Houston Defender: August 09, 2012

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LOCAL BRIEFS WILLIAM ‘RANDY’ BATES Kappas’ 2013 convention in Houston

P3 NATIONAL OPINION

PRESIDENT OBAMA discusses Black businesses

Hospital district offers free back-to-school vaccines P3

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source www.defendernetwork.com

Drugs

Volume 81 | Number 41 WEEK OF AUGUST 9, 2012 | FREE

Addressing the problem H Page 6

P4 WHAT’S UP

RIHANNA tours Barbados with Oprah

P5 FEATURE

KYLE MASSEY asks his fans to vote

P9

Gabby Douglas stirs debate While gymnast Gabby Douglas was busy winning at the London Olympics, other aspects of her life garnered attention. Hear what one columnist has to say about the “rude” and “stereotypical” remarks. See why Don Imus’ notorious “nappy” comment comes to mind. Find out why Gabby’s family should be left alone.

H Page 8

Mike Davis comes to TSU

Texas Southern University basketball will have a new coach and a new look this season, and Tiger supporters are excited. Read about Mike Davis’ impressive record and resume. Learn how he answers skeptics who ask, “Why TSU?” Discover what his grandmother’s Alabama kitchen has to do with basketball.

H Page 10

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7What’s Black myths your score? dispelled

What to What to do do this this weekend weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend? The Defenderfor hassomething a list of things doweekend? in the Houston Looking to dotothis The area defendernetwork.com.

Defender has a list of things to do in the Houston area at defendernetwork.com.

You’ve heard them before: Liz Claiborne doesn’t make clothes for Rumors persist Blacks; Church’s Chicken about the will make you sterile. late Liz What’s true and what’s Claiborne. not? conspiracy The Black mortgage meltdown could permanently impact Black theories dispelledGet at the story at defendernetwork.com family finances. defendernetwork.com

Career and family Secrets behind ‘Juice’

Book BookTALK TALK

Someday

by Jae Henderson an inspirational Many students have the false is impression that all romance full of adventure, excitement, thrills, slaves were submissive, timid, illiterate, severely laughter,and faith-filled challenges as Tee oppressed dirt poor.

In Slaves and withlove Swag, author and Michael prove that it ain’t over until God says Daryl T. Himmon provides a riveting read which more at in Black endeavorsit’s toover! fill in Find someout of the blanks www.defendernetwork.com. history.

At www.defendernetwork.com.

When it comes to balancing career and family, can women really have it all? The story at defendernetwork. com.

It’s a cult classic, but there’s a whole lot you might not know behind the making of the movie “Juice.” The story at at defendernetwork.com.

“The Lion King” musical continues at the Hobby The Children’s Museum, located at 1500 Binz, offers Center for the Performing Arts through Aug. 12. assorted activities just for kids.

Tupac Shakur and Omar Epps are among the stars in “Juice.”

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It’s no puzzle that the many outstanding Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston prepare your child for a successful life.

The reasons people choose HCC are as diverse as the institution does more to get students where they’re going faster than HCC. We keep Now Enrolling! with See Houston how we’reworking a perfect fit! affordable tuition, innovative courses, Visitand choosecatholicschools.org convenient locations.

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Sisters Network

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reaches more women en (under age 45) than white women.

Houston-based Sisters Network Sisters Network Inc. is the only national continues to reach out African-American to a growing number of breast cancer surviwomen. The breast cancer vor organization in survivor organization the United States. has joined forces with Founded in 1994 by Solis Women’s Health to Karen E. Jackson, it provide free mammograms has 3,000 members for women nationwide and more than 40 afthrough Sisters’ Breast filiate chapters in 22 Cancer Assistance Procities. gram (BCAP).

Solis Women’s In addition to free Health is a specialmammograms, BCAP ized healthcare provides financial asprovider focused sistance for breast cancer exclusively on the survivors’ health-related screening and diagexpenses, including lodgnosis of breast caning, co-pay, office visits cer. Headquartered in and prosthesis. BCAP Addison, Texas, Solis donors include Comoperates 20 clinics erica Bank, Sysco, United in Dallas, Ft. Worth, Airlines Foundation and Phoenix, IndianapoWells Fargo Bank. Funds lis, Greensboro, N.C. are also generated from and Columbus, Ohio.

Sisters Network Stop the “Sisters NetSilence National 5k Walk/ Karen E. Jackson is founder and CEO of Sisters Network, headquartered in Houston. work looks forward to Run event. broadening our reach As part of the partnerthrough our partnership, Solis will provide the 6,040 deaths were expected to ship with Solis Women’s Health mammogram screenings at their occur among African-American to ensure more women can have clinics located in Texas and four women. access to free mammogram other states.

In addition, African-Amerscreenings,” said Jackson, a Breast cancer is the most ican women have a five-year 16-year breast cancer survivor. common cancer among Africansurvival rate of 78 percent comFor more information American women. According to pared to 90 percent for white on the organization and its the American Cancer Society, women. The incidence rate of programs visit www.sistersnetin 2011 an estimated 26,840 breast cancer is also higher workinc.org. new cases of breast cancer and among African-American womDefender News Services

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Hospital district offers free vaccines Summer vacation is almost over, and the Harris County Hospital District is offering free school immunizations every Tuesday and Thursday in August at its school-based clinics and comprehensive pediatric and adolescent health centers.

Vaccines are free of charge to children up to the age of 18 who are covered by CHIP, Medicaid or have no insurance. Officials urge parents to get vaccines early because of the expected rush of children needing the new state-required meningitis shot.

Parents should bring a current immunization record or any official communication from the school outlining required shots.

