Houston Defender: August 14, 2014

NEWSTALK

DOUBTS REMAIN ABOUT MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF ALFRED WRIGHT, P2 defendernetwork.com

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Volume 83 | Number 41

AUGUST 14, 2014 |FREE NATIONAL REV. AL SHARPTON responds to St. Louis shooting

WESLEY SNIPES RETURNS  PAGE 5

Kinsey Collection

P3 FEATURE MICKEY LELAND remembered for vision, passion

P8 SPORTS DAVID ROBINSON gives students head start

P11 TOP EVENTS

Black treasures come to Houston Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, shown with their son Khalil, are the couple behind the Kinsey Collection, a nationally acclaimed exhibition currently on display at the Houston Museum of African American Culture. The exhibit is sponsored by Wells Fargo. It includes photos, documents, books, paintings and sculptures, with some artifacts dating back to the 1500s.

Discover the exhibit’s Black treasures. Learn more about the Kinseys and their passion for art and history. See why hosting the exhibit is an honor for the museum.  PAGE 6

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Ava Cosse performs at Community Music Center concert

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

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newstalk

Thieves strike hair shop again

Doubts remain about Alfred Wright’s death “We believe he was murdered by those who had a problem with him dating white women in Hemphill, Texas,” he said.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who pressed for the federal investigation into Wright’s death, said the probe should be expanded.

“Today I believe the work has started but it is not complete…it is urgent that community leaders and the lawyers of the NAACP continue

His body was discovered 18 days later wearing his underwear, one sock and both shoes.

A private autopsy revealed his throat had been ine months after Alfred Wright cut, his eyes gouged out and his tongue had been was last seen leaving an East cut.

Texas store and subsequently The U.S. attorney for Texas’ Eastern found dead in the nearby woods, District, John Malcom Bales, said there is no federal authorities have charged a cover-up involving the case. He said his office Jasper, Texas man in connection with his death. re-interviewed witnesses and examined previWright’s famous law enforcement work ily and community and found no evidence to activists, however, still back up anything besides believe Wright was the conclusion that Wright murdered and that local died due to an overdose of authorities did not do drugs he purchased from enough to investigate a Hadnot. possible homicide.

“I don’t have anything The U.S. Atbut sorrow for them, and we torney’s Office in grieve for their loss,” Bales Beaumont recently said, referencing the Wright announced that 28-yearfamily. old Shane Dewayne “But it’s not true that Hadnot, who graduated he was the victim of racial from high school with violence. What he was the Wright, was indicted victim of was a lesson there on two counts of drug that recreational drug use Alfred Wright of Jasper is shown with his wife Lauren. Questions surround his death. distribution leading to is...incredibly foolish and Wright’s Death. to press forward for an expanded investigation it can cost you your life. And it cost Alfred The indictment said that Wright, also 28, from the United States Department of Justice,” Wright his.” died of a drug overdose and had cocaine, methshe said.

The indictments against Hadnot include a amphetamine and Xanax in his system.

Wright was last seen on Nov. 7 after leaving series of text messages between him and Wright “I am really convinced that this is a follow- his over-heated truck in front of a liquor store in that authorities said show Wright bought drugs up to a full-fledged cover-up and they’re using Hemphill, which is 30 miles from Jasper. on the day he died and regularly before that. this young man as the fall guy, as the smoke He called his wife, Lauren, and gave her The indictment said Wright asked in screen,” said Alfred’s father, Douglas Wright. directions to the store. Because their two young one text message for “1 gino and a 20 and 3 over 80Houston years activist Quanell X, who organized sons were home sick, she called his parents, who handles,” which, according to Hadnot, means multiple protests following Wright’s death, said left to pick up Wright at the store. According to a 1 gram of cocaine, $20 worth of methamphetthe crime was racially motivated. store clerk, Wright took off walking. amine and three tablets of Xanax.

By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

N

The owner of a Third Ward hair shop who was shot during an attempted robbery said he has had enough, and will be prepared from now on.

Kehlin Farooq, owner of Mr. Indian Hair Store, was joined by community members during a press conference.

“What we’re saying is we will be prepared from here on out for whatever we are faced with,” Farooq said.

Quanell X agreed.

“What we’re saying is this: To those robbers, if you come again, the proper technical equipment will be waiting for you,” he said.

Two men wearing bandanas and demanding hair barged into Farooq’s store, located in the 4800 block of Almeda. One of the men shot Farooq in the leg before they both escaped in a green Ford pickup. Police located the pickup but the men were not inside.

