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RELIEF AND OPPORTUNITY FOR SMALL BUSINESSES REBUILDING AFTER HURRICANE HARVEY P6

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Volume 86 | Number 46

NEWSTALK DERRICK JOHNSON promises help from NAACP

P2 NATIONAL JOHNATHAN HOLIFIELD named HBCU White House liaison n

Sterling K. Brow

Lena Waith

Donald Glo ver

BLACKS MAKE HISTORY AT

2017 EMMYS

getting support

Colleagues and fans are coming together in support of ESPN anchor Jemele Hill, who was blasted by everyone from viewers to the White House for calling Donald Trump a white supremicist.

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TYRELL BUARD

Waltrip lineman demands attention

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Jemele Hill

H.S. ZONE

Kiana Dancie

cohosts new show

TOP EVENTS

The Houston comedienne is joining three other ladies for “Sister Circle,” a new talk show aimed at Black women that airs on TV One.

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Sharon Moses-Burnside, Council Member Larry Green and Jamila Johnson at a Hurricane Harvey Town hall meeting.

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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 21 | 2017

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Mayor Turner calls out Red Cross they are not receiving the assistance promised by the organization, specifically $400 Mayor Sylvester promised to families in need. Turner is weighing in on The Red Cross said its system the controversy over the for the program went down American Red Cross. This and representatives did not comes after questions about know when it would be up. where the millions of dolPorter resident Wanda lars in resources given to Short and her daughter Kelthe Red Cross are going. ley Coats are among those “If you promise people Mayor Sylvester Turner waiting. something, you have to “I left my name, my number, my make it happen. Otherwise, don’t address. I left her address, not one single promise at all,” Turner said. word back,” Coats said. “My mom Many Harvey survivors claim Defender News Services

flagged them down in the neighborhood, and they didn’t even get out of the car. They talked to her through the window and said, ‘Call the Red Cross number.’ “ Short called and waited five hours only to be told she couldn’t be helped. Turner said he understands helping people on such a scale is difficult, but the organization should give people answers. “If I tell you I’m going to do this, and I don’t do it, then I have to be willing to accept the criticism because right now, when people are in a very difficult situation, they’re relying on what you

tell them,” Turner said. The Red Cross issued a statement in response to questions. “On SEPTEMBER 21, the Red Cross plans to launch a single website where severely impacted households from 39 Texas counties can apply for $400,” the organization said. “We expect the website to have sufficient capacity to handle all registrations; applications will not be accepted through any other website or phone number. Registration will remain open until October 10.” Visit www.RedCross.org for details.

NAACP opens disaster support command center By ASWAD WALKER Defender

The recent grand opening of the Texas NAACP Disaster Support Command Center (DSCC) announced the organization’s participation in Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts. Gary Bledsoe, head of the NAACP’s Texas Conference, said the DSCC, which sits adjacent to the NAACP Houston office, exists to ensure “that many of those who have not been included in recoveries in the past are included this time.” The DSCC will primarily serve as a clearing house for requests for service and resource matching source for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. The center will identify community resources for victims, coordinate resource and service requests in a systematic manner, serve as a convener of local resources to aid in the development of better public policy regarding recovery efforts, and train individuals in other affected areas to create DSCC satellite operations.

Bledsoe said nine additional centers are planned, but the NAACP will push for the founding of many more. Derrick Johnson, the NAACP’s interim president and CEO, attended the grand opening, pledging the full resources and resolve of the national office to ensure equity in relief distribution. “Any time there’s a disaster like Hurricane Harvey it doesn’t discriminate,” Johnson said. “Unfortunately, we’ve seen far too often where the recovery has not been as equal as it should have been. The reason why this branch and this state conference have decided to open this recovery center is to ensure that all of the citizens of Houston, of the affected area across Texas, receive the support necessary to be made whole.” Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was also on hand, announcing legislation totaling $174 billion to fund “complete” Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. DSCC calls should be directed to the NAACPHouston branch at 713-526-3389.

Local, national and state NAACP officials (center, l. to r.) James Douglas, Derrick Johnson and Gary Bledsoe joined other community leaders at the command center opening. (Photo by Aswad Walker)

localbriefs HARRIS COUNTY IS URGING RESIDENTS to avoid creating debris stockpile sites in their neighborhoods (i.e. parking lots, medians, community centers, etc.). Unincorporated Harris County residents are encouraged to wait for county debris haulers to remove debris from the right-of-way in front of their homes. Harris County debris contractors are only collecting debris from sites located in county right-of-way. Normal household trash will NOT be picked up with disaster debris. You should continue to follow your normal garbage removal schedule…….FORMER SHELL OIL CHAIRMAN Marvin E. Odum has been appointed to the new position of chief recovery

