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Volume 85 | Number 51

OCTOBER 20, 2016 |FREE

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NATIONAL

NAACP under fire for charter school stance

P4 ENTERTAINMENT MATTHEW KNOWLES promotes book at festival

SUPER BOWL BLACK

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P8 SPORTS LAMAR MILLER helps Texans win in overtime

P18 TOP EVENTS

Dr. John Rudley

Skipper Lee Frazier

Former Texas Southern University President Dr. John Rudley let loose a stream of consciousness on the state of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the inside story on his departure from TSU.

Friends of Skipper Lee Frazier are mourning the death of the man who brought “a mountain of soul” to Houston. Frazier, a well-known radio personality, entrepreneur, emcee, promoter and manager, died Oct. 14 at age 89.

goes on epic rant

remembered

John Guess and Melanie Lawson celebrate at the Houston Museum of African American Culture Gala.

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Former TSU president goes on a Twitter rant Defender News Service

Former Texas Southern University President Dr. John Rudley recently took to social media to air out his grievances and problems he says he faced leading the HBCU. His “Twitter rant” had people on both sides speaking out. Rudley, who served as TSU president from 2008 – 2016, refers to his term as “tumultuous,” and detailed some of his experiences in a series of tweets. Beginning with his very first tweet on Sept. 27, introducing himself, he then dove right into what he was feeling. “Being the President of an HBCU is one of the most stressful jobs in America.

We have to nurture and protect these leaders,” he wrote. Rudley complained that running an HBCU was extremely problematic. He listed issues he said he faced, and ultimately solved. Rudley also announced that he would be revealing more details in a soon-to-bereleased book, free from censorship. Students took issue during Rudley’s tenure because he got rid of the school’s “open enrollment policy,” which did not require students to pass the ACT or SAT tests. The open policy provided many disadvantaged students the opportunity to seek a college degree, but critics say it undermined the school’s credibility and reputation and

added to the overall dropout rate. Other complaints with the policy was that it opened the door for “financial aid bandits,” who used the lenient policy as a way to receive thousands of dollars in grants and student loans, then leave the university with no intention of returning. One of Rudley’s missions was to increase the graduation rate, and give the students more opportunities in the workforce. Students were also concerned about campus safety issues, outdated housing, morale and social activities, among other things and wanted change, but Rudley took it personal, even insinuating that professors at the university were teaching students to attack him on social media. Former TSU President Dr. John Rudley

Residents outraged over Casey Brown shooting Defender News Service

The man shot outside his home by an off-duty police officer remains in critical condition, while his family members dispute the Houston Police Department’s version of what led up to the shooting. “This is not a white thing, this is not a black thing, this is a right thing,” said Princess Brown, Casey’s mother. Quanell X and Brown’s family are calling for the arrest and indictment of an HPD who shot 21-year-old Casey Brown in Brown’s own front yard. The officer, J. Loosmore, was walking his dog with his wife, when Brown’s dog attacked his pet.

Loosmore, who was off-duty at the time, allegedly went home, got his gun, and returned and told Brown he was going to file a report. Police said Brown started punching Loosmore while he was speaking with police dispatchers on the phone. Loosmore reportedly told investigators that he was afraid Brown would be able to take his gun. “This is not a justifiable shooting,” said Quanell X. But HPD claims it was justifiable. Police say Brown attacked first, even though they admit Brown wasn’t armed. Witnesses dispute HPD’s version of events, and say the officer didn’t identify himself until after he’d shot Brown. “This man is on his own property,” said Quanell X. “The trespasser is the cop. If anyone should be charged, it’s the police

officer.” The community is already rallying behind Brown’s family. “This is a no go, we won’t take this,” said his mother. Quanell X is urging local leaders and law enforcement to take appropriate action before things spiral out of control here. “We will not sleep or rest until you do the right thing and indict this cop,” said Quanell X. “If you don’t want St. Louis, if you don’t want Ferguson, if you don’t want New York, if you don’t want Dallas, if you don’t want Baton Rouge, then show us you can do the right thing.” HPD Homicide, Internal Affairs and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office are all conducting concurrent investigations.

localbriefs A 911 OPERATOR IS UNDER FIRE FOR HANGING UP ON CALLERS because she “wasn’t in the mood to talk at the time.” Crenshanda Williams, 43, can be heard saying, “Ain’t nobody got time for this,” while hanging up on one caller. Authorities have identified about 825 calls in which Williams hung up and the person called back within five minutes. Prosecutors say one of those hang-ups even resulted in death. She was investigated after logs showed an excessive amount of “short calls” with a duration of less than 20 seconds before her supervisors were alerted… TEXAS PRIMARY TURNOUT LAGGED BEHIND MOST STATES. Only about seven

percent of adults cast ballots in the Democratic primary and 14 percent of adults cast ballots in the Republican primary, according to records compiled by the United States Election Project, barely topping Arizona for eighth-to-last in voter turnout…. A RECORD 15 MILLION TEXANS HAVE REGISTERED TO VOTE ahead of the November election. The 15,015,700 voters is 777,000 more than were registered in time for the March primaries. Travis County (Austin) reported that over 90 percent of its residents had registered to vote, a milestone in the county’s history. Harris County, the state’s largest county, reported registration numbers were up this year by six percent, their steepest

increase in 16 years. Early voting for the Nov. 8 election begins Oct. 24 and runs through November 4. The last day to request a ballot by mail is Oct. 28…. DISCRIMINATORY POLICING PRACTICES IN AUSTIN COULD SERVE AS A MODEL for Other Departments. According to the new report by the Center for Policing Equity, Austin police officers use force on Black suspects at significantly higher rates than they do white and Latino suspects combined. African-Americans make up just eight percent of Austin’s population, however. The report also revealed that African-American drivers were more likely to be searched (32 percent) than white (14 percent) and Latino drivers (16 percent).

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NAACP faces backlash after charter school stance By Defender Network

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is facing backlash after recently ratifying its stance against charter schools. The organization passed a resolution that calls for a halt to the growth of any new charter schools throughout the U.S. The position put the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization at odds with many inside its own community, including the Black Alliance for Educational Options, which helped organize a coalition of 160 Black education and community leaders who urged the civil rights group to reconsider its moratorium. After NAACP board members recently voted to approve the resolution, Jacqueline Cooper, president of the Black Alliance for Educational Options, said she was “stunned.” “We are absolutely stunned that the NAACP voted to put distortions, lies, and outdated ideologies about charter schools above what is in the best interest of our children,” Cooper said. “It is inexplicable to me that such a storied organization, responsible for leading a powerful civil rights movement to tear down barriers for generations of black people, would erect new ones for our children.” Roslyn Brock, chairman of the

national NAACP board of directors, defended the decision. “The NAACP has been in the forefront of the struggle for and a staunch advocate of free, high-quality, fully and equitably funded public education for all children. We are dedicated to eliminating the severe racial inequities that continue to plague the education system.” Charter schools are public schools that are tuition-free, open to all students, and run with public funds.

However, the schools are managed privately and their operators are given the freedom to be more innovative with decisions involving curriculum, culture, budgeting, hiring, and firing. Charter schools are required to partake in their state’s testing and accountability standards, and if they fail to meet certain achievement standards, charter schools are shut down. While charter schools have shown a remark-

able ability to close the achievement gap between white and poor students, overall results are inconclusive and the source of widespread debate. The NAACP argues that charter schools lack oversight, take away much-needed funds from traditional public schools, too often expel students, and “perpetuate de facto segregation.” Specifically, the organization’s moratorium reads: We are calling for a moratorium on the expansion of the charter schools at least until such time as: 1. Charter schools are subject to the same transparency and accountability standards as public schools 2. Public funds are not diverted to charter schools at the expense of the public school system 3. Charter schools cease expelling students that public schools have a duty to educate 4. Cease to perpetuate de facto segregation of the highest performing children from those whose aspirations may be high but whose talents are not yet as obvious. The NAACP has support from the Black Lives Matter movement, which released a similar policy platform earlier this summer. It also has the backing of teachers’ unions, including the American Federation of Teachers.

