of not wanting everyone voting, is making more opportunities for people who will vote for you and not your opponents.

“However, no one who is for tougher voting laws and restrictions is willing to say it’s straight racial and political reasons,” Aiyer says. “One reason the GOP votes against D.C. statehood every time is that would mean two more Democratic senate seats simply basing predictions upon the racial and economic makeup of D.C.” Nationally, Republicans have pushed for stricter voting laws while Democrats have fought against those efforts.

Regarding affirmative action, Horne contends Democrats are by far more ailling to embrace it than Republicans.

“Given the recent [Supreme Court] ruling regarding the University of Texas, that’s a good sign in terms of preserving and expanding affirmative action,” he added.

Though healthcare was one of the biggest issues of the 2008 and 2012 election seasons, only two of the four professors interviewed listed it as a big ticket item for Blacks in 2016.

“Democrats promise to keep and expand the Affordable Care Act. Republicans promise to repeal [it] and give incentives to businesses to provide health care,” Casellas said.

Horne was the lone professor to mention war as an issue for Blacks. Though he sees differences in the views of party members in general, Horne contends Clinton and Trump are in sync on the issue.

“Sadly enough, there is not that much difference between the presidential candidates,” Horne said.

“Hillary Clinton is a hawk [advocating for aggressive or warlike policies] who was responsible for the overthrow of Libya in 2011. Trump talks of ‘carpet-bombing’ (intensive bombing), which would only further inflame anti-American sentiments throughout the Middle East.

Horne believes the Democratic base is less “hawkish” than Clinton but not “strong enough to sway our country away from catastrophe.”

Aiyer added another issue – housing – to his list of concerns for Black voters. He believes because the GOP is market-based, they shun programs that assist homebuyers, while Democrats see the need for interventions to help create home ownership opportunities.

On the topic of education, Casellas said, “Democrats promise to spend more money on education.

Republicans want vouchers to allow children to go to private schools.”

Dr. Maruice Mangum, a professor of political science at TSU, was brief in his assessment of Black issues and party differences.

“In my opinion, the top five issues most important to Black voters are jobs/economy, criminal justice reform, police brutality, health care and education,” Mangum said.

“The Democrats typically are neutral or in favor of attempts, efforts, and policies that assist or benefit Blacks. The Republicans oppose any and all attempts, efforts, and policies that seek to benefit Blacks and generally racial minorities and women.”

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

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sports

Olympic basketball team comes to Houston Aug. 1

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By MAX EDISON Defender

he USA men’s basketball team will be defending its gold medal when the Summer Olympics begin in Rio on Aug. 5. Before heading to Brazil the men’s team will stop here in Houston for a series of practices and an exhibition game against the Nigerian National team on Monday, Aug. 1 at the Toyota Center.

The 12-member team features the return of two members from the 2012 gold medalist U.S. Olympic team (Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant) and five players who have been members of USA World Cup gold medalist teams – Durant (2010), DeMarcus Cousins (2014), DeMar DeRozan (2014), Kyrie Irving (2014) and Klay Thompson (2014).

Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski will coach the Olympians for the third time and he likes the composition of this year’s team.

“Looking at this team, our overall balance is what strikes me,” Coach K said. “We have lightning-quick guards who can score as well as distribute the basketball. We have great shooters and explosive scorers, we're big and athletic, and I think we'll really be able to defend.

“I love our depth, which is another indication of the depth of talent our national team program is blessed with,” Krzyzewski continued. “We've got a great mix of talent, scorers, past gold medal winners and outstanding youth.”

Youth is the operative word with this year’s team. The average age of the 12 U.S. players will be 26.8 years at the conclusion of the Olympics on Aug. 21.

With such an extraordinary array of talent and every player used to being “the Man” on their respective teams it will be important for this team to build chemistry in order to win.

“We built this chemistry from day one, the first day of practice,” Indiana’s Paul George said. “Coach K always says ‘bring that ego’ but you have to be open. Usually in the NBA season you have time to build chemistry since it is a long season.

“We’ve been playing for about a month so we have to be on the same page early and we have to be open with one another.

That’s the only way we’re going to get this accomplished. It’s good that we have great guys who are willing to let go of themselves and just enjoy this process.

“You just play the game, but you know you have talent around you,” George continued. “No one is putting pressure on themselves as if they Kevin Durant have to do this, they have to do that. You just play the game.

Members of the men’s Olympic basketball team will play in Houston before heading to Brazil.