officer for Houston. Mayor Sylvester Turner said he will look to Odum to recommend bold moves that position Houston to prosper further and be ready for the next storm. Odum, who will serve without salary from the city, has been a global leader in the oil and gas and power generation industries and has extensive experience in large-scale crisis management. His mission will be two-fold: to ensure a rapid, quality recovery from Hurricane Harvey and position the city to be less vulnerable to the next record-breaking storm……..HISD TRUSTEES HAVE APPROVED extended school days for 12 campuses to make up instructional time. The board also eliminated five

early dismissal days scheduled throughout the school year for all campuses. The Texas Education Agency approved waivers that exempt students from making up the first nine days of missed classes. However, students at 12 schools starting after Sept. 11 will have to make up lost time beyond those days. The additional 25 minutes of instructional time will take place at Bellaire High, Northside High, Key Middle, Mitchell Elementary and Robinson Elementary. Seven schools will have an additional 55 minutes of instructional time: Liberty High, Forest Brook Middle, Braeburn Elementary, R.P. Harris Elementary, Hilliard Elementary, Kolter Elementary and Scarborough Elementary.

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national

U.S.briefs BATON ROUGE POLICE ARE QUESTIONING a 23-year-old white male in what they believe to be two racially motived killings of Black men, including a dishwasher who was on his way to work at a restaurant popular among Louisiana State University students. Kenneth Gleason was arrested on numerous counts of drug charges, but authorities do not have enough to charge him in the shooting deaths of two Black pedestrians. Without elaboration about the motive, police say that shell casings from the shootings linked the deaths and Gleason’s car matched the description of the vehicle witnesses saw at the scene. In both shootings, the suspect reportedly fired from his car, walked up to the victims as they were on the ground and fired again multiple times. Police say the attacks were racially motivated……..FORMER DETROIT MAYOR KWAME KILPATRICK is asking a federal judge to expunge $1.5 million in restitution he has been ordered to pay the city of Detroit. Kilpatrick, who is serving a 28-year prison term for corruption when he was mayor, wants a judge to allow him to travel from Oklahoma back to Detroit so he can argue in person that he is being punished for a crime he claims he didn’t commit: bid rigging. Kilpatrick hopes a judge will let him off the hook for the $1.5 million, but given the seriousness of the charges his plea may be a longshot. He was convicted in 2013 on 24 counts for crimes including fraud, bribery and extortion..……THE PRESIDENT OF LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY in Nashville is under fire for hosting a dinner for AfricanAmerican students that featured cotton-stalk centerpieces and “Black meals” with collard greens and cornbread. President Randy Lowry followed up the event by sending out an email apologizing for the incident, and acknowledging that he could have “handled the situation with more sensitivity.”

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 46 SEPTEMBER 21 , 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Jasemine Knowles Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

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

Many HBCU leaders skip White House annual meeting Defender News Services

Despite reports to the contrary, the annual White House summit for Historically Black colleges and Universities, or HBCUs, moved forward this year, minus numerous HBCU leaders and President Donald Trump himself. The meeting took place amid simmering frustration with the Trump administration. Much of the frustration is due to what HBCUs consider little or no support from the administration, and what they call a lack of understanding of the financial straits some schools are facing. There are other reasons why some leaders didn’t show up. Among them is Trump’s response to the violence in Charlottesville, Va. Another issue is Trump’s questioning of the constitutionality of federal funding that HBCUs receive for construction projects. “It benefits schools on the basis of race,” the president said back in May. At the time, the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Cedric Richmond, a Democrat from Louisiana, called that statement, “stunningly careless and divisive.” Still, some HBCU presidents and their supporters thought it

was important to attend the meeting at the White House, including Michael Lomax, the CEO of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and a key supporter of historically Black institutions. “We went to the meeting with the expectation that it would be a substantive meeting,” Lomax said. “Unfortunately we didn’t have that kind of substantive discussion.” Of the 107 HBCUs across the country, Lomax said only 29 showed up. According to the UNCF, HBCUs enroll about 300,000 students nationwide. They graduate 20 percent of all AfricanAmericans who attend college and produce 70 percent of all Black doctors and dentists, and 50 percent of Black engineers and public school teachers. Trump’s proposed budget does not include enough money for year-round Pell Grants. It cuts funding for work-study programs by half and eliminates opportunity grants altogether, something many HBCUs said will be devastating to their students. Right before the summit, Trump appointed Johnathan M. Holifield, a former NFL player turned business consultant, to head up an advisory board that will work with HBCUs.

