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SHARPSTOWN WIN HAS YATES ON BRINK OF PLAYOFF ELIMINATION, P13
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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source
Volume 85 | Number 1
NOVEMBER 5, 2015 | FREE
www.defendernetwork.com
NATIONAL BEN CARSON leads Republican candidates
P4 FEATURE DR. GLENDA NEWELL-HARRIS presides over Links
THE RACE FOR MAYOR
P11 SPORTS VIVICA A. FOX stars in ‘Carter High’
P12 TOP EVENTS
Chester Pitts and Justin Iamjustified Milburn at Celebs Give Back launch party
P16
TURNER, KING
IN RUNOFF H PAGE 2
President Obama helps ex-offenders
Vernita Harris guides chamber
President Barack Obama wants to “ban the box” and make it easier for ex-offenders to get federal jobs. Discover what he’s proposing to improve the criminal justice system and reintegrate former prisoners back into American society.
Vernita Harris is board chair of the Greater Houston Black Chamber, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Read about her accomplishments and historymaking role. See what lies ahead for the chamber. Learn about its rich tradition.
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015
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Turner, King in runoff; HERO defeated By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
Houston State Rep. Sylvester Turner and businessman and lawyer Bill King are headed for a Dec. 12 runoff to determine the next mayor of Houston. In the Nov. 3 election, Turner received the highest number of votes. Speaking to supporters, Turner thanked those who helped him in the election and paid tribute to his late mother and father. He added that Houston residents want a safe city, stronger schools and economic opportunity. In his acceptance speech, King touched on issues such as infrastructure, money management and crime. Their nearest competitor was former Sheriff Adrian Garcia. Other candidates included Ben Hall, Chris Bell, Steve Costello and Demetria Smith. Local voters also defeated the controversial Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) proposed by outgoing Mayor Annise Parker. Opponents launched a successful “bathroom ordinance” campaign, and the proposition failed by a wide margin. Other election results featuring African-Americans on the ballot include:
Thaddeus Lott dead at 81 State Rep. Sylvester Turner is congratulated by supporters for making the runoff. If elected he would become Houston’s second Black mayor (Lee P. Brown was the first).
Georgia Provost
Willie Davis
• Bill Frazer and Chris Brown are headed for a runoff. Other candidates in the race included Carroll Robinson, Jew Don Boney and Dwight Jefferson. Rhonda Skillern-Jones
• At Large Position 1 – Mike Knox and Georgia Provost are headed for a runoff. • At Large Position 2 – David Rob-
Sharon Moses
out Laurie Robinson for the runoff. • At Large Position 5 – Jack Christie will face Sharon Moses. • District B – Incumbent Jerry Davis defeated his challengers. • Incumbents Dwight Boykins (District D) and Larry Green (District K) were unopposed.
City Controller
City Council
Amanda Edwards
Larry Williams
inson and Willie Davis are headed for a runoff. • At Large Position 4 – Amanda Edwards will face Roy Morales, who edged
HISD Board
• District II – Incumbent Rhonda Skillern-Jones will face Larry Williams in the runoff. • District IV – Jolanda Jones won and will replace Paula Harris.
Noted Houston educator Thaddeus Lott died Oct. 22 at the age of 81. Lott earned national acclaim as principal of Wesley Elementary School in Acres Homes. When he became principal of Wesley in 1975, only 18 percent of third graders could read on grade level. By 1980, he had increased the number to 85 percent. “Thaddeus made his mark as an educational innovator, making his deepest impact with reading,” recalled former HISD Superintendent Dr. Rod Paige. Lott was later appointed project director of the Coalition of School Improvement, the first cooperative charter school management organization in Texas. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Frader Monroe Lott, and children. The Church Without Walls, 5725 Queenston Blvd., will be the site of a visitation and a memorial service on Friday Nov. 6 at 6 p.m., and the funeral service on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 11 a.m.
localbriefs FIFTY-THREE MEMBERS of the Texas Legislature filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court in support of the University of Texas in the Fisher vs. UT case. The Supreme Court is revisiting the case – and the use of race in admissions – reviving a potential challenge to affirmative action in higher education. Oral arguments before the high court are scheduled for Dec. 9. The legislators’ brief argues in support of UT’s “holistic, individualized admissions process.” Houston legislators signing the brief include State Sen. Rodney Ellis and State Reps. Alma Allen, Garnet Coleman, Harold Dutton, Borris Miles, Ron Reynolds, Senfronia Thompson and Sylvester Turner…….. NEARLY
200 TENANTS at Crestmont Village Apartments have been relocated into clean and safe housing after an effort that involved the mayor’s office, staff from nine city departments, elected officials, churches, the American Red Cross and other entities. According to the city, tenants were the victims of a “slumlord” who stopped paying for utilities and refused to tend to other deplorable living conditions at the complex, located at 5638 Selinsky in Southeast Houston. The move was overseen by realtor Gerald Womack, the courtappointed receiver for the property. “No one should have to live like this,” said Mayor Annise Parker……..A JOB FAIR will be hosted by the
Houston Community College Police Department on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. to noon at 3100 Main St., 2nd Floor. Available positions include police telecommunications supervisor and cadet, telecommunications operator, peace officers and security officers. Applicants must apply online prior to attending the job fair at hccsjobs.com…….. A FREE SHREDDING of unwanted documents sponsored by AARP Texas is Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon at Chinese Community Center, 9800 Town Park. Documents will be shredded onsite in an effort to fight ID theft. To register call 877- 926-8300 or visit https://aarp.cvent.com/ ShredChineseCC.