USA roster

1. Carmelo Anthony, forward, New York Knicks 2. Jimmy Butler, forward, Chicago Bulls 3. Harrison Barnes, forward, Dallas Mavericks 4. DeMarcus Cousins, center, Sacramento Kings 5. DeMar DeRozan, guard, Toronto Raptors 6. Kevin Durant, forward, Golden State Warriors 7. Paul George, forward, Indiana Pacers 8. Draymond Green, forward, Golden State Warriors 9. Kyrie Irving, guard, Cleveland Cavaliers 10. DeAndre Jordan, center, LA Clippers 11. Kyle Lowry, guard, Toronto Raptors 12. Klay Thompson, forward, Golden State Warriors

Paul George

coached us pretty well. Guys got extra work in.

“You do what made you special and that’s the reason We are looking at this group and we have guys that want to work, we’re all here as a group because of our special individual guys that want to come out and sacrifice and win, and that just talent,” George said. “You put that together with five guys makes it easier to play with [them].” on that court that can do the same thing it is no pressure. You Durant cautions that the team will take nothing for granted. want to play alongside one another and you want to share that “Anything can happen in basketball,” he said. “Nothing court with these guys.” is ever for sure. We want to get this gold, but we’re not gold Former MVP Durant echoed the theme of hard work and medalists right now, we don’t have the gold around our necks. So selflessness that permeates the team. once it’s for sure then we’ll be “We came out from excited, but right now we’ve got day one and followed the defendernetwork.com a job to do, preparing the right game plan each and every Griffey, Piazza inducted into MLB way every day.” day,” Durant said. “They

Hall of Fame

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JULY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Dennis Green dead Long-time NFL and college football coach Dennis Green died July 21 from complications of cardiac arrest. He was 67. Green was the second African-American head coach in the NFL, coaching 13 years in Minnesota and Arizona. He was best known for his 10-year tenure as coach of the Vikings. His teams made the playoffs eight times, including a 15-1 campaign in 1998.

“Denny made his mark in ways far beyond being an outstanding football coach,” the Vikings said in a statement. “He mentored countless players and served as a father figure for the men he coached. Denny founded the Vikings Community Tuesday Program, a critical initiative that is now implemented across the entire NFL. He took great pride in helping assistant coaches advance their careers. His tenure as one of the first African-American head coaches in both college and the NFL was also transformative.”

Green served as head coach at Northwestern and Stanford at the collegiate level.

Astros sign Sierra

Help protect kids from sports-related injuries

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s participation in organized sport activity increases, so does the rate of sports-related injuries. According to the CDC, recreational activities, including sports, account for an estimated 3.2 million visits to emergency rooms each year for children aged 5-14 years.

Injuries from organized and unorganized sports account for 775,000 emergency room visits annually for children in this same age group. Sports-related injuries are the leading cause of emergency room visits in 12-17-year-olds.

Because playing sports involves a certain amount of risk, those who play are at a higher risk for sportsrelated injuries. Twice as many males as females suffer sports-related injuries. This is due, in part, to the types of sports males and females play.

Collision or contact sports have higher injury rates. Football, basketball, baseball and soccer account for about 80 percent of all sports-related emergency room visits for children between 5 and 14 years of age.

While teens and young adults experience injuries related to the force they can generate and the intensity of play, children in this age group are less proficient at assessing risks and have less coordination, slower reaction times and less accuracy than adults.

Estimates suggest that half of all childhood sportsrelated injuries can be prevented. Here are 10 tips from the CDC to reduce risks: 1. To avoid unnecessary injuries, all children and adolescents should have a physical exam before starting new sports activities. Adults who have certain chronic diseases and adults who are at risk for chronic conditions should consult with a physician before

undertaking a new exercise activity.

2. Participate in activities that are supervised by an experienced or trained coach who understands and enforces game rules.

3. If starting a new exercise program, set realistic goals and start with frequencies and intensities appropriate to your current physical condition (based on consultation with your physician) and injury history.

4. Ensure that playing fields and environments are safe and well-maintained (e.g. well-maintained playing fields free of tripping hazards, holes, exposed sprinklers, broken glass).

5. Make sure you are properly outfitted for the sport in which you plan to participate: proper protective gear (helmet, shin guards, knee pads); shoes that fit well and are appropriate for the sport; clothing that is not too loose so it won't become tangled. In some sports, mouth guards and face protection can help prevent traumas to the face, head, eyes, and mouth, which are among the most common types of injuries.