In 2013, four women were seen on camera burglarizing Farooq’s store.

localbriefs HOUSTON-AREA RESIDENTS are urged to take steps to prevent West Nile virus infections. The virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It recently contributed to the death of a Montgomery County man in his 80s. The primary cause of death and when the man died are unknown. Area officials are taking preventive measures by conducting aerial and truck spraying. Residents can help prevent the virus by using insect repellents when outdoors, wearing long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk, installing or repairing screens on windows and doors, using air conditioning and emptying standing water outside from items such

as flowerpots, buckets and kiddie pools……..DR. JEWEL PRESTAGE, former dean of the Benjamin Banneker Honors College at Prairie View A&M University, died Aug. 1 at the age of 82. She was the mother of Ft. Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage. Dr. Prestage was a native of Alexandria, La. She graduated from Southern University at the age of 19. She earned a master’s degree from the University of Iowa, and while at the university, became the first Black woman to receive a doctorate in political science in the U.S. She received numerous honors, and was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Links. Other survi-

vors include her husband, Dr. James Prestage, two daughters, two sons and nine grandchildren……..

MEDICARE PARTICIPANTS are reminded that the open enrollment periods for both Medicare Part D and the Affordable Care Act insurance exchange are approaching, and it’s prime time for scammers to call with confusing messages that put participants at risk. Participants should never give their banking information or Medicare numbers to anyone over the telephone or strangers who appear at their doors.

“The con artists are always looking for new opportunities to trick you,” said Barbara McGinity, program director of the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol.

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AUGUST 14 | 2014 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs U.S. PUBLIC SCHOOLS are projected this fall to have more minority students (50.2 percent) than whites for the first time in history.

The shift is largely fueled by growth in the number of Hispanic children. Approximately one-fourth of the nation’s minority students are Hispanic, 15 percent are Black and 5 percent are Asian and Pacific Islanders. The population shift brings with it new academic realities, such as the need for more English language instruction……..PRESIDENT OBAMA gave an update about the situation in Iraq following two operations – one that included limited airstrikes to safeguard American personnel, and another that delivered humanitarian aid to thousands of Iraqi civilians stranded on a mountainside. “Over the past few days, American forces have successfully conducted targeted airstrikes to prevent terrorist forces from advancing on the city of Erbil, and to protect American civilians there,” Obama said.

“Kurdish forces on the ground continue to defend their city, and we’ve stepped up military advice and assistance to Iraqi and Kurdish forces as they wage the fight against ISIL.” Obama stressed that “the only lasting solution” is for Iraqis to come together and form an inclusive government……..THE NUMBER OF BLACK PRISON INMATES in Georgia has significantly declined since Gov. Nathan Deal instituted sweeping criminal justice reforms. Deal’s reforms aimed at rehabilitating nonviolent offenders and tackling the inflating costs of incarceration has reduced the Black prison intake by 20 percent. Reforms include legislation to make it easier for employers to hire ex-offenders, vouchers for ex-offenders who have earned money toward college, and accountability courts that include treatment for alcohol and drug abuse. “By identifying lowrisk, nonviolent offenders and more effective ways to rehabilitate them, we are steering these offenders away from a life of crime and reserving our expensive prison beds for the violent offenders who pose a public safety risk,” Deal said.

VOLUME 83 • NUMBER 40 AUGUST 14, 2014 Print Editor Publisher Marilyn Marshall Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Sports Editors Advertising/Client Relations Max Edison Selma Dodson Tyler Darrell K. Ardison Multimedia Coordinator Local Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Cierra Duncan Online Editor Interns ReShonda Billingsley Jazzi Black Art Director Michael Roman Tony Fernandez-Davila Velyjha Southern 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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Blacks in St. Louis area demand justice

T

ension remained high in the St. Louis area, as members of the Black community demanded justice in the police shooting death of Michael Brown Jr., an 18-year-old unarmed Black man who was about to start technical college.

The Aug. 9 killing of Brown in the suburb of Ferguson prompted vigils and demonstrations, and police fired tear gas to disperse one crowd that had gathered in an area where looting occurred. Brown’s death also sparked another national debate about police brutality.

Brown’s parents were among those calling for calm. “No violence, just justice,” said his mother, Lesley McSpadden.

“I just want justice for my son. I need justice for my son,” said his father, Michael Brown Sr. The teen’s parents retained lawyer Benjamin Crump, who represented the parents of Trayvon Martin.

“The police need to be very transparent and forthright in this investigation,” Crump said. “The important thing is that this is open and transparent enough that people don’t think things are being swept under the rug.”

Rev. Al Sharpton called for justice and peace.

“In order to establish peace, you must have fair justice for everyone,” Sharpton said. “We are not more angry than [Brown’s] mom and dad. If they can hold their heads with dignity, we can hold our heads with dignity.”

Another national leader, NAACP President Cornell William Brooks, encouraged community members to turn their anger into action.

“To sneak around under the cover of darkness, to steal, to loot, to burn down your neighborhood – this does not require courage,” Brooks said. “Courage is when you strive for justice.”

Brown was shot multiple times after an altercation with a police officer in Ferguson. Witnesses said he had his hands raised when the unidentified officer approached with his gun drawn and repeatedly fired. Police contend that Brown was excessively belligerent.

The FBI has opened an investigation, looking into possible civil rights violations.

Attorney General Eric Holder said the shooting deserves a full review.

Attorney Benjamin Crump

Rev. Al Sharpton

Black lawyers want shootings probed The National Bar Association (NBA) is calling for a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into the police shooting death of Michael Brown of Ferguson, Mo., and the death of Eric Garner, who died from a chokehold used by a member of the New York Police Department.