THE PRESIDENT OF AMERICA’S LARGEST POLICE ORGANIZATION has issued an apology for the mistreatment of minorities. Terrence M. Cunningham, the President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, apologized “for the actions of the past and the role that our profession has played in society’s historical mistreatment of communities of color.” He added, “It is my hope that, by working together, we can break this historic cycle of mistrust and build a better and safer future for us all.”..... THE NATION’S HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION RATE REACHED A RECORD 83.2 percent, continuing a steady increase that shows improvement across all racial and ethnic groups, according to recently released federal data. The gains come against a backdrop of decreasing test scores on national math and reading tests….THE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT HAS OUTLINED PLANS TO EXPAND POLICE INTERACTION DATA and use-offorce incidents. But due to limitations on what the government is allowed to publish, there are big questions about just how useful the data will be to the general public. The proposed initiatives include a National Use of Force Data Collection program, under which law enforcement agencies would voluntarily submit information on civilians and officers involved in use-of-force incidents ― as well as other relevant details surrounding these encounters. A pilot program led by the FBI is set to begin in early 2017….. NIGERIAN PARENTS REUNITED WITH 21 SCHOOLGIRLS KIDNAPPED BY BOKO HARAM more than two years ago and freed in the first negotiated release organized by the government and the Islamic extremist group. The girls were among more than 200 students taken from their school in the northeastern Nigerian town of Chibok by the extremists in April 2014, sparking the global “Bring Back Our Girls” social media campaign. One of the girls said they were starved and many were forced to convert from Christianity to Islam.

President Obama plans for his last 100 days Defender News Service

President Barack Obama has a lengthy to-do list in the final weeks of his presidency and every intention to get it all done. White House spokesman Josh Earnest said that the president is so focused, he may not have noticed crossing the 100-day mark. “I think the President is approaching the final 100 days the way that (he) approached the previous seven-and-a-half years or so, which is seeking to make the most of every remaining opportunity,” Earnest said.

Reportedly, one item at the top of President Obama’s agenda is getting the Senate to hold a confirmation hearing and a vote on his Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland. The Republican-led Senate has declined to act on the high court’s vacancy, hoping that a Republican will win the presidential election. The president is also expected to continue commuting the prison sentences of certain nonviolent drug offenders. There could also be movement on criminal justice reform, which has bipartisan support. Looking overseas, President Obama is working on several complex challenges: moving toward peace in Syria, helping Iraq

retake Mosul from ISIS, and responding to Russian hacking. There’s also unfinished business: closing the prison at Guantanamo Bay, an unfulfilled promise that the president wants to keep. While President Obama has a near record high public approval, he reportedly has “few obvious opportunities to expend” his political capital, according to Earnest. That’s because the Republican-controlled Congress continues to have little interest in supporting the president’s agenda—even on an issue like the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, on which they share the president’s position.

VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 51 OCTOBER 20, 2016 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby

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

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

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Moving forward to make things right. We are deeply committed to serving you and your financial needs. We know we did not live up to that commitment. We want you to know that we’re making things right and that we’re even more dedicated to serving you and making sure you know where you stand. There is nothing more important than for you to experience the very best from us. That’s why we’ve already taken action: Putting your interests first: We have eliminated product sales goals for our Retail Banking team members who serve customers in our bank branches and call centers. This means that their focus will be on meeting your financial needs, not meeting sales goals. Proactively communicating with you: We send a confirmation after you open a new consumer or small business checking, savings or credit card account so that you know what is happening and can tell us if anything we’ve confirmed is different than what you expected. Full transparency: You can always see your eligible accounts any time when enrolled in Wells Fargo Online.® Fixing what went wrong: We have provided full refunds to customers we have already identified and we’re broadening our scope of work to find customers we may have missed. If we have any doubt about whether one of your accounts was authorized, and any fees were incurred on that account, we will contact you and refund fees. If you have any concerns about your accounts or any aspect of your relationship with Wells Fargo, please come into a branch or call us on our dedicated hotline 24/7 at 1-877-924-8697. wellsfargo.com/commitment 1-877-924-8697

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Skipper Lee Frazier remembered By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

ans of Skipper Lee Frazier are mourning the death of the man who brought “a mountain of soul” to Houston. Frazier, a well-known radio personality, entrepreneur, emcee, promoter and manager, died Oct. 14 at age 89. Frazier was a fixture on Houston radio, most recently on KWWJ Gospel 1360, where he broadcast from his office at Skipper Lee & Sons Eternal Rest Funeral Home. He spent 22 years at KCOH Radio, and was a familiar face inside the glass on Almeda. Frazier was a fixture at KCOH Radio. As a businessman, Frazier was part owner of KCOH along with Dr. John B. Coleman, Judson Robinson Jr., Travis Gardner and Michael Petrizzo. His other ventures included ownership of Venus Motel and Eternal Rest. “One of the most unique characteristics of Skipper Lee was his dynamic ability to consistently reinvent himself professionally,” said longtime family friend Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell of Windsor Village United Methodist Church. “For almost seven decades, Skipper Lee remained relevant and productive, adding undisputed value to the Houston community,” Caldwell said. “Equally comfortable in the sanctuary or streets, Skipper Lee brought a ‘ mountain of soul’ to Houston Frazier clowned around with Muhammad Ali. through his various businesses and his church affiliations.” Colleagues remember Frazier as a larger-than-life personality who was outgoing, motivated and cared about the community. “Skip was more than just a disc jockey,” said KYND talk show host Michael Harris, who worked with Frazier at KCOH. “He was a very shrewd businessman. There wasn’t anything that happened in Houston that Skipper Lee wasn’t involved in, politically, socially or economically.” 1954. He emceed record hops Harris added that Frazier was confident but never arrogant and talent shows and managed or pushy. “He was very supportive of other people and their local up-and-coming talents. accomplishments.” He later joined KCOH He said Frazier was also a trailblazer. “When [Frazier and and played a distinctive signhis partners] bought KCOH that was a major move,” Harris on at the beginning of each said. “They were the first Black owners of a radio station in the show, saying he was implored South. That was very significant and very few people have done by voices to “steal away and it since.” carry a mountain of soul to KCOH sportscaster Ralph Cooper was a newspaper reHouston.” porter in the late ‘60s when Frazier gave him his start in radio. Frazier managed such “I would predict football games and Skipper Lee saw my groups as Archie Bell & the predictions and started following them,” Cooper said. “One day Drells. The group recorded the he called me and asked me to stop by the station and said he 1968 No. 1 hit “Tighten Up,” would like to put me on the radio to predict the games.” which was written by Frazier. Cooper said he is thankful to Frazier for his encourageHe served as a promoter ment. and master of ceremonies of “He had a very positive attitude,” Cooper said. “I never Frazier, Rev. William Lawson and others welcomed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the Kool Jazz Festival, and heard him say anything bad about anyone.” also promoted shows for artists Talk show host Wash Allen, now with MJWJ Global such as James Brown, B. B. King and the O’Jays. Frazier FrazierSkipper chronicledLee his life in the book Radio, worked with Frazier when he was program manager at Frazier chronicled his life in the book “Tighten Up: “Tighten Up:Funeral The Autobiography KCOH. He described Frazier as sincere, honorable and a man Servicesof a Houston The Autobiography of a Houston Disc Jockey.” Disc Jockey.” of his word. Friday, 21, atinto 11 a.m. In 2004 he was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall In 2004 he wasOct. inducted the Texas “We worked very well together,” Allen said. “I liked his of Fame for his “significant and notable contributions to Jones Church Radio HallMemorial of FameUnited for hisMethodist “significant and bigness, his voice, his showmanship. He had great stories to tell radio.” notable2504 contributions to radio.” and they were always exciting. As an emcee he traveled across Almeda-Genoa, Houston, TX 77047 Survivors include his wife, Joyce Frazier; sons, Survivors wife, Joyce to Frazier; the country and every disc jockey in the world knew Skip.” In lieu ofinclude flowers,his send donations James Frazier and Michael Davis; sister, Gloria Evans; sons, James Frazier and Michael Davis; sister, Frazier was born in Magnolia Springs, Texas in 1927. He Memorial UMC Prayer Ministry. and granddaughter, Kendall Davis. Gloria Jones Evans; and granddaughter, Kendall began his radio career as a part-time disc jockey at KYOK in

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Pinnacle Awards honor the best in the business

Defender News Service

The Greater Houston Black Chamber will once again honor the best in the business at the 22nd annual Pinnacle Awards. The awards celebrate the excellence, tenacity and dedication of entrepreneurial spirit in the African-American business community. Established in 1994, the award ceremony was created to recognize outstanding African American businesses in the greater Houston area and are the most prestigious awards in honor of Black-owned businesses. The Pinnacle Awards are bestowed upon African-

American entrepreneurs that have met the many challenges facing businesses today, and found a way to positively impact the communities and industries they serve. Recipients are professional, capable, and committed to maintaining a high quality business operation worthy of the Pinnacle Award. This award was created to honor organizations that have been true champions for African-American small businesses in the Greater Houston Metropolitan area. These organizations diligently work to ensure the stability and growth of small businesses through its diversity supplier programs, community outreach and education.

