Houston Defender: October 17, 2019

FEATURE

TWENTY-FOUR HOUR ALL-BLACK NEWS CHANNEL PREPARES TO DEBUT P6

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 88 | Number 51

OCTOBER 17, 2019 |FREE

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NEWSTALK ATATIANA JEFFERSON killed by police officer in her own home

P2 FEATURE TAMMY KEMP gives one-onone about Amber Guyger case

P6 H.S. SPORTS AVERY HELM JR. at it again at Ft. Bend Marshall

P15

SPECIAL EDITION

Get free money for college H PAGE 1B

TOP EVENTS

Jerelyn Gooden, Jacqueline Bostic McElroy and Pastor Mia Wright at the YWCA Outstanding Women’s luncheon

P16

Will Smith

battles himself The actor returns to the screen with “Gemini Man,” where he fights a "de-aged" version of himself. Many assume that he used body doubles and splitscreen filming, but Smith reveals how his younger version was really created.

Simone Biles

sets all-time record The young gymnast proves why she’s the greatest of all time by setting the record for most medals by any gymnast by winning the balance beam and floor exercise at the Gymnastics World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

newstalk

Forth Worth Shooting

Chief says ‘no excuse' for woman's death Associated Press

Fort Worth's police chief is reiterating that a white officer's fatal shooting of a Black woman in her home was inexcusable, as an arrest warrant was released quoting the victim's 8-year-old nephew saying she pointed a gun at a window when they heard suspicious noises outside.

Without directly addressing the child's account of the killing, interim Police Chief Ed Kraus said Atatiana Jefferson, behaved as any Texas homeowner would do if he or she heard a prowler.

Atatiana Jefferson was fatally shot inside her home on Oct. 12 by a Fort Kraus struggled to contain his Worth officer who later resigned and was charged with murder. emotions as he pleaded with the Texas 28-year-old Jefferson was caring for her nephew. city to not allow the killing to reflect He walked around the side of the house, pushed badly on the entire department. through a gate into the fenced-off backyard and fired Aaron Dean, 34, was arrested on a murder through the glass a split-second after shouting at charge and released less than four hours later after Jefferson to show her hands. posting bond, jail records show. He had resigned Dean was not heard identifying himself as police from the force earlier in the day, and the police on the video, and Kraus has said there's no sign that chief said he would have been fired if he hadn't.

Dean or the other responding officer even knocked "I don't have any officers saying this on the front door. The video shows Dean shouting, action should not have been taken against this "Put your hands up! Show me your hands!" and individual, this officer. I'm getting the complete immediately firing. opposite response," Kraus said. "The officers are "Nobody looked at this video and said that there's hurting. They try hard every day to try to make any doubt that this officer acted inappropriately," Kraus this city better..." Kraus said. said.

"I cannot make sense of why she had to Police bodycam video shows Dean lose her life." approaching the door of the home where the

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Sen. Borris Miles recovering from kidney transplant Defender News Services

Houston State Sen. Borris Miles is recovering from a kidney transplant, and said he is “eternally grateful” for the blessing he received.

“Many of you may know that I have struggled with my health all my life,” Miles said in a note to his constituents.

“That battle includes facing sickle cell anemia and kidney disease head on. Like many who live with a life-threatening illness, I power through each day, no matter the pain to provide for my family and serve the people of Senate District 13.

“This past weekend I was blessed to receive a kidney transplant. While State Sen. Borris Miles my family and I are incredibly excited, I know that my recovery will cause my absence in the community but my staff will be right there continuing the work.”

He added that two upcoming events are canceled.

“I will be canceling my two birthday receptions which were initially planned in Austin (Oct. 24) and Houston (Oct. 29).

“God is good, and I am eternally grateful for this blessing that I have been granted. Every breath is a gift, and I never take one for granted. I have so much more work to do.

“Thank you to everyone for your love, support and prayers. Thank you to the doctors and the healthcare professionals who oversaw my transplant.”

Miles also stressed the importance of organ donation.

“Please consider becoming an organ donor and help save lives,” he said. “You can register to become an organ donor at Donate Life Texas [www.donatelifetexas.org].

You never know whose life you are going to save.”

localbriefs THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU IS OPENING EIGHT OFFICES in the Houston region to recruit about 5,000 workers who will go door-to-door to conduct interviews for the survey. The workers will interview people who don’t respond to the census online, by phone or through the mail. Hiring workers is just the latest challenge for the 2020 Census. It’s been at the center of a long legal battle over the Trump administration’s push to include a citizenship question. The U.S. Supreme Court blocked that in June, explaining that the federal government hadn’t explained well enough why it wanted to ask about people’s citizenship status. Some elected officials, including Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, have opposed the citizenship question. They have said it could scare people from answering the survey and cause an undercount, which could hurt because the city, the county and state receive part of their funding for federal assistance programs based on census data. Also, the survey, which happens every 10 years, determines a state’s representation in Congress…….METRO IS ROLLING OUT WI-FI AS PART OF the City of Houston’s partnership with Microsoft that was announced last year. The initiative is expected to prove especially valuable for riders from underserved communities. To use the new Metro WiFi, riders will be prompted to choose “ridemetro-wifi”

from the list of available connections. They will then need to enter their email address and approve the terms and conditions……..THE PORT OF HOUSTON AUTHORITY HAS COMMISSIONED a disparity study to evaluate equal opportunity and fairness in its procurement and contracting process. The study will determine whether all qualified firms have the maximum practicable opportunity to compete for and participate in Port Houston’s procurement of prime contracts and associated subcontracts. An informational meeting will take place Tuesday, Oct. 22, from 4-6 p.m. at the Port 1st Floor Training Room, 111 East Loop North.

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OCTOBER 17 | 2017 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs RESIDENTS OF TALLADEGA, ALA. ELECTED the city’s first Black mayor.

Timothy Ragland, 29, defeated incumbent Jerry Cooper by a margin of just 24 votes.

Given that Ragland is still under 30, his win also makes him the youngest mayor in Talladega history. Ragland is a Talladega native, currently employed as a law clerk.

He holds an associate degree from Marion Military Institute, a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University-Montgomery and is working on a law degree from the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law. Ragland, who will be sworn into office on Nov. 4, said he “will use his office to advocate for the citizens of Talladega.”…….LOUISIANA GOV. JOHN BEL EDWARDS’ QUEST for a second term as the Deep South’s only Democratic governor will stretch over another month, as voters denied him an outright primary win and sent him to a runoff election. The incumbent’s inability to top 50% of the vote in the six-candidate field raised questions about his re-election chances against a national Republican offensive that includes President Donald Trump, who made a last-minute appeal to Louisiana’s voters to reject Edwards. He will compete in the Nov. 16 runoff against Eddie Rispone, a Baton Rouge businessman and longtime GOP political donor making his first bid for public office…….A WHITE FORMER GEORGIA POLICE OFFICER was found not guilty of two murder counts in the shooting death of Black Afghanistan War veteran Anthony Hill. Robert Olsen was, however, found guilty of two counts of violation of oath of office, one count each of aggravated assault and making a false statement, according to several media outlets. Olsen shot Hill, who was naked, unarmed and suffering a mental illness at the time, on March 9, 2015 in DeKalb County. The mother of the 26-yearold veteran wiped away tears after the verdict and declined to comment.

3

Biden, Sanders, Warren face scrutiny at Democratic debate Defender News Services

A dozen Democratic presidential candidates met for the most crowded presidential debate in modern history. But the three leading candidates – former Vice President Joe Biden and Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren — faced the most intense spotlight that could expose liabilities in their quest for the White House.

The debate marked the first time the candidates met since the House moved forward with an Democratic presidential candidates met for another debate. impeachment inquiry against states to vote – where Warren is in the lead and Biden President Donald Trump. and Sanders are in second and third.

The White House hopefuls represented the political California Sen. Kamala Harris is struggling to and personal diversity that has come to define the recapture the high poll numbers she experienced from Democratic Party of 2019: four women, four people of the first debate. color, an openly gay man and an age range that spans Usually, a low-riding candidate will try to advance four decades. by swinging for a rival on a top rung. But if the last few Some in the group won't be back for the next days are any indication, the new tactic among those round in November when the qualification threshold is fighting for survival is to knock each other out. higher.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, former Texas Rep. Biden and Warren are the far-and-away frontBeto O'Rourke and Buttigieg are among the contenders runners in most national polls – with Sanders alone who have taken various swipes at one another, opening in third and making his first campaign appearance up lines of attack that can be repeated in the debate. since suffering a heart attack – and the rest of the field "They're trying to make news," Rebecca Katz, a struggling to break into mid-single-digit territory. veteran Democratic strategist, said.

"They're all trying South Bend, Ind. Mayor Pete Buttigieg is in a to stay relevant.

It's unclear if this will help any of them better spot than most: he's polling at a clear fourth in get more votes." both Iowa and New Hampshire – the first two primary

Russian trolls tried to sway Black voters VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 51 OCTOBER 17, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Tate Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

Defender News Services

Russian trolls used Facebook to try and persuade African Americans not to vote in the 2016 presidential election, according to a bipartisan report released by the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee.

The report said the Internet Research Agency, which has been called a “troll farm” by U.S. officials, targeted Black voters with groups urging them not to vote for Hillary Clinton, not to vote at all, or to instead vote for the Green Party’s Jill Stein.

“No single group of Americans was targeted

by IRA information operatives more than African Americans,” the report stated. “By far, race and

related issues were the preferred target of the information warfare campaign designed to divide the country in 2016.”

The committee’s report, which examines Moscow’s efforts to use social media to influence the 2016 vote, found that Russian social media activity looked to hurt Clinton’s chances of winning and promote President Donald Trump “at the direction of the Kremlin.”

Social media giants like Facebook and Twitter have attempted to clean up their platforms in the wake of claims of foreign interference in the 2016 election, clamping down on influence campaigns attempting to sway public opinion in various countries.

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4

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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WiFi that keeps up with the whole family.

Xfinity xFi gives you the fastest speeds and the best in-home WiFi experience. See who’s online, set curfews and pause your WiFi to bring the family together. Xfinity xFi puts you in control.

Now that’s simple, easy, awesome.

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when you switch to Xfinity Mobile Offer ends 10/27/19. Requires adding a new line of service, porting a number and purchase of an eligible phone.

Go to xfinity.c om, call 1-800-xfinity or visit an Xfinity Store today.

Internet offer ends 11/4/19. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to Performance Plus Internet. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services are canceled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees extra, and subject to change during and after agreement term. After agreement term, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. Xfinity xFi is available to Xfinity Internet service customers with a compatible Xfinity Gateway. Ability to pause limited to home WiFi network. Does not apply to Xfinity WiFi hotspots. Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Call for restrictions and complete details. NPA228119-0003

135178_NPA228119-0003 Internet Superiority_HoustonDefender_9.75x13.indd 1

10/8/19 4:00 PM

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019 | DEFENDER

entertainment

5

‘Gemini Man’

Will Smith vs. himself in new movie

“

Defender News Services

Gemini Man” is the new film seemingly based on the principle that the only thing better than one Will Smith is two Will Smiths, as the “Men in Black” actor fights what seems to be a "de-aged" version of himself.

