October 26, 2023

Controller Race Houstonians vying to lead city finances FEATURE

TARA PAIGE The lifestyle guru brings Black women who love outdoor living together for annual patio conference.

Volume 92, issue 50 October 26, 2023

NEWS

TENESHIA HUDSPETH

The Harris County Clerk says they are prepared as early voting gets underway.

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2 | October 26, 2023 |

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DN To the POINT

Gerald Womack

Managing Editor Message Dirty politics?

adding that the hostess is a minority. We’re We knew politics in Houston could get not feeling the “We have Black friends” dirty, but we didn’t think it could get to card to prove you don’t discriminate. But the point of violence. But it appears that’s we truly hope whatever rules they have are just what’s happening after Gerald Wombeing enforced across the board. We’ll wait ack, campaign chair for Rep. Sheila Jackson to see how this unfolds.

Lee, was recently attacked and injured at his Houston office by a man the congressTyler is not with the foolishness woman described as a “known conspiracy Remember the rumor that Tyler Perry theorist.” The assault occurred at Womack’s was buying BET? The media mogul says real estate company on Almeda Road, a site he was all set and ended up “disappointed” ReShonda Tate that doubles as one of Jackson Lee’s satellite in the way Paramount Global handled the offices. Womack suffered a head wound and was bleeding bidding process for the potential majority stake sale of its when paramedics transported him to the hospital. Womack, BET business. In August, the Bob Bakish-led studio con66, informed officers that the attacker was a 56-year-old glomerate took down its “for sale” sign on the unit — which man who was known to him and had been harassing him includes the BET channel, streamer BET+ as well as VH1 for the past few months. While we don’t want to believe and BET Studios — after gauging interest from several suitan opponent would stoop to such levels of violence, we do ors. A few moguls including Perry, Sean “Diddy Combs” and believe that nasty rhetoric has emboldened the crazies. We’re Byron Allen, who owns a number of local TV stations as well glad the campaign has taken additional security measures, as The Weather Channel and other assets via his Entertainbut it would be great if we could scale back the rhetoric and ment Studios firm, had expressed interest in acquiring the focus on the issues. Unfortunately, we won’t hold our breath. stake. Perry says Paramount inflated the value of the company before pulling the plug. He no longer has any interest Post Oak discrimination? in the deal even if it did open back up. And from the looks The Post Oak Hotel has found itself slapped with a sec- of things, he doesn’t need it, having just signed a lucrative ond discrimination lawsuit. Both independent claims accuse first-look deal with Netflix that will see him write, direct hotel restaurant employees of singling the two accussers and produce feature films under a multi-year partnership. out for their race and enforcing dress code restrictions that Folks can hate on TP all they want, but he stays making allegedly weren’t applied to white guests. Twenty-eight-year- money moves. old teacher and doctoral candidate Blessing Nwosu claims she was dining at the hotel restaurant Bloom and Bee when RIP, you bad mutha…. a staff member came up to her and asked that she cover up And before we go, we’re shedding a tear for one of Holher shoulders, which were bare. Then, “a host walked over lywood’s finest. Icon Richard Roundtree, who played John and placed a shawl over Nwosu’s shoulders.” Nwosu included Shaft in the 1971 introduction to the “Shaft” film franchise, a photo with her legal documents, which appears to display recently died from pancreatic cancer. He was 81. a white woman clad in a tank top at another table in the background. She says she was made a spectacle, and “it was On the Web embarrassing.” Last week, 45-year-old attorney Willie Pow- • Let the people be heard: Weighing in on the Sheila Jackson ells says he was approached by staff members while he was in Lee audio tape a meeting at the hotel bar, and they requested that he remove • Check out our new Publisher OpEds on our Black Women, his hat. Powells alleges that other white patrons were also Under 40 and Community channels at the bar wearing hats, but were not asked to remove their • HS Sports Reporter Jimmie Aggison highlights Marshall headwear. The Post Oak Hotel calls the lawsuits frivolous, HS’s Paul Lucas as he patiently waits to shock the world

October 26, 2023 |

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| 3

DN News

Pleasantville rocked after children shot at, chased

By Aswad Walker

What is happening these days in Pleasantville?

The longstanding, nationally historic Houston Black neighborhood, that is currently contending with something it has not experienced since its inception in 1948 – attacks and displays of racist vandalism – recently added a new issue to the list.

On Oct. 21, around 4 p.m., a group of Black children ages 11 to 16, left their Pleasantville home, headed to Judson Robinson Sr. Park.

While walking, a Latinx male rode up on them on his bike, showed them his gun, and told the children to run. He then opened fire. None of the children were hit or injured physically, but the incident took a toll on the youth, all related, according to the mother of the brother/sister duo, 14 and 11 respectively, who were joined by two of their cousins, the oldest of which is 16.

The Defender conducted an exclusive interview with the mother, Kaylene, who, for safety reasons didn’t want to share her last name.

Kaylene’s husband, an HPD police officer, refrained from being interviewed for professional reasons.

DEFENDER: What exactly happened and when and where did it happen?

KAYLENE: It occurred over the weekend.

Our children, our son (14), daughter (11), and my nephew (13) and niece (16), who is disabled

was just in fear. As a parent, you’re just shocked. You think about their safety, you think about, ‘Oh my God, my child could have been seriously injured or killed.’ Then you become angry. You become sad that these things even happened. But initially it’s just that fear that I wasn’t there to protect them, and just anger that they even had to experience that. My husband has lived in this neighborhood longer than me. We’ve been here in our home for 10 years. Nothing has ever, ever happened. And we have older children, and nothing has ever happened like that to them either. It was pretty shocking.

Judson Robinson Sr. Park sign after being vandalized recently.

Photo by Mary Fontenot.

with cerebral palsy, went to the park down the street from our home. Before they even got to the park, a young Hispanic male approached them on a bike, pulled out his gun, told them to run, and then he began shooting. We don’t know if he was shooting at them or if he shot up in the air. They were children. They freaked out and just started running back home. Just kids being kids, walking down the street, wanting to go to the park and play.

DEFENDER: What were you and your husband’s first thoughts when you found out what happened?

KAYLENE: When they came back in less

than 10 minutes, I looked at their faces, I was like, ‘Why are you back so fast?’ And when I looked at them, I knew something happened. The girls had tears in their eyes.

My sons, were just bug-eyed. They didn’t know what to do. When they told me, I

DEFENDER: Has this incident changed the way you and your husband feel about the neighborhood itself and/or about letting your children spend time outside?