6. Stretch and warm up before playing.

7. Do not "play through" pain. If you are injured, see your doctor. Follow all the doctor's orders for recovery, and get the doctor's okay before returning to play. Playing again too soon can lead to a more serious and long-lasting injuries.

8. Have a first aid kit available at all times.

9. Learn skills to prevent injuries specific to your sport, such as learning how to safely stop or fall while skating.

10. For children's team sports, be sure to match and group children based on skill level, weight and physical maturity, especially for contact sports.

Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow and Director of International Oz Ocampo announced the signing of Anibal Sierra, 22. Sierra is a 6-foot-1, 183-pound shortstop from Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. “We are very excited to bring [Sierra] into the Houston Astros organization,” said Ocampo. “Anibal is an athletic shortstop who can hit and play multiple positions, and possesses the intelligence, work ethic, and baseball instincts to succeed at the highest levels.”

The signing of Sierra continues the Astros significant efforts toward signing the top baseball talent coming out of Cuba. The previous week they signed Cuban free agent All-Star infielder Yuliesky Gurriel.

Rockets sign top rookie Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey announced that the team has signed rookie forward/center Chinanu Onuaku. He was selected by Houston with the 37th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft and will wear No. 21 for the Rockets. The Rockets did not have a first-round pick. The 19-year-old Onuaku (6-feet-10, 245 pounds) was an early entry candidate for the draft following his sophomore season at Louisville.

He averaged 9.9 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.0 blocks as a sophomore and shot 61.9 percent from the floor for his career. Onuaku was selected to the ACC All-Defensive team by both media and conference coaches in 2015-16 as well as earning honorable mention All-ACC honors.

Cougar QB Ward popular

Houston quarterback Greg Ward Jr. was named to his fourth preseason watch list recently, being named to the Walter Camp Football Foundation watch list for its 2016 Player of the Year award.

Ward has also appeared on preseason watch lists for the Davey O’Brien Award, the Maxwell Award and the Wuerffel Trophy. Last season Ward and Clemson’s Deshaun Watson were the only two players in the nation to rush for at least 1,000 yards and pass for at least 2,000 yards. He became the first Houston quarterback to rush for 1,000 yards in a season, finishing the year with 1,108 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns to go along with 2,828 passing yards with 17 touchdowns.

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

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Urban League conference Aug. 3-6 in Baltimore The National Urban League will hold its 2016 conference Aug. 3-6 at the Baltimore Convention Center. The theme is “Save Our Cities: Education, Jobs & Justice.” The conference is expected to attract community and business leaders, policymakers, academicians and artists.

NUL President and CEO Marc Morial said workshops, panel discussions and policy sessions are built around the organization’s agenda to address the challenges of unemployment,

educational inequity and social injustice.

“As demonstrated by the recent acquittals of the Baltimore police officers accused in the death of Freddie Gray, and the wave of violence that has taken so many lives in recent weeks, the country continues to grapple with issues of racial hostility and violence,” Morial said.

“The lack of social and economic opportunity is at the root of the unrest…Only a historic, targeted mobilization of

public-private partnerships can address the unrest.”

Special guests include Congressman Elijah Cummings, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, White House Advisor Valerie Jarrett, Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards, BET Chair and CEO Debra Lee, and U.S. Education Secretary John B. King Jr. Topics of discussion at the conference include: • The link between AfricanAmerican cooperative business

and economic freedom: Can communities like Baltimore return to their former glory as thriving American cities?

• State of health and wellness in Black America: The Urban League’s Equality Index identifies a widening gap in health equity.

• #Baltimore Rising: Making change in the aftermath. How can millennials and young professionals create positive change and progress?

Visit nul.iamempowered.com for more information.

classified Invitation for Bids Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc. is soliciting bids for subcontractors and vendors for construction of control no. 0500-03-606 on IH 45 at IH 610E to IH 610S, and 1400-04-021 on FM 1774 at FM 1486 to N of FM 1488 bid date for both is August 9, 2016. 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: www.txdot.gov/business/letting-bids/plans-online.html E.O.E. For information contact Brian Ficzeri at (512) 707-0797.

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

AGENCY WIDE JANITORIAL SERVICES

HBCU presidents support Black Lives Matter Defender News Services

of the idea that Black lives matter to our country.

“Expressing our support for the idea that Black lives matter is in no way a declaration that other lives do not matter as well. As leaders of some of the most diverse colleges and universities in the country, we are well steeped in the value of open and inclusive communities.”