Many have assumed that to do this, he used body doubles and split-screen filming, with the second Will Smith digitally altered to appear younger, as seen in recent films like “Captain Marvel” and the upcoming “The Irishman.”

In the lead-up to the release of “Gemini Man,” however, director Ang Lee and Smith has revealed how Junior, the film's younger version of Smith, was really created.

In reality, even when we think we are seeing two Smiths in the film, we are only seeing one. As the actor revealed at a Will Smith faces off against a younger, cloned version of himself in “Gemini Man,” now in Paramount event, "It's not de-aging...The young character is not me. That is a 100 percent theaters. digitally created character. younger version of Brogan.

“They didn't take my image and stretch some of the To achieve a totally seamless young CGI version of the lines. It's a completely CGI [computer-generated imagery] 51-year-old Smith, Lee worked with visual effects company character the same way “The Lion King” is CGI. They're Weta Digital. According to CinemaBlend, the director said using my performance to create the CGI elements. The skin during a round table discussion, "You have to invent a is CGI. That's not my skin." new way to do it. I think Junior being a CGI character is a Technical wizardry provides the centerpiece of "Gemini requirement with this, it's a whole package. We do the whole Man," in which Smith plays Henry Brogan, a government body, not just the face. We go into details probably nobody operative/assassin who – after dozens of missions and [has before] with the layers." assignments – decides to hang up his guns.

Lee added more details about the process.

Brogan inadvertently becomes privy to some "Even in 60 frames per second, and not 120 at 2K, it's information he shouldn't have, putting him in the crosshairs a different mindset than when you watch a regular movie... of his one-time handlers, under the stewardship of the I think because of that, it made me want to [create Junior], ruthless Clay Verris (Clive Owen). His secretive Gemini because you can't put on makeup, erase wrinkles, and do project will eventually be employed to neutralize Brogan, a different hairstyle, and act up and call it younger, or cast who is forced to go on the run with allies played by Mary Will Smith's son to play him and call that a clone. With this Elizabeth Winstead and Benedict Wong. media, it won't allow that."

Verris boasts that he has "the perfect asset" for the job, a

The extremely high frame rate and resolution meant that traditional makeup also wasn’t an option, as it was likely to show up on screen. Instead, the VFX company made a younger Will Smith based on the actor's appearance around the time of his sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air” and his early films like “Bad Boys.”

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Smith joked about the transformation.

"I got to see all the tragedies I committed in entertainment," he said.

Not only that, but Smith said he then had to copy his earlier, less nuanced performances, with Lee saying of his earlier work, "That's not good. I need you to do that."

what’sup QUEEN LATIFAH will be honored by Harvard University for her contributions to Black history and culture. Latifah is one of seven honorees who will receive the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal. This year is shaping up to be nothing short of epic for the Queen.

In February she announced that she was creating an affordable housing complex in her hometown of Newark, N.J. in an effort to level the playing field when it comes to housing equity……The 2001 film “Training Day,” which starred DENZEL WASHINGTON, has a prequel on the way. At this point, there’s no word whether Washington will

be reprising his role in some form or if ETHAN HAWKE, the original’s co-star, will be in it. A director hasn’t been named yet, but ANTOINE FUQUA, directed the original film which saw Washington play Alonzo Harris, a dirty narcotics officer, who’s knee-deep in the drug game and works directly with people in the underworld. No word on when the movie will be released……

When the sitcom “Girlfriends” was on in the early 2000s, it was a big hit in Black households. Some might have thought that its lead TRACEE ELLIS ROSS, was a big star in the eyes of Hollywood. Yet

according to Ellis Ross, while “Girlfriends” was on from 2000-2008, she was never invited to a latenight talk show or one of the major award shows, despite the sitcom’s popularity. Ellis Ross also said she struggled to find work after “Girlfriends” ended, and she had somewhat of a low profile until “blackish” began in 2014. The 46-year-old co-starred on the failed BET sitcom “Reed Between the Lines” with MALCOLM-JAMAL WARNER in 2011, but she left after the first season to shoot a pilot that was never picked up, and “Reed Between the Lines” was later canceled.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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Black News Channel launches in November

T

Defender News Services

he Black News Channel (BNC) and National Newspaper Publishers Association announced the official debut for the nation’s first 24-hour, seven-day-a-week all-news TV channel that will focus on African American news.

BNC, which officially launches at 6 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15, has agreements with Charter Communications, Comcast and DISH TV. The network already has commitments for carriage in major African American hubs like Houston, Atlanta, New York City, Chicago, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Detroit, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Los Angeles.

BNC Chair J.C. Watts (left), a former congressman, is joined by primary investor Shad Khan and NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. BNC will immediately have the potential to reach 33 life to our culture that attracts and impacts all people. historically been underserved…My decision to invest million households daily in all We set trends for ourselves and others. is an easy one because we get to answer that calling,” the major media markets across the nation.

“We’re not a cursed people, and we are a blessed Khan said.

Combined with the millions of readers who people. We continue to strive for excellence, and to Watts and Khan promised that BNC will give a consume information from NNPA’s Black-owned have Shad Khan announced as a primary investor for voice to the varied experiences of African Americans newspapers and media companies each week, the the launch and sustainable development of the BNC is and will tell the entire story.

BNC could become a top destination on TV and on of major significance,” Chavis noted.

“We will inform, educate, inspire, and empower the mobile devices.

Khan told NNPA Newswire that the decision to African American community,” Watts added.

BNC is headquartered, in Tallahassee, Fla. and back BNC was easy once he looked at the mission BNC will have three primary anchor teams hosting news bureaus will be located around the country, and the business model. the network’s evening newscast, morning newscast, and including in D.C. and New York City.

“I am a big believer in the fact that we have a mid-day “D.C. Today Live” broadcast. In addition to Former Oklahoma Congressman J.C. Watts number of communities, obviously especially the primary anchor teams, BNC will feature high-profile is chairman of BNC, which is backed financially expert contributors who will add commentary by business mogul and Jacksonville and information to each newscast.

Jaguars owner Shad Khan.

The network will also work with “This platform will create a venue historically Black colleges and universities to for the African American community ensure that all African Americans have a voice. to have a dialogue to talk about news, A BNC correspondent will examine life on the education and cultural things,” said HBCU campuses and the experiences students have Watts, who added that the network has at these institutions. A weekly one-hour program will been in the planning stage for many focus on what is happening at HBCUs that's positive years. and uplifting.

“I had an Afro when I started this,” Veteran TV anchor Kelly Wright, who will host he said. a 6 p.m. show on BNC, said his inaugural program “It’s especially important to have would include a segment on the NNPA’s missing the Black Press of America join us in Black girls national series. That series spotlights the this venture. I bet most people don’t more than 424,000 African American women and realize that there are 223 African girls who have gone missing in the U.S. over the past American-owned newspapers in the African American community, who are underserved,” half-decade.

NNPA, and that’s content for us. stated Khan, a magnate in the auto equipment “We’re not looking to be Republican or Democrat,” said “We suffered a big blow with the loss of Ebony industry.

Watts, who was a GOP congressman. “There will be current and Jet, publications I grew up reading,” Watts said.

In addition to the Jaguars, he owns the Fulham affairs, but we are culturally specific to the African American “But I still read the Black Press in Oklahoma City...”

Football Club of the English Football League, All community.

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Elite Wrestling and the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto.

“MSNBC, Fox News, CNN may have African American Chavis Jr., who participated in the teleconference “I hope that as time goes on, this becomes a faces on their news shows, but they are not necessarily announcing the network, said the NNPA’s partnership bridge to connect all the cultures, including obviously covering the community from a cultural perspective. with the BNC is a win-win for Black America. south Asian. I believe there is an undeniable calling We’re not looking to be left or right. We will be “This year marks the 192nd year of the Black for everything the Black News Channel will deliver authentic and true to the diverse African American Press of America,” Chavis said. “Black Americans to African American television audiences who have experience.” striving for excellence in all fields of endeavor give

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

7

ANY POLITICIAN CAN MAKE NOISE.

SYLVESTER TURNER MAKES A DIFFERENCE. MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER

VOTE EARLY!

e Putting 11,400 young people to work and creating 80,000 jobs this year e Filling 200,000 potholes and investing billions to protect us from the next big storm e Balancing tough budgets and cutting our pension debts in half

EARLY VOTING: October 21 – November 1 ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 5 NEW THIS YEAR: You can vote at any county polling place on Election Day. QUESTIONS? Visit SylvesterTurner.com/vote or call our voter hotline at (832) 803-9378.

P OL . A DV. SY LVEST E R T UR N ER CA MPA I GN

“I am respectfully asking for your vote.”

e Hiring hundreds of new police officers and lowering crime rates

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

Insurance claims: What to expect after Imelda Defender News Services

Texas residents with National Flood Insurance Program policies are beginning to file claims for damages caused by Tropical Storm Imelda. Statewide, residents have filed nearly 10,200 flood insurance claims since Sept.

17, the day the storm made landfall. Policy holders should follow these steps: Immediately following flood damage: • Contact your insurance agent to report your loss.

• Depending on the severity of the event, an insurance adjuster will contact you within a few days of starting your claim.

• Ask the adjustor if you are eligible for an advance payment to help you start recovering.

Visiting with your adjuster:

• Ask your adjuster to provide you a Proof of Loss form. You must submit a completed and signed Proof of Loss with all supporting documentation to your insurance company within 60 days of the loss.

• Your adjuster will contact you to make an appointment to visit your damaged property.

• When your adjuster visits, he/she will show you an official identification card.

• Don't pay a fee to any third party to file your claim.

• Be prepared to provide as much information as possible about the flood-damaged items your policy covers, including cost, make and model and age.

Photos of the items, receipts, and swatches that show a particular quality can all be

helpful in supporting your claim.

• During the site visit, the adjuster will take measurements and photos and talk to you about your policy coverage, timelines and the next steps you need to take.

• The adjuster will complete a detailed estimate of the flood event-related damage.

You will receive a copy of this estimate. The estimate serves as a guide for when you get bids from licensed professional contractors for repair work.

• To help ensure you receive a claim payment that reflects your flood loss and is within your policy limit, ask your insurance company about any important deadlines you need to meet.

• After your insurance adjuster inspects your property, you will receive a package from the NFIP with your insurance adjuster’s report and a check made out to you and/or your mortgage company.

• Carefully review the report before depositing the check.

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GRAND OPENING!

Health care with a focus on Seniors

At Partners in Primary Care, we understand the unique health challenges that come with age.