2016 PINNACLE AWARD FINALISTS Ft Bend Academy of Arts & Dance Hiram Style, LLC Kelly Kaluza and Associates L’Renee & Associates Owens Management Systems,

Soul Grooves Fitness Sterling Staffing Solutions The Education Valet, Inc. The Sutton Insurance Agency, Inc. Twice Media Productions

UPSTART AWARD FINALISTS Quail Valley Family Dental Taylor Elite Transportation The Allen CPA Firm, PLLC

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM MEDICARE

WHAT WILL YOU FIND DURING MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT? You’ll never know unless you go. Have you compared plans yet? See if you can lower some costs or find a plan that better suits your needs. Many people do. Even if you like your current plan, check to see if the costs or coverage are changing at medicare.gov. Or call 1-800-MEDICARE for help. Like Medicare? ‘Like’ us on Facebook!

“We found lower co-pays, and a free wellness visit.”

“New plan, same doctor.”

“I found a better deal on prescriptions.”

Medicare Open Enrollment Oct.15 – Dec. 7

WWW.MEDICARE.GOV 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048)

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entertainment

National Black Book Festival brings literary stars to Houston Defender News Service

Actor and author Wendell Pierce is heading to Houston to headline the National Black Book Festival. He will join a host of other celebrity writers, national bestselling authors, local writers, as well as new and aspiring authors. Pierce is renowned for his appearances in the films, Selma and Waiting to Exhale, and the highly-acclaimed TV Wendell Pierce shows, “The Wire” and “Suits.” He is also author of the NAACP Image Award nominated book, The Wind in the Reeds: A Storm, a Play, and the City That Would Not Be Broken. This will be Pierce’s first year appearing at the Festival. Entertainment manager and author Mathew Knowles is also a featured author for this year’s event. Knowles, whose book is titled The DNA of Achievers: 10 Traits of Highly Successful Professionals, is best known for managing the career of his daughter, Carl Weber Beyonce, and the powerhouse girl group Destiny’s Child. Other featured authors for 2016 NBBF include: ReShonda Tate Billingsley - Author of 40+ adult and teen novels, and nonfiction books. She is an NAACP Image Award winner for her book, Say Amen Again, and is co-founder of Brown Girls Books publishing company. Two of her books have been made into movies, which aired on TVOne and BET. Victoria Christopher Murray - Author of 20+ adult and

Carl Weber - NY Times best-selling author of more than 15 novels, including The Family Business (1, 2 and 3), The Man in 3B, Choir Director, and Grand Opening Valerie Wilson Wesley - Best-selling author whose titles include Playing My Mother’s Blues and When Death Comes Stealing, also writes paranormal mysteries under the pen name Savanna Welles. Her books for children include the Willimena Rules! series. Matthew Knowles ReShonda Tate Billingsley Victoria Christopher Murray R. M. Johnson - Author of several best-selling novels, including The Bishop series, The Million-Dollar Divorce, and The Harris Men. Maureen Smith - Award-winning romance author of 24 novels and 3 novellas, including Wicked Games. She also writes under the pseudonym Naomi Chase. A number of self-published, new and aspiring authors from all over the country, will also be on hand at the event. The National Black Book Festival is Omar Tyree Wahida Clark R.M. Johnson sponsored by a Houston-based company, Cushcity.com, an online retail and marketing teen novels. She is an NAACP Image Award winner for her book firm specializing in the book industry. Stand Your Ground, and is co-founder of Brown Girls Books publishing company. Omar Tyree - NY Times best-selling author of 20+ novels, including Fly Girl, What They Want, Sweet St. Louis and All Access. Wahida Clark - NY Times best-selling urban fiction author of Every Thug Needs a Lady, Justify My Thug, and Thuggz Valentine.

October 27-29 - 10am – 7pm Fallbrook Church 12512 Walters Rd., Houston, TX 77014

www.NationalBlackBookFestival.com

what’sup HARRY BELAFONTE is continuing his pursuit for civil rights in America by addressing police brutality in a new short film titled, “Against The Wall.” In association with Belafonte’s social justice organization Sankofa. org, the PSA features a list of notable figures ― including actors MICHAEL B. JORDAN, DANNY GLOVER, VAN JONES, MARC LAMONT HILL to name a few ― with their hands up against concrete as actual news audio from police related killings plays in the background. Belafonte is heard in the beginning of the video expressing his feelings on the

recent uptick in nationwide police violence against people of color….CHRIS ROCK is returning to stand-up comedy in a major way. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Rock will reportedly earn $40 million to deliver two specials for Netflix. Rock, who hosted the Oscars earlier this year, hasn’t performed stand-up since 2008’s Kill The Messenger special on HBO….With her wildly successful sixth album still in rotation and having wrapped up the sold out ‘Formation’ Tour earlier this month, BEYONCE’ raked in $256,084,556 while selling 2.2 million tickets,

that’s an average of $5.2 million total and over 45,000 proud members of the Beyhive per show. The highest grossing tour stop came from two shows the global chanteuse did at Wembley Stadium in London. The two-nighter pulled in $15.3 million and sold 142,500 tickets. New York’s City’s Citi Field was the highest earning show in North America with $11.5 million and 73,486 tickets. So, from the looks of it, Queen Bey not only did the damn thing but will probably sit atop the throne for the highest grossing tour of 2016 as a solo artist.

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Constable Ruben Davis dead at 61

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Longtime Fort Bend County Constable Ruben Davis has died of natural causes. The leader of the Precinct 2 Constable’s Office for two decades passed away at the age of 61. Friends, colleagues and constituents took to social media to express their heartfelt condolences. “I am at a loss for words,” said State Rep. Ron Reynolds. Ruben Davis “Please keep his wife Sharon, daughter and the entire Davis family in your prayers!” “He loved his community and, more importantly, he loved his family,” added Precinct 2 Chief Deputy Rodney Pentecost. “We are grieving right now. It’s obvious that he’ll be missed around here.” Davis has served as a Fort Bend constable since May 1996 and led a precinct that mainly covers Missouri City. He also had retired as a senior supervisor with the Houston Police Department following 21 years of service. The constable and his wife, Sharon, lost their 36-year-old daughter, Traneka, to cancer in 2015. She was their oldest child and a television writer in Los Angeles.

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Students in the Fort Bend Independent School will have an opportunity to explore HBCU’s, thanks to an effort by The Mu Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Students across the district are urged to attend the college and career fair to learn more about HBCUs. “We want schools that are rich in the tradition of fostering academic and civic achievement of students from diverse backgrounds, to be considered as a potential option for continued academic achievement,” said Ruthleen Robinson with Alpha Kappa Alpha. The Educational Enrichment Expo offers several ways to prepare and support students in fulfilling their higher-education goals. You are welcome to participate with the college fair, career fair, hands-on S.T.E.A.M activities, student and parent discussion workshops and student support exhibits. The event will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2016 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at Willowridge High School (16301 Chimney Rock, Houston, Texas) and is FREE and open to the public.