“We will not tolerate another person being victimized by someone whose job is to protect and serve,” said Pamela Meanes, president of the NBA. “We will and must be the voice of the voiceless.”

Additionally, the NBA wants the DOJ to look into the number of police shootings that have taken place in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio.

“The NBA firmly believes that whenever there is a shooting involving a police officer, an outside agency must be called in to handle the subsequent investigation in the interest of fairness and transparency,” the group said in a statement.

Meanes added that police departments play an important role in all communities, “but that role must be based on transparency and trust.”

Founded in 1925, the NBA represents approximately 20,000 lawyers, judges, law professors and law students and has over 80 affiliate chapters.

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

Target Hunger names CEO Target Hunger of Houston has named Lemel Jones as its new CEO. Jones’ background includes overseeing a 23-parish agency relations department during the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita as part of the leadership of New Orleans’ Second Harvest Food Bank.

Jones summed up the experience with one statement: “I learned what I was made of and it made me proud.”

“The Target Hunger Board is excited about Lemel Jones taking the helm as our agency’s new CEO,” said board chair John Simon.

“Lemel’s clear passion for our mission, long history of leading the fight against hunger, and innate ability to connect with Target Hunger’s clients, the community we serve and our current and future Lemel Jones sponsors and volunteers, will provide a powerful driving force to our ongoing efforts to eradicate hunger and its root causes in Houston’s inner city.”

Jones served as executive director of FoodNet, the Lafayette Parish Food Bank, and continued working with the Resilience Project, a grass-roots hunger project she founded in 2006.

Target Hunger, founded in 1989, distributes more than 5.9 million pounds of food annually and serves more than 16,000 people each month. The agency’s programs include food pantries, senior day site collaborations, home delivery routes and community gardens.

Block party scheduled Project PRESS, a community enrichment program sponsored by Gateway Community Church, will host its annual block party in Crestmont Park on Saturday, Aug. 23, from noon to 4 p.m. The park is located at 5200 Selinsky.

Through its block party, Project PRESS (People Reaching Excellence Striving & Succeeding) strives to bring a fun-filled family day to the surrounding community.

The free event includes refreshments, games, entertainment, health screenings, giveaways and a music showcase hosted by Nzinga of Majic 102.

Other nonprofits and organizations will provide information on such topics as housing and home ownership, credit counseling, chemical dependency, parenting and careers.

“Think of it as a small version of the county fair,” said Pastor Brian Watson of Gateway.

For more information call 713.738.0422 or visit www.thegatecc.org.

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AUGUST 14 | 2014 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Wesley Snipes returns to acting in ‘Expendables 3’

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

E

ditor’s Note: Wesley Snipes served a prison term from 2010 to 2013 for failure to file income tax returns. He could not talk about the ordeal in the following interview.

Wesley Snipes is a celebrated actor, film producer and master in various martial arts. Born in Orlando, Fla. in 1962, he spent his childhood between Orlando and Bronx, N.Y. Snipes began appearing in off-Broadway productions and fine-tuned his craft as a drama and musical theater artist. He was handpicked by Martin Wesley Snipes and Jason Statham are two stars of “The Expendables 3.”

Scorsese and Quincy Jones to play a gang leader in Michael Here, Snipes talks about his latest outing as Doc Jackson’s “Bad” video. alongside Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, He subsequently starred in such films as “Mo’ Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson, Antonio Banderas, Terry Better Blues,” “Jungle Fever,” “White Men Can’t Crews and Kelsey Grammer in “The Expendables 3.”

Jump,” “Passenger 57,” “Drop Zone,” “Disappearing KW: What interested you in “The Expendables 3?”

Acts,” “Murder at 1600” and “U.S. Marshals.”

WS: It was the opportunity to work again with Sly Snipes gained a wider audience with his role as a [Stallone], and the chance to be a part of that ensemble vampire hybrid super hero in the “Blade” trilogy. He with a lot of the best of the best of this particular genre. is married to Korean artist Nikki Park and has four KW: Did you enjoy watching this genre of film children with her and an older son from a previous growing up? marriage.

WS: I’m a big fan of this type of film. And hearing

about all the heavyweights they were bringing back only made it even more attractive. It was a blessing just to be on the set with some of these iconic actors, to see how they perform, to have a chance to get up close and personal with them, and to crack a joke or two or three or four with them.

KW: Are you aware of any upand-coming Black actor who is as versatile as you have been?

WS: Well, I think they’re out there, but I don’t know whether they’ve been given the opportunity to shine like I have. I hope there are. It’d be great to work with them. I was fortunate enough to be trained in the theater.

Coming from the theater background, you’re schooled to play diverse roles in preparation for the repertory environment, or the repertory type of lifestyle.

So, to me, going back and forth from genre to genre is only keeping true to the way I was trained in the theater. And I’m really an action fan. I’m a movie fan in general, but I’m definitely an action fan, as well. I appreciate all the work and thought it would be cool if it could be one of the tricks that I could bring to the table.