That’s why we choose to focus on health care for seniors, with staff, services and facilities specially designed to meet their needs.

Three new locations now open!

Downtown East 5104 Harrisburg Blvd., Suite 800 Houston, TX 77011 Gulfgate 545 Gulfgate Center Mall Houston, TX 77087 Jacinto City 1910 John Ralston Rd., Suite 200 Houston, TX 77013

Join us at our next Grand Opening!

Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2019 Time: 10am-2pm Location: Pasadena 3915 Spencer Highway, Pasadena, TX 77504

Plus one more coming soon!

Baytown December 2019

Flood claim appeals

• If you believe your policy provides more coverage than you received payment for, ask your adjuster or insurer to clarify.

• If you receive a denial letter from your insurer for all or part of your claim, you can file a written appeal, including the denial letter and supporting documentation, within 60 days of the date written on the denial letter. Email your appeal to FEMA-NFIP-Appeals@fema. dhs.gov.

For information on flood insurance call 1-800-427-4661 or visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Call 832-862-8886 to make your first appointment or to schedule a tour of your local center.

Learn more at SeniorFocusedHouston.com Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm Partners in Primary Care is Medicare Advantage friendly! We accept Aetna, Cigna, Humana, TexanPlus and WellCare of Texas Medicare Advantage plans.

Partners in Primary Care does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使 用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711).

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

1B

EDU SPECIAL

10

tips on choosing a college

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

There are an estimated 5,000 colleges and universities in the United States, giving students many options to choose from. College requires a major investment of time, money and commitment, so it pays to make the right choice.

Here is some advice:

1

Make a wish list. Decide what you want in a college or university and include everything from possible majors to extracurricular activities. Even if it doesn’t seem important, write it down to get a better idea of what you’re looking for. Do you want to attend an HBCU or predominantly white school? Will you feel more comfortable on a small, medium-size or large campus? Do you want a traditional four-year school or online school?

2

Narrow down a location. Your environment is important and you should be in a place that feels comfortable. Do you want to stay close to home or move to another city or state? Do you prefer a big city or a smaller town?

Are you partial to warmer weather or a cooler climate? Even if you like the school, if you dislike its location, staying there for four years could be difficult. Try to visit the school to see what the area has to offer, both on and off-campus.

3

Consider the cost. Expenses to think about are tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, personal expenses and transportation. Most students receive some sort of financial aid and a few students receive a “free ride” with all their costs covered. Learn all you can about financial aid, including scholarships, grants, work-study and loans.

4

Talk to your family. Students can benefit from their family’s perspective and an open discussion. While family input is important, ultimately, the student should be satisfied with the choice. Share your interests and goals with your family. Find out what kind of support they can provide and if there are money concerns. If students are applying to schools that their parents or other relatives attended, they shouldn’t feel pressured to attend the school.

5

Talk to a school counselor. Build a relationship with a high school counselor and share your interests and goals when you first meet. A counselor can recommend colleges that fit with your academic record and career goals, help you understand the requirements and send transcripts.

Some colleges may ask for a recommendation letter from a high school counselor.

6

Know the admission requirements.

Different schools have different requirements.

Visit a school’s website or check with its admissions office. Many U.S. colleges require that students submit standardized test scores as part of their application packages. For most undergraduate programs, you will have to take the SAT or ACT test.

7

See if the school is accredited. An accredited school meets certain standards set by an independent agency and helps ensure

that the education you get meets employer standards in a specific field. If you attend a school that isn’t accredited, you might not be able to obtain financial aid. To find accredited schools visit https://ope.ed.gov/ dapip/#/home.

8

Read your mail. Your mailbox and in-box might already be filled with college brochures and emails. If so, browse through them. If you aren’t receiving college mail yet, visit websites and sign up for information.

9

Check out the school’s website.

Many offer virtual tours, so you can still “see” the campus, even if you can’t visit in person.

Attend college fairs, which give you the opportunity to talk to representatives from multiple colleges and career schools. Be sure to bring a list of questions to ask. A visit to a college’s website can give you an idea of what student life and classes are like. You can check out classes and contact admission officers with questions.

10

Get a taste of college life. Visit a nearby college even if you might not be enrolling there. Explore the campus, talk to students and get a better sense of what you do and don’t want in a college. You can also start to see how college is different from high school.

Sources: College Board, Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Department of Education

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EDU SPECIAL

Studying abroad:

Frequently asked questions

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Defender News Services

btaining a college education isn’t limited to studying on U.S. soil.

Each year, more than 300,000 U.S. students study abroad. The top destinations for U.S. students include the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, China, Ireland, Australia, Costa Rica and Japan.

Summer term is the most popular time to study abroad and 60 percent of students study abroad on programs less than eight weeks in length.

Here are frequently asked questions about pursuing a college education overseas and the answers: Q: Why should I consider studying in another country?

A: Studying abroad allows you to experience new perspectives, learn how to navigate different cultures, work with diverse peers and communicate in other languages. Whether you are a future entrepreneur, engineer, scientist, doctor, journalist, teacher or diplomat, you can acquire additional skills to help you make a difference, make you more competitive in the job market and aid you in becoming a more responsible, engaged citizen.

Q: How can I pay for studying abroad?

A: You may receive federal student aid for a study-abroad program if you meet the eligibility criteria. To determine which types of aid you’ll be able to use, contact the financial aid office at your American

school. Start early, because it’s important to get all necessary paperwork completed on time, both at your American school and at the international school.

If you’re interested in a particular school, check its website to learn if it offers the degree you want, cost, enrollment policies and resources and programs for international students.

The Department of State and other federal agencies fund a number of programs that enable K-12 students, university students, educators and scholars to conduct research, work or study abroad. In addition, the Department of State provides funds and other programming to help U.S. and foreign institutions improve their capacity to host study-abroad programs.

Foreign government scholarships are available for

numerous countries, including Portugal, Spain, Ecuador, France, Ireland and Indonesia. You can research additional opportunities for scholarships, grants and internships online.

Q: How can I stay healthy and safe abroad?

A: Access information about your destination at travel.state. gov. Learn about visa requirements, local laws, customs and medical care in the countries you are visiting. Some travelers, such as those with disabilities, women and LGBT persons, can face additional challenges abroad. Make sure you have health insurance.

If your U.S. health care plan does not cover you overseas, consider acquiring supplemental insurance for medical costs and emergency evacuation. Foreign hospitals and doctors often require payment in cash, and medical evacuation can cost up to $100,000.

Apply early for your passport. If you already have one, make sure it will be valid for at least six months and has two or more blank pages, or some countries may not allow you to enter.

Carry contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate with you. You (or your family at home in the U.S.) can call 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 for emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information visit https://studyabroad. state.gov Sources: U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of State

Message from the Publisher

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Getting ready for college can be an exciting time in the lives of young people. They’ve made it through elementary, middle and high school, and can’t wait for what lies ahead.

Students look forward to gaining more independence, meeting new people, enjoying new experiences and making new connections, all while preparing for careers. We know that a college degree can mean better opportunities, bigger paychecks and improved job security.

Pursuing a higher education also presents students and their parents with challenges and raises questions about everything from gaining admission to paying for tuition.

For the 10th year, the Defender addresses collegiate concerns in

its annual EDU special edition. We begin with advice on selecting a college or university, followed by information on studying abroad.

Our article on internships gives insight into testing the career waters.

Money is always a major concern, and we provide financial strategies that work. If you’re curious about entrance exams, check out the articles on taking tests.

In addition, we are appreciative of our partners for sharing their expertise: Prairie View A&M University, Texas A&M University, Texas Southern University, the University of Houston, University of Houston Downtown and University of Texas at Austin.

College changes lives and can create a brighter future for students.

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

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EDU SPECIAL

Internships

give students head start

S

Defender Exclusive

tudents who want to gain valuable work experience and increase their chances of landing a job after graduation should consider an internship. As an added bonus, they might even get paid.

In a Q&A with the Defender, Kathy Knapp, M.Ed., director of Career Development at the University of Houston-Downtown, discussed what college students should know about internships.

Defender: What are the main reasons why an internship is important?

Knapp: Internships offer a pathway to better career readiness and success for undergraduate students and are great confidence builders. Internship experiences offer students a way to apply classroom knowledge in a realworld setting, develop and enhance their professional skills, and cultivate relationships with industry professionals.

Internships enable students to get a better understanding of the occupation or career path they are interested in, and take a “test drive” so to speak. I’ve known many students that completed internships and decided that a particular career path was not a good fit for them. They’ll also discover gaps between what they are learning in the classroom and what they need to know in the field and can strategize on how to fill those gaps to be better prepared upon graduation.

Employers want to see experience in new college graduates they hire. If a student has completed one or more internships, they will truly have an edge over their classmates who didn’t do one.

Some surveys show that employers pay entry-level candidates more if they have completed an internship experience.

Participation in an internship makes a student a more attractive candidate for a full-time position.

Many companies use their internship programs as a means of developing new talent so the internship could turn into a full-time job after graduation.

Students may also earn college course credit for completing an internship. They should check with their academic advisor for details and policies.

Defender: When should a student pursue an

internship and why is that timetable important?

Knapp: Depending on the industry students can start pursuing internships as early as their freshman year. However, in order to develop some knowledge and skills needed by employers, I recommend students start looking for internship opportunities no later than the second semester of their sophomore year of college. Definitely, no later than the first semester of the junior year. Many companies and agencies have summer internship programs and start hiring seven to nine months in advance.

Defender: What are the best ways to search for an internship?

Knapp: Students should start by reaching out

to family, friends and neighbors to let them know they are looking for opportunities to do an internship in their field of interest. It’s called networking. You never know who may know someone who knows someone who works in the career field or with a company they are interested in. Even classmates and professors may provide a lead or referral to a great internship.

Check your college career center online job board where companies post both internships and jobs. University career centers also host job and/or internship fairs where students have the chance to meet face-to-face with employers and recruiters.

There are a number of good online internship search tools: • Texas Workforce Commission at https:// www.txinternshipchallenge.com/ • Internships.com • LinkedIn • https://www.wayup.com/s/internships/

• Idealist.org • Glassdoor.com • Company websites Defender: If a paid internship is unavailable, should a student accept an unpaid internship?

Knapp: Participation in a least one internship has value, whether paid or unpaid. It really has more to do with the nature of the position more so than getting paid or not. Students should know that if they aren’t being paid, then the internship must be educational and accommodate and complement their academic commitments, and their career development.

If their job as an intern displaces a regular employee or the employer makes money off of the work they do, it’s illegal.

The U.S. Department of Labor issued a new test in January 2018 to determine when an intern is entitled to payment under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

I encourage students to review the FLSA sevenfactor test to enhance their understanding of the differences between interns and employees before starting their internship search.

Defender: How can a student make the most of an internship?