St. Louis still reeling from protests St. Louis police are under fire for using a technique called kettling to arrest protestors. Kettling is a tactic used to corral a group of people who fail to follow police orders. Police took the action after protests got out hand following the acquittal of police officer Jason Stockley in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith. Some of those caught in the box made by rows of officers said police overstepped their bounds, using excessive force and chemical spray on people who were not protesting, including residents trying to get home and members of the media. They reportedly also ordered people to stop filming and delete images they’d already taken. As police closed in from all sides, they struck their batons in unison on the pavement, in a cadence A protester shouts at police in St. Louis. march, as they chanted, “Whose streets? happening, Rice said. Pedestrians were arrested along with legal Our streets.” observers, protesters, a freelance photographer and a doctor, he Activist Tony Rice said he was shocked by the police said. behavior. Tony Rothert, legal director of the American Civil Liberties “It was the most brutal arrest I’ve ever experienced in my of Missouri, said his office has been busy fielding complaints and life,” Rice said. “I thought I was going to die.” been in contact with Mayor Lyda Krewson’s office as well as ActHe said he could not lie prone on the ground, as ordered, ing Police Chief Lawrence O’Toole regarding what Rothert called because he had his bike with him. Rice said his neck was being inappropriate police behavior. pressed against part of his bike, and he told the officers: “I can’t “We’re exploring whether litigation will be necessary to breathe. I can’t breathe.” bring police in line with the Constitution,” Rothert said. Those bused to the jail seemed confused by what was

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Blacks make history at 2017 Emmys Defender News Services

Donald Glover and Lena Waithe are the future of Hollywood, and the 2017 Emmy Awards made that clear. The stars of “Atlanta” and “Master of None,” respectively, each made history with their wins during the broadcast – and delivered powerful speeches equal to the moment. First, Glover took home the Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, becoming the first Black person to win in the category. “I want to thank the great algorithm that put us all here. I want

to thank my parents who are in the audience. This is nuts,” he said. “I just love everybody out here for letting me be up here. So thank you, thank you all.” He also took home the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. Lena Waithe took home the prize for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for her highly-praised episode of “Master of None,” making her the first Black woman to do so. “The things that make us different…those are our superpowers,” she said as she addressed her LGBTQ+ community during her acceptance

Lena Waithe, Donald Glover, Sterling K. Brown

speech. “Every day when you walk out the door, put on your imaginary cape and go out there and conquer the world. Because the world would not be as beautiful if we weren’t in it.” Actor Sterling K. Brown of “This Is Us” took home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, marking the first time in nearly 20 years that a Black actor has won in the category. Andre Braugher won the award in 1998 for his role in “Homicide: T:9.75” Life on the Street.”

If you’ve been affected by Hurricane Harvey, Wells Fargo can help. We are offering relief for Wells Fargo customers by: • Reversing certain fees—such as late fees—for our lending products, including credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, and lines of credit.

• For Credit Card customers, providing payment relief and suppressing any negative credit bureau reporting for 90 days. • Deploying Disaster Recovery Vehicles with mobile ATMs and our disaster specialists to help you. For Wells Fargo Auto Loan customers, Mortgage and Home Equity customers, and Retail Small Business customers, we are providing additional relief support like payment relief and waiving late fees. Visit wellsfargo.com/relief to get more details. If you need any kind of assistance, call us at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

T:6.5”

• Waiving Wells Fargo fees for customers using non-Wells Fargo ATMs.

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entertainment

‘Sister Circle’

New talk show aimed at Black women Defender News Services

A new talk show is now on the air on TV One and it’s designed to give Black women a voice. “Sister Circle,” which airs at 8 a.m. CST, is being described as a live, one-hour daily show that will be hosted by four personalities – media maven Rashana Ali, Grammy-nominated singer and former “R&B Diva” star Syleena Johnson, reality star and fashionista Quad Webb-Lunceford and comedienne and actress Kiana Dancie, who is from Houston. It will also feature YouTube sensation Funky Dineva as DJ Q, who when not spinning records will add a guy’s unique POV to the ‘Sister Circle’ discussion. The show is part of the network’s morning news and lifestyle programming block. “The collaboration between TV One and TEGNA allows us to present a talk show uniquely tailored to African-American women that will bring the energy and fun of a good get together with your best girlfriends to our daily morning line up,” said D’Angela Proctor, head of original programming at TV One. “Watching ‘Sister Circle’ will be like having Quad Webb-Lunceford, Syleena Johnson, Kiana Dancie and Rashana Ali host “Sister Circle” on TV One. brunch with your best girlfriends every day. While reality star of “Married to Medicine,” said the show is unique. ing live show to audiences across multiple platforms,” said the audience will come for the conversation, they’ll “We would like to have everyone in radio and TV to really Bob Sullivan, senior vice president of programming at stay for the sisterhood.” “Sister Circle” is designed to empower and inspire African- get behind this show,” she said. “This is not just a talk show – it’s TEGNA, a broadcast, digital media and marketing services the first ever [African-American] panel show in history.” company. American women and includes news and insights on relation“I want the show to transcend race,” said singer/song“Audiences will love the chemistry and personalities of ships, parenting, fitness, personal finances, the latest trends and our hosts and engaging with them across platforms throughthe joys and frustrations of everyday life, all from the perspective writer Johnson. “We hope other races will understand us more. All the women are outspoken…have degrees. It will out their day. The show will discuss important issues facof the show’s hosts. be hard not to like the show.” ing the African-American community and offer insight The show will also feature interviews with celebrity guests “We’re going to put them in our shoes,” Webb-Luncand perspective that is not easily found on daytime TV. and expert opinions on key and relevant issues. eford added. “We’re going to interrupt the silence of Black “We are excited to bring the show’s point of view to “Sister Circle” will offer multiple ways for the audience to women and give women a voice.” our Tegna communities and thrilled to partner with TV One engage in the program, including the launch of a live, interactive “We like to dress up,” Johnson said. “[But] we need to air the show nationally,” Sullivan said. “The channel polling app, which will help drive discussion across social media more from Black women. I am excited to show we can work represents the best in Black culture and entertainment and 24/7. together.” ‘Sister Circle’ is a perfect fit in their morning news and The hosts of “Sister Circle” have spent their careers in “We are excited to bring this diverse and groundbreaklifestyle lineup.” journalism, business, music and entertainment. Webb-Lunceford,