KAYLENE: Something like this has to

change your thought process… When this particular event happened, of course, as a mother, my initial reaction was like, ‘Oh, we’re outta here. We need to move.’ But then I calmed down and thought rationally about exactly how often has this really happened to us? None, but this one time.

By press time, the man had not been apprehended.

JALEN RANDLE

Family calls for criminal charges against officer involved in deadly shooting

By Raquel Rogers

Jalen Randle’s family is calling on Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg to file criminal charges against the officer accused of shooting Jalen in 2022. Earlier this month, a grand jury declined to indict Houston Police Department Officer Shane Privette, who is

accused of shooting Randle to death on April 27, 2022.This was the second grand jury who refused charges.

Tiffany Rachal, Randle’s mother, spoke at a recent protest, demanding that Officer Privette be held accountable for the deadly shooting.

“Chief Finner, your statement that my

Tiffany Randle speaks during a protest after a grand jury declined to indict the Houston Police Department Officer involved in the 2022 shooting for the second time.

son’s death would not be in vain was very accurate. His tragic passing should serve as a catalyst for change within the unjust system.

We must eliminate secret juries, establish a centralized database for bodycam footage, accessible to both (the) police department and legal representatives, and ensure that any officers involved in the shooting or misconduct (are) suspended without pay until a court-supervised investigation is concluded,” Rachal said. “Today, we demand that Officer Shane Privette be released immediately from his duties. Criminal charges must be filed by DA Kim Ogg.” The family also asked for the United States Department of Justice to file federal charges against Privette.

Several of Randle’s family members attended the protest, along with community and Black Lives Matter members. They all chanted, held posters and wore t-shirts in support of Randle.

On April 27, members of the HPD Narcotics Division Tactical Team were searching for Randle, who was reportedly a fugitive wanted on three felony warrants.

Officers said they saw Randle get into the passenger side of a silver vehicle, which left the location. When officers tried to stop the vehicle, the driver refused, leading officers on a chase. Investigators said officers then performed a PIT maneuver, which blocked the vehicle and made the suspects come to a stop. When Randle exited the vehicle from the passenger side, investigators said Privette discharged his weapon one time, shooting the suspect. In the bodycam video released

by HPD, officers can be seen pulling up to the suspect’s vehicle and one officer can be heard yelling, “Aye, let me see your hands.” While the officer yelled the command, a gunshot could be heard and the suspect was seen falling to the ground. The same officer who yelled the command could also be heard yelling an expletive after the firearm was discharged.

The video shows the officers then running towards the injured suspect, placing him in handcuffs, before dragging him a few feet across the sidewalk. Shortly after, one officer could be heard asking for a medical team.

Police say Randle was in possession of a bag that had a gun inside.

4 | October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News Sheila Jackson Lee regrets profane recording Defender News Service

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has released a statement after audio of her using profane language surfaced online over the weekend. Jackson Lee, who is running for Houston mayor, believes the audio, which surfaced over the weekend prior to early voting, was released by one of her political opponents.

“At heart, I am someone who tells it straight. I know that as much as that is a strength, it can sometimes be a challenge to balance. But when I fall short, I want the people I represent to know that it is because I’m standing up for them - not me. To anyone who has listened to this recording with concern, I am regretful and hope you will judge me not by something trotted out by a political opponent, that worked to exploit this, and backed by extreme Republican supporters on the very day that polls open, but from what

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, speaks during a hearing of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations, on Capitol Hill.

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

I’ve delivered to Houstonians over my years of public service,” Jackson Lee’s statement read, in part.

Although it’s not exactly clear when the audio, which lasted

about a minute and thirty seconds, was recorded, Jackson Lee could be heard using foul language and insulting two of her staff members.

“I don’t want you to do a God da** thing. I want you to have a f*****g brain,” Jackson Lee could be heard in the recording telling one of her staff members.

“Nobody knows a got d**** thing in my office. I gave it to you. Your job was to get it on a calendar, imprint it on your brain or send me the information back.”

Jackson Lee was allegedly going off about some information she had not received from one of her employees. She continued in the recording insulting one of her employees whom she specified by name.

“I want to convey to the people of Houston that I strongly believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes my own staff. I know that I am not perfect. I recognize that in my zeal to do everything possible to deliver for my constituents I have in the past fallen short of my own standards and there is no excuse for that. I am passionate about serving my constituents. I want the best for all of them,” the statement added.

THIRD WARD

Community groups offer vaccine, debunk myths Defender News Service

Though nowhere near as dire as previous years, health officials say COVID-19 cases are increasing daily. And it’s hitting the Black community hard, primarily because many African Americans are still refusing or delaying getting vaccinated because of a history of mistrust and distrust of medical systems and misinformation.

Enter the NAACP and the Emancipation Park Conservancy Cultural Center. The two have teamed up with the Immunization Partnership and the Houston Health Department to debunk myths that may be preventing someone from getting immunized.

Health professionals say that no vaccine is 100% effective, but if you do get vaccinated and end up catching what you were trying to prevent, your bout will be less severe. They also say contrary to what you may have heard- vaccines are generally safe. A single shot could be lifesaving.

“We have vaccines that can prevent illnesses, we have vaccines that can prevent cancer and these vaccines are safe and efficacious even though you may be getting

would save over 472 million diseases,” Brown said.

Brown adds that 29 million people would not be hospitalized, and over a million lives would be saved. He adds there’s also a huge socio-economic impact to the tune of $2.2 trillion dollars in savings.

“There’s a lot of people who don’t get paid for time off, so you think about if you get a kid that’s

sick, so the parent has to take off, they’re not getting paid, they have to go to the doctor, they pay a deductible,” Brown said.

You can get vaccinated at a doctor’s office, and many pharmacies.

The City of Houston provides free vaccines, even for people without insurance. Visit https://houstonhealth.org/services/clinical/immunizations for more information.

VOLUME 92, NUMBER 50 - OCTOBER 26, 2023 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Get Current Studios

information from elsewhere that says not,” said Dr. Joseph Gathe Jr. with the Houston chapter of the NAACP. Gathe Jr. and Keith Brown recently took part in a forum on “Getting the Facts” vaccine forum.

“We had a high vaccination rate back in the days in our community, those vaccination rates are

dropping, and we’re concerned we’re going to see not just COVID, measles, diseases that should not be here at all are going to be coming back.

Vaccine advocates say some of those conditions can be prevented altogether.

“Children born from 94–2010, if they would get vaccinated it

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Videographer Bryan Erdy Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2023 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288

October 26, 2023 |

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| 5

DN News

Beyoncé concerts boosted Houston economy

By ReShonda Tate

The numbers are in, and as expected, Beyoncé’s recent tour stop in Houston equated to big money for the Bayou City.