Knapp: Practice professionalism [by taking the following steps]: • Develop a strong work ethic. Show up to work on time and be willing to get the work done no matter what with a smile on their face and a positive attitude.

• Dress in clean, appropriate clothing for the industry.

• Be courteous and respectful.

• Complete tasks on time.

• Develop a strong relationship with supervisors; communicate clearly and often with them.

• Ask questions; learn from everyone and offer to help.

• Take initiative and ask to take part in a project they are interested in.

• Seek input on their job performance from not only their supervisor but from other colleagues as well.

If a student likes the company, then they should express their interest in working for the company. It could result in an actual job offer.

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EDU SPECIAL

TSU rides post-debate

wave of positivity

I

By TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

t’s not often that 14 million viewers gather to watch an event held on your own home turf. Yet that’s what happened on Sept. 12, 2019, when Texas Southern University hosted the Democratic Presidential Candidates Debate, partnering with ABC News and Univision.

It was the first such debate held on an HBCU campus in more than 12 years, and it gave the university an unprecedented opportunity to showcase its faculty, staff and students to the world.

“We could not buy this kind of publicity,” said TSU President Dr. Austin Lane. “Hosting this prestigious event gave us a platform to tell our story – and the story of the HBCU – to many who knew little about TSU, our history, and our exciting future.”

More than 1,100 TSU students, faculty, staff and alumni were able to attend the debate held in the Health & Physical Education (H&PE) Arena, while hundreds of others went to the on-campus watch party in Sawyer Auditorium to learn more about the 10 leading candidates for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination.

Just as important, more than 500 media from across the country gathered in the TSU Rec Center (which was turned into a media spin room/filing center) to report on the event.

Many found additional stories to cover as they learned about TSU’s unique and innovative Dr. Lane is shown at the ribbon-cutting programs and ceremony for the Autonomous Vehicle activities, such as (AV) Shuttle, which transports students and others across the campus. The the famous Ocean project is a partnership with Houston of Soul Marching Metro, FirstTransit and the Houston Band (celebrating Galveston Area Council. its 50th anniversary this year) or the brand new Autonomous Vehicle (AV) shuttle, which is a partnership with Houston Metrto.

“Hosting the debate resulted in significant civic engagement among our campus community,” added Dr. Lane. “And, it put a spotlight on some of the terrific things that are happening right now at TSU.” Indeed, over the past 12 months, TSU has made great strides in advancing its Top 5 Priorities.

• TSU saw gains in student success and completion along many fronts, thanks in part to Project Graduation, which provides a prescriptive pathway for students, and the enhancement of self-guided student tools such as MyTSU and DegreeWorks.

• Many faculty, staff and administrators have contributed to the strengthening of TSU’s academic programs and research, providing an enhanced curriculum and making sure that holders of a TSU degree meet the needs of today’s – and tomorrow’s – workplace. TSU secured one of its largest publicly-funded grants awarded to the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, as well as several other significant grants. These give both students and faculty access to leadingedge research opportunities. The opening of our new 137,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Library Learning Center in August gives expanded access to research and tools that compose a rich academic experience.

• Just as a new library was constructed, work continues on building the TSU culture, as the campus community continues to define who it is, what it values, and the behaviors it embraces.

Known as the “TSU Way,” it is expected that each member of the faculty and staff will “Be the Exception” in going the extra mile for students, the community and each other.

• TSU cannot be effective as an island. It takes partnerships on many levels to operate as a TSU President Dr. Austin world-class university, adhering to the university’s Lane is joined in the mission as a special purpose urban institution. Over the debate hall by students past year, partnerships were strengthened with local, Cameron Lee and Alexis Banger, who worked public and private entities in areas such as transportaas interns with ABC tion, campus/community revitalization, internships, News throughout the scholarships, program enhancement and more.

Democratic Candidates Debate.

• Regarding its finances, TSU continues to operate squarely within its means. The recent financial upgrade from Moody’s Investors Services (from “stable” to “positive”), which is the second upgrade in as many years, is the best indicator of financial success. And, TSU’s legislative priorities, most of which were tied to funding, were satisfactorily addressed by the 86th Legislature, resulting in increased funding for some of TSU’s most significant needs.

“TSU has a fantastic history, and we acknowledge that history every day,” said Dr. Lane. “But, as I said in my speech at the debate, we have to look toward the future so that we can live up to that legacy. It was no surprise that TSU was chosen to host such an event. Indeed, our students, faculty, staff and alumni represent the future – a future that is shaped by our The TSU TSU Library Library Learning Learning Center, Center, aa 137,000-square-foot, 137,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art state-of-the-art facility, facility, The opened in in August August on on the the TSU TSU campus, campus, providing providing aa valuable valuable resource resource not not only only for for TSU TSU opened historic beginnings, and a future that students and and faculty, faculty, but but for for community community members members as as well. well. students is unlimited in its potential.”

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Great universities are built by great communities.

That’s the mantra of University of Houston President Renu Khator.

In Houston, we are lucky. Students at UH have the opportunity to learn in the context of one of the nation’s most ethnically diverse cities. They also have the power to pay it forward by helping improve the quality of life in the community.

“I want to see the University add value to the neighborhood where it sits,” Khator said. “It’s my passion.”

UH’s Third Ward Initiative, launched in 2018, focuses on collaborating with the community to bolster educational outcomes, to create and strengthen businesses, to address medical disparities, and to celebrate the arts and culture of the historic neighborhood.

As part of the initiative, the UH College of Education has partnered with six campuses in the Houston Independent School District: Blackshear, Foster, Thompson and Hartsfield elementary schools; Cullen Middle; and Jack Yates High School UH students serve as reading and math tutors as well as mentors in the schools. The program allows teaching majors to gain real-world classroom experience while also making a difference in the lives of children.

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EDU SPECIAL

Students at the University of Houston are graduating in four years and securing significant savings thanks to programs like UHin4.

W

UHIN4: A Winning Game Plan

“My academic advisors have been amazing,” Romero said. “They’ve helped me answer almost every question hen budgets are tight I have about my classes, and they pointand every dollar ed me in the right direction by always counts, creating a suggesting to me a plan of action.” game plan to graduUH is changing the traditional ate from college in paradigm of recruiting, retaining and four years becomes vitally important to graduating students and has developed students and their families. A program its own “plan of action” for the developthat can keep students focused on the goal ment of new programs and partnerships. of graduating can mean the difference While UHin4 is beneficial for incoming between obtaining a degree in four years, freshmen, the university also needed a six years or, perhaps, not at all. solution for the approximately 40 perSavvy University of Houston cent of incoming students transferring to students committed to graduating on Situated near Houston’s thriving downtown business district and the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, UH from regional community colleges. time – and on budget – are enrolling in the University of Houston serves as a launch pad for career-minded graduates.

Houston Guided Pathways to Success, or UHin4. Introduced in 2014, UHin4 is setHouston GPS, serves as a complementing the standard for student achievement tion expenses and the ability to enter the workforce gaining tary option to UHin4. in higher education with its priority enrollment opportuniadditional years of salary and retirement funds.

Currently, 12 colleges in Houston and the Gulf Coast ties, academic maps and planning resources, combined with “Our goal is to help students successfully enter the region are partners in Houston GPS, which is designed to the opportunity to enroll in the fixed rate tuition program. workforce or qualify for advanced education programs, and provide a smooth two-year to four-year college transfer plan.

In fact, of the students in the first UHin4 cohort, 67 percent the first step is providing the tools necessary to clearly At the heart of the partnership are degree-specific academic completed 90 credit hours by the end of their third year, eight navigate through their degree plan,” said Paula Myrick plans shaped by the institutions to move students through to percentage points higher than the prior three-year average.

Short, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and graduation without acquiring unnecessary credits or inadver“I decided to participate in UHin4 because it is saving provost. “UHin4 is successful because it comprehensively tently bypassing credits essential to graduation. Like UHin4, a lot of money for my parents who work so hard just to pay addresses the personal, organizational and financial needs of participating schools also manage students’ progress through for my education,” explained UH junior Jose Romero who is our students.” proactive advising sessions and technology. working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts-Painting and a BachThe program is offered to incoming freshmen who “Research shows that attaining a degree has long-term, elor of Science in Digital Media with a minor in Art History. are required to successfully complete a minimum of 30 positive impact on the lives of our students, their families To cover the costs of his books and materials, Romero also semester credit hours – approximately 10 classes – each and their community,” Short said.

“We want all our UH stuworks to take some of the financial burden off his parents. year toward their degree. In addition, they need to remain dents to end as they begin with a clear plan for their goal When students combine the UHin4 program with the in good academic standing, select courses consistent with and a support system that is tailored to help them achieve fixed-rate tuition option, they have the potential to save nearly their degree requirements and meet with an advisor each their dreams.” $200,000 in their lifetime when factoring in savings in educa- semester.

By UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

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POWERHOUSE OF POSSIBILITY. We understand that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line.

Whether your path to UH comes directly from high school or after community college, we’ll help you navigate to graduation.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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EDU SPECIAL

The world is our classroom – a Texas A&M student field trip to Machu Picchu, Peru.

Texas A&M students share a moment on campus.

Do well, do good at Texas A&M

T

By TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

exas A&M University is one of only a select few academic institutions in the nation to hold triple federal designations as a landgrant, sea-grant, and space-grant university. These designations mean Texas A&M strives for accessibility, affordability and opportunity for students in fields of study that impact the state, nation and world.

More than 24% of the freshman class are the first in their family to attend college. More than 70% of students receive financial assistance, and more than 25% of all students work part-time on campus. Each year financial aid awards and student employment create over $800 Texas A&M's Academic Building sits at the heart of historic College Station campus million of support for students and their families. Texas A&M is academic colleges and schools, with educational sites committed to a high return on investment, working to across Texas, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, keep tuition costs the lowest among top public universi- Kingsville, McAllen, Round Rock and two special purties, while ensuring high quality of transformative pose branch campuses in Galveston, Texas and Doha, learning. These efforts consistently rank Texas A&M Qatar.

University among the Best Values, Highest Return on While the academic experience is among the Investment and best for social mobility of our students. nation’s best, the “Spirit of Aggieland” is internationTexas A&M achieves its mission as a Tier One ally famous and second to none. Students build their Research institution, offering course of study in 16 own community through more than 1,100 student-led

organizations in which they build social networks, apply learning in real-world settings and sharpen leadership skills. Unique experiences from Fish Camp to Big Event and the “Aggie Ring” connect Aggies across the generations and form a strong communal bond around the world.

Texas A&M is the No. 1 ranked public university nationally, for the number of students earning academic credits while studying abroad. Over 5,700 undergraduate and graduate students gain international experiences in more than 100 countries each year.

Texas A&M holds membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities – one of only 62 institutions with this distinction.