KW: How did you feel about getting to play Blade, one of the first Black superheroes?

WS: I don’t remember getting that excited at first, because it hadn’t been done before. So, the reception was all a big surprise.

what’sup KELLY ROWLAND showed off her growing baby bump in a recent Instagram photo taken in Puerto Rico, where she is currently vacationing. Rowland married her manager TIM WITHERSPOON in May in Costa Rica. She talked about her pregnancy during an interview with Ebony Magazine. “I’ve just tried to remain, and it hasn’t been hard, joyful in this whole occasion and this beautiful time in my life,” Rowland said. “I’m creating and surrounding the baby with positive energy. And that first comes from me. They’re dwelling within, so it’s important I remain in positive spirits. I surround myself with good people. Rowland, 33, is expecting a boy…….. “Love & Hip Hop” cast member K.MICHELLE stars in “Rebellious Soul-The Musical,” which is based on her album, “Rebellious Soul.”

It premieres Tuesday, Aug. 19, at 9 p.m. on VH1. The

“hip hopera” is described as a “dark, cautionary tale” that captures the love, heartache and redemption of a woman struggling to break the cycle of a bad romance. Actor IDRIS ALBA directed the musical. He will soon be seen in the film “No Good Deed,” which arrives in theaters in September. Alba portrays a charming but dangerous escaped convict who invades the home of TARAJI P. HENSON and terrorizes her family………“The Hundred-Foot Journey,” the film co-produced by OPRAH WINFREY and STEVEN SPIELBERG, debuted in fourth place at the box office. The movie focuses on two restaurants in France.

Winfrey recently revealed one of her favorite ingredients to prepare. “I make a mean pasta with shaved truffles, like a tortellini stuffed with cheese and truffles. I’m a truffle freak. I walk around with truffle salt,” she said……..

BET has picked up three new reality series starring four entertainers. Singer KEYSHIA COLE will share her “emotional journey” as she handles her unstable marriage to NBA player Daniel Gibson, her evolving career, motherhood and family struggles. NELLY will take viewers along as he juggles his roles as a hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, father to his biological children and his deceased sister’s children, all while nurturing a blossoming friendship with the ex-girlfriend of boxer FLOYD MAYWEATHER. Real-life couple DAVID & TAMELA MANN, stars of such TYLER PERRY projects as “Meet the Browns,” will offer viewers an inside look at their lives. The Manns have been married 26 years and have four children. Tamela is also a gospel singer who started out with KIRK FRANKLIN and the Family.

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

cente

African-American

treasures

Kinsey Collection comes to Houston

B

By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

ernard and Shirley Kinsey began collecting African-American art more than 30 years ago in hopes of learning more about their family and its history. Their son, Khalil, served as a catalyst in their pursuit because they wanted him to have a strong understanding of his background.

This desire resulted in the Kinsey Collection, a nationally acclaimed exhibition seen by over 3 million people. The exhibit features artwork and artifacts that showcase the diverse history of African-Americans in the United States, including photographs, documents, books, paintings and sculptures.

Some artifacts date back to the 1500s.

The collection is on display at the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) now through Oct. 26 and is sponsored by Wells Fargo.

“There are the stories that made America and the stories that America made up,” said Bernard Kinsey. “The Kinsey Collection puts us in the story and the narrative. Once you begin to fully understand the African-American story, you really then understand America.”

“African-Americans have been a part of every bit of this country,” added Khalil Kinsey. “And not just struggle.

It’s better to talk about it from the standpoint of achievement, contribution and participation.”

The exhibit feature artifacts that are seldom-displayed.

They include an early edition of Solomon Northrup’s “12 Years a Slave” and W. E. B. DuBois’ first edition copy of his book “Souls of Black Folks.”

A baptismal record dating back to 1595 and a marital record from 1598 are the earliest known documentation of an

A chromolithograp

h (1863) encoura

ged Blacks to join

the Union Army.

African-American presence in the United States. Work from local artists John Biggers and Lionel Lofton are included.

The Kinsey Collection has been featured at the Smithsonian Institution, the American Heritage Gallery Epcot-Walt Disney World and over 10 other venues across the country.

As part of Wells Fargo’s 2013 celebratory tour honoring the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, the collection has traveled to some of the nation’s leading AfricanAmerican museums. They include the Museum of the African Diaspora in San Francisco and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum in Baltimore.

John Guess, CEO of HMAAC, said the exhibit represents a common history.

“By presenting the exhibition, lectures, programs, and the community events that highlight the stories in the exhibition, Wells Fargo and HMAAC hope to establish that we are all connected to a common history and that our shared history cannot be segregated,” Guess said.

Bernard Kinsey also noted the importance of that history.

“You cannot begin to understand the Civil War without first understanding slavery,” Kinsey said. “You cannot fully appreciate the Civil Rights Movement without understanding Jim Crow.

“The Kinsey Collection serves to facilitate the joining of these historical moments to create a more comprehensive view of the historical account of America.”