what’sup During the 2017 Emmy Awards, an “in memoriam” presentation remembered those who died during the past year, but two important names were left off the list. DICK GREGORY and CHARLIE MURPHY both passed away this year, but their names and faces were left off the presentation, despite the fact that both of them were involved in television at some point or another during their careers. The omissions didn’t go unnoticed, either, with people such as COMMON pointing them out……The rumored MIKE TYSON biopic looks to be moving forward and JAMIE FOXX has been tapped to

play the role of the legendary boxer. Tyson confirmed the news, saying, “It’s on, as of right now. Jamie Foxx has signed on for it. Filming hasn’t started yet but it’s going to happen. A lot of people aren’t going to like the things I’ve done in my life.” It will make the third biopic for Foxx since playing DREW “BUNDINI” BROWN in “Ali” and winning an Oscar in 2005 for his role as RAY CHARLES in “Ray.”……Fresh off the news that he would be included in the celebration of Def Comedy Jam’s 25th anniversary, in a move that seems long overdue, VH1’s “Hip Hop Honors: The ‘90s Gamechangers”

will salute MARTIN LAWRENCE for his contributions to film and TV. The 52-year-old’s work in the self-titled sitcom “Martin” and the successful film franchises of “Big Momma’s House” and “Bad Boys,” are just some of the reasons the funny man is fit for the honor and more…….KEVIN HART took to Instagram to issue a public apology to his wife, Eniko Parrish, and his kids for mistakes that he deeply regrets. According to TMZ, Hart’s apology is related to a video in which it looks like he is cheating on his wife. Hart is reportedly being blackmailed behind the video.

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#Houston

SMALL BUSINESSES Relief and opportunity after Hurricane Harvey

other losses due to the storm. “The SBA is a great source with grants urricane and low rate loans for Harvey working capital and left a equipment,” Johnson mark on Rose said. “We are also Houston hearing from several of that will our banking partners be felt for years to come. that are setting up loan But some residents are programs for rebuilding. faced with the daunting The SBA has encouraged task of rebuilding not Courtney Johnson Rose businesses to be able to only their homes, but document their losses so that it can their small businesses as well. be made part of their grant or loan In the weeks and months following application.” the storm, small businesses in the area The SBA has two loan programs have found their greatest challenge to help disaster victims. One is for is trying to find a way to get back physical damages with interest rates up and running. According to the not exceeding 4 percent and terms Federal Emergency Management of up to 30 years, and the second is Agency (FEMA), 75 percent of small for economic injury, which covers businesses do not have a disaster expenses you would have been able to plan in place, and 40 percent do not pay before disaster struck. Businesses reopen after a natural disaster due can borrow up to $2 million with these to the astronomical cost of repairing loans. damages. The U.S. Department of Even if the business does reopen, Agriculture also provides a loan 52 percent of owners say it would take program to help eligible farmers and at least three months to recover. ranchers rebuild from farm-related “The biggest challenge we have losses due to tornadoes, flooding or seen is businesses that have suffered droughts. from flooding in their facility, Even if you don’t qualify for a resulting in ruined inventory and disaster loan, or if you need quick, equipment,” said Courtney Johnson short-term working capital, there are Rose, board chair of the Greater plenty of options available. Houston Black Chamber (GHBC). Consider applying for a business “We have also seen businesses line of credit so you instantly have suffering from being closed during and access to capital when an emergency after the flooding. Many businesses arises. The benefit of a business line of depend on daily sales and without credit is that it’s a fixed amount, and [them] suffer losses.” for the most part, you aren’t required The GHBC is among several to use the funds until you need them, entities working to provide relief and and it won’t gather interest in the opportunities for future growth. meantime. Small Business Administration Johnson Rose added that the disaster offices around the country GHBC Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonhave started hiring temporary workers profit organization, has started raising to respond to the storm and help money and will begin distributing people in the area with recovery grants. efforts. In addition, the SBA has “The need continues to grow disaster recovery loans available for and we have received over 50 grant businesses that need financial help to applications due to the fact that repair property damage or make up for businesses are hurting and we plan to By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