Discoveries at Texas A&M create new knowledge that provides basic, fundamental and applied contribution with impacts around the globe.

Students work alongside internationally prominent professors and share in the experience of creating solutions today for the challenges of tomorrow.

With over 500,000 former students around the world, our students join the global “Aggie Family” and take advantage of a network of contacts, professional links and friends with shared experience and purpose.

Do Well, Do Good. Apply to Texas A&M University today at tx.ag/apply2tamu.

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

DO well

DO good

tamu.edu

Best Public Texas University for Your Money

Most Affordable University in Texas

(Money Magazine, 2019)

(College Affordability Guide, 2018)

Join the future Aggie leaders of tomorrow.

With more than 120 majors to choose from and 1,000+ student organizations to get involved in, a world of opportunities awaits you at Texas A&M University.

Our core values of Excellence, Integrity, Leadership, Loyalty, Respect and Selfless Service are the foundation of an Aggie education and unite the diverse and ever-growing Aggie family. From our low cost of attendance to the support we offer students to ensure their continued success, a brighter future begins at Texas A&M.

tx.ag/apply2tamu

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EDU SP HIGHE

Dollars & Sense

Get free money with scholarships, g

O

Compiled by MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

btaining money at no cost to help pay for college is a must for many students and their parents.

Scholarships and grants are often called “gift aid” because they are free money – financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid. Scholarships are often merit-based while grants are often need-based, and both can come from a variety of sources.

According to the College Board, there are three steps to tapping into grants and scholarships.

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal aid.

2. Find out what financial aid forms your college requires. It many cases, it will be the FAFSA, but some colleges require the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile or their own forms.

3. Research and apply for outside scholarships.

ABOUT SCHOLARSHIPS

According to the U.S. Department of Education, a scholarship might cover the entire cost of tuition or it might be a one-time award of a few hundred dollars. Either way, it will help reduce the cost of an education.

Scholarship deadlines vary. Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so high school students should research and apply for scholarships during the summer between their junior and senior years.

If a scholarship is awarded, the money might go to a student’s college or it might be sent directly to the student.

There are thousands of scholarships available from multiple sources. They include: • A college financial aid office • A high school counselor • A library reference section • Foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses or civic groups • Organizations, including professional associations, related to a student’s field of interest • Ethnicity-based organizations • A student’s employer or their parent’s employer There are also numerous websites that provide information, including: • The U.S. Department of Labor’s free scholarship search tool at www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx • The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board at www. thecb.state.tx.us/ • The College Board at https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search

ABOUT GRANTS

The U.S. Department of Education offers federal grants to students attending four-year colleges or universities, community colleges and career schools. They include: • Federal Pell Grants, usually awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and have not earned a bach-

elor’s, graduate or professional degr • Federal Supplemental Educati tered directly by the financial aid offi all schools participate.

• Teacher Education Assistance tion, which can help students pay fo teacher in a high-need field in a low • Iraq and Afghanistan Service G students whose parent or guardian d in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Certain scenarios may require th funds be repaid, for example, if a stu before finishing an enrollment perio For more information visit www

AVOIDING SCAMS

You do not have to pay for help according to the Federal Trade Com consumer protection agency, some u scholarships, grants or amazing fina offered commercial financial aid adv marketers or at seminars.

Charging for help or informatio elsewhere isn’t fraudulent, but if a c promises, you’re being scammed. If ask some questions, such as: What’s ing to be worth your money? Do the For information on scams visit

PECIAL ER ED

e

grants

ree. ion Opportunity Grants, adminisffice at participating schools. Not

for College and Higher Educaor college if they plan to become a w-income area.

Grants, which may be available to died as a result of military service

hat a portion or all of the grant udent withdraws from school od. w.studentaid.ed.gov.

p finding money for college. Yet, mmission (FTC), the nation’s unscrupulous companies promise ancial aid packages. You might be vice services online, from tele-

on that’s available for free company doesn’t deliver what it f you’re unsure about a company, s being offered? Is the service goe claims seem too good to be true? www.consumer.ftc.gov.

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Money managemen t strategies that work

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For many students, lea rning to manage mo ney begins in college. De veloping sound finan cial habits can relieve some of the stress associated with higher learning, and serve as a firm foundation on ce students leave campus and begin their caree rs.

Dr. Delonia Cooley, a Professor of Marketi ng at Texas Southern Unive rsity’s Jesse H. Jone s School of Business, said “fi nancial shrewdness” is an important skill for colle ge students to possess.

“Most people think tha t the primary reason dents drop out of co stullege is due to low pe rformance, homesickness, or oth er forms of self-inflict ed issues,” said Cooley, wh o is also the co-autho r of “Are You Making the Righ t Impression? Prepari ng NOW for your Real Life Af ter College.”

“However, finances are one of the main rea “You have to be strate gic about how you int sons that college Students drop out. To money,” she said. “P end to use your o many students run lanning is different tha out of money before the semester is over n budgeting as budgeting is about how and need to find a wa to allot your money. y to make ends meet somehow. By practic Planning is about ho to strategically ensu ing proper money ma w re your money goes nagement techniques now, students can fee wh ere it needs to go.” l confident about the Sh e sa id stu de nts should also know ir ability to manage finances into their ad the importance of cre scores. ult life and avoid a lot dit of debt down the road.”

“Today, a credit scor e, not your interview Cooley said keys to or your references, can eliminate you money management from an applicant po include planning and making a budget ol,” she said. “More and more companies and sticking to it. Sh are starting to look at e noted that the average college student inc credit scores as an indication of work eth ome is between $7,50 ic and responsibility.

0 and $42,000 a year.

Your credit score wi be protected if you pr ll actice the necessary skills. However, you must check it often to ensure it correctly refl ects who you are.”

15

financial tips d that you s account or mutual fun • Put money in a saving ly. Even if access to at least month do not have immediate to accumulate , the money will start it is only $25 a month es work. out of mind” really do because “out of sight, Friday or ack Bl til if you can un • Put off big purchases to be on ing go are you know things back-to-school when

15 Delonia Cooley listed TSU Professor Dr. ... strategies that work ve to get e the money you ha liz uti to • Find ways when by being strategic on the things you want and where to buy. aside sale. no t y. Always put a little do no t bu y it. Yo u do • Plan for a rainy da yo u do no t ne ed it, If • for yourself in co lle ge . vite ne ed a 72 -in ch TV it your eating out. In lim d an ok co g sc ho ol br ea ks . to arn • Le ch as yo u ca n du rin ll cook mu wi o as k wh or e W tat • Ro u. yo ca rd ac co un t. your friends to join mo re tha n on e cre dit en op t no Do • . de bt yo u wi ll or make it a potluck yo u ha ve , the mo re ere s rd wh ca ts re un co mo e dis Th nt stu de ble.

• Take advantage of cash as much as possi cu mu late. Try to use or ev en so me thi ng ac ice pr borrow ed ly uc on l, red a oo t ney for sch yo u ca n ge you have to borrow mo If • st and y ere ole int Co ia Dr. Delon have deferred fre e. offer ed to stuyou need. A loan may at als wh me d ice pr er lly.

• Check out low ment will end eventua yments, but that defer pa st e-book or used book Ju t, an t gh Ge Ni . s de nts on ca mp us . oks if possible tbo yo u, i.e . La die r tex fo w d ne ne y sig bu t de no ts” • Do n for a short period at • Utilize the “nigh have the books on loa es us mp ca t. me gh So Ni d. ge instea fo r the Gu ys , Co lle or the IR S, pu t it d ch ec k fro m sc ho ol un school library. ref a the e t eiv ge rec to u e • If yo s add up as well. is is the tim Th y. ne mo ur th friends. Gas price yo wi t” l ou oo rp lan “p Ca • d an nk in the ba mo nth s. ar no te/ bil ls fo r a few ah ea d on yo ur ren t/c

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What Starts Here Changes the World.

A Stamps Foundation Forty Acres Scholar with big dreams, Gibson built on her UT education to pursue a career in computer science.

By THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

How are you contributing?

Jacqueline Gibson is building change from the code up.

My team at Microsoft created software that scans webpages and finds accessibility issues. Our tool empowers other developers to produce code that is inclusive. So if you’re someone with low vision or no vision and are trying to scan a webpage, instead of it just spitting out gibberish to you, with the tool, it will now be usable content.

Jacqueline decided her future was in coding when she attended UT’s First Bytes summer camp. She was inspired by the power it gave her. Today, she is an advocate for inclusive code and tech that considers all users. As an undergrad, Jacqueline worked at Microsoft during the summers. For the past two years, she has been working on what she calls her “dream team,” building a new accessibility product that just went public. After graduating with degrees in Computer Science and African and African Diaspora Studies, she plans to return to Microsoft full-time to continue this work.

Excellence and accessibility The University of Texas at Austin shares Gibson’s commitment to inclusion, and makes many academic and community resources available to students of color, including: • The Longhorn Center for Academic Excellence, which houses academic success and leadership programs • The Multicultural Engagement Center, which provides advising and support and houses student agencies • More than 1,300 sponsored student organizations, including honors associations, clubs and fraternities/ sororities

What do you hope will be your mark on the world after graduation?

I have always been inspired by the Shirley Chisholm quote, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” It is my hope that my legacy, not only on the Forty Acres but in the world, is that I have fought to create inclusion and community in spaces where there was none. For me, it is not enough to bring a chair for yourself; you have to make space for others to join as well and make their voices heard.

First-years also participate in special learning communities that help them make a successful transition into college, connect with professors and meet other students.

Beyond the freshman year, students benefit from ongoing support, no matter their needs.

Each of the 13 undergraduate colleges and schools staffs its own career center to provide students with major- and field-specific advice, while the university’s Sanger Learning Center offers one-on-one support to help students reach their academic potential.

What does inclusion look like in computer science?

In my opinion, inclusion looks like “diversity at the table.” I think everyone should be able to use technology independently. I think the industry overall has not historically recognized the importance of universal usability, but everyone stands to benefit from it. Many times you create something that’s accessible and everyone uses it. Take speech dictation, right? I use that all the time. I have use of my hands, but it’s still really useful. I’m seeing an interesting push in the tech field where people are considering a diversity of users, not just as an add-on, but a benefit.

To learn more, visit us at

admissions.utexas.edu

That potential flourishes in The University of Texas at Austin’s environment of academic excellence. Competitively ranked programs, a world-class faculty and outstanding facilities offer students the opportunity to participate in a rich history of world-changing scholarship at a university named the No. 14 public school in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

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13B OCTOBER17 17||2019| 2019|DEFENDER DEFENDER 13B OCTOBER

CONSIDERING A LONGHORN FUTURE? Learn more about why students choose The University of Texas at Austin and how to apply for admission at one of our upcoming high school visits! Current UT students, faculty and Admissions staff will be on hand to provide answers to your questions from an insider’s perspective.