Houston First Corporation, a Houston-area nonprofit organization, says the Sept. 23 and 24 shows boosted tourism and hotel occupancy. Beyoncé made the stop in her hometown during her first solo tour in over six years. The Bey-Hive swarmed to NRG Stadium to pack seats. A homecoming party was hosted by Houston First when bright lights and fireworks made way for the queen and her cohort of super fans.

“Major events in our city mean major opportunities for our hospitality industry.

The two mega concert events this year, first with Taylor Swift and mo power helps fill hotels,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First Corporation.

Highlights of the Renaissance Tour according to the organization: • The overall Houston hotel market saw occupancy of 67.5% for the two nights (Saturday and Sunday) of the tour. Revenue for the weekend hit $18.2 million, up more than 45% compared to the same weekend in 2022.

• Hotels in the Medical Center/NRG

submarket logged occupancy of 81.3% for the two nights of the tour (occupancy on Saturday led Sunday by 10 points). Revenues in that submarket hit $2.5 million, an increase of 182% over the comparable weekend in 2022. The average daily rate in the submarket on Saturday was $241—one of the highest nightly rates this year.

• Location data analyzed by Houston First shows that more than 52% of the visitors to NRG Park during the weekend were from outside the Houston area and more than 66% of out-of-town visitors stayed overnight.

• San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Beaumont were the leading origin markets for out-of-town concertgoers, according to the data from Near, a location-based intelligence platform.

• The average daily rate in the hotel market on Beyoncé’s first-night run was $241, one of the highest rates this year, according to the organization.

And the economic impact isn’t over yet.

Her concert film of the Renaissance tour premieres Dec. 1, with tickets starting at $22 plus tax. It will be released by AMC Theatres, which saw record ticket sales earlier in

Beyonce’ performs at NRG Stadium in September. Getty

October ahead of the release of Taylor Swift’s concert film. The movie distributor seems to have high hopes for Beyoncé’s concert film,

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saying more than 2.7 million fans showed up for the tour and now millions of moviegoers will want to join in on the dance party.

6 | October 26, 2023 |

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DN Education

PAY PENALTY

Teacher wage gap widens

By Aswad Walker

Along with endless hours beyond the official schedule, exposure to youth carrying all manner of viruses, funding holes that force educators to purchase their own supplies and parents who take their children’s side whenever an “issue” is brought to their attention, teachers today are enjoying an ever-increasing pay gap between themselves and their similarly educated peers.

There’s even a term for this phenomenon befalling the individuals who literally prepare the world’s future leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs, etc. It’s called the “Pay Penalty,” as in K-12 teachers are, salary-wise at least, seemingly being penalized for pursuing a very noble, thankless, yet much-needed profession.

An article by Sylvia Allegretto, published by the Economic Policy Institute reveals teacher pay has suffered a sharp decline compared with the pay of other college-educated workers. On average, teachers made 26.4% less than other similarly educated professionals in 2022—the lowest level since 1960.

“Although teachers tend to receive better benefits packages than other professionals do, this advantage is not large enough to offset the growing wage penalty for teachers,” wrote Allegretto, who found that on average, teachers earned 73.6 cents for every dollar that other professionals made in 2022; much less than the 93.9 cents on the dollar they made in 1996.

For Black women, these numbers sound eerily familiar, because according to the most generous figures, Black women (on average and regardless of profession) make 64 cents for every dollar a white man doing the exact same job makes.

“Gabe Smith,” an HISD teacher who requested not to have his real name used, knows this pay penalty firsthand.

“My friends from school ride me all the time about doing what many of them call ‘charity work,’” he said. “I know they’re giving me a hard time and respect my commitment to the profession of teaching, but they’re dead serious about it being messed up that I’m making less than all of them, and far, far less than some.”

Katy ISD high school teacher, “Sheila Jones,” offered similar sentiments.

“When I’m sitting in one of those parent/teacher conferences, and the mom and/or dad is grilling me and blaming me for the actions of their little Bey-Bey kid, while they’re screaming, I’m trying my best to keep my composure and remind myself why I got into teaching in the first place – because I love the kids,” said Jones. “But to be honest, those thoughts do be creeping up in a sister’s head. ‘Yo sis, you could be making way more doing something where you didn’t have to deal with this nonsense.’”

“Teachers have one of the most consequential jobs in the country—they have the future of the U.S. in front of them every day. But teaching is becoming a less appealing career choice for new college graduates,” wrote Allegretto. “A lack of well-qualified teachers means we cannot equip future tech innovators, researchers, and educators with the training they need to emerge as leaders.”

Hundreds of HISD educators, activists, and union representatives protest against the HISD takeover. Credit: Jimmie Aggison.

HISD teachers fight for change with major protest

By Amaka Watson

When it comes to the city’s largest teacher’s union, they aren’t taking their foot off the gas when it comes to expressing their frustration with HISD Superintendent Mike Miles and the Board of Managers.

The Houston Federation of Teachers, alongside educators, and community activists stood across the street from the entrance of the Hattie Mae White Administration Building for its “Take Back Our Schools” picket on Oct.20.

Hundreds of people marched and chanted “Education is right! That’s why we have to fight!” and their signature “Hey hey, ho ho TEA has got to go!”

The march followed a series of speeches including testimonials from American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten, encouraging participants to keep up the fight against the changes with HISD. People came from different parts of the United States, many of them did not have children in who attended schools in the district, but wanted to support the cause, because the concerns have grown into a national issue. And with election season around the corner Weingarten spared no time reminding people about the importance of their vote.

Dr. Maria Benzon is an HISD parent and educator who does not support Miles’ reform plan and said she refused to blindly comply with the “curriculum and it’s errors and not being age appropriate.”

“We stand unified for three reasons. One, to end this hostile takeover, two, to restore democracy with an elected board, and three, to support public schools by treating teachers professionally, valuing students for more than a test score, and partnering with parents,” she said to the crowd. “This is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Michelle Mayberry-Johnson is an educator who is concerned about the “teacher’s autonomy to teach.” With the new teaching format, she is afraid she won’t be able to reach

students who may need more assistance without standard “cookie cutter” material across the board for all students.

“I want my students be able to critically think and just not find answers,” she said. “We need to fill in the gaps, not create more [of them].”

Paloma Garner is an educator and parent to children who attend non-NES schools. She said can feel the pressure of “time and increased testing” happening on the campuses, and is concerned about the future of specialty schools.

“We are waiting for accountability rating to come out.