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AKA sponsors educational program

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ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 10/21-10/22/2016. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016

Committee confirms Black involvement Though Super Bowl LI is a little over ties in and around Houston. three months away, the Houston Super Bowl Business Connect has 412 official busiCommittee has been hard at work for over a nesses, 42 percent of which are Black-owned, year now, making preparations for the Februwith 16 percent Latino-owned. Women-owned ary 5th game, and leaving an impact upon businesses make up 64 percent of the Business the city’s business, education, and non-profit Connect suppliers. The program opened for communities. And there are several Blacks applicants in February and closed May 31. in key positions making sure this impact hits “Right now we’re in that match-making minority communities. process where contractors are looking for supFor Houston native Kevin Cooper, the pliers and they’re using the Business Connect Committee’s senior director of media relaresource guide, which has a publicly available tions, Super Bowl LI will be the ninth he’s data base that is free and open to the public,” worked. Cooper believes the most important Butler said. impact the game can have on his hometown Besides positioning these Houston-area is to spotlight its diversity and position as “the businesses to profit from Super Bowl-related city of the future.” businesses, Butler also oversees Playbook for “We have a very diverse staff with exper- Success workshops that seek to set partise to represent the city well,” Cooper said. ticipants up for future success long after the “Business Connect, a minority-based proSuper Bowl has been played. gram, allows minority, women-owned, LGBT, Butler doesn’t merely oversee the and disabled veteran-owned businesses to sign HSBC’s investment in Houston’s business up and have contracts and get business with the Super Bowl.” Cooper said the program started with 1,800 potential businesses that were eventually whittled down to just over 400 with the opportunity to enhance themselves through associations and clients gained through Super Bowl LI efforts. Tony Chase Kevin Cooper Desrye Morgan According to Cooper, the HSBC’s outreach extends beyond businesses. “We’ve reached out to Texas Southern University to make sure they are going to be involved, with several of our interns from TSU. The mother of former Texan Andre Johnson will host a big football camp at TSU before the Super Bowl. We’ve done comAsiah Coleman LaMecia Butler Lloyd Richards munity service at Pro-Vision, whose founder Roynell Young played in the Super Bowl as a defensive back with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1981. As a product of Jack Yates, it’s important for me to do right by my city.” Doing right, according to Cooper and other members of the HSBC means recognizing that since Ashley Matthews Hastings Stewart Barbara Wiggins everyone in Houston can’t go to the Houston Super Bowl Committee African-American Board Super Bowl, we will bring the Super members: Tony Chase and Desrye Morgan join committee Bowl to them. HSBC Director, Com- staff members in developing local Super Bowl plans. munity Relations LaMecia Butler plays a major role in making this happen. community, but local non-profits as well via Her responsibilities are three-fold: overseeTouchdown Houston. ing the HSBC’s Hire Diversity Program, “We’ve committed to giving $4 million which includes Business Connect and other out in the local community and we’re working capacity-building programs for local busiwith non-profits,” Butler said. The Commitnesses; Touchdown Houston, the Committee’s tee works with Greater Houston Community charitable giving program; and almost any Foundations to determine which applicants other points of contact with the eleven counreceived funding. However, like Business

cente

SUPER BOW BLACK

IMPAC Connect participation, this application process is also closed, as is the Committee’s efforts to find Super Bowl LI volunteers. Though volunteer sign-ups have been closed, the impact these volunteers will have on the city will certainly be felt throughout the Super Bowl season, and well beyond. Asiah Coleman, coordinator of the HSBC’s volunteer efforts, said the HSBC is recruiting 10,000 volunteers to be the face of Houston, placed in several places—Discovery Green, George R. Brown, Airports, Galleria Area, etc.—to be way-finders for the anticipated one million-plus Super Bowl visitors. “We’ve been interviewing volunteers since August 22,” said Coleman, about the process that concluded October 8th. We’re still accepting applicants but will be going to a wait list soon,” Coleman added, suggesting those interested visit the HSBC website (www. housuperbowl.com) and apply immediately. HSBC members Barbara Wiggins and Ashley Matthews, who deal with planning, logistics and partnership managing respectively bring the same level of commitment to their various tasks.

Matthews works with big-spending, deep-pocket companies designated as founding sponsors and preferred partners, as well as other entities seeking to brand themselves and the Super Bowl. Wiggins is the behind-thescenes mastermind tasked with making sure every event detail regarding transportation, security, emergency care, and others, have clear plans of action. Wiggins’ and Matthews’ differing roles are symbolic for the wide range of responsibilities that are in the hands of the Committee’s African-American members. Hastings Stewart’s role as Executive VP, Public Affairs, however, shows how the Committee has many overlapping parts, as well. Like Cooper and Butler, Stewart’s major tasks take him and his team members out of the HSBC’s downtown office and faceto-face with media, civic leaders, educators, and faith leaders. “We are oftentimes the groups that are going out and talking to the various parts of the Greater Houston region about all that they can expect to experience,” Stewart stated. “Every possible way we

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Neighborhood Tours In partnership with Mayor Sylvester Turner and the City of Houston, the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee is bringing the Super Bowl experience to a park near you with its Touchdown Tours. When asked about the pre-Super Bowl event Houston Super Bowl Committee members most looked forward to, the Touchdown Tours garnered most of the votes. Designed to bring the excitement of the Super Bowl to communities throughout the Houston area, these Touchdown Tours will feature: interactive games, a Houston Texans mobile locker room, special photo booths, giveaways, music and more. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. The Host Committee will also engage each community through a combination of its Touchdown

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Black companies score big Black-owned businesses are front-and-center when it comes to participating in and benefiting from Super Bowl LI’s Business Connect Program. Here are the Black-owned businesses engaging in business opportunities with Super Bowl LI, either through contracts or direct purchases.

BUSINESS, OWNER/PRESIDENT Superior Video Productions, Niles Dillard Southern Sound Systems, Terry Gobert TWICE Media Productions, Tiffany Williams Ken Jones Photography, Kenneth Jones Impact Strategies Consultants, Vernita Harris GOGO Business Communications, Joi Beasley RY2 Solutions, Jerome Austin Bradlink, LLC, Helen Callier the breakfast klub, Marcus Davis April M Frazier Photography, April M. Frazier The Document Group, Chandra Young-Pierce MCS Enterprise dba Academy Awards, James Donatto

can engage Houston, that’s what my team is responsible for doing.” For Cooper, the HSBC’s work all comes back to the impact they leave behind. Fittingly, the program he spoke of most was the Legacy Leaders initiative where nine predominantly Black youth

were exposed to sports careers beyond being an athlete and the importance of community service. “The Legacy piece is very important because if you can inspire a kid to say, ‘I want to do better for our community, our future,’ well that’s a lasting legacy.”

he Houston area for over 85 years

Houston legacy initiatives focusing on three key areas: education, health, and community enhancement. These “one-of-a-kind fan experiences” will take place every Saturday through Jan. 14, with the exception of Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Weekend). “Not everyone will be able to be in the seats at NRG Stadium on game day in February, but that should not mean they don’t get to experience the fun,” said Mayor Turner. “The Touchdown Tour will take the Super Bowl experience on the road to neighborhoods all over Houston. I want to thank the Host Committee for delivering on my request to figure out a way for all Houstonians to participate in the excitement leading up to the Big Game.”

TOUCHDOWN TOUR SCHEDULE

Date

Location

Address

Oct. 22

MacGregor Park

5225 Calhoun Houston, TX

Oct. 29

Sunnyside Park

3502 Belfort Houston, TX

Nov. 5

Agnes Moffitt Park

10645 Hammerly Houston, TX

Nov. 12

Finnegan Park

4900 Providence Houston, TX

Nov. 19

Kingwood High School 2701 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood,

Dec. 3

Moody Park

3725 Fulton Houston, TX

Dec. 10

Blueridge Park

5600 Court Road Houston, TX

Jan. 7

Burnett Bayland Park

6000 Chimney Rock Houston, TX

Jan. 14

Alief Community Park 11903 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX

Gridiron Glory:

TSU hosts pro football exhibit WHAT: Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame is one of the most comprehensive and largest traveling exhibitions in the history of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. WHERE: Texas Southern University’s University Museum WHEN: January 30, 2017 through April 30, 2017 DETAILS: An interactive multimedia experience that includes original artifacts, rare documents, educational programming and footage from NFL Films showcasing the American legacy of the game of football and its historical significance,

including the Vince Lombardi Trophy, an authentic interactive instant-replay booth, Jim Brown’s jersey worn in an actual game, and Emmitt Smith’s rushing-record game mementos, and a special “Hometown Tribute” section spotlighting the Houston Oilers, the Houston Texans and TSU Tigers in professional football. WHO: The general public OTHER: An on-site retail store will be available to exhibit patrons, along with special appearances by Hall of Famers, including Barry Sanders, the national ambassador for Gridiron Glory.