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U.S.briefs CHURCH LEADERS representing nearly 13 million African-American members presented over 10,000 pastors’ signatures to Congressional Black Caucus members in support of President Obama’s Clean Power Plan. The leaders said they are making the effort to push forward the bill, which has a goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 32 percent by 2030. Among leaders presenting signatures were Bishop George Battle, A.M.E. Zion Church; Rev. Samuel C. Tolbert Jr., president, National Baptist Convention of America, and Rev. Timothy Tee Boddie, general secretary, Progressive National Baptist Convention of America. An estimated 40 percent of the six million Americans living close to coal-fired power plants are people of color. Pollutants released from those plants have led to high rates of asthma and respiratory issues……..THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH has a new leader. Rev. Michael Curry was installed as the church’s presiding bishop during a ceremony at the Washington National Cathedral. He is the first Black national leader of the church. Curry spent nearly 15 years leading the Diocese of North Carolina. He said the work of the church is “to find ways to be a bridge community that brings differing people together under the rubric of love.” The Episcopal Church has nearly 2 million parishioners around the country……..FORMER CONGRESSMAN Augustus “Gus” Savage of Chicago died on Oct. 31, a day after celebrating his 90th birthday. Savage founded Citizen Newspapers, which became one of the largest Black-owned chains of weekly community newspapers in the Midwest. He sold the chain in 1980 and was elected that year to represent Illinois’s Second Congressional District. “During his six terms in Congress, Rep. Savage was an advocate for some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens and was vocal on critical issues impacting African-Americans and minorities throughout Chicago, a city which he loved,” said Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G. K. Butterfield.
VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 1 NOVEMBER 5, 2015
Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila
Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing writers Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon
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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Obama proposal would help employ ex-offenders
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TriceEdneyWire.com
resident Barack Obama, who recently enacted the largest release of prisoners at one time in 30 years, announced that he is “taking action to ‘ban the box’ for the most competitive jobs at federal agencies.” He is pushing to remove all job application questions about a person’s prior criminal record in order to make it easier for former inmates to get jobs. Those questions have often ended with rejection slips, especially for convicted felons. “The federal government is a big employer, as you know, and like a lot of big employers, on many job applications there’s a box that asks if you have a criminal record. If you answer yes, then a lot of times you’re not getting a call back,” the president told the audience during a criminal justice forum at Rutgers University in Newark, N.J. “We’re going to do our part in changing this. The federal government, I believe, should not use criminal history to screen out applicants before we even look at their qualifications. We can’t dismiss people out of hand simply because of a mistake that they made in the past.” Obama’s announcement quickly won resounding applause from civil rights, criminal justice and labor groups. In July, Wade Henderson, president/CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, called for Obama to “take the next step in helping the formerly incarcerated re-integrate by issuing an executive order to ban the box and implement fair chance hiring practices for federal jobs and contractors.”
Obama stopped short of saying he will use executive order to establish the ban the box measure. The main steps he is taking to deal with the criminal justice system and reintegrating former prisoners back into society are: • Called on Congress to pass criminal justice reform that reduced recidivism for those who are reentering society. • The Department of Education will award up to $8 million to at least nine communities to support educational programs and the reentry success for individuals. • Expanding technology training and jobs for individuals with criminal records.
Carson overtakes Trump in race for nomination Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson has surged to the top of the Republican presidential race, overtaking businessman Donald Trump. A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds Carson as the No. 1 choice among Republican primary voters. Carson garnered 29 percent support in the poll, compared to Trump’s 23 percent. They were followed by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio (11 percent), Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (10 percent) and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (8 percent). Carson also posted the strongest numbers in a match-up against Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. The poll found Carson and Clinton in a
tied contest with 47 percent. He said he would “relish” the opportunity to take on Clinton in a general election, and called her the “poster child” of dishonesty. Carson’s popularity was evident during a recent booksigning in Tampa. More than 1,200 people showed up, and some arrived eight hours early to get in line. “Our strength is in our unity, and we need to stop listening to the purveyors of division who are trying to make us think there’s a war going on with everything,” Carson told reporters during a break from signing copies of “A More Perfect Union.”
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015
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business
Saving early, consistently keys to retirement
A
By JIM CHAPMAN
s parents, we may tell our children that the fastest way to finish a difficult homework assignment is to sit down at the kitchen table, start with that first problem and move on from there. They may not like this solution very much, but a few minutes later, the assignment is done. We can apply that same approach to saving for retirement. Young employees might view putting aside money for retirement as something that’s too difficult to do. It’s something they believe can be done later, since the retirement date is so far away. But just the opposite is true. Simply enrolling in the plan at a young age and having those payroll deductions accrue in a pre-tax savings account is a solid strategy for starting down the path of saving for retirement. Results from our latest Wells Fargo Retirement Study show the difference this approach can make. Workers ages 55 to 59 who began contributing to a retirement plan at an average age of 31 had amassed a median of $150,000 toward their goal of a median of $500,000, three times as much as what workers in their 60s or older had saved, who started saving at an average age of 37. Many companies we work with, recognizing the impact of savings over time, have added an automatic enrollment feature to workplace plans. New employees joining the company are automatically in the plan at a starting percentage, unless they opt out. It’s one of many strategies that should pay dividends for generations of workers saving for retirement in a 401(k) plan or equivalent plan. This strategy also creates an environment for consistent savings, another key contributor to success in saving for retirement. Of those responding to our 2015 retirement study, 45 percent of workers 40 or older and 47 percent of retirees told us they had started saving for retirement from the first day they began working. This group of workers 40 or older who kept saving throughout their careers have amassed a median of $160,000 in retirement savings, exactly $100,000 more than workers who have not consistently saved. We were pleased to see that income level didn’t deter people from consistently saving. In our study, 31 percent of those saving for retirement from the beginning earned less than $50,000 a year. Consistent savers in our study also shared they had a healthier outlook: 71 percent believe they will have enough saved for a comfortable retirement and only 28 percent plan
Retirement savings tips
to heavily rely on Social Security. I would also advocate that saving consistently also means leaving that savings alone. There are significant penalties that come with early withdrawals. Not only will you lose out on that pre-tax money saved for retirement, but many people in this situation also stop contributing to their retirement plan. That means you’re losing out two different ways. People without a workplace savings plan can still be consistent savers. Subject to eligibility requirements, you can set up an automatic savings program and make systematic contributions up to $5,500 annually to either a Roth IRA (with after-tax dollars) or traditional IRA (with pre-tax dollars). Consider this: Annual contributions of $5,500 become $110,000 in 20 years! Saving for retirement early in your career and being
• Use the tools available in your plan. If your workplace pla n includes an employer ma tch, work hard to contribute enough to take full advantage of it. The match means your emplo yer is investing in your future, so mething you shouldn’t take lightly. • If you have access to a workplace savings plan but ha ven’t started contributing, enro ll today. Start deducting a small percentage of each payc heck and see how much you no tice the missing dollars. If you’r e able to get by, consider increa sing the percentage each year. • Individuals contributing to a workplace plan should co nsider increasing their contribut ion amount by 1 percent each year. Try it for a few paycheck s and see if you’re still able to pa y your monthly bills. • Most plans allow worke rs over the age of 50 in a 401(k) plan have the ability to make catchup contributions up to $6 ,000 each year, on top of the $18 ,000 annual deferral savings lim it for all workplace plans. Th at’s a great way to maximize sa vings as retirement draws close r.