Immunizations are from available from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 14 and Tuesday, Aug. 21 at the following locations: • Pediatric and Adolescent Health Center-Bear Creek, 5870 Highway 6, Suite 108, Houston • Pediatric and Adolescent Health Center-Cypress, 12340 Jones Road, Suite 100, Houston • Almatha Clark Taylor Health Clinic, 13940 Bonham, Houston • Deepwater Health Clinic at Deepwater Elementary, 305 Glenmore, Pasadena • Goose Creek School Health Clinic at San Jacinto Elementary, 2706 Kentucky, Baytown • Patrick Henry Health Clinic at Patrick Henry Middle School, 10702 E. Hardy, Houston • Robert Carrasco Health Clinic at Marshall Middle School, 1115 Noble, Houston, • Southside Health Clinic at Galena Park Community Resource and Training Center, 1721 16th Street, Galena Park • Sheldon Health Clinic at Sheldon Elementary, 17203½ Hall Sheppard, Houston Immunizations are also available from 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16 and Thursday, Aug. 23 at Pediatric and Adolescent Health Center-Pasadena, 3925 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena.

No appointment is needed and all vaccines are given on an availability basis. For more information call 713-873-TOTS (8687).

localbriefs THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS recently filed its brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in Fisher vs.

University of Texas at Austin, which challenges the consideration of race in college admissions. The case revolves around Abigail Fisher, who claims she was denied admission to UT in 2008 because she is white. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case in October. The fate of affirmative action policies throughout the nation could rest on the final ruling……..THE EXECUTION OF convicted killer Marvin Wilson received opposition from human rights groups and legal experts. Wilson, a Black man with an IQ of 61, was executed Aug. 7

in Huntsville for the killing of a police informant 20 years ago. Wilson’s attorneys argued that his IQ put him below the generally accepted minimum competency standard of 70. Houston State Sen. Rodney Ellis asked the Court of Criminal Appeals to grant a stay of execution for Wilson. “We do not execute children in the state of Texas, therefore we should not execute those who have the mental capacity of a child,” Ellis said……..KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY has selected Houston as the site of its national convention in August, 2013. More than 15,000 delegates are expected to attend the fraternity’s 81st Grand Chapter

Meeting. Houstonian William “Randy” Bates Jr. is the organization’s president, known as the Grand Polemarch……..HISD IS PROVIDING free and reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program for the 2012-2013 school year. Household size and income criteria will be used to determine students’ eligibility. Foster children who are the legal responsibility of a state agency or court are eligible regardless of household income.

Applications can be submitted anytime during the school year. For information visit www.mealapps. houstonisd.org.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012

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Obama discusses Black-owned businesses

I

n three months voters will head to the polls to decide whether to give President Barack Obama a second term. The election will communicate whether the electorate believes his continued occupancy of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. will fulfill his promise of sustained economic growth and shared prosperity.

Black Enterprise recently interviewed Obama in the Oval Office. In a Q&A session with BE Editor-in-Chief Derek T. Dingle, he talked about his support of Black business, policies to advance small companies, and completing his ambitious agenda.

BE: As you campaign for reelection, what do you communicate to Black businesses that will make them enthusiastic supporters?

Obama: The first thing is to understand that we have just gone through the worst financial and economic crisis in our lifetimes. And my first job as president was to make sure that we didn’t slip into a second Great Depression. We were losing 800,000 jobs a month. Banks were locked up. Credit was frozen. The auto industry was about to go under.

Because of the steps that we took, we have now seen two straight years of job growth, 4 million jobs created, [the] strongest manufacturing growth since the 1990s, unemployment has started to come down, and the auto industry is back. All of those steps that we took had an impact on Black businesses just like they did businesses generally.

Let’s take the auto industry. You know the number of Black businesses that are involved in the supply chain and that are involved in various services, whether it’s advertising or other aspects of the industry. They have all been impacted positively by the steps that we took. Now does that mean that we’ve done enough? Absolutely not.

The African-American community ends up being hurt during recessionary times more than the population at large. [The] African-American unemployment rate is still way too high. You had a credit crunch for small- and medium-sized businesses that dispro-

portionately impacted African American businesses. But part of what we have been able to do is to specifically focus on disadvantaged businesses, disadvantaged communities.

The Small Business Administration, for example, which is a significant source of financing for minority- and women-owned businesses, has stepped into the breach by expanding their loan portfolios and cutting their fees at a time when a lot of banks and other financial institutions just pulled back. Some of the work that we did legislatively, like the New Markets Tax Credit, makes a huge difference specifically for AfricanAmerican businesses.

BE: How do you respond to criticism that your administration hasn’t done enough to support Black businesses?

Obama: My general view has been consistent throughout, which is that I want all businesses to succeed. I want all Americans to have opportunity. I’m not the president of Black America. I’m the president of the United States of America, but the programs that we have put in place have been directed at those folks who are least able to get financing through conventional means, who have been in the past locked out of opportunities that were available to everybody.

So, I’ll put my track record up against anybody in terms of us putting in place broad-based programs that ultimately had a huge benefit for African-

American businesses.

BE: Major corporations have received billions in government contracts meant for small businesses. How is your administration addressing this?

Obama: This has been historically true. Federal contracting is so complicated and the scale of the contracts are so large that unless you had a Washington office – lawyers, a battery of accountants, etc. – you couldn’t navigate through the federal procurement process.

I told every single member of my cabinet, “I want you to increase transparency, simplify the process, make sure that the goals that we have for small, minority-, women-, and veteranowned businesses are prioritized inside your agency, and think about other ways that we can break up these contracts into smaller pieces so that smaller businesses could actually bid for them. And we’ve actually seen significant progress in a lot of these agencies.

BE: Black unemployment still stands at nearly 14 percent. How do you communicate that the economy is headed in the right direction?

Obama: Most economists will tell you that there is no doubt the economy has gotten stronger, but we are digging ourselves out a deep hole. There are a lot more things we could be doing. To get them done, we need cooperation of Congress. We got the payroll tax portion of [my American Jobs Act] done, but what we didn’t get done is the assistance I was proposing to the states to help them hire back teachers, firefighters, and first responders, because one of the weakest parts of this recovery has been state and local government hiring.

Given the weaknesses of the construction industry, the American Jobs Act proposed that we rebuild schools, roads, bridges, airport, and ports. That would provide small businesses with opportunities as contractors and vendors in this rebuilding process.