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About the Kinsey family For the past seven years, see one of the oldest paintings by philanthropist Bernard Kinsey, an African-American artist in 1865. his wife Shirley and son Khalil There are very few places where have focused their attention you can see that in one place.” on the Kinsey Collection, their The Kinsey family has national touring museum traveled to nearly 100 countries exhibit of African-American art showcasing their collection. They and history that dates back have helped raise more than $22 million to send students to to 1600. historically Black colleges “One of the things that is special about the Kinsey and universities.

Collection is that as a family Bernard Kinsey is president we have taken the historical and founder of KBK Enterprises, a record of America, which is management consulting firm. He the documents, books and also enjoyed a 20-year association Khalil, Shirley and Bernard Kinsey brought their collection to manuscripts, but we have also with the Xerox Corporation and Houston. collected the artistic records of was one of the pioneers in breaking African-American achievement and accomplishment,” down racial barriers in corporate America. Shirley Kinsey is said Bernard. a former elementary school teacher and training manager “In one place, in one museum you’ll be able to start for Xerox. in 1595 with the oldest known document of the AfricanThe Kinseys consider themselves students of world American existence in America but you’ll also be able to history and culture.

About the HMAAC

A 1936 poster from the Paul Robeson movie “Song of Freedom” can be seen at the Kinsey Collection on display at the Houston Museum of African American Culture.

Guess originally saw the Kinsey The Houston Museum of African Collection in Charlotte, N.C. at the American Culture, located at 4807 Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanCaroline Street, began as an initiative conceived by then-mayor Lee P. American Arts and Culture.

Brown and a group of African-Ameri“I pushed for the exhibition to can families in 2000. come to Houston; I wasn’t necesThe museum experienced growsarily pushing HMAAC,” Guess said. ing pains, and in 2009, John Guess “Bernard [Kinsey] said I want to come Jr., who serves on various arts-related to HMAAC.” boards, was brought in as CEO. The Preparations included a buildmuseum opened on a daily basis ing and security overhaul in order to in 2012. properly showcase the exhibit, while HMAAC’s mission is to explore, also keeping it safe during its time interpret and exhibit the material and in Houston. The renovations also intellectual culture of Africans and included new floors and painting.

The Houston Museum of African American Culture is African-Americans for current and Guess said the success of honored to display the Kinsey Collection. future generations.

HMAAC “lies directly with the people “What we do here is outstanding,” Guess said. “There are who work here, our volunteers and vendors, and our constantly [African-American] stories to tell.” growing and multicultural audience.

Hosting the Kinsey Collection is a great honor for the mu“We are African immigrants and the descendants of enslaved seum, which closed for over a month to prepare for the arrival of Africans in the Americas. We are Latinos, Anglos and Asians. This the exhibit. is our formula for success.”

Upcoming events HMAAC and the Kinsey family will offer coinciding programs for all ages related to the Kinsey Collection while it is here in Houston.

• Submissions for the Americana Essay Contest are due on Aug. 31.

The contest invites a national audience to write about the people in their families who helped shape America’s racial history in any way. The winning essay will be selected by a panel of national judges and posted on HMAAC’s blog, Global Griot.

• On Sept. 14 and Oct. 12, HMAAC will feature Seniors Stories, where notable Houston older adults will tell stories about their experiences growing up during a time of extensive social change.

he Houston area for over 80 years

• On Sept. 27, HMAAC will present the Young Collector Workshop hosted by Khalil Kinsey. It aims to introduce young professionals to art collecting and its relationship to chronicling a people’s history.

• Every Saturday at 2 p.m., HMAAC presents Children’s Saturdays of Discovery, programming related to topics raised by the Kinsey Collection for elementary and middle school students.

• Every weekend until Oct. 25, HMAAC will present Meet the Past: Films Inspired by The Kinsey Collection. Influential films about AfricanAmerican life will be viewed and discussed.

For more information visit www.hmaac.org.

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

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Houstonians pay tribute to

Mickey Leland

Party member Carl Hampton.”

Locke said he and onoring the Leland tried to calm a life and legacy crowd that gathered of the late and in return Leland Congressgot a baton jammed man George in his gut. Locke “Mickey” Leland was Concalled Leland a pagresswoman Sheila Jackson triot because “when Lee’s objective as she laid a you believe in your wreath at the Leland Memocommunity so much rial Park in Fifth Ward. you fight for your A memorial to the late Congressman Mickey Leland can be found at The occasion marked people…that’s the Fifth Ward park that bears his name. the 25th anniversary of the a patriot.” tragic plane crash on Aug. 7, 1989 when Leland and Leland’s legacy also lives on in the Kibbutzim 14 others lost their lives.

Internship Program he co-founded, which allows Lee set the stage by describing the objective of high school students to live in Israel for a month and Leland’s trip, as eight Americans and seven Ethiopians experience the country and its people. Mia Pham and journeyed to visit 57,000 Ethiopian Sudanese exiles.

Daniela Mengesha, two young women who recently “Mickey went anywhere that he could go to returned from Israel, spoke of how grateful they were squash out injustice,” she said. for the opportunity.