consistent in your savings habits are crucial to mapping out a comfortable retirement. Putting yourself in position for a secure retirement is a marathon not a sprint, something that starts with that first step. Jim Chapman is director, Wells Fargo Institutional Retirement and Trust.
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Dementia takes toll on unpaid caregivers
Unpaid caregivers and family members spend more than 100 hours a month, on average, assisting elderly people with dementia who live in the community and not in residential care or nursing homes, according to a new study. Overall, people with dementia make up 10 percent of noninstitutionalized adults age 65 or older, but they account for more than 40 percent of unpaid caregivers’ time. The study, published in the journal Health Affairs, analyzed data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study and the National Study of Caregiving. “That overall picture of the footprint of caregiving to older adults that is attributable to dementia is the study’s most important message,” said Judith Kasper, the lead author of the study.
As people live longer, the number with dementia will increase, further straining caregiving resources. About one in nine people older than age 65 has Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. Medicare generally covers home health services only if they are related to medical care. It doesn’t cover the routine personal care and other services that people with or without dementia may need on an ongoing basis.
NOVEMBER 5 | 2015 | DEFENDER
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Breast screening centers expand Memorial Hermann and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have expanded operations under their collaboration to offer specialized breast screening and diagnostic services in four more communities, bringing the number of breast centers in the greater Houston region to 14. “We share a commitment with MD Anderson to provide high-quality cancer care to our community,” said Jim Brown, vice president and CEO of ambulatory services at Memorial Hermann. “The convenience and advanced technology of Memorial Hermann’s breast imaging services along with the cancer expertise of MD Anderson is a great health resource for the communities of Cy-Fair, Willowbrook, Upper Kirby and Pasadena.” “It’s great to collaborate with Memorial Hermann to bring the resources of two outstanding teams to patients in these communities,” said Dr. Jay Parikh, medical director of the joint program and associate professor of diagnostic imaging at MD Anderson. “We know that catching breast cancer early offers patients the best possible options for treatment, and making that early diagnosis – or giving the news that all is clear – starts with confident, quality screening.” The new centers are located at: MD Anderson Breast Care with Memorial Hermann-Cy-Fair, 13114 FM 1960 West, No. 104; Willowbrook, 7520 FM 1960 West; Pasadena, 3620 Spencer Highway, and Upper Kirby, 2535 Kirby Drive. Visit memorialhermann.org/ScheduleNow, or call 1-877.40.MAMMO.
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Lee Daniels
continues success with ‘Empire’ By DONNA M. OWENS Special to the Afro
O
n a crisp fall day at Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, Va., several dozen people were seated in the well-appointed library, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Academy Award-nominated director Lee Daniels. The acclaimed director of such hit films as “Lee Daniels’ The Butler,” “Precious” “Monster’s Ball” and now cocreator of the blockbuster Fox television series, “Empire,” was among the Hollywood celebs and power brokers in attendance at the third annual Middleburg Film Festival. The four-day event welcomed film aficionados from all over the country and beyond. Daniels is a longtime supporter of the festival, and his appearance at the event was akin to that of a rock star. Adoring fans – many of them Black women – showered him with affection Lee Daniels strikes a pose with Taraji P. Henson, a star of “Empire.” and applauded enthusiastically when he sexuality and parenting, he was warm, refreshingly candid arrived, asked to take selfies, and he graand full of humility and humanity. ciously obliged. “My contribution is [based on] my life,” said Daniels, “It’s a trip, but it’s a lot of fun,” said Daniels of his who said his work was often rooted in “really painful” tremendous success. “I’m really am in the bubble…I don’t experiences, including being a gay man who once struggled pay attention to it.” for acceptance, seeing multiple friends die of HIV/AIDS, and Sporting casual attire punctuated by a pair of Gucci drug addiction. “With anything I do, I find myself giving my designer loafers, the youthful 55-year-old began his talk soul to it.” by joking with the audience that his shoes (complete with His 2013 box office smash “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” kangaroo fur trim) were intended for Terrence Howard’s held the No. 1 box office spot for three consecutive weeks, character Lucious Lyon, but he decided to keep them for and has to date grossed more than $175 million worldwide. himself. “Precious,” adapted from the best-selling book “Push: During a wide-ranging discussion that covered his art,
A Novel,” was nominated for six Academy Awards. “Empire,” which debuted in January, tells the story of a Black family dynasty set against the backdrop of the record industry and hiphop. Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson star, with Timbaland producing the show’s original music. It has become the highest rated entertainment show on broadcast television, drawing 17 million viewers for last season’s finale. Still, Daniels told the crowd that fame and accolades didn’t always translate into happiness for him. He said that on the night Halle Berry won her groundbreaking Oscar for “Monster’s Ball,” instead of celebrating with the cast, he was off “smoking crack” because he didn’t feel “worthy.” Today, Daniels is sober. He’s a proud father of two (raising the children of his brother who is incarcerated) and devoted to their family unit. “I gotta [keep] my kids on track, making sure they’re okay,” he said, noting that his son is a college student in D.C., and his daughter attends a school in Paris. “I live for them, everything I do is for them.” Daniels recently signed a development deal with Fox, where he will continue to create, write, direct and supervise new projects under his Lee Daniels Entertainment banner. His first project under the deal will be “Star,” a show centered around three women in a musical group in Atlanta. Next, he will next start shooting “The Untitled Richard Pryor Biopic.” He plans to continue to shake up audiences with characters who tell the truth about the many facets of the human condition. “My artistry is the same as my person,” he said, adding he is “a better man” but not a “perfect man.”