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016 defendernetwork.com

Notice of Public Hearing Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas

(METRO)

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, TX (METRO) will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, October 26 at 12 noon to receive public comment regarding a proposed fare change to amend the fare policy to provide free fixed-route service to qualified disabled and decorated veterans. A description of the proposed fare changes will be available October 12 for public review at the following locations: • Online - RideMETRO.org • METRO Administration Building - 1900 Main St., Houston, TX 77002 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays

Voting campaign engages Black women Defender News Service

A new campaign is underway to ensure Black women have the news and tools to get out the vote on Nov. 8. #BlackWomenVote Get Out The Vote, a nonpartisan campaign, was launched on the 99th birthday of civil rights leader and voting rights activist, Fannie Lou Hamer, who organized and encouraged Blacks to register to vote. She also worked for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, which fought racial segregation and injustice in the South. In 1964, she helped found the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. Hamer died in 1977. The campaign is centered around the website BlackWomenVote.com, which provides the latest election news, commentary and tools for Black women to prepare to vote, and get out the vote within their social networks. Over the next month, the campaign will reach Black women across the country to activate their circles and give them the tools to raise their voice, cast their vote and flex their collective voting power. “The new campaign provides Black women with tools they can use to vote and get their networks to vote,” said Glynda C.

Carr, co- founder of Higher Heights, the company behind the campaign. “We know that when you fire up a Black woman she does not go to the polls alone, she brings her house, her block, her church, her sorority, and her water cooler. For us, this election is about harnessing the power of Black women’s votes to address and support building economically stable communities and the other issues of the greatest importance to Black women.” The website includes an Election Center, where women can pledge to vote and make a voting plan as well as connect them to tools like register to vote and find their polling location. The site also includes weekly commentary on news from Black women across the country about this election and current topics focused on issues affecting Black women. “We have launched this campaign to provide meaningful ways for Black women to organize their networks this election and demonstrate our collective power for change in our communities and nationwide,” said Kimberly Peeler Allen, cofounder of Higher Heights. “This is really about harnessing the power of Black women to ensure we have a seat at political and economic decision making tables.”

The public hearing will be held in the METRO Board Room on the 2nd floor at 1900 Main St., Houston, TX. The meeting will also be streamed live on RideMETRO.org. HOW TO COMMENT ABOUT THE PROPOSED FARE CHANGE • Attend the public hearing on October 26, 2016 • Write us at METRO, Attn: Fare Changes, 1900 Main St., Houston, TX 77002 • Fax comments with a subject line referencing “Fare Changes” to 713-652-7956 • Call METRO’s Customer Care Line at 713-635-4000 • Submit comments at METRO’s website - RideMETRO.org Comments should be received by METRO no later than the date and time of the public hearing. HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES For individuals with disabilities, assistive services or copies of public documents in an alternate format can be provided. Please call 713-750-4271 or 713-635-6993 (for persons with a hearing impairment) a minimum of five (5) working days prior to the public hearing. LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION Any person who requires language interpretation or special communication accommodations is encouraged to contact METRO Community Outreach at 713-739-4018, or via email at tm10@ridemetro.org. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate your needs. 1. This Public Hearing conforms to requirements described in the Federal Transit Administration’s Circular 9030.1D, published May 1, 2010, page IV-13. 2. METRO does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or in treatment or employment in, its services, programs, and activities. 3. METRO is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, its transit services on the basis of race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

RideMETRO.org • 713.635.4000

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OCTOBER 20 | 2016 | DEFENDER

opinion

Exercise your rights and vote!

By MARC H. MORIAL

Daryl Cagle, CagleCartoons.com

n less than a month, the nation will conclude what is likely to be remembered as one of the most contentious presidential campaigns in modern history. The campaign has been fraught with racially divisive rhetoric as the nation continues to struggle with issues of racial hostility and social inequity, as demonstrated by the wave of violence that has taken so many lives over the last year. A lack of social and economic opportunity is at the root of the unrest. Only a historic, targeted mobilization of resources can address the unrest. The National Urban League (NUL) has a plan to elevate urban communities through targeted public investment, called the Main Street Marshall Plan. The NUL has a plan to hold police and communities accountable for unjustified violence against unarmed citizens, called the 10 Point Justice Plan

for Police Reform and Accountability. But plans on paper mean nothing if we do not put in place responsible, forward-thinking governmental representatives with the power to put these plans into action. We must vote. The NUL is part of a nonpartisan Election Protection coalition formed to ensure that all voters

have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. If you or anyone you know experiences any irregularity while trying to register or vote, call 866-OUR-VOTE. But please, vote. And we must continue to fight with everything we have to protect our vote. This is the first presidential election in more than 50 years to take place without the full protection of the Voting Rights Act. This year, 14 states will have new voting restrictions in place for the first time in a presidential election: Alabama, Arizona, Indiana, Kansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. Make no mistake, there are people in power who do not want AfricanAmericans, young people, senior citizens and other vulnerable populations do vote. We cannot let them stop us. Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

NAACP loses civil rights focus on education For decades the NAACP has fought for the greatest civil rights issue of our time: EDUCATION. The struggle has been hard as we continue the quest for quality, equal resources and access. Today, the NAACP has lost its way in approving a national moratorium on the expansion of public charter schools. When you consider that the majority of minority and lowincome students are stuck in low- performing schools, why would the leading Black civil rights organization take a stance that limits African-American and Hispanic children’s access to better schools? The facts speak for themselves. The Center for Research on Education Outcomes at Stanford University states that charter schools do a better job teaching low-income students, minority students and students learning English, than traditional public schools. Another study by the Center on Reinvention Public Education and Mathematica Policy Research contends that charter school students are more likely to graduate from high school, go on to college, stay in college and have higher earnings in

early adulthood. Granted, the NAACP seems to be particularly concerned about schools in Detroit but don’t take broad strokes against charter schools that jeopardize minority students’ options across the country leaving a bad impression of charter schools. We agree that bad schools are unacceptable, whether they are charter schools or public schools. First, in Texas, we have addressed the issue of bad charter schools with the passage of Senate Bill 2 in 2013 which holds charter schools accountable with the rule that three strikes and you are out (closed down). Today, 20 charter schools have closed in Texas or 10 percent of all charters in the state. Yes, we believe in closing bad charter schools. But don’t overlook the great job that schools such as KIPP Academy and YES Prep are doing for our students. The question is, what about our traditional Black schools like Kashmere, which is currently on its sixth or seventh strike and all that seems to happen is musical chairs to move the

furniture around and put some fresh paint on the walls. This is unacceptable. Second, the NAACP is missing the point of offering families the right to choose the school their child can attend. Before, we did not have the economic resources to afford private or parochial schools. Charter schools offer an alternative. Just look at the 130,000 families on the charter school waiting list in Texas. And third, there was a time when white folks looking outward stood in the doorway of opportunity during segregation to block Black children from getting in. Now we have Black leaders standing in the door saying you can’t get out of poor performing public schools to take advantage of the benefits charter schools have to offer. When you consider charter schools are comprised of only 6 percent of all kids in school, don’t you think the NAACP should concentrate on the 94 percent of students who need someone to focus attention on the challenges of a poor education.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016 defendernetwork.com

