Houston Defender: November 17, 2022

Black Caregivers TAKING CARE OF THEMSELVES WHILE TAKING CARE OF OTHERS

ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS

TOMIKIA P. LEGRANDE

The former UH director has been selected to be the next president of Prairie View A&M University.

Volume 92, issue 2 November 17, 2022

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MEGAN THEE STALLION Several influential leaders issue an open letter of support to the Houston rapper.

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DN To the POINT

Marvel’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” dominated the domestic box office in its debut.

Message from the Managing Editor role following his death from colon cancer Welp, it’s official, Donnie has thrown his in 2020. Some super fans aren’t happy with hat into the ring because “everybody wants how T’Challa’s death is addressed, probably him to run.” (Memo to self, see can you because they never quite explain what killed get an interview with these “everybodies.”) him — other than to mention some vague Who cares that he lost in 2020? That he has disease he succumbed to. They pointed out 4,373 pending criminal charges? That all what they see as holes and flaws in the new that “winning” we were going to get tired of, flick that they think a simple recast would’ve never actually manifested. Trump continues fixed. (Head over to DefenderNetwork.com to Trump. He’s only thinking about himself and read some of the critic’s comments). and his galactic-sized ego. I know, journalists Oh, and I read that some Black men were ReShonda Tate are supposed to be objective, but let’s be real, upset with the movie, calling it anti-Black that’s how we got Trump in the first place. Because journalists men. Sigh. Just because we celebrate Black women (and this tried to take the professional road and let Trump and his lies movie with all it’s Black girl magic does just that)...does not run amuck, unchecked. But I digress…I’m not giving much mean we’re against Black men. Okay, brothers? Just give us a credence to Trump’s announcement. Don’t get me wrong, it’s moment to shine and stand nobly as the kings you are. Please not unrealistic to believe that Trump can win again. My pre- and thank you. diction, Trump is trying to have a platform to shout about how all these investigations against him are “rigged.” He’s just going Don’t try this at home to create havoc for the Republicans. But he’s not going to run Houston has lost another young Black man....over some the whole time. Trump knows he lost. And now, NONE of his foolishness. The 25-year-old was dancing atop an 18-wheeler people (Secretary of State election denier candidates) are in as it rolled down a Houston highway last week. I don’t know place to help him steal the election. So he’s going to announce if he was filming a video or just being silly, but he died after his run, grift and take all the people’s money. He’s mad at the colliding with a bridge and falling onto the roadway. The man Republicans and he’s going to freeze them all out until he drops had gotten on top of the cargo portion of the truck without out and it’s too late for them to win. No one who voted for Joe the knowledge of the driver, according to HPD. Police said the Biden is going to say ‘Let me vote for Trump now.’ And these red Kenworth tractor-trailer truck was traveling south in the young people who won all these elections this week still have 2500 block of Eastex Freeway at about 11:35 a.m. last Thursday Roe v. Wade on the mind. So, let’s all just sit back, breathe and when the man dancing on top of it was knocked off as the watch this season of “Who wants to be the GOP nominee.” P.S. truck passed underneath the Tuam Street Bridge. The man – To everyone concerned about holding Dems accountable, died from multiple blunt impact injuries. This is a reminder now’s the time to get to work on that. to talk to the young people in your lives. This trying to going viral, doing crazy things, simply isn’t worth it. Rest in peace Wakanda, Forever and prayers for his family.

No surprise, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever earned $180 million at the domestic box office over the weekend and $150 ON THE WEB million from 50 territories. I saw it opening weekend and it was • The Houston Alumnae Deltas return to celebrating service everything and more. But you know Black folks….we gotta and scholarship in grand style. find something to complain about. The #RecastTChalla move- • Top 10 Houston-Area college & university educators. ment has flooded Twitter with criticism about Marvel/Dis- • Sports Reporter Terrence Harris has the latest college and ney’s decision to not replace Chadwick Boseman in the titular pro news.

Trump is trumping

November 17, 2022 |

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DN News Tomikia LeGrande named next PVAMU president The Texas Tribune

Tomikia P. LeGrande has been selected to be the next president of Prairie View A&M University, one of the state’s two historically Black public universities.

LeGrande, who was announced as the sole finalist for the position by the Texas A&M System Board of Regents, currently serves as the vice president for strategy, enrollment management and student success at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she has worked since 2018.

The announcement kicked off a required 21-day period before the board will take a final vote on the finalist. If officially approved, LeGrande will take over at the end of the current academic year.