what’sup PHARRELL WILLIAMS sang his song “Freedom” during Sunday service at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C. The performance was part of a TV special that will air on A&E later this month. “We are grateful to be here in this place, in this building, and to be able to feel the spirit of resilience,” Williams said. “You’ve been hit by fire, rain, wind…but it’s still standing.” Emanuel made headlines in June when Pastor CLEMENTA PINCKNEY and eight others were gunned down during Bible study…….. A petition to remove co-host RAVEN-SYMONE from “The View” has reached almost 130,000 signatures, but ABC said she’s not going anywhere. “We
love Raven,” the network said. “She is confident, genuine and opinionated, all qualities that make her a great addition to the panel.” The petition effort was started by Che Scott-Heron, daughter of the late GIL SCOTT-HERON. She criticized Symone’s recent comments, from “stating that she wouldn’t hire somebody for having a ghetto name, to openly complaining about reverse racism.” The final straw,” Scott-Heron said, “was her comment about the recent viral video of the school police officer assaulting the student, where Raven Symone said ‘get off your phone in school then.’ ” Symone was also slammed for defending a Univision host who said First Lady
Obama looked like a “Planet of the Apes” cast member…….. LIONEL RICHIE is branching out with a new home collection available at high-end retailers, hoteliers and restaurateurs in January. The collection will feature dinnerware, entertaining accessories and candles inspired by Richie’s world travels. Richie has sold more than 100 million albums and won four Grammy Awards and an Academy Award…….. Filmmaker GEORGE LUCAS and his wife, financial expert MELLODY HOBSON, have given $10 million to the USC School of Cinematic Arts to provide financial assistance to African-American and Hispanic students.
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015
Organization continues tradition, looks to future Eighty years after its founding, the Greater Houston Black Chamber is committed to upholding its legacy while meeting the current and future needs of its members and the community. Elaine Barber, president of the chamber, said spreading the word about the organization is a priority. “We have a number of Black businesses in the region that are not aware of our services,” she said. “We Elaine Barber want to reach them through marketing and advertising so they can be aware of who we are and how we can help them.” Barber took charge of the chamber in May of 2015. She previously served as vice president of Education and Workforce Initiatives for the Greater Houston Partnership, and held top leadership positions in non-profit organizations for more than 25 years. She said in addition to outreach, advocacy is another chamber priority. “We want to be a voice for our members and an advocate for what’s important to them at city hall and at the state and federal level,” she said. “That’s clearly an imperative. “We also want to expand our program offerings in the area of business development because that is critically important. Businesses indicate to us that they need assistance with how they can grow, and we want to help.” The chamber offers various initiatives that help its partners and members “navigate Houston’s large, diverse population, industries and the many nuances.” One initiative that stresses access is the Women’s Empowerment Series.
“I’m very pleased with the response we have received,” Barber said. “Participants tell us that really like the message that comes through and how they can find relevance in it.” Barber said another relevant program is the Houston Black Leadership Institute. “That is our program where young people between the ages of 25 and 35 come in and are exposed to leadership, mentoring, how to expand within their markets and how to climb the corporate ladder,” she said. Other chamber programs include the annual Pinnacle Awards, Education Achievement Awards, CEO Circle, Membership Development Series and Economic Empowerment Initiative. In the area of advocacy, the chamber is engaged with elected officials and works with the Texas Legislative Black Caucus and the Mayor’s Office of Business Opportunity. It has formed strategic partnerships with such entities as the Port of Houston Authority, Metro, HISD, Houston Community College and Texas Southern University. Next year, Barber looks forward to more opportunities to meet with chamber members “to hear what’s on their minds and what’s important to them.” She said one ongoing challenge facing members is acquiring capital. “Access is the key and it’s problematic for them,” she said. One of the challenges facing the chamber is growth through fundraising. “We must increase the levels of partnership that we have with corporate and other business industries and raise dollars to support all of the activities that we need,” Barber said.
The Greater Houston Black Chamber is governed by members of the board.
BLACK CHAMB
80 YE
By MARILYN M Defen
The Greater Houston Citizens Chamber is observing 8 professionals take care of business. The GHBC, which has for business development and community outreach partne the Defender looks at the past, present and future of Hou Early members of the Houston Negro Chamber of Commerce encouraged business in the Black community.
Chamber has rich history The Greater Houston Black Chamber was founded in 1935 and is the second oldest Black chamber in the nation. It was originally named the Houston Negro Chamber of Commerce. Prominent leaders organized the chamber to empower and promote Black businesses at a time when Jim Crow laws prevented Blacks from accessing opportunities outside their neighborhoods. J. E. Robinson Sr. was the first presi-
dent. The office was located in Blackowned Pilgrim Temple in Fourth Ward. The chamber’s goals included promoting the civic and economic welfare of Houstonians and encouraging a larger patronage of Black enterprises. The organization encouraged residents to pay poll taxes in order to vote, promoted fair housing and employment practices and held better business forums and banquets.