Start a business with a smartphone By SBA

It might seem a bit surprising but it’s absolutely possible to start and run a business from your smartphone. At the very least, you can start a business and run the majority of it from a smartphone and without a computer, from your home. Many budding entrepreneurs have minimal resources, yet most of us have a smartphone these days. Or perhaps you simply love the idea of being a mobile. Here are some tips from the SBA. Start with a “phone friendly” business model. Certain types of businesses naturally lend themselves to being run on mobile devices, whereas others may present more challenges. For instance, you probably cannot or personal shopping. start a full-service web design firm with just a smartGet the right apps. A smartphone is made more phone. However, if you want to develop mobile apps, powerful and versatile by choosing and using the right there are tools available for you to do that on a mobile software apps. For example, to run an mCommerce device. business, you will need an app that is mobile friendly. Some other businesses that you could potentially As a writer, it might be possible to type by hand on start with just a smartphone include social media your smartphone’s on-screen keyboard, but it would be marketing, consulting, event planning, mCommerce better to use a voice transcription app of some kind? (mobile commerce), videography, podcasting, writing Also, you might need3:26 a note-taking app to keep FRO-16021-Choosing-A-Loan-HoustonDefender-9p75x6p5-NewTurquoise.pdf 1 9/15/16 PM

track of information and organize tasks. You probably will need some kind of expense tracking, invoicing and/or accounting software app to keep your books straight and get paid. Get social. Being active on social media is an essential activity for a lot of businesses, regardless of whether or not they’re run on smartphones. Most popular social platforms have comprehensive mobile apps to make this function fairly straightforward. If you’re running a business on your smartphone, take full advantage of those social platforms by using them to showcase your social media strategy, branding and marketing from anywhere. Back up important data. While smartphones can be great business tools, many aren’t known for having enough storage space. If you’re running a business, you’re going to need a place to store all of your important documents, images, videos and other files. For ample storage, add a large data card, but one flexible and secure option is to expand your data storage to a secure Cloud storage app. That way, even if your smartphone drops into the river or is lost, your important business files will still be available and protected.

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OCTOBER 20 | 2016 | DEFENDER

NOTICE OF HARRIS COUNTY EARLY VOTING SCHEDULE: NOVEMBER 8, 2016 GENERAL AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS

Notice is hereby given that the early voting polling places in Harris County, Texas will be open from October 24, 2016 to November 4, 2016 for voting in the November 8, 2016, General and Special Elections to elect of the United States, Members of Congress, Members of Legislature, and state, district, county and precinct officers. Other jurisdictions appearing on the November 8, 2016 General Election ballot include United States, State of Texas, Harris County, City of Baytown, City of Bellaire, City of Houston, City of League City, Channelview ISD, Houston ISD, Huffman ISD, Klein ISD, New Caney ISD, Sheldon ISD, Spring ISD, Tomball ISD, Harris County MUD No. 50, Harris County MUD No. 61, Harris County MUD No. 416, Clear Lake City Water Authority, Memorial Villages Water Authority, Old Town Spring Improvement District, Saint George Place Management District, The Woodlands Township, Harris County ESD No. 8, Harris County Water Control & Improvement District No. 89.

Early Voting Hours of Operations

October 24 - October 28: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. · October 29: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. · October 30: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. · October 31 - November 4: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Inside Loop 610

Outside Beltway 8

Harris County Administration Building 1001 Preston Street, 1st Floor, Houston, 77002 2. Moody Park: Moody Park Community Center 3725 Fulton Street, Houston, 77009 3. Kashmere: Kashmere Multi-Service Center 4802 Lockwood Drive, Houston, 77026 4. Downtown-East: Ripley House Neighborhood Center 4410 Navigation Boulevard, Houston, 77011 5. Southeast Houston: H.C.C.S. Southeast College 6960 Rustic Street, Parking Garage, Houston, 77087 6. Palm Center: Justice of the Peace Entry 5300 Griggs Road, Houston, 77021 7. Astrodome Area: Fiesta Mart 8130 Kirby Drive, Houston, 77054 8. Near Town: Metropolitan Multi-Service Center 1475 W. Gray Street, Houston, 77019 9. Galleria: Harris County Public Health 2223 West Loop South Fwy, 1st Floor, Houston, 77027 10. The Heights: SPJST Lodge #88 1435 Beall Street, Houston, 77008 1. Main Office:

22. Humble: 23. Kingwood: 24. Atascocita: 25. Crosby: 26. Wallisville Road: 27. Baytown: 28. Pasadena: 29. Clear Lake: 30. Scarsdale (*): 31. Alief : 22. Far West:

Outside Loop 610 11. Northeast Houston: Northeast Multi-Service Center 9720 Spaulding Street, Building #4, Houston, 77016 12. Galena Park: Alvin D. Baggett Community Center 1302 Keene Street, Galena Park, 77547 13. Hobby Area: John Phelps Courthouse 101 S. Richey Street, Pasadena, 77506 14. Sunnyside: Sunnyside Multi-Purpose Center 9314 Cullen Boulevard, Houston, 77051 15. South Houston: Hiram Clarke Multi-Service Center 3810 W. Fuqua Street, Houston, 77045 16. SW. Houston: Bayland Park Community Center 6400 Bissonnet Street (near Hillcroft), Houston, 77074 17. Near West Side: Tracy Gee Community Center 3599 Westcenter Drive, Houston, 77042 (One block East of Sam Houston Tollway) 18. Spring Branch: Trini Mendenhall Community Center 1414 Wirt Road, Houston, 77055 19. Victory Center: Lone Star College - Victory Center 4141 Victory Drive, Houston, 77088 20. Acres Homes: Acres Homes Multi-Service Center 6719 W. Montgomery Road, Houston, 77091 21. North: Hardy Senior Center 11901 West Hardy Road, Houston, 77076

33. West Houston: 34. Katy (*): 35. Bear Creek: 36. North Katy: 37. Jersey Village: 38. South Cypress: 39. Cypress: 40. Northwest: 41. Fallbrook: 42. Cypress Creek: 43. Tomball: 44. Far North: 45. North: 46. Mercer Park:

Octavia Fields Branch Library 1503 South Houston Avenue, Humble, 77338 Kingwood Branch Library 4400 Bens View Lane, Kingwood, 77345 Lone Star College - Atascocita Center 15903 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Houston, 77044 Crosby Branch Library 135 Hare Road, Crosby, 77532 North Channel Branch Library 15741 Wallisville Road, Houston, 77049 Baytown Community Center 2407 Market Street, Baytown, 77520 Kyle Chapman Activity Center 7340 Spencer Highway, Pasadena, 77505 Freeman Branch Library 16616 Diana Lane, Houston, 77062 Scarsdale County Annex 10851 Scarsdale Boulevard, Houston, 77089 Alief ISD Administration Building 4250 Cook Road, Houston, 77072 (Entrance on High Star - South Entrance) Harris County MUD 81 805 Hidden Canyon Road, Katy, 77450 Nottingham Park 926 Country Place Drive, Houston, 77079 Katy Branch Library 5414 Franz Road, Katy, 77493 Bear Creek Park Community Center 3055 Bear Creek Drive (at Patterson Road), Houston 77084 Lone Star College - Cypress Center 19710 Clay Road, Katy, 77449 City of Jersey Village - City Hall 16327 Lakeview Drive, Jersey Village, 77040 Richard & Meg Weekley Community Center 8440 Greenhouse Road, Cypress, 77433 Juergen’s Hall Community Center 26026 Hempstead Highway, Cypress, 77429 Prairie View A&M University - Northwest 9449 Grant Road, Houston, 77070 Fallbrook Church 12512 Walters Road, Houston, 77014 Champion Forest Baptist Church/Multi-Purpose Bldg. 4840 Strack Road, Houston, 77069 Tomball Public Works Building 501B James Street, Tomball, 77375 Lone Star College - Creekside Center 8747 West New Harmony Trail, Tomball, 77375 Champion Life Centre 3031 FM 2920 Road, Spring, 77388 Baldwin Boettcher Branch Library 22248 Aldine Westfield Road, Humble, 77338

Notice of Required Identification A voter must show one of the following forms of acceptable photo identification at the polling location before the voter may be accepted for voting, unless the voter has a reasonable impediment to obtaining one of these forms of acceptable photo identification or the voter qualifies for one of the other exemptions identified below:  Texas Driver’s License issued by the Department of Public Safety (“DPS”)  Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS;  Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS;  Texas Handgun License issued by DPS;  United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph;  United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph; or  United States Passport. With the exception of the U.S. citizenship certificate, the identification must be current or have expired no more than 4 years before being presented for voter qualification at the polling place. If a voter does not possess one of the forms of acceptable photo identification listed above, and the voter cannot reasonably obtain such identification, the voter has the right to execute a Reasonable Impediment Declaration and present one of the following supporting documents:  Valid voter registration certificate;  Certified birth certificate (must be an original);  Copy of or original current utility bill;  Copy of or original bank statement;  Copy of or original government check;  Copy of or original paycheck; or  Copy of or original other government document that displays your name and an address (though an original is required if it contains a photograph).