We are working incredibly hard right now to do everything we can to increase student performance so that we don’t end up on that list [NES school],” she said. “We are being really intentional and strategic. We are playing a numbers game, but our instruction is quality and we are not sacrificing [that].”

Since Miles assumed leadership of the district, numerous policy changes have been implemented. This includes the rollout of the “New Education System” program in 85 district schools, resulting in the removal of 28 librarians and the transformation of libraries into Team Centers. Staff at these initial 28 schools had to reapply for their positions.

These changes have brought about district-created curricula and increased testing during lessons.

Additionally, the district recently passed a pay-for-performance plan for principals, where pay is tied to various factors, including student outcomes, assessment results, school action plans, and instructional quality. High-performing principals may earn nearly $200,000 annually, while those on the lowest scale designation can make up to $130,000 a year.

Jackie Anderson, President of the Houston Federation of Teachers told the Defender that the fight will not stop here.

“There will be ongoing actions,” she said. “Continuing talks with the federal government.”

October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 7

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| 9

DN InFocus

Controller Race C

By ReShonda Tate

onsidered the city’s independently elected financial watchdog, the controller is responsible for processing city payments and making reports on the city’s financial outlook to City Council. The controller does not have the power to enact policies, but that person can audit city departments and programs.

The Defender asked each of the candidates to answer three questions in 200 words or less as it pertains to the Black community.

SHANNON NOBLES

Currently Chief Deputy City Controller for the City of Houston.

Former manager of Bank On Houston. Received MBA from the University of Houston Downtown.

Why should Black voters vote for you?

Competent – I know the job. I have over 14 years of experience in the Controller’s Office, with the last eight years as Deputy Chief Controller. I’ve managed the Operations and Technical Services Division and second in command in a well-run office. I have a BA in Business Administration and an MBA with a focus in Finance

CHRIS HOLLINS

What will be your top 3 issues that directly affect the Black community?

Consultant with a Harvard MBA. Former vice chair of finance for the Texas Democratic Party.

Served as interim Harris County clerk during the 2020 elections.

Why should Black voters vote for you?

I am asking for the votes of Black Houstonians because I am the most qualified candidate to serve as City Controller. As a Black man, I also understand the struggles our families go through. I remember getting “the talk” – the conversations Black parents have with their children about how they should behave if they get stopped by the police. My talk was a bit different because my dad was a Houston police officer for 34 years, and I remember nights when my family would hold hands at the dinner table and pray for his safety. I pray for a day when I won’t have to have that same talk with my own son.

More recently, I am very proud of our work

from the University of Houston – Downtown. I am the only candidate in this race with experience in the Controller’s Office.

Relatable – I grew up in Lakewood and attended Tidwell Elementary, Kirby Middle School and M.B. Smiley. I grew up in a low-income area and understand firsthand many economic inequities. So, when issues like financial literacy are discussed – given my background – I understand firsthand how that impacts the Black community, which is why I will continue to actively support the Better Banking program to bring the unbanked and underbanked into the financial mainstream and efforts to teach our youth and citizens of Houston how to build wealth.

Historic – If elected, I would be the first Black female to hold this position and will work my hardest to educate and advocate for the residents of Houston regarding the financial health of the city.

when I led the County Clerk’s office during the 2020 elections. I was directly responsible for increasing voter participation in Black (and all) communities during the pandemic. I stood up to Gov. Greg Abbott and won – in fact, I am the only candidate for City Controller who has ever taken on Abbott, and I will continue to do so to protect Houstonians as the City Controller.

What will be your top 3 issues that directly affect the Black community?

Budget – The City of Houston has a structurally imbalanced budget, which means our expenditures exceed our revenues and we have relied on federal assistance. Without it the city cannot pay its bills. If left unresolved these issues will lead to layoffs and reduced services for years to come. If the past is any indication of the future in this environment, Black families usually see the most negative impacts.

Water Rates – The issue that seems to be top of mind to most Houstonians is excessive water rates. Years of neglect of infrastructure and deferred maintenance are systemic causes of this issue. While the Controller does not vote on the city’s weekly agenda, I will surely use my position to advocate for people, to raise the important issue.

Financial Literacy – Improving financial literacy is essential to help Black individuals and families build

I’m running for City Controller to provide a sound financial and policy foundation for a wellrun, modern and efficient city government. I will work hard to safeguard our tax dollars from fraud, waste and abuse, to invest our city funds safely and wisely, and to recommend best practices from major cities around the globe to make our government work for every Houstonian.

We can make real progress on issues that directly affect the Black community, including: Public Safety / Criminal Justice ReformWith a targeted approach and interventions that address the root causes of crime before violence itself rears its head, I know we can make Houston the safest major city in America.

Economic Opportunity- We must work to secure the economic future of our community by supporting families and individuals, investing in education and job training, and in fighting for smart public policies such as a living wage and paid leave.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion- I will work to provide accurate data and well-researched best practices for advocates and policymakers to reduce discrimination and barriers to employment, housing and medical care; reform our criminal justice system; and eliminate systemic racism in all aspects of city government.

If elected, how will you measure success?

The City Controller is uniquely able to measure success by making data/information much more accessible and easier to understand. The public can see if their tax dollars are being protected, because our financial audits and public investment reports will all be public. And I intend to use the performance audit powers of the City Controller to measure the success of city departments and city-funded projects in meeting their stated objectives, including by benchmarking our policies and practices against those of major cities from around the country.

wealth and economic security. Education regarding personal finance, budgeting, and investing can empower the Black community to make informed financial decisions. Bank on Houston offers Houstonians the opportunity to open low-cost bank accounts that are free of excessive fees and requirements. This is the first step to financial literacy.

Some example metrics: Public Safety/Criminal Justice Reform

• Violent crime rates • # of credible complaints filed against police officers • % of budget spent on preventive vs. reactive measures

Economic Opportunity

• Job growth (particularly in target sectors) • % of jobs that offer a living wage • % of households that have banking relationships • % of households with highspeed internet access

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• % of government contracts awarded to women- and minority-owned businesses • Progress toward passing equal rights ordinance

DAVID MARTIN

Currently serves as Houston Mayor Pro-Tem and city councilmember for District E. Graduate of Louisiana State University. Previously he has served as chair of the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee and numerous other committees.

He spent 40 years in the private sector, working for Big Four accounting firms.

Why should black voters vote for you?

I am the only candidate who will address issues that are important to the black community. I grew up in the Hiram Clark, Brentwood and Windsor Village area.

Four years ago, when I ran for Controller, I earned the endorsement of my friends from city council days, Michael Yarbrough and Jew Don Boney.

If elected, how will you measure success?