JOIN US MONDAY, OCTOBER 21 6:30–8:30 PM | JAMES MADISON HIGH SCHOOL Space is limited. Register now at admissions.utexas.edu/meet_ut

WHAT STARTS HERE CHANGES THE WORLD

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EDU SPECIAL

Preparing for

entrance exams

E

ntering college requires taking an entrance exam – often the SAT or ACT – a standardized aptitude test used to evaluate perspective students and see how prepared they are for college-level work. Here is some advice on preparing for entrance exams.

Take preliminary tests.

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test – known as the PSAT/ NMSQT – is a multiple-choice test usually taken in the 10th and 11th grades. The PSAT has no official role in college admissions, but it determines eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program and your score could tell how you might do on the SAT and where you need help.

Take practice tests. Practice exams can help students discover their strengths and weaknesses and manage time wisely during the actual test.

Practice tests also familiarize you with the different sections and directions of the test you plan to take. You can find free SAT practice exams at collegeboard.org, satpractice.org. or act.org.

Check your timing. Time yourself while you are completing practice tests so you can experience real test-day conditions. If you find you finished early and got easy questions wrong, slow down and read questions more thoroughly. If you didn’t finish in time, check out the test-taking tips and study aids on the exam website or ask your school counselor for help.

.

Work your memory. The SAT exam lists some formulas for you at the front of each math section, but the ACT exam does not, so it’s important that you know all basic math formulas and concepts. With enough practice problems, you should be able memorize them, which can help save you time during the actual test.

Increase your vocabulary. Read challenging books and articles. When you come across an unfamil-

iar word, highlight or underline it, then look it up.

Pinpoint your weaknesses.

Once you feel generally oriented to the practice test, look back through it to see which questions you missed and note any patterns. Did you miss all of the data interpretation questions on reading? All the trig on math?

Set a target score. Once you have an idea of your baseline, set a goal score. It should be something you can realistically accomplish in the time frame you have for preparing for the test. Your target score should also take into account the schools that you’re interested in attending. The more you want to improve your score, the more time you’ll have to put into it. With the SAT for example, in order to achieve a perfect 800 on the math test, you cannot miss any questions. To score a 750, you can miss four questions.

To score a 750 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section, you can miss up to nine questions on reading, as long as you don’t miss any on writing, or you can miss up to six questions on the writing section, if you don’t miss any on the reading section.

Sources: College Board, CollegeVine, PrepScholar

Facts about entrance exams Defender News Services

Most colleges and universities use entrance exam results to make admissions decisions. Here are things to know: • The SAT is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test administered by the College Board. The nearly four-hour test measures ability rather than knowledge and contains three sections – writing, critical reading and math. Most of the questions are multiple choice.

The SAT has an optional essay component required by some colleges.

• Some colleges may also require students to take an SAT Subject Test, which measures knowledge in specific subjects within five general categories: Eng-

lish, mathematics, history, science and languages.

• The SAT score structure is: Total score, 400– 1600 (the average score is 1060); reading and writing Section, 200–800; math section: 200–800; SAT essay, three scores ranging from 2–8.

• For SAT administrations during the 2018-19 school year, the SAT costs $47.50 and the SAT with Essay costs $64.50. For the 2019-20 school year, the SAT costs $49.50 and the SAT with Essay costs $64.50. Various other fees may apply. Upcoming test dates are Nov. 2, Dec. 7, March 14 and May 2.

• Like the SAT, the ACT is accepted by most colleges and universities. Instead of measuring how you think, the ACT measures what you’ve learned in school. It is also a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper

test but is administered by ACT, Inc. • The ACT consists of four tests: English, reading, mathematics and science. If a college requires a writing test, you can take the ACT Plus Writing. The maximum score is 36 and the average score is 21.

• The ACT fee (no writing) is $52 and the ACT with writing is $68. Additional fees may apply. Upcoming test dates (with registration deadlines within reach) are Dec. 14, Feb. 8, April 4, June 13 and July 18.

• Most high school students take the SAT, the ACT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year.

Sources: ACT, Inc., College Board, Princeton Review, U.S. Department of Education

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EDU SPECIAL

Y

Finish UHD Strong

By UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON-DOWNTOWN

our future at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) means being part of a thriving University located in the heart of Downtown Houston – one of the nation’s most culturally diverse metropolitan areas.

UHD provides students life-changing educational experiences with unparalleled opportunities to conduct research and participate in community-centered learning, coupled with flexible scheduling and a supportive and renowned faculty.

As a comprehensive university that boasts a diverse student body offering 44 bachelor’s degrees and eight master’s degrees at a remarkable value, UHD has one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas.

If you’re a student just out of high school, an adult returning to college to complete your degree or a professional seeking a career change, UHD is right for you. With over 14,000 undergraduate students and more than 50,000 alumni, UHD ranks as the second largest public fouryear university in Houston and the 15th largest in Texas.

UHD is committed to your success. With a faculty-tostudent ratio of 20-to-1, faculty serve as mentors to help you shape your career goals, find the right degree program and build industry connections. We also offer academic and career resources available to provide individualized attention.

We understand that our students have busy lifestyles – jobs, families and more. To accommodate, UHD provides students with flexibility in scheduling courses. You’ll find a variety of class offerings on weekdays, evenings and weekends, as well as 18 fully online degree programs (15 undergraduate/three master’s). From face-to-face instruction at the Downtown campus or one of our satellite locations, UHD degrees and classes are offered completely online or a combination of the two.

We also promote learning that extends beyond the classroom, including community engagement projects, faculty research or traveling the world via our study-abroad programs.

There’s always something new and exciting to enhance your college experience, from UHD’s 20-plus club and intramural sports teams to more than 90 student organizations.

The best way to learn more about UHD is a campus tour. See for yourself how UHD is changing lives and building futures.

Schedule your visit today at uhd.edu/visit or call 713-221-8522.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON DOWNTOWN

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EDU SPECIAL

ways to manage time Defender News Services

Managing time is often at the top of the list of college students’ concerns as they attempt to juggle classes, tests, extracurricular activities, a social life and in some instances, a job or a family. By improving their organizational skills, students can feel less pressured and overwhelmed. Here are 10 ways to manage time:

1

Make a to-do list every day.

There are numerous task management apps that can sync between your phone, tablet and computer or you can use tried-and-true pen and paper. Organizing tasks with a list can make them seem more manageable and help you stay focused.

Completing a task can give you a sense of accomplishment.

2

Don’t procrastinate.

Put the most important tasks at the top of your list and tackle them first. Establish simple, reachable and specific goals instead of a large, vague plan. Also, focus on one task and finish it fully. Though some people swear by multi-tasking, for others, it can actually decrease productivity and increase the odds of making mistakes.

valuable for reducing your workload and ensuring that you understand the material.

You have the benefit of other students’ notes and knowledge and can quiz and tutor each other.

6

Take good notes and review them every day. Date each entry and keep notes for different

4

Make study time part of your schedule. Try to find a consistent time you know you will have to study and make it a habit. Your study time will be most effective if you are comfortable and there are no distractions.

Turn off the television, minimize texts and phone calls, and read emails later.

5

Join a study group. If you’re facing a difficult problem set or assignment, a study group can be

8

Control clutter. Wading through clutter is a waste of precious time. Free your work/study area of unnecessary papers, sticky notes, books, cups and knick-knacks. Allow yourself enough desk space to work comfortably on an assignment or project. Convert paper to digital whenever possible.

If you have a roommate, come to an agreement on chores. Look for smart storage solutions, such as over-the-door organizers, underthe-bed boxes and stacked cubes.

9

3

Learn how you learn. Better self-awareness can make adapting to college life easier. Determine your energy levels throughout the day and know when you’re most alert and able to focus. Is it easier for you to learn by hearing, seeing, reading and writing or moving and doing?

chunk” is and take short breaks while you study.

classes separate from each other. Try to take notes in outline form. Write down anything your instructor writes on the board. If the instructor took the time to write it out, he or she considers it important.

7

Don’t wait until the night before a test to start studying. Last-minute cramming isn’t an effective studying technique and can lead to desperation and test anxiety. Instead, study a bit each day and plan study sessions in advance. Research on attention spans and learning has found that most people learn best in chunks of time such as 15 to 20 minutes. Determine what your ideal “study

Get adequate sleep.

Getting enough sleep each night can help you become more productive and make the most of your time during the day. Sleep is necessary for the brain to perform at its best. Inadequate sleep can hinder attention, alertness, concentration, reasoning and problem-solving. It’s more difficult to retain information if you’re exhausted. Try to go to sleep and get up at the same time every day to set your body’s internal clock and enhance the quality of your sleep.

10

Learn to say no. It's okay to say no if your friend asks you to hang out at night and you have a test the next morning. Instead, find another time that works for both of you to have fun together.

Sources: College Board, Defender Files, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

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EDU SPECIAL

PVAMU an

‘institution of the first class’

P

By PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY

rairie View A&M University is the second oldest public institution of higher education in the state of Texas. It is a historically Black college/university (HBCU) that, since its inception in 1876, has opened its doors to any and every person – inside and outside of Texas – seeking a quality, first-class, four-year university experience.

The university is situated on one of the most beautiful campuses in the country in a rural part of Texas. We like to say that PVAMU is in the middle of nowhere but the Center of Everywhere. The university is an hour drive from Houston (the fourth largest city in the United States), a two-hour drive from Austin and a threehour drive from both Dallas and San Antonio.

Mentioned in the Texas State Constitution as an “institution of the first class,” PVAMU nursing students uphold a tradition of providing PVAMU began as an industrial school quality health care. for African Americans but has evolved tutions designated as All-Steinway schools to meet changing societal demands. in 2016.

Through its seven colleges and the The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation School of Architecture, PVAMU boasts awarded PVAMU a grant of $500,000 to more than 50 degree programs, includsupport its effort to establish an African ing engineering, natural sciences, the American Studies Initiative which will be arts, business, nursing, and criminal housed in its Marvin D. and June Samuel and juvenile justice to name a few. It Brailsford College of Arts and Sciences. has over 70,000 proud alumni around Inspired by the Mellon Foundation award, the world who are engaged in their an anonymous donor pledged an added communities and making an impact $250,000 to help fund this Initiative. across the nation.

This generous donation is eligible for a PVAMU prepares students not PVAMU undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in research $250,000 university match, bringing the only to lead in their communities but initiatives that enrich learning outside of the classroom total support for the Initiative’s launch to $1 also to succeed in a global marketplace. million.

Expanded foreign language offerings complex which opened in 2016 and includes a Learn more about PVAMU at now include Arabic and Mandarin Chinese, and 15,000-seat football stadium, track, baseball, http://www.pvamu.edu/academics/ and www.pvamu.edu study abroad programs focus on building global softball and soccer fields. leaders through classroom instruction, cultural training, arts and service-learning projects.