Again, Congress needs to act.

President Barack Obama

THE MOTHER OF TRAYVON MARTIN is pursuing more than $75,000 in damages from the homeowners’ association of the gated community where her son was killed on Feb. 26. According to the Orlando Sentinel, Sybrina Fulton is also seeking an undisclosed amount from a state fund established to help crime victims and their families. At the same time, Fulton is being sued by Traveler’s Insurance Company in a dispute over whether the insurance company is responsible for damages over her son’s death. Traveler’s filed suit so that a court would step in and clarify what, if any, damages it owes…….SOME ECONOMISTS are breathing a sigh of relief after the Labor Department recently reported that employers added 163,000 workers to their payrolls last month, doubling the 80,000 jobs added in June. More jobs were added in July than in the previous two months combined.

Yet when it comes to the Black unemployment rate, the numbers are dismal. In July, the unemployment rate for Blacks was 14.1 percent, a slight decrease from June’s 14.4 percent rate. The overall Black jobless rate, however, is almost double that for whites (7.4 percent). Black men fared even worse, with an increase from 15.1 percent to 15.8 percent……...THE 47TH ANNIVERSARY of the Voting Rights Act was Aug. 6, and advocates used the occasion to reiterate the legislation’s importance.

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, said voting rights of Americans is once again being threatened. “Six years ago, no voter identification law existed. Today, at least 33 states have introduced contemporary versions of voter ID requirements and at least 13 states have introduced bills to end Election Day and same-day voter registration that allows millions of voters, particularly minorities, the elderly and those from low-income households to participate in the democratic process. We cannot let this stand,” Cleaver said.

VOLUME 81 • NUMBER 41 WEEK OF AUGUST 9, 2012

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley

Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila People Editor Yvette Chargois Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writer Aswad Walker

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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WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Steve Harvey leaves stand-up comedy

By KENYA VAUGHN Special to NNPA from St. Louis American

Before a single punch line had been delivered, “King of Comedy” Steve Harvey was met with a standing ovation.

He was taking the stage at the Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis for one of his final performances in the lane that made him a household name.

He stood before the crowd as a best-selling author, nationally syndicated radio host, sitcom star or game show host. But on this night he was traveling back to his roots.

Harvey was down the comedy road for what he says is the last time in a select-city mini-tour to give his fans one last dose of laughter.

“When I decided to do this, I knew I had to come here,” Harvey said to the packed arena. “I’m in St. Louis because of Joe Torry – and because of my main man Cedric.

Without Cedric The Entertainer I wouldn’t be who I am today.”

Nearly overcome with emotion as he thanked Cedric and God for blessing him with a 27-year career in comedy, it was hard to tell what was to come as far as the actual act.

His bottom lip trembled, he fought back tears and he praised God. But once he composed himself he jumped right into a routine fit for a King of Comedy.

Harvey left the kind of impression one could only hope for as he hangs up the microphone – one that war-

ranted nonstop laughter and praise.

He wrestled between hilarious bits and bouts with raw emotion as he constantly reflected on his nearly three decades in stand-up game – and the idea of not performing any more.

“The closer I get to the end, the harder it gets,” Harvey confessed. “It’s been an incredible ride – and I thank y’all.

Hollywood expected ‘Think Like a Man’ to do $31 million total. But ‘Think Like a Man’ did $33 million its first week and $91 million and counting because of y’all.

But in between praise reports was a profanity-laced laugh fest that had fans all but buckled over as he talked

about everything from the Waffle House, church, miracles, the Department of Motor Vehicles to childhood memories as a poor skinny boy from Cleveland nicknamed potato chip living in a crammed two-family flat with big dreams of being on the small screen.

His set was as much a memoir-laced narrative as it was a traditional comedy routine.

And as a confessed “new Christian,” infused messages of hope and inspiration were authentically woven into his profanity-laced presentation – and it absolutely worked.

“Support your kids,” Harvey said. “Because you have no idea who you’ve given birth to.”

The show was equal parts light and heavy, and as he told his jokes – or as Harvey said ‘reported the news’ one couldn’t help but feel inspired and grateful as he took - one of his last bows in St. Louis.

“Thank y’all for all of the years and thank you for Cedric,” Harvey said as if he were talking to the entire city of St. Louis. “When I chose to do the Steve Harvey Show picking Cedric made all of the difference in the world.”

The crowd erupted.

“I have two dates left and every time I get up here towards the end it gets tougher and tougher,” Harvey said.

“But I’m so glad that I can walk away while y’all are still clapping.”

Harvey could barely contain himself as he received special recognition from Alderwoman Marlene Davis and delivered an acceptance speech that could have served as a minisermon.

“Put God first,” Harvey said. “Trust in His will. If you obey Him with a little bit of your time He will give you more than you can imagine. I am a living witness of what can happen if you accept God’s will.

His will is more than anything you can dream of for yourself.”

Steve Harvey

What’sup CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER’S new sitcom, “The Soul Man,” is being targeted by the conservative Christian group One Million Moms. According to the group, the show, which airs on TV Land, “blasphemes the name of Jesus Christ and mocks pastors.” It said the show is also full of “sexual innuendos” and includes vulgarity.

The group has started a petition against the show and is trying to persuade advertisers to drop out. “The Soul Man” is based on a character, Reverend Boyce, which Cedric originated in another TV Land, sitcom, “Hot in Cleveland.” Cast members include NIECY NASH, who portrays Cedric’s wife in the show. TV Land isn’t commenting on the charges…….. JORDIN SPARKS said she is “super excited” about her movie debut in

“Sparkle,” which hits theaters Aug. 17. The “American Idol” winner said her co-star, the late WHITNEY HOUSTON, was confident and encouraging on the set. “Twenty years from now I get to say that my first film was this and it’s incredible I got to work with one of my idols. I got to make new friends and family and it’s amazing,” Sparks said……..Actor MICHAEL CLARKE DUNCAN is still hospitalized in Los Angeles nearly a month after suffering a heart attack. Duncan’s publicist released a statement saying the 54-year-old actor was removed from intensive care. “His family are firm believers in the power of prayer and have asked that you keep him in yours during this time,” the statement said.