Budget & Water Rates – Once again, I am not responsible for producing the budget and/or passing ordinances. What I can do is use my voice to advocate for the people. A good measure of my advocacy is how many times per year I present these important topics to council.

Financial Literacy – The number of new residents of Houston connected to Bank on Houston is a great measure of success for the program in a calendar year.

Houstonians vying to lead city finances

What will be your top 3 issues that directly affect the Black community?

I am endorsed by several African Americans who appreciate my ethics and my historical votes for minority businesses to obtain city contracts. I am endorsed by Mayor Sylvester Turner. I am the only candidate with private sector accounting and finance experience (Big 4 Accounting Firms, Ernst & Young, PricewaterhouseCoopers)

If elected, how will you measure success?

What will be your top 3 issues that directly affect the Black community?

1) Crime 2) Illegal dumping 3) Affordable housing

ORLANDO SANCHEZ

Served six years on Houston City Council. Chaired the Budget Committee.

Previously served as Harris County treasurer. Narrowly lost the 2019 election for incumbent Houston City Controller to Controller Chris Brown.

Why should Black voters vote for you?

Success is always measured by results, when you look at my record as county treasurer, you will see my Assistant County Treasurer was a Black woman.

With her leadership, we won national and state transparency awards, kept Harris County financially sound, and worked tirelessly for the people.

NEXT WEEK: Hear from the Mayoral candidates

MWBE (Minority and Women Owned Enterprise) opportunities. Equity is great, but we need inclusion to make equity work. I will advocate for inclusion.

If elected, how will you measure success?

Double digit increases in city contracts.

Twenty percent additional African American Controller Office employees and my top two Deputy Controllers will be minorities and women of color.

10 | October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus

Harris County prepares for Houston elections multiple failures during Harris County’s Harris County officials say they’re 2022 general election. The report mainprepared to minimize potential issues tained that the county failed to provide during this year’s election season enough paper ballots at several votafter a state audit found several ing centers and found “widespread administrative failures during the equipment failures” and inconsiscounty’s general election last year. tencies in the number of registered During a recent press conference, voters reported to the state.

Harris County Clerk Teneshia HudThe report recommended Harris speth said her department has been County officials “conduct a compreworking closely with the Texas Secrehensive review of their training protary of State’s Office to minimize the risk gram” and “routinely conduct post-election of any problems.

Teneshia Hudspeth audits” in an effort to “measure the effectiveAccording to Hudspeth, the county’s 68 ness of the county training program related early voting centers and 701 Election Day voting centers to the administration of elections.” will be fully staffed with tech support in case of emergenEarly voting is underway and runs through Nov. 3. cies. Additionally, Hudspeth said they’ve bolstered the Election Day is Nov. 7. number of training sessions for poll workers from 70 to more than 120 sessions.

Get info on all the candidates and “There is no such thing as a flawless election,” Hudsamendments in the League of Women peth said. “If there are things that come up, which they Voters of Houston released their will…we will be able to mitigate them and address them non-partisan Voters Guide. in real time.”

Get it at HoustonVotersGuide.org.

This comes after the Texas Secretary of State’s office published a preliminary report last week analyzing Defender News Service

ALSO ON THE BALLOT Texans will decide the fate of 14 constitutional amendments recently sent to the ballot by state lawmakers during the Nov. 7 election.

Many of the proposed amendments would create or alter funds to support: • Higher education research • Water infrastructure • Gas-fueled power plants • Broadband infrastructure • Maintenance and creation of state parks • Several others would address taxes by: • Raising the homestead exemption for

homeowners from $40,000 to $100,000 • Creating some tax exemptions for medical equipment and child-care facilities • Banning lawmakers from imposing “wealth taxes” without voter approval Other amendments would affect Texans in certain professions by: • Granting retired teachers cost-ofliving raises • Raising the mandatory retirement age for state judges • Protecting generally accepted farming and ranching practices from state and local regulation.

October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN Feature

Jourdan Sorrell and Darrious Hilmon of “Brothers Talking.” Credit: YouTube/Brothers Talking

Can Black men heal by being vulnerable together?

By Joseph Williams

The way Jourdan Sorrell sees it, between microaggressions at the office, the threat of getting stopped or shot by police, and societal definitions of masculinity, Black men in America are in a constant existential struggle. With the stress of moving through a world that often sees them as a threat, there isn’t much time to decompress, let alone heal.

Coincidentally, the same thoughts were on the mind of his friend, Darrious Hilmon, when the two met for lunch in Chicago in April. As they dined, Sorrell, a Comcast senior manager, and Hilmon, executive director for CAN TV, a local public access channel, found themselves talking about the lack of a safe space for Black men to truthfully answer the question, “How’s it going?”

That conversation led the two to create “Brothers Talking,” a monthly, hourlong program on CAN TV, the Chicagobased public access TV channel Hilmon leads. Hosted by Dr. Obari Cartman, a professional psychologist, the show features a multigenerational group of Black men tackling topics from Black sexuality to toxic masculinity and the schools-to-prison pipeline.

“We’re all just trying to eat, live, and do what we need to do daily,” says Sorrell, talking with Hilmon in a YouTube video about the show’s origin, and how difficult it can be for Black men to breathe. “Vulnerability is not necessarily on the top of the list of things we

need to do when we get up and when you go to sleep every night.”

The simplicity of its format — six Black of different generations, men sitting in a circle, talking to one another — belies the significance of its mission: centering “the lived experiences of Black men — the pain, joy, success, failure, and the resulting opportunities for growth and self-discovery,” according to the show’s website.

In an interview with Word In Black, Cartman says the program’s goal is to create a safe space for honesty and vulnerability, which in turn can lead to healing from racial trauma.

Men talking to one another in male spaces, like barber shops and locker rooms, is nothing new, “but sometimes we do it in ways that can be superficial and miss the point,” Cartman says. “In my experience, men are good at ‘barbershop talk’ — trading opinions, theories, talking about celebrities, talking about women. Sometimes we posture a little bit,” all the while avoiding conversations about what’s going on in their lives.

The point of Black Men Talking is to “redirect the theoretical talk into their own personal experiences,” he says. “Not ‘This is what I think about it,’ but ‘This is what I feel.

This is what I learned from my trials and tribulations.’”

Besides representing Black men of different generations, each of the regular panelists comes from different socioeconomic backgrounds, political perspectives, and

sexual orientations. At the top of every show, they take a few minutes to discuss their progress on a life goal they’ve set for themselves before digging into the main topic of conversation.

Even the manner in which they sit contributes to the goal of honesty and healing, Cartman says.