Businesses were rava

The 7Spice Kitchen and Wingstop in Missouri City suffered extensive damages from tornadoes spawned by Harvey.

assist as many as possible,” Johnson Rose said. “We continue to fundraise and need the help of our business network throughout the states. “Our three-part plan has been developed in

collaboration w includes provid with direct acce advocating for p said. Disaster rec important one f they serve. Seve a town hall to h Harvey and prep “Before you you must repair government con Felix Chevelair, While city o opportunities fo priority is debris “You need

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Things to d

Aside from ap plying for loan s and assess age from the ing the damstorm, there ar e a few other businesses ca things small n do to pave the way to re are some tip covery. Here s: • Call your co ngressional re presentative not respond s if FEMA has ed in your ar ea . To find your call 202-225 representative -3121 for the U.S. House sw visit www.ho itchboard or use.gov/repre sentatives/fi • Review cu nd/ rrent loans w it h your banker adjustments to see if any are necessary based on dam storm. age from the • Update yo ur email auto responder an messages to d voice mail reflect your av ailability duri rebuilding eff ng recovery/ orts. • Be transpar ent with cust omers on so • Hire license cial media. d and trusted contractors to building or re handle any pair projects at your busin • Save for th es s. e unexpecte d. Having a re to keep up w serve of mon ith employee ey wages and ex sential since penses is esit takes time to complete and undergo insurance clai the process ms of repairs. Hav days’ worth e at least 30 of savings to cover your ex penses.

ns of SBA loa s e p y t t o Tw 4% interes e g a m a illion Physical d up to $2 m y r ju in Economic

Resources small businfor e ss e s Small Busin ess

Administra www.sba.go v or 800-65 tion 9-2955 Greater Hou ston Black C hamber www.ghbcc .com or 713 -660-8299 Texas Asso ciation of B usin www.txbiz.o rg or 512-63 ess 7-7714

aged by Hurricane Harvey.

with public and private partners and ding small loans, connecting our members ess to FEMA and SBA resources and participation in recovery initiatives,” she

covery isn’t an easy process, but it’s an or small businesses and the communities eral government officials recently held help businesses get back on track after pare for opportunities. u prepare to take on government contracts, r your business to be in position to take on ntracts and opportunities,” said attorney r, who was one of the town hall hosts. officials say there will be a number of or small business owners, right now, the s removal. to have equipment in place, basically

trucks that can carry debris from one location to another,” said Chevelair, “There are a number of companies coming to Houston that need to partner with local firms.” Valerie Coleman, a procurement center representative with the SBA, said many people aren’t aware that local businesses get priority when it comes to federal contracts. “The Stafford Act says in those counties declared a disaster by the president, preference on federal work will be given to small businesses located in those counties first,” she said, adding that there is specific language designed to ensure that purchases under a certain amount go small businesses. “A micro purchase, anything we need to buy under $20,000, has to go to small businesses. Any contracts under $750,000 have to go to small businesses and $13 million for commercial items,” she added.

the Houston area for over 85 years

Coleman said once the government starts preparing to disperse funds, FEMA will give a lot of money to the city and state. Anyone hoping to secure a federal contract must have a System of Award Management (SAN) application on file, and you must check the box that you want to be on the disaster response registry. “When a federal agency is looking for local firms to do disaster response, we go to that registry first to see who’s interested,” Coleman said. “If your name is not on that list, you will not be contacted.” In terms of certification, Coleman said you don’t have to be certified to secure a federal contract, but they do set aside contracts for women-owned businesses and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. She also suggested having a line of credit with your bank. “We pay within 15 days, but you might have to buy supplies before then before you get paid. You want the ability to do that,” she said.