Duncan is known for his roles in such movies as “The

Green Mile,” “The Scorpion King” and “Armageddon.”

According to TMZ, Duncan’s girlfriend, OMAROSA MANIGAULT-STALLWORTH of “The Apprentice” fame, discovered him in a state of cardiac arrest and revived him by administering CPR……..RIHANNA got a chance to show OPRAH WINFREY around her native Barbados. She tweeted a photo of herself behind the wheel of a Jeep with Winfrey as a passenger. Oprah sent a tweet which read, “What a refreshing surprise she is!” The talk show queen flew to Barbados for an interview with Rihanna, which is scheduled to air Aug. 19 on “Oprah’s Next Chapter.” Rihanna is expected to talk about her relationship with ex-boyfriend CHRIS BROWN, who was charged with physically assaulting her in 2009.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012 | defendernetwork.com

Dru

Addressing t

By ASWA Defe

Alcohol, crack main drugs of choice

T

he global recession of the past four years has instigated massive changes in everything from Wall Street regulations to birth rates. But in the world of substance abuse – at least in Houston – the more things change, the more they stay the same.

According to several individuals who operate local recovery programs, alcohol and crack cocaine continue to lead the way as Houston’s drugs of choice.

In spite of the countless trends highlighted over the past few years, including purple drank, designer drugs, and bath salts, Regina Hasan, managing executive officer of Unlimited Visions Aftercare, sees alcohol as the top contender for Houston’s most abused drug.

“When talking about the most used drug, it depends on the demographics – economics and race – but alcohol still leads the pack as far as deaths attributed to teenagers,” said Hasan. “Just because alcohol is legal does not mean it’s not a drug.”

Though Hasan does not see marijuana and crack lessening in popularity any time soon, she is adamant about keeping the public aware of the dangers of alcohol abuse.

“Though we saw drunk driving numbers go down due to the work of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and others, recently, as we focus on other drugs, alcohol addiction and all that comes with it – drunk driving, spousal abuse, etc. – is again increasing,” said Hasan.

Hasan concedes the growing popularity of other drugs, namely prescription drugs, pushed by drug dealers of a different kind.

“We have doctors in our communities making out like bandits, just like pushers, providing drugs for

Dealing with an addict DO…

• Learn all you can about alcoholism and drug dependence • Speak up and offer your support • Express love and concern • Realize the person cannot stop without help • Support recovery as an ongoing process • Take care of yourself

DON’T…

• Preach, lecture, threaten, bribe or moralize • Cover up, lie or make excuses for them and their behavior • Assume their responsibilities • Try to have a rational conversation when they are using • Feel guilty or responsible for their behavior • Join them in drinking or using Source: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information

older populations. Many believe ‘Because my doctor prescribed it to me, it must be good,’ ” said Hasan, who identifies pain killers and anti-anxiety drugs (as the ones most over-used and over-prescribed.

Read about local drug recover options at

www.defendernetwork.com “It usually starts out innocent. You’re in a car accident. The doctor gives you a pain killer. It works.

But because you’re not learning how to manage your pain, the anticipation of the pain causes great anxiety, so doctors prescribe anti-anxiety medications. Then, some people learn to work the system, and constantly switch doctors and pharmacies,” Hasan said of the process some prescription drug abusers use.

Hasan also bemoans those drugs easily accessible, especially to youth, such as high-inducing products found in one’s home bathroom, and alcohol.

Robert “Runako” Stubbs, who runs the Turning it Around Ministry in Third Ward, knows all too well about alcohol addiction.

“It was my drug of choice,” said Stubbs, who will celebrate 13 years of sobriety in October. “Alcohol and drugs are just one level; folk are also dealing with the mental aspect. But honestly, we’re all recovering from something.”

Michael Robinson, assistant administrator of Riverside General Hospital’s Barbara Jordan’s Healthcare Center recognizes the ravages of alcohol, but emphasizes the ever-present reality of another highly addictive substance.

“The epidemic is still crack cocaine; it hasn’t gone away,” Robinson said. “There has been a spike in heroine and OxyContin [a narcotic pain reliever] use, but crack is still the epidemic.”

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Ministry combats chemical dependency

Darryal Williams (right) and his wife Jennifer started the Cocaine Deliverance Ministry with the help and blessing of Windsor Village UMC Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell (left).

simultaneously serving as Prairie View A&M University’s Though the Cocaine Deliverance Ministry operates on This past May, Cocaine Deliverance Ministry celebrated donations from church members, the program is free and open Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) educator, a post he has held its 25th anniversary at the place of its birth, Windsor Village for nearly two decades, educating students about spotting the to the public, says Williams, who celebrated his 26th anniverUnited Methodist Church. symptoms of substance abuse. However, Williams still finds sary in recovery in July.

Ministries for those suffering from chemical dependency Since the program’s beginning, the Williams’ started sim- ways to expand his influence and the message of his recovery seem commonplace now; however, this was not the case when ministry. ilar programs at other churches, including one they founded Darryal Williams originally set out to provide such care a One such venue is the radio show he hosts on KCOH at Lilly Grove Baptist 14 years ago, and the programs they quarter of a century ago.

1430 AM every first Tuesday of the month beginning at 10:30 helped start at Pentecostal Baptist Church four years ago and Today, Williams and his wife Jennifer co-lead Cocaine a.m. as part of the Gloria Leonard Ministries. In addition, the St. Johns Downtown roughly five years ago. In addition, for Deliverance Ministry, the program that has produced an indelWilliams were recently in Dallas with comedian and author six years, the couple has coordinated the Cocaine Deliverance ible legacy of changed lives, and shows no signs of ceasing Steve Harvey helping with his mentor program.

Ministry at Covenant Glen United Methodist Church. anytime soon.