Exemptions: Voters with a disability may apply with the county voter registrar for a permanent exemption to showing an acceptable form of photo identification at the polls. Voters with a religious objection to being photographed or voters who cannot present an acceptable form of photo identification due to certain natural disasters may apply for a temporary exemption to showing an acceptable form of photo identification at the polls. Please contact your voter registrar for more details. Provisional Voting: If (a) a voter does not possess one of the seven (7) acceptable forms of photo identification, which is not expired for more than four years, and the voter can reasonably obtain one of these forms of identification or (b) if a voter possesses, but did not bring to the polling place, one of the seven forms of acceptable photo identification, which is not expired for more than four years, or (c) if the voter does not possess one of the seven forms of acceptable photo identification, which is not expired for more than four years, could otherwise not obtain one due to a reasonable impediment, but did not bring a supporting form of identification to the polling place, the voter may cast a provisional ballot at the polls and will have six (6) calendar days after election day to present an acceptable form of photo identification, which is not expired for more than four years, in the presence of the county voter registrar.

STAN STANART Harris County Clerk

H A R R I S C O U N TY - w w w. H a r r is Vo t e s .com - 713.755.6965

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016 defendernetwork.com

Texas Southern celebrates in October The month of October is – and has been – a busy one at Texas Southern University.

with the disease. Recreation Center staff held a Pink-Out for Breast Cancer Awareness event for students. College of Education faculty and staff “turned up the pink” in support of breast cancer awareness, and the Human Resources department sponsored a campus educational seminar.

Homecoming

• The university’s annual homecoming events continue with the Grand Tiger Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22. It begins at Burkett and Cleburne streets, travels up Cleburne to Almeda, turns left on Almeda to Blodgett, turns left on Blodgett and ends on Tierwester. Pink was the color of choice during TSU’s observances of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The parade will include floats, drill valid ID and all other patrons must show a gameteams, car clubs, the Ocean of Soul Marching day ticket to ride rail to and from BBVA Compass Band and Miss TSU CaSandra Cantue and her Stadium. After Jackson State, the Tigers have two royal court. At 2 p.m. Saturday, the TSU Tigers remaining home games on the 2016 schedule: face off against Jackson State at BBVA Compass Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Nov. 12 at 2 p.m. and Stadium. Tickets can be purchased at www.bbvaGrambling State on Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. compassstadium.com or by calling 713-313-4355.

TSU-METRO Agreement

• TSU and Metro reached an agreement to provide complimentary round-trip rides on its rail line for TSU students and ticket/pass holders during all home football games. Students must have a

Breast Cancer Awareness

• October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and several TSU groups participated in the annual campaign. Students gathered in front of the Student Center for a ceremonial pink balloon release to remember individuals who lost their battle

classifieds NOTICE TO BIDDERS Hire Houston First Program – These procurements are subject to the Hire Houston First Program, which gives a preference to certain local bidders in award of the procurements. For more information go to: http://www.houstontx.gov/obo/hirehoustonfirst.html Request for Proposal – Proposals will be received in the Office of the City Secretary, City Hall Annex, Public Level, 900 Bagby, until 2:00 P.M., on the proposal due date. All interested parties are encouraged to attend any scheduled pre-bid and/or pre-proposal conference(s). Unless otherwise specified, all conference(s) will be held at 901 Bagby, Houston, TX 77002 in the basement of City Hall. It is the interested party’s responsibility to ensure they have secured and thoroughly reviewed all solicitation documents prior to any scheduled conference(s). Interested parties can download all forms, and specifications from the Internet at https://purchasing.houstontx.gov/. Downloading these documents will ensure all interested parties will automatically receive any updates via e-mail. Interested parties can call (832) 393-0209 for additional information. PROPOSALS DUE – November 17, 2016 Single Stream Recycling Processing Services for The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department, S74-T25967 – 11% MWBE Goal - Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Thursday, October 27, 2016 at 1:30 PM at 901 Bagby St., SPD Conference Room 1.

Harris County education dept. names new curriculum officer Chaney WilliamsLedet has been named curriculum and compliance officer for the Harris County Department of Education’s Educator Certification and Professional Advancement. The division trains and prepares teacher and principal candidates for state of Texas certification through classroom and online settings. “I am committed to focusing on providing high-quality preparation for teachers and administrators as they gain Chaney Williams-Ledet their certifications and prepare for leadership positions,” WilliamsLedet said. “I am particularly focused on providing training sessions that link learning theory and practice in a practical way to

benefit today’s education leaders.” Williams-Ledet served as elementary principal of a language immersion charter school, which she helped found. Prior to opening the school, she worked in HISD for 27 years, serving as principal, assistant principal, bilingual supervisor, teacher development specialist and bilingual teacher. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and Spanish from the University of Houston and master’s and doctorate degrees in education administration from Texas Southern University. She and her husband Marvin have two sons.

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NOV. 9-13

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OCTOBER 20 | 2016 | DEFENDER

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016

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Texans secure 1st place in AFC South

By MAX EDISON Defender

it means a lot. And I think, with that kind of attitude, of course we have a lot of things we want to fix and clean up, but with that kind of attitude, having that kind of heart, I think we can do some great things.” A positive sign that fans hope is an indicator of good things to come was the offensive productivity of the run game featuring Lamar Miller. Miller rushed for a season high 149 yards on 24 carries, averaging 6.2 yards per attempt. As usual Miller passed the praise on to his offensive line and downplayed his play. “I think we were just clicking. I think the offensive line did a great job of giving me creases. I was just trying to take advantage of my opportunity to make

aise your hand if you’ve seen this scenario before. The Texans are playing a quality opponent in primetime, which normally translates to an embarrassing loss. They’re playing a Sunday night game against perennial division nemesis Indianapolis and Houston native, Colt QB Andrew Luck is having his way. Before you write your team off, know that this story has a happy ending. The Texans rally late in the 4th quarter and capture a signature win in overtime. To say the team snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, is a cliché that has never been more accurate. Down 23-9 with 7:12 left in the game, the Texan’s offense suddenly came out of its funk and started to click. Brock Osweilder got hot and Lamar Miller ran roughshod over the Colt defense. Meanwhile Jadeveon Clowney, Whitney Mercilus and Benardrick McKinney led a determined defensive attack resulting in a surprising 26-23 overtime win. A come-from-behind win, in prime time to solidify your grasp on 1st place in the AFC South division should be a watershed moment for the team, right Bill O’Brien? “We battled hard. It’s a division rival and it was great to see our players’ resiliency and their ability to come back no matter what, says a lot about the guys on this team,” Coach O’Brien said. “But again, it’s 4-2 and there’s a lot of season left. We watch the tape. We correct what we need to correct. Keep doing the things well that we’re doing well. Figure it out. Try to put a good game plan together for a very, very difficult Denver team.” Whitney Mercilus and Jadeveon Clowney defensively impose their will. Veteran Pro Bowler, tackle Duane Brown gives the player perspective to the significance of the overtime win. plays when my number was called and just try and win “We talked about it coming into this game; this the game” kind of game can make or break you. The way it After a horrible three quarters of play, QB Brock turned in the second half, that just showed so much Osweilder finally got the Texans offense in gear. to me about the guys that we have in this locker Osweilder believes a comeback; OT win like this can room,” Brown opined. “Just, kind of like I said, the help shape a team’s identity. grit, the resiliency that we have in this locker room “I think this game will be huge for us going

Lamar Miller establishes the Texan’s ground game.

forward,” Brock shared. “Coach mentioned to us during the week that there kind of comes a point in October, early November, when you have to decide what kind of team you want to be and what kind of identity you want to have as a team. I think we showed our identity tonight. Will the game be perfect? Probably not, but I promise this team will fight 60, 60 plus minutes, for that matter, no matter how the game goes.”