“It’s a roundtable, but there is no table — it’s like a peace circle,” he says. “The goal is to connect to ancient Indigenous formats of problem-solving and connections, looking

The mission is to help Black men and boys be our best selves, be aware of the strengths we have.”

OBARI CARTMAN

eye-to-eye. The circle itself represents a sort of sacred space.”

Although his job is to keep the conversation going, “I support them to the extent that I can, as another Black man that ‘s trying to figure it out myself,” says Cartman, whose expertise includes Black masculinity, restorative justice, and trauma-informed care.

“The mission is to help Black men and boys be our best selves, be aware of the strengths we have.”

Cartman says racial healing is at the center of the program, and not just for the men on camera.

“When I think about the diagnosis, the analysis of the harm, a lot of it has to do with long harm — racial trauma, generations of a system in place that brought our ancestors to this country,” Cartman says. Black people in America, he says, are subject to “a lot of spiritual, emotional, psychological warfare.

I think we are still unpacking and undoing some of the damage.”

The repair, “includes bringing (people) back into a community space to remember who we are,” Cartman says. “Restoration includes community. ‘I believe there is healing in just gathering. We’re doing that on the air. We’re creating space to gather and demonstrate it for other men.”

“The power,” he says, “is in the simplicity of the conversation.”

This story was produced in partnership with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

12 | October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

Tara Paige

Brings Black women who love outdoor living together for annual patio conference

By ReShonda Tate

During the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, Texas-based former school teacher Tara Paige found herself looking for some way to keep herself busy, so she decided to tap into her love of outdoors to redo her backyard.

“The pandemic made us all stop and look around at some of those things that we’ve probably tapped into in our earlier years.

And one of the things that I really always enjoyed doing was being on the patio, so I decided to focus on my patio.”

When she sought others to share creative ideas with, she couldn’t find anything that met her needs.

“I really wanted to create a space where Black women can get together and share creative ideas of being on the patio. But I couldn’t find anything. My mother always told me, ‘if you can’t find it, create it!’” she said.

So that’s exactly what she did, creating the Facebook group, ‘Black Women Who Love Outdoor Living Spaces,’ encouraging women to “make their outside a beautiful living space together.” Members focus on patios, balconies, porches, poolside and gardening projects – all things outdoors. In fact, many members have been inspired to completely makeover their bland backyards.

Now, even though life has returned to normal, the group continues to thrive. And in fact, has evolved into more than just an exchange of ideas. Women get shopping and decorating tips, advice, inspiration, and Paige’s favorite, love and support one another.

“The sisterhood is amazing. I love the positivity, the empowerment, the love,” she said. “In many cases, it’s even helping with mental health during these trying times by giving people a space to relax. It just makes all the difference to have your own space outside as an extension of your home.”

With nearly 250,000 members, the group reaches as far as Thailand, South Africa and beyond.

The Patio Chic Conference A retired teacher, business coach, and mother of eight, Paige decided in 2022 to bring together the women of her Facebook group (and anyone else with an interest in outdoor living) for The Patio Chic

Conference, “TPCCON 2023: Celebrating Black Women – Conquering The Outdoors and Transforming Lives.” This year, the conference takes place in Houston Oct. 27-29th.

“TPCCON 2023 has been meticulously designed to celebrate the exceptional achievements of Black women in conquering the outdoors and making a positive impact on their communities,” Paige said. “We want our attendees to be inspired, empowered, and united, regardless of their backgrounds. TPCCON is a platform where the remarkable stories of Black women who fearlessly explore the great outdoors and transform lives through their passions take center stage.”

The highly anticipated gathering aims to inspire, empower, and foster unity among participants from diverse backgrounds.

Organizers say TPCCON is a platform amplifying the voices and stories of Black

women who have fearlessly explored the great outdoors while transforming lives through their passion.

“We are delighted to bring TPCCON 2023 back to Houston, Texas, where the vibrant community and boundless spirit align perfectly with the essence of our event,” Paige said. “TPCCON is committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality in outdoor pursuits. Our mission is to provide a platform for Black Women to share their extraordinary stories and inspire a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts who see no boundaries in their aspirations.

“We’re thrilled to bring TPCCON back to Houston, Texas, a vibrant city that resonates with the boundless spirit of our

event. Houston’s diverse community aligns perfectly with our mission of promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality in outdoor pursuits,” Paige said. “Together, we’ll continue to make a difference in the world of outdoor exploration and community impact.”

TPCCON 2023 will feature an enriching program, including keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and hands-on outdoor activities. The event encourages open dialogues, providing attendees with insights from experienced professionals and opportunities for networking to build meaningful connections.

For more information visit www.tpccon.com.

See some of the patio makeovers and pics from the event.

October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 13

DN Profile

Kechi Okwuchi Redefines confidence beyond her scars

By Laura Onyeneho

When encapsulating Kechi Okwuchi’s essence, many words rush to the forefront: extraordinary, remarkable, powerful.

The Houston-based Nigerian-American singer and motivational speaker has defied unimaginable odds. At 16, Okwuchi became one of only two survivors of the tragic Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145 crash on Dec. 10, 2005, in Nigeria. Though her body bore the scars of third-degree burns covering over 65 percent of her being, her unwavering faith would ultimately light her path to being a beacon of hope to survivors of trauma worldwide.

In 2017, she graced the big stage as a finalist on the twelfth season of America’s Got Talent (AGT). Her remarkable journey, marked by triumph over adversity, captured the hearts of millions and catapulted her to international recognition. Yet, Kechi’s story extends far beyond the AGT spotlight.

In her latest book, “More than My Scars: The Power of Perseverance, Unrelenting Faith, and Deciding What Defines You,” Okwuchi pens a raw, unfiltered account of her life—one filled with suffering and hope, pain and grace, chaos and calm. Her narrative weaves through her early years in Nigeria to the challenging days that followed the crash and the subsequent chapters of her life.

“More than My Scars” is not just a memoir; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the belief that true worth transcends physical appearances. Her story serves as a reminder that our genuine value lies within, and it is a message that resonates powerfully in a world often preoccupied with superficial judgments.

Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to share her voice with the world through her singing and performances. Her advocacy work, particularly in bullying prevention, reflects her commitment to making a positive impact.

The Defender had the privilege of speaking with Okwuchi to delve into her book, her life’s journey, her advocacy work, and her aspirations for the future.

DEFENDER: Houston has been a significant part of your journey.

Can you share some of your fondest memories or experiences from your time in the city, and how has it influenced your life?

KECHI OKWUCHI: I’ve only lived in

Texas since I moved from Nigeria. I grew up in Nigeria until my accident happened when I was 16. This was in 2005. I moved to America in 2007. I was in Galveston first, and then, when I started college, I moved to the Houston area. I’ve been here with my family

of physical trauma would be very detrimental.