Williams, who proudly states that he and his wife have Logistically, Williams could not run each program while “I’ve been a recovering addict since July 18, 1986,” said been married for 35 years, is big on celebrating anWilliams, who ventured shortly thereafter to found a niversaries. recovery program easily accessible to Blacks.

“Every month our ministry has people celebrat“I started the program because there were not ing 15 to 20 years sober. We’ve had a great impact enough programs like this in Black communities. Not because over the years with 10 to 25 people per meetenough of us know enough about chemical depening on any given night, we’ve helped thousands. Still, dency,” he said.

• According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health an we need to get more parents involved with kids on But getting started proved more than a notion. estimated 20 million Americans aged 12 or older used an illegal substance abuse issues,” said Williams.

“Prior to meeting with Kirbyjon Caldwell [pasdrug in the past 30 days. This estimate represents 8 percent of the population aged 12 years old or older.

Williams believes having his program in a church tor of Windsor Village], I met with at least five other • Illicit drugs include marijuana/hashish, cocaine (including is a godsend. churches that all said, ‘We don’t need that kind of procrack), heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants, or prescription drugs “Most people who need this help don’t have gram in our church.’ Kirbyjon simply asked, ‘Will the used without a prescription. transportation but they can walk to the church,” said program help someone?’ and gave me an opportunity,” • The most commonly used and abused drug after alcohol is Williams, who believes communication is the key to recalled Williams. marijuana. getting more people the help they need.

The program serves hundreds of recovering ad• Each year more teens enter addiction treatment with a “As a people we must stop talking at people and dicts and meets three times a week, Mondays, Fridays primary diagnosis of marijuana dependence than all other illegal start talking with them,” he said. and Saturdays, from 8-9:30am at Windsor Village’s drugs combined.

Williams invites those who want to become part 6000 Heatherbrook location. On Saturdays, three • The estimated cost of drug abuse to society exceeds $190 of his recovery ministry to call Windsor Village at meetings run simultaneously, with one serving recoverbillion, and includes $130 billion in lost productivity, $20 billion 713-726-2680. ing addicts, another for their family members, and a in healthcare costs and $40 billion in legal costs including third for teens 12-18 years old with substance abuse efforts to stem the flow of drugs issues.

Drug abuse facts & figures

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opinion

Gabby Douglas’ hair-raising experience

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By JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA Columnist

honest, hair was the last thing on my mind when I saw Gabrielle’s stunning performance. Why was anyone thinking of hair?

In addition to thinking of hair, some commentators were thinking of fatherhood. Where was her dad, too many asked? One radio talk show host took a whole five minutes ruminating on absent dads.

f you don’t follow Olympic gymnastics, you may not have heard about Gabrielle “Gabby” Douglas before this year. But the amazing grace of this 16-yearold African-American propelled her to Olympic gold, and she is the first African American to win an individual medal in gymnastics.

Indeed, her performance toppled the Russians, who have portrayed themselves as unbeatable. So unbeatable, as a matter of fact that the winner of the silver medal, Viktoria Komova, “sobbed uncontrollably,” because she so expected to win.

This calls for unqualified celebration. Sneaking into some of the celebratory comments, though, were snarky and rude comments that many reserve to tarnish AfricanAmerican accomplishment and victory. Channel surfing in the talk radio space, these comments came in two categories, equally objectionable.

First, there were comments about Gabrielle’s hair.

As the young gymnast did her thing, there were many – including some self-hating African American women – who Taylor Jones, El Nuevo Dia, Puerto Rico commented that her hair wasn’t up to par. I’m not sure what style would But the truth is that while Gabribe appropriate for a gymnast, but let’s elle’s mom, Natalie Hawkins, and her celebrate Gabrielle’s medal instead of dad, Timothy Douglas, are divorcing, railing on her hair. Are we still stuck Douglas, a soldier who has served both on the Spike Lee version of “straight or in Iraq and Afghanistan, is very much nappy” as a contrast? part of her life. He was present for the When Don Imus insultingly uses Olympic trials, but had responsibilithe word “nappy,” we Black folks ties that kept him from the rest of the are up in arms, as we should be. But games. His presence or absence should when sisters excoriate an accomplished not be the fodder for speculation. young woman, there are those who nod I wouldn’t mind the commentary their hair in agreement. When will we, so much if the same folks spent any Black women, get over this hair thing? time speaking of the economic plight of And when will we stop playing African-American men. into other people’s stereotypes? To be African- American men. The

employment-population ration, which measures the percentage of men aged 10 to 65 who are working, shows that 57.7 percent of African-American men in that age group have jobs, which means that more than 40 percent do not.

More than two of three AfricanAmerican men, then, do not have work, yet this statistic is rarely discussed. In contrast, the employment-population ration for white men was 68.4 percent, a full 10 percentage points higher than the rate for Black men.

Timothy Douglas is employed, and he is, indeed, defending our country. Why is his presence or absence at the Olympic Games subject to mean-spirited discussion, when it is clear that he supports his daughter?

It is easy to suggest that the Tea Party attacks on President Barack Obama have made it “open season” on Black people among the commentariat. And certainly, coverage of the president and his family has been rife with stereotypes.

Still, Tea Party attacks can’t explain the ways that some African-American women have talked about Gabrielle Douglas’ hair. In the face of caustic comments about Black people from outsiders, must we turn on ourselves?

The only thing I want to hear about Gabrielle Douglas is how amazing her victory was, and how inspirational she will be for other young women. All of America ought to celebrate this victory because Ms. Douglas brought the gold home, not for herself, but for our nation. The stereotypes are simply unacceptable, whether African Americans or whites are wallowing in them.

Black vote AGAIN taken for granted

By CLOVES CAMPBELL NNPA Chairman There are less than 100 days until voters throughout the country cast their votes for the next president of the United States of America as well as U.S. Senate, congressional and state legislatures. The campaign war chests for President Obama and Mitt Romney total almost $3 billion!