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 21 | 2017

sports

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Support grows for ESPN anchor under fire after Trump tweet By MAX EDISON Defender

ESPN, a subsidiary of ABC and Disney, is the recognized leader in sports broadcasting. The network now finds itself in an unusual position. Instead of reporting sports news, they find themselves in the spotlight. Primetime anchor Jemele Hill has made headlines with personal tweets about her opinion of President Donald Trump. The White House is not happy. Hill and co-anchor Michael Smith took over as hosts of ESPN’s primetime “SportsCenter” (5 p.m. CST, 6 p.m. EST, Monday-Friday) in February, the day following Super Bowl LI. Known as “The Six” it takes the show in a Jemele Hill younger, hipper direction that reflects elements of entertainment as well as sports. The show has received mixed reviews, including criticism by some hardcore sports fans. In the aftermath of the University of Virginia chaos in Charlottesville and what some viewed as Trump’s reluctance to condemn the racist participants, Hill took to Twitter to express her disdain in a series of statements and responses that read: • “Donald Trump is a white supremacist who has largely surrounded himself w/ other white supremacists.” • “Trump is the most ignorant, offensive president of my lifetime. His rise is a direct result of white supremacy. Period.” • “He is unqualified and unfit to be president. He is not a leader. And if he were not white, he never would have been elected.” • “Donald Trump is a bigot. Glad you could live with voting for him. I couldn’t, because I cared about more than just myself.” • “The height of white privilege is being able to ignore his white supremacy, because it’s of no threat to you. Well, it’s a threat to me.” ESPN President John Skipper issued a memo telling employees to avoid “inflammatory” comments on social media. The inference from the network was that the tweets were a “violation of standards.” Hill apologized for the remarks and the network accepted her apology. ESPN has not commented on taking any disciplinary action. The network issued a statement that said: “Jemele has a right to her personal opinions, but not to publicly share them on a platform that implies that she was in any way speaking on behalf of ESPN. She has acknowledged that her tweets crossed that line and has apologized for doing so. We accept her apology.” The White House quickly offered its opinion on Hill and ESPN. “ESPN is paying a really big price for its politics (and bad programming),” Trump tweeted. “People are dumping it in RE-

Hill is in the spotlight for her tweets accusing President Trump of bigotry.

Hill and co-anchor Michael Smith host ESPN’s “SC6,” also called “The Six.”

CORD numbers. Apologize for untruth.” White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders doubled down on Trump’s tweet by suggesting Hill’s comments constituted a “fireable offense.” There were reports from sources that ESPN sought to replace Hill for “The Six” broadcast with two other Black ESPN hosts, Michael Eaves and Elle Duncan, but both declined. In addition co-anchor Mike Smith refused to go on the air without Hill. Smith and Hill took their normal spots and the show went on without a hitch. ESPN denies the report that they sought to tamper with the lineup. Hill has received an outpouring of support. “Jemele Hill is an award-winning, veteran journalist who

has distinguished herself for having insightful opinions and perspectives on a variety of topics,” said the National Association of Black Journalists in a statement. “Having been successful along those lines for 20 years, she has been able to connect with viewers on ESPN as well as on various social media platforms. That withstanding, NABJ supports Hill’s First Amendment rights on all matters of discussion, within and outside the world of sports, as they do not impinge on her duties as a host and commentator.” Athletes, entertainers and journalists who voiced their support of Hill include Kevin Durant, Colin Kaepernick, Heath Evans, Dwyane Wade, Reggie Miller, Terrance Knighton, Gabrielle Union and Jamilah Lemieux.

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Waltrip lineman Buard anchors Rams defense plan in place for his top defender. “We hope that Tyrell has such a presence on the field that our opponents use Waltrip High School standout defenmultiple personnel in an attempt to block sive lineman Tyrell Buard commands him,” Wright said. “If that happens, he attention when he steps on a football may not be the one making the tackle, field. but we’ll have two or three other guys The reigning District 24-5A defenthat will. sive Most Valuable Player “Any time they single block him can line up in multiple he needs to be back there positions, includwreaking havoc,” he ing defensive end said. “He’s getting on either side better and better. or at defensive We want to see a tackle. While No. 45 blur going to his positioning the football whether may change, his it’s a run or pass mindset remains play.” steadfast. Buard is already “Anybody on the radar screen of that lines up in several colleges and front of me, I’m universities, including going to kick their Stephen F. Austin. He tail,” Buard said. hopes to attract other “That’s the bottom offers by the end of the line. season. “I’m not going to take it Yet first and foremost on his easy. I’m going 100 permind and the minds of his Walcent on every play. I’m not trip teammates is the Sept. 23 taking breaks and I’m not matchup with Houston Madison coming out of the game. at Delmar Stadium (6 p.m.). I’m pushing for the next Madison has been the cream level,” he said. of the crop in District 24-5A Birth date – Jan. 9, 1999 At 6-foot-3 and 233 pounds, since Wright took over as head Birth sign – Capricorn Buard is a four-year starter on coach at Waltrip four years ago. Favorite subject– History varsity who gained honorable Waltrip finished runner-up mention all-district status as a to the Marlins last season en Favorite meal – Baked freshman, most improved player route to a seven-win season and chicken in the district as a sophomore a berth in the postseason. and the top honor for a defenThe outcome of this game Possible career – Agriculture sive player last season as a could decide the outright district junior. champion. Following a 45-14 “We have one focus victory over Houston right now,” Wright said. Sterling recently at Bar“They are the only team What the state’s top high school football nett Stadium that served in the district that I recruit did during Hurricane Harvey as both the season and haven’t been a part of district opener, Buard beating. said he doesn’t have to look far for motivation. “It’s important to all of us and something “Sacking the quarterback, that’s an adrenaline we focused on all summer,” he said. “We have a rush right there,” he said, after finishing with six senior-based team and if we’re going to get it done, tackles. “Every time I get back there I know I did it needs to be right now. my team a solid favor by sacking the quarterback “We’re going to go compete with them,” and making him pay for anything he’s trying to Wright said. “The last few years the championship accomplish.” has gone through Madison. If we play well, we Waltrip head coach Todd Wright has a firm have a chance.” By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