During World War II, the chamber office served as a rations headquarters. A junior chamber was organized in 1942. In 1963 the chamber moved to its Wheeler location in Third Ward. In 1964, under the leadership of Mack H. Hannah Jr., the name changed to the Houston Citizens Chamber Of Commerce. In 2013, under the leadership of Eric Lyons, the name changed to the Greater Houston Black Chamber.
defendernetwork.com • Serving th
erfold
BER CELEBRATES
EARS
MARSHALL nder
80 years of helping African-American entrepreneurs and s 450 members, considers itself the “go-to” organization ership opportunities in the local Black community. Here uston’s first Black civic organization, founded in 1935.
he Houston area for over 80 years
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Profile: Board chair Vernita Harris the population in Houston. Vernita Harris beSomeone needs to ask the came the first woman question “Why are we getto chair the Greater Houston Black Chamting the smallest percentage ber board in 2014. She of contracts?” The chamis president of Impact ber is still asking those Strategies Consultants, questions and pressuring a team of MBAs with for higher spending goals experience in business across all industries. development, diversity Defender: What is the marketing, community No. 1 piece of advice you outreach and meeting have for Black business planning. owners? Harris earned a Harris: Always look B.A. in Marketing and Vernita Harris for ways to support busia MBA in nesses within Management our community. from Prairie We spend $1.3 Learn more about GHBC and the View A&M trillion per year, personal side of Vernita Harris University. yet the dollar She is a memonly stays in ber of such our community organizations as the National Black six hours as opposed to 21 days and 28 MBA Association, National Sales days in the Asian and Hispanic commuNetwork, Houston Minority Supplier nity. We can learn from these examples Development Council, Women Busiof cooperative economics. Let’s supness Enterprise Alliance and National port our businesses because when they Coalition of Black Meeting Planners. do well, they empower, employ and Harris is an active member of enhance our communities. Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. She Defender: What’s your philosophy is single “with no children of my own, of life? but mother to many.” Harris: My philosophy is pretty In a Q&A with the Defender, simple – put your head down and work Harris talked about her work with the hard. Be passionate about the projects chamber among other things. (professionally and personally) you take Defender: What have been your on in order to maximize your outcomes. top three accomplishments as board Faith in God, a good education and hard chair? work have proven to be the best combiHarris: I collaborated with varination for me. ous entities to help identify chamber Defender: What are three words members who were capable of conthat describe you best? tracting opportunities and watchHarris: Visionary, tenacious and ing them secure those opportunities dedicated. through winning bids. I created new Defender: Who or what is your and innovative programs to provide ac- greatest inspiration? cess and networking opportunities for Harris: David and Willie Harris, my members, i.e. Boot Camp, trade misparents, were my greatest inspiration. sion to Freeport Bahamas and the first They taught me to make God your founMayoral forum. I have demonstrated dation and know you will always stand that a woman can hold the position of on solid ground. I cannot remember a board chair, paving the way for the two time when I was not encouraged to keep female chairs following behind me and God first in all that I do, get an educasetting the tone for the next four years. tion, work hard and treat all people with Defender: How has the chamber respect. remained relevant for the past 80 Defender: What is something many years? people don’t know about you? Harris: By providing programing Harris: That I lived in Italy for two to our members that assist with access, years and I am fluent in Italian. I generadvocacy and awareness, the chamber ally travel back to the old country as is still relevant in the 21st century. often as time permits. Italy is my numLook at the fact that minorities are no ber one vacation destination and desired longer the minority, but the majority of location for a second home.
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5| 2015
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food
Thanksgiving dinner
with a twist Family Features
Food. Friends. Family. Football. Thanksgiving would be incomplete without any of them, but the most important is the holiday feast your family and friends have gathered to enjoy while the game plays in the background. Serving up a full holiday spread – from turkey to dessert – that is sure to bring everyone back for years to come is easy with these tips for every stage of the meal. Turkey day tips The sight of a beautifully cooked, golden brown bird being brought to the table is one of the most memorable moments of any Thanksgiving gathering. Follow these tips to prepare the perfect centerpiece for your holiday meal:
Thawing your turkey
• For every 5 pounds in weight, thaw in original wrapper for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Thaw faster by covering with cold water in the sink and soaking approximately 30 minutes per pound. • Refrigerate as soon as thawed or cook immediately. For best quality, do not refreeze uncooked turkey.
Roasting the bird
• Baste with extra virgin olive oil. • Place breast-side-up on rack in shallow roasting pan. Cook in 325 F oven. • For an unstuffed turkey, place a stalk or two of celery, seasonings, a cut-up onion and a handful of parsley in the cavity to keep it moist. • Lay “tent” of foil loosely over turkey to prevent over-browning. • Turkey is done when meat thermometer is 180 F or when the red stem on the pop-up thermometer rises. • For easier carving, let turkey stand at room temperature for at least 20 minutes.
More ways to cook turkey
• Grilled: Grill 15-18 minutes per pound. Air in grill must be between 225-300 F. • Deep fat fried: Cook 3-5 minutes per pound in 350 F oil. • Smoked: Cook 20-30 minutes per pound. Air in smoker must be between 225-300 F. • Microwaved: Cook 9-10 minutes per pound on medium power. Rotate during cooking.
Dessert time
From fourth-generation dairy farmers in Bentonville, Ark., this savory pumpkin dessert, featured in “The Dairy Good Cookbook,” is sure to become a tradition in your family. For more recipes, visit MidwestDairy.com
Pumpkin Pie Squares with Cinnamon Sugar Yogurt Topping
Total time: 1 hour, 20 minutes Servings: 16 Crust: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons low-fat milk cooking spray Filling: 2 cups canned pumpkin 2 eggs 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt 1/2 cup low-fat milk 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup pecans, chopped Topping: 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup plain nonfat yogurt Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, oats, brown sugar, butter and milk. Press into thin layer in a 9-by-13-inch pan greased with cooking spray. Bake for 10 minutes. While crust is baking, in another bowl, beat together pumpkin through salt. Pour over crust and bake for 40 minutes or until set. Sprinkle pecans over filling and bake another 10-15 minutes or until center is set. Cool slightly in pan. Mix together sugar and cinnamon. Mix in yogurt. Top each square with 1 tablespoon yogurt topping.
Tasty sides
While the turkey takes center stage on Thanksgiving, surrounding the centerpiece with a variety of delicious side dishes can take your turkey day to the next level. Here are a few popular sides to round out your table: • Potatoes: While mashed potatoes and gravy are always a holiday hit, other serving options, such as roasted potatoes, scalloped potatoes or sweet potatoes, can add variety to a favorite traditional dish. • Fruits and vegetables: From green bean casserole and cranberry sauce to roasted vegetables, corn pudding, candied yams and butternut squash, no table is full without a variety of fruits and veggies to choose from. • Noodles: Outside of a traditional potato side, many turkey day tables offer pasta-based sides, such as homemade turkey noodles, macaroni and cheese or pasta salad.
classified Telecommunication Services (RFP)
Houston First Corporation requests proposals from experienced entities to provide telecommunication services at its facilities, including the George R. Brown Convention Center. RFP documents are available online at www.houstonfirst.com/do-business. Questions should be submitted by e-mail to bids@houstonfirst.com.