Jackson Lee arranged the tribute, which featured “Thank you Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Leland colleagues, friends, former staff members, Lee for keeping the program going, and [Leland’s] community advocates and students. memory is being honored by continuing the program,” Gene Locke, a former chief of staff for Leland, Mengesha said. recalled several stories. One occurred in July, 1970 Former Councilman Ben T. Reyes, who served when “Houston police assassinated Black Panther in the state legislature with Leland, recalled how they

By VON JILES Defender

H

As an elected official, Leland was an advocate for the less fortunate.

Leland traveled to Africa in an effort to help fight hunger and despair.

were from different sides of the track yet met while they were kids. Reyes was selling hamburgers and Leland was shining shoes in Fifth Ward.

The Leland Park, located on Cavalcade, was established by County Commissioner El Franco Lee, a friend of Leland’s. David Benson, who represented Lee, thanked the crowd for remembering Leland’s efforts and encouraged them to keep up the fight.

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Leland remembered as man of vision Mickey Leland touched countless lives as an activist and elected official. Here, community leaders and former colleagues remember Leland in their own words.

His vision

Ben T. Reyes, former councilman, state representative – “I think about this guy every day of my life. You look at the issues out there every day and you wonder what would Mickey say? He was ahead of his time. He talked about generic drugs and they called him

His legacy

Ben Reyes

His global concern

Congressman Al Green

Congressman Al Green – “Congressman Mickey Leland served not only Houston but the whole world, passing away doing what he was known for: delivering aid and comfort to those most in need on a mission of mercy to Africa. However, his impressive legacy continues to live on in the endeavors of all people of goodwill. Congressman Leland’s reputation and friendship inspired my own career in public service, and his legacy is one that I contemplate often in my own efforts.”

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a communist. He was a visionary but he was genuine. His work reflected his humanity. He went to the poorest neighborhoods around when he was a college kid, and set up a clinic which was the foundation for the Harris County clinics.

He talked about HMOs. Now, people are saying we have to go further.”

9/12/13 8:12 PM

Keith Wade, former Leland staff member – “When you knew [Leland] he knew you. Even though it has been 25 years, he continues to live on through the Mickey Leland Fellows and the Kibbutz programs. We’ve sent over 400 young people in the program to understand world affairs including ten who recently returned from the Middle East.

These kids weren’t even born when Mickey died and he is still impacting their lives.”

His passion

Keith Wade

Gene Locke, former Leland chief of staff – “He had passion for the people, patriotism for his community and his country and a practicality that drove him to get things done. He was a man whose death is a great loss but whose life was a great inspiration. “

His humility

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee – “Mickey Leland was a humble but larger-than-life man who humbled himself to find the most impoverished and the neediest and worked to make the pathway of their life better. He was a man who sought to make the pathways of those unknown to him better than the misery in which he found them. Gregarious with a wonderful smile and laugh, and a friend to many, Congressman Leland left a remarkable footprint not only on Houston and Texas and America but around the world. We thank his wonderful family, including his mother Alice, for sharing him with us. May God rest his soul and may we never forget on this day in the years and decades to come to remember to say the name “Mickey” and say a simple “Thank you.”

Gene Locke

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

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sports

Cougars have high expectations this fall

By MAX EDISON Defender

W

ith a new stadium (TDECU), sparkling new uniforms and a reconfigured conference (American Athletic), the University of Houston Cougars under Coach Tony Levine are poised for a successful run this fall.

After an 8-5 record in 2013 which included a trip to the BBVA Compass Bowl, Levine’s Cougars are seeking to make a name for themselves in 2014 and continue a winning tradition.

Picked to finish third in the conference in preseason polls, the Cougars are an experienced bunch. They return 28 players with starting experience, including seven student-athletes who have accounted for 11 national preseason watch list mentions.

When you think Cougar football you automatically think of high-octane offense and strong- armed quarterbacks. That pattern continues as sophomore QB John O’Korn returns.

O’Korn (6-feet-4, 220 pounds) set the Houston freshman record for passing touchdowns (28) and completions (259), leading all true freshmen nationally with his 28 touchdowns.

He took over as Houston’s starting quarterback in the third game of the season and had multiple passing touchdowns in eight games as he finished the year with 3,117 yards, just 14 yards short of the Houston freshman record of 3,131 yards set by Kevin Kolb by 2003.

Levine thinks O’Korn – the 2013 American Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year –will only get better.

“He has a lot of room to grow and develop,” Levine said. “He has about 40 games left at [UH]. We have a lot of talent around him offensively, so his decision-making is going to be very important.

“He’s has all the tools physically. He has great accuracy, great arm strength, and he’s going to get in and out of good plays and make good decisions distributing the football. He’s going to be key, and I

Deontay Greenberry is a nationally-ranked receiver.

John O’Korn returns as University of Houston quarterback.

expect that he’ll do that to perfection.”

With a year under his belt O’Korn expects the offense to be even more explosive.