The leaders invited all Americans to participate in the symposium once it is scheduled and in a general commitment to raising the awareness of the debilitating

impact loss due to gun violence has on those who have been exposed.

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Thirty-four HBCU presidents and chancellors are endorsing the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement while denouncing gun violence in response to the shooting deaths of Alton Sterling (Baton Rouge) and Philander Castile (Falcon Heights, Minn.) and the subsequent killing of police in Dallas and Baton Rouge.

The HBCU leaders penned a letter supporting BLM and announcing plans of the first-ever HBCU national symposium on gun violence.

Though absent from

the list of 34, Texas Southern University’s President Dr. Austin A. Lane said he supports the move by his fellow HBCUs, while Dr. George Wright, president of PVAMU, was unable to be reached for comment.

Along with expressing grief over the recent incidents of violence against Blacks and police, the letter stated, “[HBCUs] very creation, existence, and persistence were, and always have been a duality of collaboration and protest. In this respect, America’s HBCUs were the birthplace

Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7116 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER website www.mhmraharris.org beginning Tuesday, August 2, 2016.

A Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference is scheduled for, Monday, August 8, 2016 @ 9:00 a.m., 9401 Southwest Freeway.

Non-Mandatory site visits are scheduled for Monday, August 8 and Tuesday, August 9, 2016. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Thursday, August 25, 2016. Proposals must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 7, 2016 in a sealed envelope marked "PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2016, “AGENCY WIDE JANITORIAL SERVICES ". Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to James Blunt, Buyer II via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail questions to james.blunt@mhmraharris.org cc: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

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JULY 28 | 2016 | DEFENDER

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

topevents

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MINORITIES IN CONSTRUCTION LUNCHEON……..The Houston MBDA free immunization shots, and free HIV testing. There was also a free concert along Business Center, operated by Houston Community College, hosted the 2nd Annual with bounce houses, animal rides and games for children. Mayor Sylvester Turner Salute to Minorities in Construction luncheon at the Junior League of Houston. recognized Trae for his work with the community. “Trae Day” was started in 2008 when The keynote speaker at the luncheon was Tracye McDaniel, president and CEO of former Houston mayor Bill White awarded Trae with his own day, a recognition of the Texas Economic Development Corporation. Awards went to Morganti and Diggs rapper’s efforts to improve conditions of underprivileged Houstonians. Notable attendees JV, Balfour Beatty Construction, Gadberry Construction, Inc., Briter Enterprises, included Nick Cannon, Tony Rock, Tommy Norman, Jazz Anderson, Tami Roman, Inc., and Construction Diversity Group, LLC. The Houston Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, I Am Justified and many MBDA Business Center is operated by HCC through a grant others……..GREATER GRACE HEALTH FESTIVAL…….

Defender TOP EVENTS from the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Greater Grace Church recently held its 10th Annual Health Festival. The More photos on defendernetwork.com Development Agency. Since its opening in 2013, the Houston event was organized to provide testing, bring awareness and promote MBDA Business Center has facilitated $192 million in contracts, unity in the community. Guests could get free medical screenings for $186 million in financing and has helped create 276 jobs. Attendees included Chris blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, HIV, vision, colon cancer, dental health, Bilton, Mark Thierry, Greshaun Fulgham, Marcus Vasquez, Jerry Paul, Dale spinal health and children’s immunizations. The event also provided free groceries, Diggs, Warren Winston, Gloria Scott, Marcus Berry and many more……..TRAE haircuts, backpacks, cooking demonstrations and children’s rides. In attendance were DAY CELEBRATION…….. Houston rapper Trae tha Truth held his annual Trae Bishop E. L. Usher, Robin Boldware, David Wyatt, Tyrell Allen, Brenda Patton, Day Celebration at Discovery Green. Attendees were treated to free school supplies, Hilda Hall, Sylvia Harris, Chris Clay, Mario Gallegos and a host of others.

Sarah Shoemaker, Terry Gomez, Ben Hernandez, Renae Richard

Trae tha Truth, Mayor Sylvester Turner

Tyrell Allen, E.L. Usher

Mark Thierry, Tracye McDaniel, Greshaun Fulgham

Nick Cannon

Robin Boldware, David Wyatt

Jerry Paul, Liberty Rauls, Julian Johnson

Tahj Hawkins, Koran Hawkins

Brenda Patton, Hilda Hall

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DEFENDER | JULY 28 | 2016

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