However as of this writing, not one dollar has been spent in the Black Press. Once again the Black Press has been unfortunately relegated to an “Oh By the Way” campaign that features one 1/2 page ad placed two weeks before the election in all Black newspapers totaling a shameful $1.2 million! That is the money placed by the Obama for America Campaign (OFA). The Romney campaign has zero dollars allocated! To put this all into paper perspective, let me fill you in on the process.

In January of this year we had conversations with the OFA campaign. At that time, we were told that money was not coming in as expected so they could not talk about advertising in Black newspapers.

In late April, after we found out that the OFA campaign had only $800 million dollars, we put together a very detailed advertising proposal for $21 million dollars which included multiple insertions in all NNPA publications from June through November. The plan suggested a campaign that encouraged three phases of action.

The first steps were “Voters Registration – you can’t vote if you are not registered.” Second was, “Proper ID – What to take to the polls.”

Understanding that voter suppression laws vary from state to state, it is important that voters know what to take to the polls in order to vote. The last stop is “GOTV – get out the vote.”

Mobilizing our communities to go to the polls is the key to winning the upcoming election.

Our proposal also included an aggressive digital and social media campaign as well.

Today, we are once again in a position of being taken for granted. Does Jim Messina know something about Black folks that we didn’t know?

I am beginning to wonder where are the Black folks that are advising this campaign?

Do they not see the money being spent around them? Are they not asking why are there no Black pollsters, ad agencies, placement, firms, or other Black-owned businesses reaping the benefits of the only $3 Billion dollars being spent in this campaign season. SHOW ME THE MONEY! At the end of the election, over $3 billion will be spent. Some people will be very happy.

They will not care who wins. What are we to do? Do we stand by and again wait four more years? Let’s get moving now! Come on Roland Martin, Rev. Sharpton, Rev. Jackson, Cliff Kelly, Steve Harvey, Oprah Winfrey! Let’s talk about this now. SHOW ME THE MONEY! The National Newspaper Publishers Association is comprised of more than 200 Black newspapers across the U.S.

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defendernetwork.com WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012 | DEFENDER

‘Dancing with the Stars’

Kyle Massey needs votes for 2nd shot

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

Kyle Massey can currently be seen in Dancing with the Stars: The Live Show in Las Vegas at the Tropicana Hotel. The multi-talented entertainer came in second in the 11th season of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” in 2012.

Massey is also the voice of Milo in the Disney animated series “Fish Hooks.” But he is perhaps best known for his starring role on Dis-

ney’s “That’s So Raven” and its spinoff sitcom “Cory in the House.”

He recently starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie “Life Is Ruff.” He and his

brother, Chris, are also accomplished rappers in a group called the Massey Boyz.

Here, Massey talks about his quest to become the 13th contestant – 12 stars have already been announced – on the 15th season of “Dancing with the Stars: All Star Edition,” which begins on Sept. 2.

Fans have until Aug. 24 to choose between Massey and two other contestants by voting online.

KW: Why do you want to compete in the “Dancing with the Stars All-Star Edition?”

You and your partner Lacey Schwimmer were runners-up in season 11.

KM: Lacey and I want to compete in this competition more than anything. Being runnerup was amazing, but I think I’ve picked up a couple skills that would help me win.

KW: How can your fans help you get back on?

KM: Go to abc.com and vote for Kyle!

KW: How do you explain how well Bristol Palin did when you were on the show in spite of low scores from the judges? A lot of people were flabbergasted that she came in third.

KM: Bristol came a long way. Even with the low scores from the judges she made a huge improvement. I think she is amazing on and off the hardwood.

KW: If you get back on, will you ask to be paired with Lacey again?

KM: Without a doubt I would want to be paired

with Lacey. She’s the reason I came in second and I believe the two of us together are a force.

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

KM: I see someone who wants to go home with that mirror ball trophy.

KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps?

KM: Just stay focused and always believe in yourself. Keep moving toward your goal no matter what.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012 defendernetwork.com

sports

Mike Davis

Mike Davis

new TSU basketball coach

I

By MAX EDISON Defender

n a move that once again reflects the muscle of Texas Southern University athletics, the university announced that former Indiana and Alabama Birmingham head coach Mike Davis has been named interim head basketball coach.

Davis replaces Tony Harvey, who resigned earlier this summer.

He brings an impressive resume, which includes numerous NCAA and NIT tournament appearances. His Indiana team made it to the title game of the Final Four in 2002.

Davis holds a 237-151 overall career record in his 12 years as a head coach highlighted by seven 20-plus-win seasons.

Davis is joined by his wife Tamilya, TSU AD Charles McClelland (left) and President Dr. John “We’re very pleased to announce that Rudley.

Mike Davis will be joining our men’s basketball program for the 2012-13 season,” said With such impressive credentials, eyebrows were raised TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Charles McClelland. when Davis was announced as the new top cat of Tiger basket“Coach Davis brings with him an impressive resume both ball. on and off the court as clearly shown by the success his student“This is a great opportunity for me as a coach,” Davis said. athletes have achieved academically and athletically. We’re “Lots of folks in interviews recently have asked me why I would elated to be able to bring someone with his credentials to lead come to Texas Southern. My answer is why not? Big-time is not our program next season.” where you are; it’s what you think and who you are.

“I’ve been to five-star restaurants in New York and California, but my best meal came from my grandmother in the state of Alabama. I feel like I am in the big-time at Texas Southern,” he said.

Davis also embraces the concept of athletes as students and expects his players to tow the line in the classroom.

“We want our basketball players to be graduates of Texas Southern, not just basketball players at Texas Southern. At Indiana only two players that played for me didn’t graduate when their eligibility was up. One was one class away and the other was two classes away. It’s all about preparing for the future, not just basketball.”

The basketball cupboard at TSU is far from empty. Coach Davis inherits a squad that was 15-18 overall last season including a 12-6 mark in Southwestern Athletic Conference play and berth spot in the finals of the conference tournament.

“From what I’ve seen on tape, we have very, very good talent, but talent alone won’t win you championships, Davis said. “It’s all about heart, effort and knowing what you’re doing. It’s the same thing in the classroom and on the basketball court. If you’re prepared and give a great effort you’ve got a chance to win in both areas.