People without scars are going through it, trying to figure out who they are. Can you imagine people with physical scars? This confidence isn’t overnight. It’s a process and a journey. I’ll never pretend to be okay if I’m not.

DEFENDER: You’ve faced both physical and emotional challenges.

How do you maintain your mental and emotional well-being, and what self-care practices do you find most helpful daily?

OKWUCHI: It’s through music. I bond with

it, especially during recovery’s worst, most vulnerable times. [Music] healed parts within me that no amount of surgery could reach. When I go through cathartic moments, it’s through Music and singing. My voice has changed after my incident. I and my family don’t understand why, but one random good thing came out of this horrible situation. I retreat into Christian contemporary Music from different artists all over. Singing has been a crutch as well. I had a period when weird things were happening to my voice, affecting me mentally. I set out time to pray and talk to God during the week. It’s a way of keeping him involved in my life no matter what. And, of course, family time. I grew up in a close tight-knit family. I get a lot of joy and comfort being around them. That includes extended family, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

DEFENDER: How has your experience as a finalist on America’s Got Talent impacted your career and personal growth?

OKWUCHI: Everything was very much

ever since. We have no intentions of leaving.

There is a huge Nigerian population here. The vibe is nice and friendly here. There is a great mix of different people and cultures. Houston is a place where I was able to enjoy my independence post-surgery and post-trauma. It’s very sentimental because I got my education here. I got this consulting job, which I do on the side, along with singing and public speaking. When Hurricane Ike happened, Shriners Hospital in Galveston had to move temporarily to the Shriners in Houston. I was treated in Houston for a very long time post-Ike. Houston feels like home to me.

DEFENDER: Your journey from surviving the plane crash to where you are today is incredibly inspiring. What role has faith played in your resilience, the confidence that so many people enjoy seeing online and on the TV screen?

OKWUCHI: Faith is the foundation of who

I am. My Christian faith and my belief in Jesus is something that I take very personally. I don’t take it for granted. I started to develop my faith after the accident. Even though I identified as Christian before the accident, it was more based on my parents’ beliefs. It wasn’t something I decided for myself. After the accident, I began my journey and became interested in knowing God and what he would mean to me.

Honestly, how I see myself as a human mostly comes from how I believe God perceives us as his children. I feel like the confidence and the self-assurance that comes from seeing myself through his eyes is nothing on earth that can take away from his influence. Once you get out there, the world is a judgmental place. Opinions change, trends shift, and body types vary regarding what’s hot and what’s not.

Being influenced by those things as a burn survivor or anyone who has [endured] any kind

spontaneous. I had just finished writing and thinking about everything from my accident.

When I finally got to the moment I was writing about AGT, I realized that my life had winded its way to this moment, and it wasn’t by accident. God had been doing things in my life. I didn’t sign up for AGT. My friend did. I was never going to put myself out there in that way. My friend took the first step for me. This gave me a huge platform I wouldn’t have had if not for the exposure I got on the show. God wanted me to bring my story out to the world in a way that would inspire people. There is life after trauma. Bad things happen in life, but if it doesn’t kill you, God is still working on something as long as you allow him to stay in your life.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KECHI’S GOALS FOR THE FUTURE.

14 | October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Prairie View sophomore bowler Jayda Gordon tallied 908 pinfalls, while averaging 181.6 during the opening weekend of play of the Colonial Lanes Classic.

Sports Briefs TSU AD Kevin Granger gets new contract

The Texas Southern Board of Regents approved a new three-year contract for athletic director Dr. Kevin Granger. GrangKevin er, who has been the Granger athletic director since 2018 and has been affiliated with TSU for 31 years as a student-athlete, coach and administrator, will be paid $250,000 annually under this new contract. “I would like to thank our Board of Regents and Interim President Dr. Mary Evans Sias for having the confidence in me to lead the department,” said Granger. “It is an honor to lead my alma mater and we will continue to move the department to the next level.”

Astros Jose Abreu makes history

Astros first baseman Jose Abreu’s game-changing homer in Game 4 of the ALCS, which travJose Abreu eled 438 feet, made him the first player since Statcast tracking started in 2015 to hit three home runs in the playoffs of at least 430 feet. Abreu, who was 36 and 263 days old during Game 4, became the second-oldest player to have a home run and stolen base in a postseason game.

TSU’s Jacob Williams, LaDarius Owens win weekly SWAC honors

Texas Southern had two football players receive SWAC weekly honors. LB Jacob Williams was named Defensive Player of the Jacob Week after recording Williams 13 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, a forced fumble and a 95-yard fumble return for a TD in the win over Bethune-Cookman.

LaDarius Owens was LaDarius tabbed Specialist Owens of the Week. Owens, who also had an outstanding outing rushing the football against Bethune-Cookman, returned four kicks for 142 yards, which included a long of 40 yards.

Rockets rookie forward Cam Whitmore had 17 points, six rebounds and six steals in 30 minutes against the San Antonio Spurs in his first start of the preseason.

TEXANS

Focus on improving after the Bye

By Terrance Harris

When first-year Texans coach DeMeco Ryans looked at his team prior to the season, he really had no idea what the record would be after six games.

His process wouldn’t let him think of the progress in terms of record, so the impressive 3-3 start the Texans sit at coming out the bye-week never entered Ryans’ thoughts.

“My thoughts are just one week at a time, so I don’t look at it in totality like that. Like, ‘Oh six weeks in, where will we be?’ We are where we deserve to be,” Ryans said. “We’ve won some tough games as it’s been said, and we’ve lost some close ones that probably looking back we should’ve won. But it doesn’t matter. We are exactly where we should be at this time.”

The early thought process is that the rebuilding Texans are ahead of schedule.

The Texans, coming off an impressive 20-13 win over the New Orleans Saints heading into last week’s bye-week, have notched victories over playoff contenders Jacksonville and Pittsburgh.

They currently sit in second place in the AFC South and have already equaled their win total of a season ago with 11 games remaining.

Much of the Texans’ impressive start, which includes wins in three of their last four games, has been credited to rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud and Ryans. But that may be oversimplifying things quite a bit.

Ryans and his always positive demeanor have seemed to revive the energy and culture around the franchise in ways his last two predecessors David Culley and Lovie Smith could not in their first and only seasons on the job.

“I wasn’t here last year, so I don’t know,” said Stroud, who the Texans took No.2 overall in last spring’s NFL Draft. “But, when I came in, I just knew this dude loves us.