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h.s.zone Carter handles challenges for Woodlands Highlanders “He closes and makes great adjustments on balls,” Schmid said. “He’s a really talented receiver.” An injury to Stewart last

champion. This year he’s developed and improved even more.” Carter, Stewart and Dylan SHENANDOAH - Kesean Casey comprise a dynamic reCarter has earned the adulation ceiving corps that is targeted by of his head coach by overcoming the son of the head challenges. Carter plays coach. Eric Schmid receiver for one of the has already committop high school football ted to Sam Houston programs in Texas. State University. “Kesean is a Casey opened big-time playmaker,” the scoring against said Mark Schmid, Oak Ridge when he head football coach was on the receiving at The Woodlands end of a 30-yard TD High School, the No. pass from Schmid. 1-ranked Class 6A team Stewart added a rushin the Houston area and ing touchdown and among the top five in after halftime Carter Texas. contributed his scorThe Woodlands ing play complete improved to 7-0 on the with a move he’d season, including 3-0 in been working on in District 12-6A, with a practice. recent 42-2 victory over After catching the Oak Ridge at Woodball near the sideline, forest Bank Stadium. Carter unveiled a spin Carter, a junior, had move that freed him four receptions for 89 to go into the end yards and a 39-yard zone untouched. “I touchdown catch. didn’t trust that move Earlier in the before now, but I tried season, Carter had a it out and it worked,” four TD reception game he said. against George Ranch. “As a unit we’ve He also returns punts been working hard for the Highlanders. since 7-on-7 and have “Kesean is an developed a connecexplosive player for us. tion,” Carter said. Kesean Carter He’s got great speed “We’ve been practic(10.5 seconds/100 meing and getting better ters in track) and can and better every week. Find out what area-ranked team bit the stretch the field vertiOur confidence comes dust in District 24-5A. cally,” Schmid said. from practicing hard “He has the ability to and playing hard.” make big plays once he has the season opened the door for Carter transferred into The ball in his hands.” Carter to be promoted from Woodlands High School ninth Carter caught a 30-yard the junior varsity to the varsity grade campus from Willis. pass from senior quarterback four games into his sophomore “When I came to the big Eric Schmid to the Oak Ridge season. campus, they treated me as a two-yard line that set up the “We needed some speed to normal teammate and we started Highlanders’ second touchdown replace a speed guy that got hurt doing things together,” Carter of the game. On the next play and we inserted Kesean into said. “We go out to eat together Christopher Stewart scored to the lineup,” Schmid said. “He and hang out together. It’s a great make it 14-0. handled that challenge like a situation.” By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

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OCTOBER 20 | 2016 DEFENDER

sportsbriefs Gay’s daughter killed Trinity Gay, the 15-year-old daughter of US Olympic sprinter Tyson Gay, was recently fatally shot and killed in Lexington, Kentucky. Trinity Gay was a sprinter at Lafayette High School in Lexington and finished fourth in the 100 meters and fifth in the 200 meters at the state Class 3A high school track meet in May, records show. She also ran on a 4x200 relay team that finished fourth. Her father, who also ran track at Lafayette, still holds the state record in the 100, set in 2001. Lexington police said in a statement that officers went to the parking lot of a restaurant near the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington about 4 a.m. Sunday after witnesses reported an exchange of gunfire between two vehicles. Police spokeswoman Brenna Angel said police don’t believe Trinity Gay was in either of the vehicles involved.

Hopkins prepares to retire After 28 years in the ring, 51-year-old Bernard Hopkins is finally calling it quits. Hopkins, the former undisputed middleweight and light heavyweight world champion, will turn 52 on Jan. 15. The former champ will close out his career with a farewell fight against light heavyweight contender Joe Smith on Dec. 17 at The Forum in Inglewood. The Philadelphia native has a record of 55-7-2 with 32 KO’s. “We want to make this Bernard Hopkins’ retirement party,” Oscar De La Hoya said. “It will be a whole week of festivities and celebration of his great career. We’re going to put something together that will complement his farewell fight.”

Dawson comes up big in rivalry week Despite qualifying for the postseason in all but one year since the school opened, some considered Dawson High School the step-child in the Pearland ISD football rivalry with Pearland High School. That changed last week when Dawson defeated Pearland 34-32 in a District 23-6A showdown before a sold-out crowd at The Rig. Dawson running back Darrius Smith rushed for 181 yards on 28 carries and scored three touchdowns to lead the way. Teammate Lance Charles added 63 yards on eight carries and another score as Dawson earned its first win in three tries against Pearland. Dawson improves to 6-1 overall and 3-0 in district. Pearland is 5-3 and 2-2. Pearland capitalized on Dawson mistakes in the kicking game to keep the game close. The Oilers came within 27-25 late in the third quarter and a 17-yard TD run by Smith in the fourth quarter provided the game-clinching score.

Cypress Ranch, Clear Springs streaking Cypress Ranch will be seeking its 23rd consecutive district victory this week when the Mustangs take on Cypress Lakes Oct. 22 at Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium. Cypress Ranch defeated Langham Creek 49-31 for its 22nd straight league win behind 373 rushing yards. E.J. Thompson rushed for 150 yards and three touchdowns while Holden Gourley added 134 yards and another score. Cy Ranch is 7-0. Clear Springs will be in search of its eighth consecutive win Oct. 21 when the Chargers take on Clear Brook. Clear Springs opened the 2016 season with a loss to Pearland and has since reeled off seven straight wins.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 20 | 2016

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

topevents

HMAAC MISSION ACCOMPLISHED GALA ………The Houston Museum of were; Kent Sharp and Ann Williams, Master Redd and Tatyana Smith, Frankie African American Culture recently held its Mission Accomplished Gala at the Citadel Mitchell and Darren Harris. The host was C. c. Sutton. In attendance were founder on Kirby. The HMAAC Visionary Award was given to former police chief and mayor, and lead instructor Jay Owens, Bobby Scott, Gene Norris, Loretta Norris, Frank Lee P. Brown. The National Cultural Achievement Award went to world renowned Thomas, Marietta Willis, Kevin Johnson, Shaunda Barnes and many more…….. art collectors Bernard and Shirley Kinsey. Two artists, Shawn Artis and Dominic PREMIERE OF FASHION WEAK……..Sisters, Shayla Janel and April Joi Clay, painted artwork during the gala for auction. Melanie Lawson hosted the event. recently held the premiere of their documentary Fashion Weak at 4118 Fannin St . In attendance were Dr. Robert Galloway, HMAAC CEO John Fashion Weak, is a short documentary inspired by the late Sandra Guess, Amanda Edwards, Dwight Boykins, Gina Carroll, that documents Janel’s journey to New York Fashion Week Defender TOP EVENTS Bland Michelle Barnes, Sheila Jackson Lee, Chauncy Glover, Ashley and explores racism within the fashion industry. Janel painted More photos on defendernetwork.com Small, Gerald Smith, Dennis Hatchett and a host of others…….. statements about Black Lives Matter and the names of victims of BREAST CANCER AWARENESS GALA ……..Flo-Motion police brutality on her clothing. She, Joi, Kaye Washington and Dance Association held its First Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Gala at the historic Labrea Gordon wore these clothes to New York Fashion Week and received national Eldorado Ballroom. The event was held to raise awareness and money, benefitting attention. After the film, there was a Q &A with the ladies. In attendance were Theresa Bernard, Nicole Durant, Monica Lane, Robynn Slater Danielle Tillman, Mekenzie its community partner, Susan G. Komen. FMDA is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to preserving the art of African-American dance in the Houston community. FMDA Anthony, Arneshia Taylor, Brianna Lane, Charlotte Myers, Deborah Moore, offers free Houston 2-Step classes to youth at SHAPE community center. Performers Johnathan Callery, Johnny Rich, Courtney Brand and many more.

John Guess, Melanie Lawson

Gene Norris, Loretta Norris

Jasemine Knowles, Courtney Brand

Michelle Barnes, Shirley and Bernard Kinsey

C. c. Sutton, Master Redd

April Joi, Shayla Hill, Kaye Washington, Labrea Gordon

Robert Galloway, Dominic Clay

Kent Sharp, Ann Williams

Johnny Rich, Johnathan Callery

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