“It’s my job as the leader of this program to make sure we’re the hardest playing team and the best prepared in the conference,” Davis said.

Athletes bring home Olympic gold As the London Summer Olympics wind down there have been any number of success stories. Most prominent among them was the success of American gymnast Gabby Douglas.

Douglas led the United States to a gold medal in the team competition and followed that up with gold in the all-around category.

She is the first African American to win the gold in the all-around category.

Serena Williams captured the gold in the women’s tennis singles category, and then paired with her sister Venus to win the double competition.

Predictably, the Jamaicans dominated the sprints. Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake grabbed

the gold and the silver in the 100, and the women were just as dominant. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Veronica Campbell-Brown grabbed gold and bronze respectively, with American Carmelita Jeter winning a silver medal.

Sanya Richards-Ross avenged her bronze in Beijing with gold in London in the 400 meters. A native of Jamaica, Richards-Ross moved to America at the age of 12 and ran track at the University of Texas. Her husband, Aaron Ross, played defensive back for UT and won a Super Bowl with the New York Giants. He signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as a free agent this year.

Sanya Richards-Ross

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h.s.zone Nicole Hutchison

Lamar tennis player on the move honor roll student who goes home and icole Hutchison is an studies after athlete to watch. The practice. She 15-year-old Lamar also plays the High School sophopiano, sings and more is an awardacts. She ocwinning member of the varsity casionally plays tennis team, and a rising star in the soccer when she United States Tennis Association can find the time.

(USTA) rankings.

“I have to She realizes that aiming for take one weekend off the top takes a lot of effort. “Tennis a month to enjoy my is very time consuming, but my friends and family,” she favorite part of it is getting to know added. and compete with other good playAfter high school, ers,” she said.

Hutchison plans to major The Lamar tennis team is in sports communication Nicole Hutchison is an award-winning one of the best in the Houston area, tennis player from Lamar High School. at Stanford University or and has won the District 20-5A team Northwestern University. championships for the past two years. This past year the Her ultimate goal is to become a professional tennis team advanced to the semi-finals of the Region III champlayer, and she is inspired by Serena Williams, who recently pionship and was ranked No. 24 out of 238 high schools in won her fifth Wimbledon title.

Texas 5A Team Tennis.

Hutchison received the “Most Improved Player” award for the 2011-2012 school year, and was also district runner-up in the girls’ singles category at the 2012 District 20-5A championships.

In addition, Nicole is striving to attain a “Super Champ” ranking in the USTA, the national governing body MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION for the sport of tennis. It is the largest tennis organization AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY in the world, with 17 geographical sections, more than 750,000 individual members and 7,000 organizational will be accepting responses to a Request for Proposal for the following service: members.

Super Champ is the highest level of tennis in Texas.

BRANDING CONSULTANT SERVICES Playing in and winning specific tournaments allows players Scope: MHMRA of Harris County expects to enter into a relationship to accumulate points in order to “champ up.” Super Champs with a Vendor qualified to provide Branding Consultant Services. are sought after by coaches when scouting players for their colleges and universities.

Specifications may be secured from MHMRA, Harris County, Purchasing Department, located at 7011 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100, Hutchison began playing tennis at the age of 12 on Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7300 and/or via MHMRA the advice of her father. She was playing soccer at the time, website www.mhmraharris.org beginning Tuesday, August 21, but found that the sport was not competitive enough for her.

2012.

A Pre-Proposal Conference is scheduled for Tuesday, “With tennis I’m able to be more strategic and quick August 28, 2012 @ 11:00 a.m., 7011 Southwest Freeway. The deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is on my feet,” she said.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012. Responses to the Request for Hutchison’s tennis schedule includes tournaments Proposal (RFP) must be submitted to Purchasing Department three weekends out of the month and practice every day by 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, at 7011 Southafter school. The rest of her practices take place with her west Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 in a sealed envelope father, who works with her on agility, speed, weightlifting marked "REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2012, “BRANDING CONSULTANT and reinforcing her technique.

SERVICES”. Any questions pertaining to this request for proposal She comes from an athletic family. Her father, Anshould be addressed in writing attn: Marguarette Washington, thony Hutchison, played in the NFL with the Chicago Bears Senior Buyer via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail and Buffalo Bills. Her mother, Deborah, was a high school questions to attn: marguarette.washington@mhmraharris.org cheerleader. cc: nina.cook@mhmraharris.org.

MHMRA reserves the rights to reject any and/or all responses to the Although her father had no prior experience playing Request for Proposal deemed to be in its best interests, to waive or coaching tennis, Nicole’s interest in the sport sparked his formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents and participation. are not obligated to accept all responses to the Request for Proposal.

Despite her busy tennis schedule Hutchison is an

By BRIANNA WILLIAMS Defender

N

classified

WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012 DEFENDER

11

sportsbriefs Hall of Fame inducts six It was the year of the lineman as the NFL Hall of Fame welcomed six new members recently, and four were offensive or defensive linemen. Center Dermontti Dawson, offensive tackle Willie Roaf, defensive end/ linebacker Chris Doleman and defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy were joined by running back Curtis Martin and cornerback Jack Butler. Dawson, a Pittsburgh Steeler from 1988-2000, was named first team All-Pro six consecutive years (1993-98) and was selected to seven consecutive Pro-Bowls. Roaf played with the Saints from 1993-2001and Kansas City from 20022005. He was an 11-time Pro-Bowler and NFC Offensive Lineman of the Year twice. Doleman played for Minnesota, Atlanta and San Francisco from 1985-1999.

He was named to eight Pro Bowls and was named to the NFL All-Decade team for the ‘90s. Kennedy played with the Seattle Seahawks from 1990-2000. Kennedy was named All-Pro five times and made five Pro Bowls.

Butler played with the Steelers from 1951-59. He was a six time All-Pro and was named to the All-Decade team for the ‘50s. Martin was a Patriot from 1995 to 1997 and played with the Jets from 1998-2005. He was voted to five Pro Bowls and retired as the game’s fourth leading rusher in history (14,101 yards).