“You should expect us to be a lot more dynamic this year, do a lot more offensively, see a lot more guys getting their hands on the ball, be a lot more up-tempo this year,” he said. “Last year Trevon Stewart, a safety, led the nation in interceptions.

Daniel Spencer is another receiver with impressive stats.

we went pretty fast. We’re going to take it to another level.”

O’Korn will have a talented group of wideouts at his disposal, including Deontay Greenberry (junior, 6-feet-3, 200) and Daniel Spencer (senior, 6-feet, 195).

Greenberry ranks sixth nationally among returning players with 1,202 receiving yards and 11 touchdown receptions in 2013. Spencer played in all 13 games with 11 starts and was third in conference with four 100-yard receiving games. He led the team with an average of 14.8 yards per reception.

The Cougars’ offense will rely heavily on their defense and their ability to force turnovers.

Nobody in the nation was bigger at forcing turnovers than junior safety Trevon Stewart (5-feet9, 185). Stewart led the nation in 2013 with 10 takeaways, collecting a nation’s best and Houston single-season record six fumble recoveries and four interceptions.

Stewart, along with linebacker Derrick Mathews (senior, 6-feet, 221) and A&M transfer defensive end Gavin Stansbury (senior, 6-feet-4, 255) will lead a stingy unit that will seek to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

Defensive coordinator David Gibbs is quick to bestow the credit for their success to one source, the players.

“The good news is all those guys who created the turnovers are back,” Gibbs said. “…We had 100 coaches come through here asking, ‘How did you get so many turnovers?’ The truth is it’s the players.”

The Cougars’ attitude remains the same – put up big numbers offensively and force turnovers on defense. If that 2013 approach can be replicated in 2014, a conference championship could be in their future.

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sportsbriefs Little League series diverse

NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson welcomes participants in the 2014 Admiral Hospitality Scholars program.

Robinson gives Houston students hospitality start

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By MICHAEL ROMAN Defender

a local Hilton hotel. If the participating students decide to pursue a career in hospitality, they’ll receive financial help from Admiral Capital Group to pay for their education.

This was the second year of the scholars program. Two dozen HISD students participated in the inaugural year, including six of the students who were involved in the program this summer.

Danny Arocha, director of enrollment for UH’s Hilton College, said the programs gives students valuable instruction.

“Many student scholars are first-generation college students,” Arocha said. “Instead of ‘throwing them into the fire,’ we will give them extensive career training ahead of time.”

Robinson said he is pleased to help support such efforts.

“From my standpoint, we all have a lot of resources and we all have a responsibility to do what we can,” he said. “There are a lot of people in need. It’s nice to be able to utilize some of those resources for good.”

He added that the hospitality industry benefits from the program as well.

“You can talk about diversity all you want, but unless there are people in the pipeline, no one is going to be in those hotel management and ownership positions,” Robinson said. “This program will be planting the seeds for the next 10 years, where we will be able to see people filling those leadership spots.”

ormer San Antonio Spurs star center David Robinson wants to make a difference in the lives of Houston high school students.

Robinson’s Admiral Hospitality Scholars program is giving 25 HISD students from Worthing, Davis and Jordan the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the hospitality industry.

As part of the program, students participated in a three-day summer camp at the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, where they created their own restaurant concept that included a menu and marketing plan. They presented their concepts to Robinson and received an opportunity to pose for photos with him.

The program provides students with a pathway to a degree and career in the hospitality industry with the financial support of Hilton Worldwide and Admiral Capital Group, and the educational and training support of the UH Hilton College and American Liberty Hospitality.

The program, to be expanded locally and nationally in the future, is aligned with the mission of Admiral Capital Group, a national real estate investment fund co-founded by Robinson.

“The hospitality industry is one of the largest providers of jobs in the world and is globally diverse by nature,” Robinson said.

David Robinson, a 7-foot-1 NBA Hall of “Admiral Hospitality Scholars Famer, is considered one of the greatest exposes Houston’s diverse student popcenters of his era. He was selected first overall ulation to the industry at an age when in the 1987 NBA draft by the San Antonio they’re seeking to define themselves Spurs but didn’t play for the club until 1989 and gives them a glimpse into the types because of a two-year commitment to the of opportunities that are available if they Navy. elect to pursue the hospitality path.”

Robinson played with the Spurs While at UH, the students also from 1989-2003 and was a 10-time NBA toured the campus and spent a few All-Star, 1995 NBA MVP, two-time NBA champion (1999, 2003) and two-time nights in the dorms so they could get a Olympic gold medalist (1992, 1996). In taste of college life. They also went on addition to the Admirals Hospitality Scholoff-site tours of hotels and restaurants. ars program, Robinson donated $9 million The students will be matched with toward the building of the Carver Academy, a a mentor from the hospitality industry private San Antonio school. and complete a one-year internship at

About David Robinson

This year’s Little League World Series (LLWS) features a flame-throwing African-American girl and an all-Black squad from Chicago. Pitcher Mo’Ne Davis pitched a brilliant, six strikeout, complete game shutout for Taney Youth Baseball Association Little League of Philadelphia in the Mid-Atlantic regional championship over Delaware. The 13-year-old will become the 18th girl to play in the Little League World Series in 68 years.