About Tyrell Buard

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SEPTEMBER 21 | 2017 | DEFENDER

sportsbriefs Astros clinch division For the first time since 2001, the Astros have won their division and are playoff bound. Ace Justin Verlander stymied the Seattle Mariners 7-1 to give the Astros the AL West crown. This is the team’s seventh division title in team history, and their first since they won four in a five-year stretch in the National League Central from 1997-2001. They also won the NL West in 1980 and 1986. When the Astros won the NL pennant in 2005, they did so as a wild card. The immediate team goal now is to finish with the best record in the AL. The Astros will open the postseason with Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Thursday, Oct. 5. Their opponent and the location of that first game of the series will be determined by their final regular-season record.

Watt relief totals $37 million It all started with a simple goal of raising $200,000, at least that’s what Texan All-Pro defensive end J.J. Watt was thinking. To help him attain his initial goal Watt donated the first $100,000. Little did he know his desire to raise funds for Hurricane Harvey relief would exceed just over $37 million. “There are not enough words to thank you all for your generosity,” Watt said. “If there is one thing that I have taken away from these last few weeks, it is the reassurance of how much good is out there in our world.”

Katy wins clash of titans Two state-ranked Class 6A powerhouses from the greater Houston area met and the game wasn’t decided until no time was left on the clock. Katy’s Seth Small kicked a 39-yard field goal as time expired to lead the Tigers past The Woodlands 24-21 at brand new Legacy Stadium. Katy is 4-4 against the Highlanders since 2008. The Tigers are 81-3 against all other regular-season opponents during that same time span. Small’s winning field goal avenged two earlier misses in the contest. Katy scored on touchdown runs of 80 and three yards by Joshua Oglesby and a sevenyard TD run by Deondrick Glass who was under the weather. Oglesby finished with 164 yards on 25 carries. The Woodlands received a 102-yard kickoff return from Kesean Carter to start the contest. The Highlanders also got a one-yard TD run by Lucas Summers and a 61-yard TD pass from quarterback Quinn Binney to receiver Zayne Watson. Katy plays Cinco Ranch next (Sept. 22) while The Woodlands takes on George Ranch (Sept. 22).

Westfield beats N. Shore State-ranked North Shore could not overcome five turnovers or a sporadic offense while losing to Westfield 37-20 in the season opener for both schools. Westfield rebounded from last year’s 36-16 setback to the Mustangs and improved to 5-1 all-time against the two-time state champs. Westfield defensive lineman Chris Robinson tackled North Shore’s Kerrion Hadnot in the end zone for a safety. Joshua Jones recorded an interception for Westfield and teammate Joshua Carr returned a fumble 30 yards for a touchdown.

classified Invitation for Bids Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc. is soliciting bids for subcontractors and vendors for construction of control no. 0111-03-031, etc. on FM 521, etc. from Harris County Line to South of FM 2234 that bids on October 4, 2017. Mail, fax, or email quotations to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc., 1701 Directors Blvd, Suite 1010, Austin, Texas 78744 fax: (512) 707-0798 email: bbiisw@bbiius.com. DBE/HUB contractors are encouraged to submit bids. Plans and specifications are available to be reviewed at TxDOT Plans On-line: http://bit.do/dBJ5G E.O.E. For information contact Brian Ficzeri at (512) 707-0797.