Facebook.com/pvamu The university prides itself on producing POINTS OF DISTINCTION student-athletes who excel on and off the field.

More African American three-star flag ofTWITTER @PVAMU More than 100 PVAMU athletes received Allficers, including seven Army generals and two Academic Team honors, recognizing studentNavy admirals, have attended PVAMU than any INSTAGRAM @PVAMU athletes who have maintained a cumulative other school. The NROTC and AROTC programs grade-point average of 3.0 or better during the celebrated their 50th anniversary this year.

Linkedin @PrairieViewA&MUniversity academic school year. Our NCAA Division 1 PVAMU joined a prestigious group of instiprograms enjoy a multi-million-dollar sports

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EDU SPECIAL

Impact community, complete degree at Texas A&M ing issues of communities around the world.

Students facilitate and construct actual projects that improve quality of life and hanging the world begins at accessibility. home. As you prepare for Students majoring in Public Health, life after high school, you Education and Psychology find clinical may be thinking about how and field work experiences connect their best to make an impact in learning to real world needs in the comyour community or leave a legacy…and munity. Business, Engineering, Agriculat the same time you want to find a job ture & Life Sciences and Liberal Arts you love, fund your passions and take programs include project-based expericare of your family. ences, entrepreneurship competitions At Texas A&M University we and internship experiences for students believe you can do all of this and more. which strengthens learning while also Believe it or not, you can impact your having a positive impact on the busicommunity and complete a degree at the nesses, individuals and communities ‘Engineers Without Borders prepare foundation for a new school library in Costa Rica’ same time. While working on your choserved. sen degree, Texas A&M offers a number staff coordinate student led projects to support comYour education is what you make of community-driven service learning and engagement munity needs, allowing communities to benefit from of it. You can change the world, by sharing your programs for students. the energy, enthusiasm and time of passionate students knowledge in the communities you call home.

Programs such as Texas Target Communities aligns studying Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning.

At Texas A&M University, we seek solutions student learning with community comprehensive planEngineers Without Borders applies engineering that are Community Driven, Aggie Powered. Learn ning initiatives. Professors and professional planning students’ knowledge to real world design and engineermore at https://ppo.tamu.edu

C

By TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

One-on-one with Dallas Judge Tammy Kemp NNPA Newswire

I Messenger Media (Texas Metro News/ Garland Journal/I Messenger) sat down recently with Judge Tammy Kemp to discuss criticism she received as a result of her actions following the conclusion of the Amber Guyger murder trial.

I Messenger: You have been accused of disrespecting the victim’s family by coming off the bench to hug the woman who murdered Botham Jean and giving her a bible. What led up to the exchange and ultimate hug between you and Amber Guyger?

Kemp: Like everyone else in the courtroom after witnessing the moving, emotional moment between Brandt Jean and Amber Guyger, I wiped my eyes, then came off the bench and went directly over to talk to Botham Jean’s family first.

I offered my condolences to Mr. Jean’s parents and shared words of comfort and encouragement with them before asking them if I could hug them, which they agreed to and I hugged each family member, one by one. After I spent time with the victim’s family, I went over to the defense’s table and addressed Ms. Guyger. I told her, ‘Brandt has forgiven you. You have to forgive yourself.’ To which Ms. Guyger responded, ‘Do you think God will forgive me?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ Important to note, it was Ms. Guyger who first mentioned anything about

religion.

Then and only then, did I respond to her faith-based inquiry. Although I am a Christian, because of an individual’s religious freedom rights, I never discuss anything religious during the performance of my duties as a judge unless a victim or defendant mentions it to me first and again only after a trial or plea is officially completed.

I continued, ‘He has a purpose for you.’ She said, ‘You think I can have a purpose for my life?’ I said, ‘Yes’ and she said, ‘I don’t know where to start. I don’t own a bible.’ Her response prompted me to go to my chambers and retrieve the bible I keep in my office…

I Messenger: Have you ever hugged any other defendants in your court following the conclusion of a trial or plea in your court?

Kemp: I have hugged a lot of defendants, but I have never been asked for a hug by a defendant convicted of a violent offense before and I have never hugged one defendant who did not ask me for a hug. On any given day in the 204th District Court, however, I routinely counsel defendants on forgiveness and second chances.

Judge Tammy Kemp also hugged Botham Jean’s mother.

Read more of Judge Kemp’s interview at

www.DefenderNetwork.com

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10 DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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Despite death rate decrease

Black women more likely to die from breast cancer Defender News Services

A new study by the American Cancer Society revealed both good and bad news about breast cancer in America. Although deaths from breast cancer continue to fall, they're declining at a slower rate than in previous years and the number of cases we're seeing is on the rise. The research also found that Black women are significantly more likely to die from breast cancer than white women.

"Well, first of all, 40% decrease [in deaths] over the last three decades in breast cancer — that's great news. The problem is, women are still dying of this horrible disease," CBS News medical contributor and cancer expert Dr. David Agus said.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime and more than 3.8 million women living in the U.S. have a history of breast cancer.

Part of the rise in cases, according to Agus, can be attributed to obesity rates and the fact that more women have not had children.

"So being large or obese increases the rate of breast cancer, as does not having children," he said. "The actual reason — we don't know. Hormone levels are different because of both of them.

Somehow the hormonal milieu of us, one portends for more breast cancer, one portends for less.

These are important observations.

Obviously as our norms in the country change, we're seeing that increase."

But we are getting better at treating the disease, which has translated to far fewer deaths.

Treatment options have also advanced dramatically over the last decade.

"We have the ability to target molecules or switches within the breast cancer, and I think

importantly we can block the 'don't eat me signal' on the cancer, allowing your own immune system to attack the cancer. So chemotherapy has gotten better, together with molecularly targeted therapy and immunotherapy. There is real hope for continuing to lower the death rate," Agus said.

While early detection remains key in surviving the disease, Agus also points to advancements in genetic testing and recommends everyone get tested for the BRCA gene, a mutation that means you have a much higher risk of developing breast cancer. The tests, once thousands of dollars, are now far more affordable.

"To me, knowledge is power.

Man or woman should have this test. You should know if you're at risk for this breast cancer, ovarian cancer, other cancers associated with these genes, and also whether your children or parents are at risk.

Knowledge to me is really key to knowing what to do," he said.

The research also found that race plays a major factor in surviving breast cancer. Black women are seven times more likely to die from the disease than white women.

Agus said part of the reason may be that Black women, on average, tend to have a higher body mass index, and obesity correlates with a higher breast cancer death rate. "And in addition, the biology may be different," he said.

But unequal access to care might be the key.

"The interesting thing is in the state of Massachusetts, where there's care for everybody, the death rates are similar between white women and black women.

So I think there's a lesson there that we have to increase access to care so we all get these remarkable advances that have happened in the treatment of breast cancer."

VOTE FOR

METRO MORE TRANSIT LESS TRAFFIC BETTER ROADS

THE METRO PROPOSITION is part of a bold new plan for sustainable transit solutions that will provide more transportation choices for more people, connecting them to jobs, education and healthcare — all while improving our economy, environment, quality of life, and competitiveness with other urban areas.

THE METRO PROPOSITION IS PROUDLY ENDORSED BY: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Congressman Al Green Mayor Sylvester Turner Commissioner Rodney Ellis

Harris County AFL-CIO Houston Area Urban League Houston Black American Democrats NAACP Houston Branch

State Senator Borris Miles Service Employees International Union State Representative Garnet Coleman Former Mayor Lee P. Brown

Transport Workers Union Local 260

Learn more at www.VoteForMetro.com.

Pol. adv. Moving to the Future PAC

11

12 DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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POLL: Michelle Obama would lead in 2020 race

Bringing Healthy Change to our Communities – and the Families in Them.

Defender News Service

A new poll confirms that former First Lady Michelle Obama would enter the New Hampshire Democratic primary ahead of the rest of the party field, despite her insistence she has no interest in becoming a politician.

According to a poll conducted by The Boston Herald and Franklin Pierce University, it appears Obama would easily get 26 per cent of the primary vote and would also be be six percentage points ahead of current front-runners former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who have each worked pretty consistently to secure 20% of the New Hampshire primary voters.

Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders, perhaps in light of his recent health complications has dropped to fourth place, with a 15 per cent share. This latest poll was conducted last week from October 9-13, via 422 Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire who were questioned about their preferences over the phone.

Obama has been adamant that she Michelle Obama has no interest in running for the Oval Office, but the persistent desire to see her throw her hat in the ring most likely comes from a growing fear that none of the top-tier Democratic candidates have the momentum to beat President Trump in the 2020 general election.

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

Appointments Available! New Patients Welcome!

Call (832) 548 5000 or visit LegacyCommunityHealth.org • Pediatrics • Behavioral Health • School & Sports Physicals • Vaccinations

• Obstetrics & Gynecology • Free Pregnancy Testing • HIV/STD Testing, Prevention & Treatment • Pharmacy

• Adult Medicine • Geriatrics • Endocrinology & Diabetes Care • Dental & Vision

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

Register your women’s organization for a chance to win a

CASH prize!

How to Enter

HEALTH FORUM A Powerful and Healthy ‘US’ at Every Age

Having fun is encouraged!

Wear your organization’s colors.

Bring noisemakers.

Take selfies of your squad and use hashtags: #SOBWHealthForum #StateofBlackWomen Make a grand entrance as a squad.

Sit together in auditorium.

(Organization responsible for reserving seating.

Unused seats must be released at start of program.)

Have an acceptance ‘walk,’ ‘dance,’ ‘chant’ should your organization win.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019 6:30 PM Young Women's College Preparatory Academy 1906 Cleburne Street | Houston, TX 77004

Register your nonprofit women’s organization or woman-owned business at: SOBWHealthForum.eventbrite.com Use the SOBW Health Forum marketing tools to invite and register your organization members.

Organization members, friends and family may be invited.

Organization size will be based on ATTENDANCE at the Health Forum.

First, second and third place organizations will win $3,000, $1,000 and $500 prizes, respectively.

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019| DEFENDER

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Simone Biles sets all-time record Associated Press

Simone Biles set the all-time record for most medals by any gymnast at the world championships by winning the balance beam and floor exercise on Oct. 13.

Biles won her 24th medal on the beam, breaking a tie on 23 with the Belarusian men’s gymnast Vitaly Scherbo, and added her 25th less than two hours later.

“I can’t be more thrilled with the performance that I put out at this world championships,” she said. The medal record?

I’m not a number person.”

Biles scored 15.066 on the beam after a near-flawless routine, opting for a simpler dismount than the double-double she performed earlier in the championships.

That dismount is a sore point for Biles, who introduced the double-double to competition this season and feels the International Gymnastics Federation didn’t reward it with a high enough difficulty rating.

“It’s not worth the onetenth [extra difficulty point].

I’m sorry, it’s just not,” she said.