The win for Davis was the second in the regional tourney over Delaware. She struck out 10 in their previous meeting. Members of the Chicago team, Jackie Robinson West, punched their ticket to the LLWS in a thrilling come-from-behind victory over New Albany, Ind., 12-7. The Chicago team is a member of the Little League Urban Initiative, which was formed in 1999 to support local Little League programs in urban neighborhoods in need. Locally the Pearland East All-Stars will represent the Southwest region. This will be their second trip. They last appeared in 2010. The LLWS begins Aug. 14 in Williamsport, Pa.

Gordon plays waiting game Former Lamar High and Baylor University standout Josh Gordon has to play the waiting game.

Gordon, a receiver with the Cleveland Browns, recently met with NFL o∞cials to appeal a positive drug test that could lead to a season-long suspension. Gordon’s representatives maintain he tested positive for marijuana because of secondhand smoke. Gordon has a documented history of substance abuse that dates back to his Baylor days. Preparing for his third NFL season he has established himself as one of the league’s top young receivers. He has been allowed to resume training camp workouts until a decision is rendered. No timetable has been given by the NFL on the appeals decision.

Texans come to ‘Hard Knocks’ The Houston Texans will be seen on HBO’s critically acclaimed “Hard Knocks” training camp reality show. They’re more like co-stars since the Atlanta Falcons are the 2014 stars of the show.

The Texans will have a supporting role when the two teams conduct joint workouts. They will practice together on Wednesday, Aug. 13 and Thursday, Aug. 14, at the Houston Methodist Training Center leading up to their preseason matchup at NRG Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 16.

The team will then travel to Colorado for three joint practices at the Broncos’ facility in Englewood, beginning Tuesday, Aug. 19 and continuing through Thursday, Aug. 21.

Dalton gets paid Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton was a state champion as a QB at Katy High School.

He later won the Rose Bowl his senior season at TCU. Dalton has taken the Bengals to the playo≠s for three consecutive years and the Bengals are grateful. How grateful you ask? They recently rewarded Dalton with a six-year contract extension worth $115 million. Dalton will reportedly make $22 million within the first six months of the deal based on bonuses (signing, roster and workout) and base salary. Despite their regular season success, Dalton and the Bengals are 0-3 in playo≠ competition.

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DEFENDER | AUGUST 14 | 2014

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

Community leaders remember Mickey Leland with wreath laying

Drs. Helen and Richard Watkins

Kim Hatton and Anne Lundy

topevents

Program singer Chloe and her brother join Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Faye and Bill Ashley, Darline Harvey and James Brown

Congresswoman Jackson Lee

Ralph DeVaul Jr., James King and Marilyn Cooper

Ava Cosse and mom Angela Badon-Cosse (right)

Pat Maxwell, Latrice Stevenson and Veronica Richard

updated on the status of the Veterans Administration by Drs. Richard and Helen WREATH LAYING…..Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee hosted a comWatkins. Participants in the event were Faye and Bill Ashley, Darline Harvey, munity tribute to former Congressman Mickey Leland on the 25th anniversary James Brown, James King, Marilyn Cooper, and Dr. Rebecca Lancaster to of his death. Many Leland colleagues, friends, former staff members, community name a few…..COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTER OF HOUSTON…..CMCH’s advocates and students met at the Mickey Leland Memorial Park in Fifth Ward to Young Performances Series presented “Bach to Ellington,” featuring future stars remember his many contributions and accomplishments which impacted Houston, with the Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra under the direction of the state, the nation and the world. Joining in the tribute were Gene Locke, Ben Reyes, Keith Wade, Larry Anne Lundy. CMCH, a non-profit music performing arts and Defender TOP EVENTS Payne, Deloyd Parker, Jodie Jiles, Algenita Scott education organization, has been around since 1979 and has More photos on defendernetwork.com Davis, Claudette Sims, Linda Brown, William Paul consistently showcased Black pianists and string instrumentalists.

See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Thomas, Judges Armando Rodriquez and Richard The Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra is one of the nation’s oldest with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 a.m.

Vara, Bo Fraga, David Benson and many more….. contemporary majority African-American community orchesWINDSOR VILLAGE VETERANS MINISTRY….. tras. We applaud the young stars for an outstanding performance Veterans helping veterans was the theme of the Windsor Village Veterans Ministry and commend Anne Lundy and her colleagues for their vision and consistency Summit at the Power Center. The program focused on employment, healthcare, in supporting young artists. Some of the performers on program were Ava Cosse entrepreneurship and addressing the issues facing veterans today. The guest on violin, Tyler Dennis on violin and Gregory Lewis on viola. Many parents speakers were Texas Veterans Commission Education Coordinator Dr. Ralph and well-wishers were in the crowd including Pat Maxwell, Latrice Stevenson, DeVaul Jr. and Marylyn Harris, a healthcare consultant. The audience was Veronica Richard and Kijana Wiseman.

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