Harris County Community Services Department (HCCSD)
Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Pre-Qualification Submittals to provide Home Repairs ADDENDUM 1 October 26, 2015 REVISED Response Due Date: November 13, 2015 Due to the low number of application packages received, HCCSD is extending the due date to November 13, 2015. All applications must be filed with the Harris County Community Services Department, Attention: Housing Construction and Inspection Services, 8410 Lantern Point, Houston, Texas, 77054, on or before 4:30 p.m., November 13, 2015 Pre-qualification packages may be obtained by contacting Adriana Villuendas at (713) 578-2000, via Email at adriana.villuendas@csd.hctx.net, or may be downloaded from the Harris County Community Services Department’s Website at www.csd.hctx.net.
HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE TO PROPOSERS The Houston Independent School District located in the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center at 4400 West 18th Street Houston, Texas 77092 will accept proposals, until the stated date and time deadlines, in the Board Services Office, Level C1
Project 15-10-16 – Various Paper; Request for Proposal with a deadline of 3 P.M. 11/20/2015. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 2NE32 at the above stated address on 11/11/2015 at 9am.
Project 15-10-22 – Automotive Batteries; Request for Proposal with a deadline of 3 P.M. 11/18/2015. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 2NE32 at the above stated address on 11/10/2015 at 9am.
Proposals are available on the HISD web-site at www.houstonisd.org. To access, go to: Departments, Procurement Services, Bid Opportunities. The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or, to accept the proposal that is most advantageous to the District.
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Links national summit comes to Houston
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Members from across the country will gather in Houston for The Links, Inc. 2015 National Leadership Summit on Nov. 5-7 at the Westin Galleria. The theme is Cultivating Healthy Leadership: Our Prescription for the Future. The local host chapters include Houston, Missouri City, Gulf Coast Apollo, Golden Triangle, Port City, Texas Spring Cypress, Fort Bend and Greater Pearland. Former and current HBCU presidents, along with five past national presidents of The Links, are among those who will share expertise on leadership development, organizational effectiveness Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris and civic responsibility. The three-day intensive training will focus on national initiatives in mental health, HIV/AIDs and hepatitis C. Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris, the 16th national president and the first physician to lead the 69-yearold organization, said the summit will build on its legacy of service and “impact the transformational work we provide to the communities we serve.” Newell-Harris stressed the importance of the organization’s health initiatives. “I have asked our membership to jump in the deep water and help with education and awareness in mental health, HIV/AIDS and mental health,” she said. “Those three areas are the dark, dirty medical issues people don’t want to talk about,” she said. The Links was established in 1946 by a circle of nine friends in Philadelphia. The friendship chain has grown to nearly 14,000 professional women of color in 281 chapters located in 41 states, the District of Columbia and the Bahamas. Members contribute thousands of service hours in their respective communities through various programs. For more information visit www.linksinc.org.
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BIG NOVEMBER SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 11/3-11/11/2015. MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE AT THESE AND OTHER SALE PRICES NOW THROUGH 1/2/16, EXCEPT AS NOTED. 50731_N5100065J.indd 1
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015
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sports
Arthur Muhammad wrote and directed “Carter High.”
‘Carter High’
Film about Dallas team hits big screen
I
By MAX EDISON Defender
Charles S. Dutton plays Coach James.
n the minds of many high school football experts the 1988 team from Dallas Carter was one of the best the Lone Star State ever produced. The team defeated Odessa Permian to capture the state title, and featured some 18 athletes who earned four-year college scholarships. They had it all, until a player’s greed and the legal system brought the entire program down. It sounds like a plot that would make a good movie, and that’s exactly what Arthur Muhammad thought when he wrote and directed the movie “Carter High,” now in local theaters. The movie stars Charles S. Dutton as Coach James, Vivica A. Fox as Mrs. James, Pooch Hall as Coach Vonner, David Banner as attorney Royce West (now a Dallas state senator) and former Katy and TCU football star Aundre Dean as safety Derric Evans. Muhammad was a wide receiver on the 1988 Carter squad. The story was so compelling he was able to attract the interest of former Dallas Cowboy All-Pro defensive end Greg Ellis, who produced the film. The movie chronicles the team’s 1988 dream season, which was marred by a mysterious report to the University Interscholastic League (UIL) that the Carter Cowboys had a key player who should have been academically ineligible. It shows the court battle that took place that allowed the team to progress from week to week both on and off the The movie chronicles Dallas’ 1988 championship team. gridiron. It also shows how poor choices and stead, who had a Pro Bowl career with the New York the court system ultimately tarnished everything the Giants. team had accomplished. “What makes the story so compelling is that it “The 1988 Carter team was one of the best high features young people making choices, some good school teams ever assembled,” Muhammad said. and some bad,” Muhammad continued. “It’s relevant “Over 18 players received college scholarships, the because the essence of the story resonates in the inner majority to Division 1 schools. We had six guys go on city as well as the suburbs. It’s more than just a movie to play professional football, including Jesse Armabout football. It’s a movie about life and how crucial
Vivica A. Fox stars as Mrs. James.
decisions are.” Ellis echoed Muhammad’s sentiments. “I first became aware of the story during my time in Dallas as a Cowboy,” Ellis recalled. “I couldn’t believe some of the things I heard, very odd, extreme stuff. Arthur has done an outstanding job telling the story and explaining all of the complex angles of that year because he lived through it.” Muhammad offered compliments as well. “They say 70 percent of directing is casting and I think we were blessed with a very talented cast,” he said. “We had some very experienced, accomplished cast members and they did a great job listening and taking directions.”