He really understands what it is to be a player. He understands practicing, building that callus in August and September, so in November and December, when you’re playing to go to the playoffs and big things like that, those games are won back in August or September. That’s the vibe I got.”

Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud’s rapid development has played a major part in the Texans 3-3 start to the season.

Texans general manager Nick Caserio, who was around the last couple of seasons, has definitely seen a big difference in the coaching style of Ryans.

“I think DeMeco and the coaching staff deserve a tremendous amount of credit for what we’ve done and where we are,” Caserio said. “I’d say just specifically DeMeco, he’s everything that I think we hoped and thought he would be. As good of a coach as he is, he’s a better person and human being.

Players love playing for him. Players want to be here.”

Ryans is certainly pleased with where his team is at this point but understands there is much work to be done.

“I’m feeling good about our team and where we are,” Ryans said. “Learning who we are as a team as we continue to grow and work together, we’re learning who we are. Our strengths, our weaknesses, what we do well, and things we need to lean into more. Opportunities [where] we need to give more guys some opportunities, guys earn their right [to play], so we continue to work through that and see where we are, but I like where our team is headed.”

What also can’t be overlooked has been the smart player personnel decisions the

Caserio-Ryans tandem have made. The additions of veteran players like safety Jimmie Ward, linebacker Denzel Perryman and cornerback Shaquill Griffin have been huge for the team.

But the Caserio-Ryans duo made its biggest impact in the recent draft based on early production, where there were no mistakes made. Rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr., who the Texans boldly traded up to take right after Stroud at No.3, is showing star capabilities.

Then there is Stroud, who is already garnering Rookie of the Year conversation. The rookie out of Ohio State to this point has been the brightest star of any of his contemporaries, including quarterback Bryce Young, who the Carolina Panthers selected over Stroud at No.1.

Stroud and Young will go head-to-head on Sunday when the Texans travel to take on the 0-6 Panthers.

“I’d say his work ethic, his confidence, his demeanor, his belief,” Caserio said when asked about the reason for Stroud’s early success. “I think DeMeco has talked about this quite a bit in terms of your belief in yourself, belief in your teammates, belief in what you’re capable of doing.”

October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 15

DN Sports Playing on the varsity level as a freshman gave me the experience and the confidence to play and allowed me to gain an early edge in my high school football career.”

KHARI MAYEUX Wisdom High School’s Defensive End

KHARI MAYEUX WISDOM HS

Works to turn team around

By Jimmie Aggison

Historically, when you think of the football program of Wisdom High School (formerly Robert E. Lee High School), a winning tradition is not what comes to mind. In fact, the football program hasn’t had a seven-win season since 1987. However, a dedicated coaching staff has sought to change all that, starting with a change in the program’s culture.

“Discipline is something we preach,” said the Generals’ head coach Tony Herrera. “We have to have discipline and I think that’s the change from these past years to this year, we actually have the discipline and buy-in from the players.”

One of those players who has bought into the program is Khari Mayeux, a 6-feet3, 245 pound defensive end from New Orleans.

“I played football in New Orleans and my defensive line coaches instilled hard work into me,” said Mayeux. “We were working in the weight room 24/7, so when I came to Texas it was a change but a change for the better as we added discipline with the hard work. Once I knew I was coming to Wisdom, I did research on the school. I saw the football record and was in disbelief. I almost broke down and thought that my football

career would be run into the ground, but I remembered that it takes hard work to change an environment, so I started early.

I understood that God put me here at Wisdom for a reason.”

Mayeux fell in love with football at nine years old after attending a football camp in Shrewsbury, Louisiana.

“It was run by [Pro Football Hall of Famer] Ed Reed and I got to meet him. I got to see his championship ring and that really sparked my love for football,” said Mayeux.

That love for the game helped Mayeux grow into a dominant player when he was given the opportunity to play on the varsity level his freshman year at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in New Orleans’ lower 9th Ward.

“Playing on the varsity level as a freshman gave me the experience and the confidence to play and allowed me to gain an early edge in my high school football career,” said Mayeux.

Mayeux has been a varsity starter for all four years. With a high motor and willing attitude, he has caused havoc for many offensive coordinators while playing the defensive end position.

“I want to be the guy to give the most effort on the field, playing fanatically with a high motor,” said Mayeux.

At times Mayeux’s game play shows a resemblance to that of Myles Garrett, the perennial all-pro defensive end of the Cleveland Browns. As a result, Mayeux, like Garrett, is a player opposing offenses have to pay attention to and account for on the defensive front at all times.

“I study him because of the way he can switch from power rushing to speed rushing

ABOUT KHARI MAYEUX

Class: 2024 IG: @tudda.3x Twitter: @KhariMayeux3 Position: Defensive end Height & weight: 6-feet-3, 245 pounds Players he studies: Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns), Nick Bosa (San Francisco 49ers), Aaron Donald (Los Angeles Rams), Haason Reddick (Philadelphia Eagles) Favorite artist: NBA YoungBoy Favorite subject: Pre-calculus Shout-outs: Mom, dad, grandparents, teammates, coaches

quickly. His brute strength, speed and elusiveness is a problem,” said Mayeux.

Mayeux is not only an athlete but he puts the “student” in student-athlete. With a GPA above 4.0 he has received recruiting interests from several Ivy League schools.

“I’m looking for a program with a strong foundation and focus on developing players to their highest potential,” said Mayeux.

“I’m looking for a place where I can thrive and play to the best of my ability and a school that offers the best education so that life after football is a seamless transition.”

“He’s a heck of a player, but an even better young man. I’m so thankful that he’s one of my football players. And he knows. I love the guy. He puts in the work and never complains,” said Herrera.

Looking back, Mayeux hopes to inspire younger, less fortunate kids by showing that you can change your story through passion and hard work.

“Study the game in its entirety,” said Mayeux. “Live in the weight room. Have a person there that will help motivate you, whether it be a coach or a teammate. Be accountable for your actions. If you mess up, mess up going 100%. Give your best effort all the time, and keep your grades high.”

16 | October 26, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

Being a great place to work has its rewards.

And awards.

Because of our investments in industry-leading programs and resources, and our commitment to helping teammates achieve their personal and professional goals, we were awarded the Grand Stevie Award for Organization of the Year. I’m proud of this recognition, really proud of our dedicated employees, but most especially proud to be part of this community we all serve.

Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston

Learn more at bankofamerica.com/houston

What would you like the power to do?®

The Stevie Awards recognize the achievements of businesses and professionals worldwide. Organizations self-nominate, providing data for various categories, and winners are determined by the average scores of more than 240 professionals worldwide serving as judges.

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