Dynamo on a roll Don’t look now sports fans, but while everyone focuses on the Texans and the Summer Olympics we’ve overlooked the fact that the Dynamo have been on quite a roll. They’ve won five consecutive games and are tied for first place with Kansas City in the Eastern Conference. In an attempt to further strengthen their roster, the Dynamo have been in negotiations with midfielder Ricardo Clark. He was a key member of the team’s MLS championship squads in 2006 and 2007. Clark, a former MLS All-Star, had been playing in Europe. “I can confirm that the Dynamo are interested in finding a way to sign Rico and are in the process of finding a way to do so,” team president Chris Canetti recently said. “Ongoing negotiations are occurring in an effort to bring him here.” Clark, a fan favorite, made 97 appearances for the Dynamo between 2006 and 2009.

College football kicks off Not only are the Texans involved in preseason workouts, the area universities have begun as well. Coach Heishma Northern’s Prairie View A&M University Panthers have begun workouts on the “Hill.” Ninetyplus student-athletes reported to camp recently. In town, both Texas Southern University and the University of Houston began workouts recently under the watchful eye of new head coaches. The Darrell Asberry (TSU) and Tony Levine (UH) regimes have begun, literally across the street from each other. Experts have predicted the Panthers to finish second in the SWAC’s tough Western Division, while TSU is expected to finish fourth. The Cougars have been tabbed to be the class of the Western Division in Conference USA in what will be their final season in the conference. The Cougars begin play in the Big East next season.

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12

DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 9 | 2012

defendernetwork.com

2012 Nissan Juke SV Crossover

T

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

he 2012 Nissan Juke stands out from the pack of affordable small cars with its unique appearance and up-tempo performance.

Yet despite its sports utility vehicleinfluenced design elements, a tight back seat area and small cargo space may limit its appeal.

Not being as space efficient as many small hatchbacks might outweigh its expressive attitude.

That said, the 2012 Nissan Juke is a fun vehicle to operate. It blends the ride height and looks of a crossover with the soul and sensibility of a hot little hatchback.

Armed with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed manual transmission, the Juke compares favorably with performance-oriented crossovers like the Mini Cooper and Volkswagen GTI. A powerful engine, confidence-inspiring handling and available all-wheel drive give the Juke an edge to certain buyers.

The Juke returns virtually unchanged from the 2011 model with three available trim levels – S, SV and SL. All models have a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and optional al-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission are standard

autoreview

equipment. Premium fuel is the best option.

Juke’s interior is adorned with printed fabrics and hard plastic panels. A lack of small-item storage areas is noticeable.

Comfort and convenience features include a six-way manual driver’s seat, four-way manual front passenger seat, 60/40 fold-flat secondrow seats, leatherwrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio and cruise controls. Other MSRP base price – $21,080 (as tested interior highlights – $22,015) include power sliding Engine – 1.6-liter four-cylinder round headlamps and a tapermoonroof, power Transmission – Six-speed manual ing roofline, the 2012 Nissan doors and windows Fuel economy – 25 miles per gallon (city), Juke resembles a Murano in and cargo area under31 mpg (highway) its infancy. floor storage.

Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,192 Some of the Juke’s Safety features competitors are the Honda include driver and Fit, Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, front passenger side Hyundai Elantra and Subaru impact and curtain air bags, front-seat active head restraints, traction control system and Nissan vehicle im- Impreza.

Yet few can match its funky attitude, firm susmobilizer system and tire pressure monitoring system. pension and racy performance.

With outsized fender flares, saucer-eyed

SPECS

2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 S It was time for our annual trek to Austin for the state high school track and field meet and we were in a bit of a quandary.

My group of four journalists has grown accustomed to riding in style.

Yet this time the options appeared to be limited. We immediately ruled out the sub-compact vehicle.

Three of us stand 6-feet or better. It ultimately came down to renting a car or going with the 2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 S sedan.

When in doubt, go with the Nissan.

The 2.0 S is the middle grade in the Sentra lineup with more interior space than you might imagine, including comfortable seating. The rear seat had a center armrest with cupholders that came in handy. On the way back we substituted a cooler in the middle with water and sodas on ice.

We were impressed with the silky smooth ride that was more reminiscent of a bigger Altima or Maxima.

With a powertrain that consists of a 2.0-liter DOHC fourcylinder engine matched with an automatic transmission, the Sentra devoured the 290 West highway like contestants at a hotdog-eating contest.

I’m a stickler for a good stereo system, so I’d probably upgrade the base 160-watt, sixspeaker system that was in place. Yet by the time we headed back home, either the system had hit its stride or our hearing had made the adjustment.

Besides being a good highway vehicle, the 2012 Sentra 2.0 S is a great value for the price. Starting at a base price

SPECS MSRP base price – $17,990

(as tested – $19,870) Engine – 2.0-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Variable automatic Fuel economy – 27 miles per gallon (city), 34 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,498 (based on $3 per gallon)

of just under $18,000, this test car had a convenience package that included Nissan Intelligent Key keyless entry and ignition system, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a cargo net and hooks in the trunk.

The trunk was enormous! All four of us had a gear bag and the cooler in the trunk for the 167-mile trip to Austin. There was clearly room for more.

Interior amenities included air conditioning with in-cabin microfilter, power windows with driver’s one-touch up/down feature, door locks with automatic-locking feature, six-way adjustable driver’s seat, 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats, trip computer with outside temperature gauge, dual sunvisors with vanity mirrors and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

The Sentra 2.0 S has a sporty exterior that features poweradjustable sideview mirrors, body-side moldings with chrome inserts, chrome trunk lid finisher and rear decklid spoiler with integrated brake light.

The list of safety and security features goes on-and-on.

For starters, there’s Nissan’s advanced air bag system with dual-stage supplemental front air bags, front-seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Sentra gets high marks in three categories of the government safety ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rated Sentra five stars in the side front seat division, along with four stars in frontal driver and rollover.

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