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h.s.zone Sharpstown puts Yates on playoff life support By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
I
f it wasn’t the death blow, it certainly warrants notifying the next of kin. Sharpstown’s 3428 overtime victory over Yates has the Lions on the brink of elimination from the playoffs for the first since 1977. Following a 49-yard touchdown run by Reginald Todler-Bryant with 6:54 remaining in the fourth quarter, Yates led 28-21 after overcoming a 14-0 first-quarter deficit. Josh Morris caught his third TD pass of the game from quarterback Camren Allen to tie the game (28-28) with nine seconds left in regulation to force overtime. With Yates threatening to score first in OT at the Sharpstown six-yard line, a penalty pushed the ball back to the Apollos’ 11. Two plays later, Morris recorded an interception at the goal line to give his team the ball. Sharpstown coach Charles Perridon, along with quarterback Camren Allen (left) and receiver-defensive back Josh Morris, clinched a playoff berth. Two consecutive Allen to Kameron Smith passes covered the Todler-Bryant and Trevion Gaines had two rushing TDs 25 yards leading to pay dirt, and Sharpstown celebrated the victory. Allen finished with four TD apiece for the Lions while Dugar completed key downfield passes to Carpenter and two PAT passes to Kertius Oreabow passes in the contest. The Apollos improved to 5-1 in District and Christopher Reed, respectively. 20-5A and will play 6-0 North Forest Nov. 5 for a share of the “We’re still alive, we just have to show up and play like district championship. we did against Sharpstown and we’ll be all right,” Ceasar said. Yates’ state-leading streak of 38 consecutive postseason Meanwhile, Sharpstown has clinched a playoff berth appearances is on life support going into the final game of and is excited about the upcomthe regular season against ing prospects. “This was a very longtime rival Madison. exciting game, more exciting than The Lions (3-3) need a vicSee what school celebrated 50th I needed,” said Sharpstown head tory over Madison (5-1) and homecoming with 50 points coach Charles Perridon. Waltrip (3-3) to lose to Lee “We thought that we could (0-6).Yates hasn’t defeated play with them but we didn’t play Madison since 2003 and Waltrip owns the head-to-head tieour game with dropped balls and so forth. Fortunately, we were breaker over Yates. able to come out on top,” Perridon said. “I’m happy for SharpYates and Madison will play Nov. 6 at Butler Stadium. stown. We haven’t been in the playoffs for the last three years.” Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Waltrip plays Lee Nov. 5 at Delmar Morris finished with nine receptions for 88 yards and Stadium (7 p.m.). three touchdowns. The senior two-way performer also made “Our boys played their tails off. They gave it their all and the critical interception in overtime. played hard,” said Yates head coach Jeffery Ceasar. “We rose “That was one of the biggest plays of my high school caback and took the lead but we fell short at the end. If we had reer,” Morris said. “I have to show up because I’m the captain played like this all year, we wouldn’t be in the predicament and one of the leaders of this team. This is an awesome feeling. we’re in now.” It’s a big accomplishment for us,” Morris said. A lethargic Yates offense appeared infused when senior Allen echoed his teammate’s sentiment. “We came quarterback Just’yn Dugar came in for the Lions’ third offentogether as a team today and God had his hand on our shoulsive possession and sophomore Tra’Vonta Carpenter moved to ders,” he said. wide receiver.
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sportsbriefs Charlo gets knockout Undefeated junior middle weight Jermell Charlo (27-0, 12 KOs) earned a sixth-round TKO over Joachim Alcine (35-8-2, 21 KOs) recently at NRG Arena. It was the 25-year-old Charlo’s first main event fight in his hometown. “I established my jab early, and once I was comfortable with my jab, the right hand started landing,” Charlo explained. “I wanted to load up and show that I have power. I knew I was getting to him and wearing him down. It felt great to get the knockout. I knew after the knockdown in the sixth round it was over, but he was a strong fighter.” Charlo has his fingers crossed that his next bout will be a title shot. He has even called out now retired Floyd “Money” Mayweather who has yet to vacate the junior middleweight belts.
Former Panthers drafted A pair of former Prairie View A&M University Panthers was recently selected in the NBA DLeague draft. Jourdan DeMuynck was drafted by the Iowa Energy in the fifth round. He played during the 2011-12 and 2012-13 campaigns at PVAMU. DeMuynck averaged 15.7 points as a senior and earned All-SWAC Second Team honors. Reggis Onwukamuche was drafted in the sixth round by the Bakersfield Jam. He is less than one year removed from his playing career at PVAMU. He was named the SWAC’s Defensive Player of the Year while also earning a spot on the All-SWAC Second Team last season.
Top games on tap The District 22-6A championship will be decided for the second year in a row when Pearland (9-0, 7-0) visits Manvel (8-1, 7-0) Nov. 6 at Alvin Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is 7 p.m. Manvel held off Pearland last year by stopping a two-point conversion that could have sent the game into overtime. “This is going to be a fun game to be involved in,” said Pearland head coach Tony Heath. “We’ve got to neutralize some of their skill people to give ourselves a chance.” Katy and Cinco Ranch will decide the District 19-6A championship on Nov. 7 at 11 a.m. Both schools are 9-0 overall and 6-0 in district play. Katy is coming off an 84-point explosion against Tompkins. Cinco Ranch defeated Strake Jesuit 37-13. Katy has won every game in this series except one. C.E. King travels to Crosby Nov. 6 with the District 21-5A title on the line. King won last year’s battle but Crosby advanced to the state semifinals. Lamar can clinch an outright District 20-6A title with a win over Westside Nov. 6 at Delmar Stadium.
Teams seek perfection The Hightower Hurricanes capped a 10-0 regular season with a 38-20 victory over Kempner. Quarterback Neiko Hollins had two touchdown passes and ran for another score. Hightower recorded its fourth 10-0 campaign and first since 2009. Other Houston area schools striving for perfection in the final game of the regular season includes top-ranked Katy, Cinco Ranch, Clear Creek, Pearland, Crosby, George Ranch, Navasota and Stafford.