When her score was announced, guaranteeing the medal record, Biles leaped up from her seat with a broad smile and punched the air.

“I was really excited. I thought it was going to be at least a 14.8, 14.9, but to see 15, I was like, ‘Well, that’s pretty crazy,’ so I was very proud,” she said.

China took silver and bronze with Liu Tingting on 14.433 and Li Shijia on 14.3, respectively.

Biles won the floor exercise by a full point, scoring 15.133 despite a step out of bounds on one pass, and blew kisses to the audience after finishing her routine. Her U.S. teammate Sunisa Lee took silver, her third medal of the championships, while Angelina Melnikova took bronze for Russia.

Biles’ winning routine came after a long wait when Brazilian gymnast Flavia Saraiva requested an inquiry into her score, during which time Biles sat on the edge of the floor.

s t un b Desoo

Gold medalist Simone Biles of Spring performs in the women’s apparatus finals at the Gymnastics World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany.

Biles has won five events at these world championships after team gold on a Tuesday, individual all-around gold on a Thursday and vault gold on a Saturday.

A fifth place on uneven bars on a Saturday ended Biles’ chances of winning a medal in all six events, which she did last year in her comeback world championships after a sabbatical in 2017.

Biles hasn’t confirmed whether she’ll continue to compete after next year’s Olympics, so this could be her last world championships. Blowing kisses to the crowd wasn’t meant as a goodbye to the world championships, she said.

“It’s just a good floor routine, farewell to just the end of

this world championship chapter here in Stuttgart,” she said.

Of her 24 career world medals, 18 are gold, against 12 of 23 for Scherbo.

Earlier, Russia’s Nikita Nagornyy won the men’s vault for his third gold medal of the championships. He’s the first European man to win the vault since 2010.

Nagornyy scored an average 14.966 from his two vaults, beating his friend and Russian teammate Artur Dalaloyan into second place. The bronze went to Ukraine’s Igor Radivilov.

The 38-year-old Romanian Marian Dragulescu, a four-time world champion, secured qualification for his fifth Olympics by placing fourth.

Britain won its second gold of the championships as Joe Fraser scored 15 points to win on parallel bars. Ahmet Önder was second for Turkey, with Japan’s Kazuma Kaya third. Max Whitlock won Britain’s first gold medal Saturday on pommel horse.

Arthur Mariano won gold for Brazil on the high bar, scoring 14.9 ahead of Tin Srbic for Croatia. Dalaloyan took the bronze to end the championships with four medals.

COMINGUP Malik Hornsby

A NEW DefenderNetwork Monthly Series featuring Houston Area Outstanding High School Athletes

14

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

sports

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Texans offense clicks together as unit

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By TERRANCE HARRIS Defender

Just a couple of weeks ago some fans were wondering if the Texans’ collection of talented offensive players was the right mix.

But the last two games must have many – the NFL included – wondering if anyone can stop the Texans offense from rolling. All of sudden, the offensive line is keeping Deshaun Watson clean and he is connecting with receivers down field while running back Carlos Hyde is looking like a version of “Back to the Future.”

So, what gives?

“Players [are taking] ownership in their play,” said wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. “It’s as simple as that.”

The offense has looked almost completely different the last two games – two victories – than it did during the first four weeks. It starts up front where the much-maligned offensive line has suddenly become a stone wall in front of Watson.

After allowing Watson to take 18 sacks in the first four games, he hasn’t been sacked once these last two weeks.

All of sudden, the Texans’ third-year quarterback has thrust himself into the MVP conversation after a near flawless two weeks.

In fact, Watson looked more like the MVP than the reigning NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes when the two third-year quarterbacks went headto-head for the first time in the regular season during the Texans stunning 31-24 win over Kansas City.

Even Watson has seen a huge difference in the offense during the last two weeks.

“Everyone has bought in. Everyone has bought into what [Bill O’Brien] and Tim Kelly [offensive coordinator] want to do. We’re all on the same page,” said Watson, who has completed 77 percent of his passes while throwing for 706 yards, six touchdowns and just two interceptions the last two games.

On the offensive side, the skill guys know exactly what O’Brien and Kelly want to call in different situations.

“We communicate about it, we meet on it and we all make sure we’re on the same page before we step on the field. I think that’s the biggest thing so we can execute at a high level.”

But O’Brien, who has seen his team jump to a 4-2 start and take sole possession of first place in the AFC South, is doing his best to keep things in perspective and make certain his team remains humble. The Texans have another big road test when they travel to face AFC South rival

Running back Carlos Hyde looked like a version of “Back to the Future.”

Indianapolis in a clash of the division’s two top teams.

“That was a really good win [against the Chiefs] but this team will come in and watch the film and they will understand there are certain things that we have to keep doing well,” O’Brien said.

“There are a lot of things that we did well [against Kansas City], but there were a lot of things that we didn’t that we’ve got to improve because we’ve got a great team that we are playing in Indianapolis.”

While the fans and media may be thinking grand things after six games, O’Brien is keeping his team grounded by pointing out what is being done well while also being honest about what needs to be done to get better going forward.

“I think you have to take the approach that you have to improve,” O’Brien said. “I think it’s an improvement league. I think the teams that improve the most over the 16-game season are the ones who end up being where they want to be.”

Deshaun Watson played like an MVP against Kansas City.

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OCTOBER 17 | 2019 DEFENDER

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15

Fort Bend Marshall

Cornerback Avery Helm Jr. at it again

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By JODIE B. JILES Defender

ort Bend Marshall senior cornerback Avery Helm Jr., a University of Florida verbal commit, is a 6-foot-2 lockdown defender who has the capabilities to match up with bigger-bodied receivers and be physical.

Helm’s unique top end track speed also allows him to run step-for-step with some of the fastest wide receivers the country has to offer.

During Helm’s junior year, he suffered a season-ending injury that kept him on the sideline for 10 months. Helm recently made his season debut in the second half of Marshall’s recent 54-7 victory over Waltrip.

Marshall head coach James Williams is glad to have Helm back.

“It’s definitely a plus for the team,” Williams said. “Avery is a three-year starter who is a heck of a player. He has a lot of experience and is a competitor. When you add that to the defense it improves the defense.”

The Defender spoke with Helm about his style of play, the perseverance he went through coming back from an injury and his verbal commitment to Florida.

Defender: How would you describe your style of play as a cornerback?

Helm: I am a ball hawk. That’s how good DBs [defensive backs] play and that’s what I do.

Defender: How does it feel to get back on the field and make some things happen?

Helm: It’s really amazing to be back out here after the long rehab process I had to go through. It’s a blessing to be able to play the game I love.

Defender: What did you learn about your game today now that you have returned?

Helm: It was good to just get my first game back and analyze my receiver. I feel like I did a very good job on that. I am looking forward to watching more film and learning more as I go.”

Defender: Why is the University of Florida a perfect fit for you?

Helm: Florida is the perfect fit for me because of the reputation they have. I feel like there, I just have to step in and keep up with the standard. All the coaches and assistant coaches have a really good set-up going.

About Helm

Instagram: @d1.fmb Favorite artist: G Herbo and YB Hobbies: Horseback riding, fishing World problem he would solve: Debt Shout-outs: “Mom and Dad who are with me the whole way”

Helm forces an incompletion on a third-down pass. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison)

See game and crowd photos on IG

@DefenderNetworkHighSchoolSports Returning from a major injury, Avery Helm Jr. locks down a Waltrip receiver.

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16

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 17 | 2019

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

topevents

YWCA OUTSTANDING WOMEN’S LUNCHEON……..YWCA Houston recently care issue that has local ramifications in Third Ward and other neighborhoods in hosted its 2019 Outstanding Women’s Luncheon, a charitable event that helped the Houston. Attendees included Jordan Barrow, Mason Chandler, Jenni Tran, organization further its mission while celebrating the accomplishments of 10 outstanding Janelle Argueta, Latifa B, Ken Rodgers, Roshawn Evans, Taylor and Sydnee women whose professional accomplishments and community contributions have Simpson, Kenyetta House, Sherrell Brown, Miracle Orji, Imani Stevens and enhanced the quality of life for countless Houstonians. Defender CEO Sonny Messiah scores more……..FUCHSIA IS THE NEW NAVY DIAPER FOUNDATION Jiles received the Dorothy Height Award. Also honored were Cindy Clifford, Lauren FUNDRAISER……..In celebration of the Diaper Foundation’s 10th anniversary, Dillard, Argentina James, Myrtle Jones, Dr. Stacey Jones, Dr. Grenita Lathan, Ann the non-profit hosted Fuchsia is the New Navy: A Celebration of Color, an evening Tanabe, State Rep. Shawn Thierry and Connie Kwan Wong. of fashion, fun and philanthropy supporting the foundation’s work Luncheon attendees included Dr. Janice Beal, Jacqueline Bostic Defender TOP EVENTS of providing free diaper assistance and other services for HoustonMore photos on defendernetwork.com area children. Through awareness, education, and material aid to McElroy, Pastor Juanita Rasmus, Melvinie Davis, Carlecia Wright, Gina Gaston, Damali Hill, Nicole Cox, Jaqueline young mothers, the foundation seeks to keep every child clean, dry, Miles, Stacey Frank, Jerelyn Gooden and many others………PROJECT ROW and healthy – one diaper at a time. Diaper Foundation founder Hope Ewing was on HOUSES ROUND 50 OPENING……..Project Row Houses (PRH) unveiled its latest hand, along with Shelley Taylor Ludwick, store director of Tootsie’s, the location Artist Round, Round 50: Race, Health and Motherhood, recently to an appreciative of the event. Other attendees included Babi Ahluwalia, Ericka Bagwell, Leisa gathering of supporters. Curated by PRH Curator and Programs Director Ryan N. Holland Nelson, Megan Hotze, Torsha Johnson, Shawntell McWilliams, Lisa Dennis, Round 50 explores how artists, healthcare professionals, practitioners, and Oren, Roz Pactor, Vicki Rizzo, Ebony Goudeau, Sherrell Ogletree, Michael philanthropy are responding to the Black maternal mortality rate, a national health Ewing, Cenaca and Donald Cyprian and more.

Jerelyn Gooden, Jacqueline Bostic McElroy, Pastor Mia Wright

Jordan Barrow, Mason Chandler, Janelle Argueta, Latifa B

Megan Donaldson, Kristi Jackson-Muhammad, Hope Ewing, Angela Hudson, Ebony Goudeau

Dr. Janice Beal, Sonny Messiah Jiles

Roshawn Evans, Ken Rodgers

Cenaca Cyprian, Donald Cyprian

Tami Frazier, Dr. Grenita Lathan

Kelva Clay, Sherrell Brown, Tene Lucas-Rogers

Myrtle Jones, Shawntell McWilliams, Tammi Johnson, Miss Houston Blaine Ochoa

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