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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 21 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

Defender rounds up local sports in ‘Gimme-A-Minute’ There’s no doubt about it, Houstonians are passionate about their sports teams. From youth sports to professional play, athletes and fans alike are excited about the start of the fall sports season. The Defender is sharing in the excitement by bringing back its unique, oneminute, weekly sports wrap up shows. “Gimme-A-Minute in Defender Sports,” sponsored by Houston Community College, is a multi-media series covering high school, college and professional sports. “Gimme-A-Minute in High School Sports” is hosted by Darrell Ardison, Defender sports editor. Ardison is a seasoned journalist and recognized as one of the leading authorities on Houston-area high school sports. On why his sports wrap up is unique, Ardison said, “No other media outlet in the Houston area has a highlight piece that includes a standout player, coach and team in the same package. The Houston

Defender is alone in that regard.” Defender Sports Editor Max Edison is a nationally recognized sports journalist known for his no-holds-barred reporting style. Edison is back this season covering college and professional sports in his “Gimme-A-Minute” show. “With over 30 years of local, regional and national experience, I view things from a more commonsense perspective,” Edison said. “There are a lot of sports highlights shows out there, with a lot of people talking, but not saying anything of substance. ‘Gimme-A-Minute’ is a quality, one-minute wrap-up that delivers substance and entertainment.” Also back this year is Edison’s popular “Go sit down!” segment of “GimmeA-Minute.” Catch the high school edition of “Gimme-A-Minute” in Defender Sports on Tuesdays and the college/professional sports edition on Thursdays on www. DefenderNetwork.com or subscribe to receive it directly via email.

Getting

Started Safely Call 811 before you dig. When it comes to digging safely, you make the call. Whether you’re working on a large excavation, or simply planting a tree in your yard, natural gas and utility line safety should always be job one – and that means calling 811 before you dig. Calling 811 helps you know where natural gas, electric, water and other underground lines are located. It also helps you avoid causing serious injuries, service interruptions, or possibly costly fines for damaged infrastructure. Make the call. It’s easy. It’s FREE. Respect the lines. Dig with care. After all, safety is in your hands, but always on our minds. We’re investing in infrastructure, technology and services that help keep you safe. More information on natural gas safety is available at: CenterPointEnergy.com/Safety.

8/16/17 4:00 PM

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SEPTEMBER 21 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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

topevents

POST-HARVEY RECOVERY EFFORT TOWN HALL……..City Councilmember Johnson, the NAACP’s interim president and CEO, was on hand, along with Gary Larry Green hosted a Post Harvey Recovery Effort Community Town Hall Meeting Bledsoe, president of the NAACP Texas State Conference, Congresswoman Sheila at the Power Center allowing citizens affected to get needed answers and information Jackson Lee, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Johnny Mata (LULAC), Rev. William Lawson, directly from agencies involved in the recovery effort. Entities present on the panel and State Reps. Ron Reynolds and Jarvis Johnson, Dr. James Douglas, Yolanda Smith, “Service Fair” tables included FEMA, Solid Waste, Housing and Health Departments, Gerald Womack, Carolyn Scantlebury, Georgia Provost, representatives from several Mayor’s Office, Public Works & Engineering Department, Harris County Flood Control NAACP college chapters, members of Creative Group Economics, Red Cross personnel District, Department of Neighborhoods, HPD, HCAD and and many others…….. PEARLAND iFEST…….The Pearland the Texas Health & Human Services Commission. Attendees Foundation for the Performing and Visual Arts hosted the Pearland Defender TOP EVENTS included Councilmember Amanda Edwards, Chris Butler, International Festival. The event sought to raise cultural awareness while More photos on defendernetwork.com Sharon Moses-Burnside, Marylyn Harris, Sasha Marshall, providing scholarships to graduating seniors seeking to pursue degrees Sandra Rodriguez, Angelia Reese, Naomi Stevenson, in performing and visual arts. The two-day event featured cultural Martha Castex-Tatum, Vivian Harris, Joe Gatson, Jamila Johnson and more…….. performances and food from around the world, live bands, the H-E-B Kid’s Zone, craft NAACP DISASTER CENTER OPENING…….The NAACP Houston Branch vendors and just plain good vibes. Event co-founders Anna Bryant, Joshua Hari and Eddie Nuschese, along with emcees Elizabeth Thomas and Cindy Leach, welcomed attendees celebrated the grand opening of its Disaster Support Command Center, an entity designed to provide accessible and immediate recovery support to disaster impacted Collin Fearon, Kim Mason, Chuck Mason, Milana Ramkissoon, Daisy Zhang, individuals, families and communities in Houston and surrounding areas. Derrick Christine Oramasionwu, Jonathan Hunter, Diana Vasquez and scores more.

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Reginald Van Lee, Corey McCathern Sharon Moses-Burnside, Councilmember Larry Green, Jamila Johnson

James Douglas, Moniesha Cole, Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz

Eddie Nusches, Anna Bryant, Joshua Hari

Sgt. Jose Juarez, Officer M. Daniels, Officer Robert White

Angelia Reese, Naomi Stevenson

Melvert Hector, William Nunley, Jeremy Darby

Marquita Lee, Courtney Gilbreath, Cherese Evans, Raeven Normand

Yolanda Bobino, Rose Scott, Grayson Scott, Te’Kera Kennerson

Diana Vasquez, Gabby Torres, Noah Bedoya

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Boom!