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015
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opinion
Stop calling the cops on our students By JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA Columnist
R
ichland County Senior Deputy Sheriff Ben Fields seemed to think the only way he could get a young Black girl out of her seat was to fling her across the room. His brutal attack on her was filmed by one of her classmates, and it’s a good thing he documented the incident. It was said that the young lady punched the officer before Eddie Robinson Jr. started taping, but he indicates that she was quiet and simply refused to get out of her seat. He said she had only taken her phone out for a minute and “she didn’t do anything wrong”. Sheriff Leon Lott announced that Fields had been fired because his behavior was inconsistent with the training he had. But in response to a question at the press conference he held, he reported that Fields did not feel remorseful, that he was sorry the incident happened, but he was “just trying to do his job.” Not only did he brutalize a young girl, but he also arrested another young woman who simply asserted that the officer was wrong to treat her classmate so roughly. No other student said a word, and they were perhaps frightened to speak up. Where are our women’s organizations? Where are our African-American and civil rights organizations? Or our African-American educators? Granted, this is just a few days after the fact and perhaps some of these folks will speak up eventually. Perhaps they are waiting to hear “the facts,” but as Sheriff Lott said there was no excuse for a young lady to be dragged in the way that she was. Sheriff Lott said his community, a suburb of Columbia, South Carolina, was an “orderly” community. He said there were no marches, no confrontation, because “that is not how we do things here.” While the Sheriff did the right thing by firing Fields, his own attitude could stand some adjusting, and perhaps a march might be a way to express dis-
satisfaction at his approach (and that of the school system). In his press conference, he said that Fields’ behavior was inappropriate, but he basically blamed the young lady for her plight. While civil rights leaders routinely turn it out when Black men are beaten or killed, far fewer seem to care about what happens to Black women. From the time that video hit the airwaves there ought to have been cries of outrage (and perhaps they are coming). Ben Fields’ actions should not simply be called “unacceptable” but also criminal. Why did the school call the police anyway? From what I understand, the young lady was not making noise or disrupting class. She failed to comply with a request regarding her cell phone (some say she was asked to put it away, others said she was asked for the phone). Either way, the penalty for
noncompliance should not have been arrest. Last year, the Department of Education released a report that showed African-American and Latino students were suspended or expelled far more frequently than their white counterparts, often getting a different level of punishment for the same offense. Some of the suspensions and expulsions even happen at the preschool level – meaning that 3 and 4-yearold children are being kicked out of school simply because they are little children (who frequently misbehave). According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, around 43 percent of our nation’s public schools had police officers on their grounds during the 2013-2014 school year. Why are officers of the law on school grounds? How often is their behavior inappropriate? It is unlikely that was the first time Fields behaved badly toward a student. Indeed, the student who was arrested for speaking up indicated that Fields had a bad reputation. He was the subject of at least two complaints for excessive force. While Fields has been fired, he needs to be held accountable, sued. But the bigger picture is the criminalization of our young people by arresting them, leaving them with a criminal record for minor offenses. Where are the voices lifted to protect a young woman whose simply “no” earns her a brutal beating? Where are the women, the civil rights leaders, the others who often have something to say? Are they silent because this is a girl? The two young women who were arrested need to be lifted up and affirmed by the African- American community and that sheriff’s office needs to be confronted by the community. Sheriff Lott was gratified because there was no marching. There needs to be.
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NOVEMBER 5 | 2015 D EFENDER
topevents
Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
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CELEBS GIVE BACK HOUSTON…….. Celebs Give Back, a national and community based programs and projects. Guests in attendance included nonprofit that connects celebrities, community leaders and business owners Audrie Lawton, Peggy Le Compte, Jackie Pope, Drema Lee Woldman, Faye together to make a difference in the community, made its way to Houston. Bryant, Bobbie Moorehead, Earnestine Randle-Forest, DiAnn Robinson, The organization hosted its official launch party chapter at Belvedere Lounge Rose Mary McGowan, Anna Kirksey, Mary Catherine Hamilton, Dr. Uptown Park to celebrate the opening of its Houston chapter. Guests were Margaret Ford Fisher, Councilman Larry Green, Gwendolyn Drumgoole asked to bring toys to donate to local charities. Honorees and Connie Trumble……..NAACP HOUSTON included Amobi Okoye, Erin O’Keefe, Darian Ward, FUND GALA……..The NAACP Houston Defender TOP EVENTS FREEDOM Romelia Mata and Chester Pitts. Those in attendance Branch hosted UTS annual Freedom Fund Awards More photos on defendernetwork.com included La’Torria Lemon, Trinelle Thomas, Ruby Gala at the Hilton Americas downtown. With the theme, See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Glass, Sarni Jaye, Britney Turner, Ashley Brooks, “Pursuing Liberty in the Face of Injustice,” the organization with Melanie Lawson on Sunday Morning commemorated 50 years of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 Michelle Whitehead, Brandy Hinds, Kennea Anderson, and honored individuals who have impacted the community. Justin Milburn, Andrea Wilson, Stephanie McKenzie KMJQ radio personality Larry Jones emceed the ceremony. The distinguished and Rin Willis……..TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION GALA…….. The guest list included James Douglas, Yolanda Smith, Anthony Hall Jr., Rev. Houston Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. recently held its 50th Reginald Lillie, Howard Jefferson, Claude Cummings Jr., Carol Mims anniversary celebration, the Golden Anniversary Gala, in the Grand Ballroom Galloway, Marvin Nathan, Sarah Guidry, Alexander Green, Se7en the Poet, of the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel. The event embodied the organization’s mission to enhance and enrich the lives of youth and adults through national Chris Walker, Ernest Walker and a host of others.
La’Torria Lemon, Andrea Wilson
Darian Ward, Romelia Mata, Amobi Okoye, Erin O’Keefe
Earnestine Randle-Forest, Katrice Galloway, Kim Topps
Frances Prince, Eva Perkins
Gwendolyn Drumgoole, Helen Muhammad Eli
Cary and Judge Clarease Yates
Chester Pitts, Justin Iamjustified Milburn
Helen Muhammad Eli, Leslie Griggs, Gwendolyn Solomon, Gwendolyn Drumgoole, Drema Lee Woldman, Earnestine Randle-Forest
James Douglas, Anthony Hall
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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 5 | 2015 defendernetwork.com