“Dr. LeGrande will provide great leadership for the Panthers for many years to come,” said Texas A&M Chancellor John Sharp. “Her experience and leadership in enrollment management and student success is exactly what PVAMU needs at this juncture to build on the great work Ruth Simmons has provided these past five years. I’m excited by where PVAMU is headed.”

Simmons, the current president, announced in March that she would step down. She came to Prairie View in 2017, not long after leaving Brown University, where she had served for a decade. Simmons said she will become president emerita and a professor at PVAMU while also helping

with fundraising and creating a new university leadership training program. Simmons, a Houston native, is widely known as an innovator in the higher education world.

Prairie View A&M’s enrollment currently hovers around 9,200 students, according to preliminary enrollment numbers for the fall semester. That number has remained largely flat even during the COVID-19 pandemic. “ P VA M U h a s a strong legacy of transforming the lives of its students and contributing to the surrounding region and state of Texas, both educationally and economically,” LeGrande said in a statement.

“I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, and community as we honor and build upon the university’s powerful legacy and upward trajectory.”

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ABOUT LEGRANDE EDUCATION: PhD, Higher Education Administration, Texas Tech University Master’s, Chemistry, North Carolina A&T University Bachelor’s, Chemistry, Savannah State University ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE: 2018-2022 Vice President, Strategy, Enrollment Management and Student Success Virginia Commonwealth University 2012-2018 Vice President, Strategic Enrollment Management University of HoustonDowntown Student Affairs/ Enrollment Management administrator 2005-2012 Associate Vice Chancellor, Enrollment Management Winston Salem State University

HARRIS COUNTY ELECTIONS UNDER FIRE Defender News Service

the aforementioned issues along with staffHarris County Elections Administrator ing shortages at some polling places and, Clifford Tatum has found his office at the in at least one case, missing keys to voting center of a lawsuit over the Nov. 8 election. machines that caused a voting center to open The Harris County Republican party has more than four hours late. filed a lawsuit and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican who Abbott is calling for state authorlost Harris County but earned ities to investigate after multiple re-election statewide in his race polling locations opened late on against Democratic challenger Election Day and some ran out Beto O’Rourke, alleged in his of ballot paper, causing delays statement that there was “insuffor voters and prompting a judge ficient paper ballots in Republican to keep voting centers open later Clifford Tatum precincts.” than planned.

“The allegations of election Abbott is asking the Texas Rangers, the improprieties in our state’s largest county Texas Secretary of State and Texas Attorney may result from anything ranging from General’s Office to “initiate investigations malfeasance to blatant criminal conduct,” into allegations of improprieties” into how Abbott said. “Voters in Harris County the midterm election was conducted in Har- deserve to know what happened. Integrity in ris County, which includes Houston and is the election process is essential. To achieve the largest county in the state. that standard, a thorough investigation is The governor said voters were “frus- warranted.” trated by confusion and delays” related to Following the Governor’s call for an

investigation, the Harris County GOP announced its lawsuit, alleging that thousands of voters were turned away from voting for various issues. The most egregious issue, according to party leaders, is that at least 23 polling locations ran out of ballot paper on Election Day. Other problems alleged in the lawsuit included issuing second ballots to voters who had problems scanning their first ballot and posting early voting results before polls officially closed in the extended hour of voting, which they claim violates state law.

Harris County Elections Administrator Clifford Tatum said in a statement that his office is “fully committed to transparency regarding the processes and procedures implemented” during the midterm. He also said Harris County already has been selected to participate in the Secretary of State’s audit of 2022 elections and has been in communication about that with the Secretary of State’s office, which oversees elections in Texas.

Harris County was one of four Texas counties selected to be audited over the 2020 general election.

“The office is currently reviewing issues and claims made about Election Day and will include these findings in a post-elections report to be shared promptly with the Harris County Elections Commission and the County Commissioner Court,” Tatum said.

Abbott’s call for an investigation drew criticism from Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, a Democrat who was not on the ballot this year.

“Taking a page from [Donald] Trump’s 2020 election subversion playbook, Governor Abbott and election deniers across Texas have laid the groundwork to cast doubt on Harris County’s midterm elections for over a year,” Ellis said in a statement.

More than 1 million voters cast midterm ballots in Harris County, which operated 99 polling places during early voting and 782 locations on Election Day.

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DN News BLACK CENSUS

Roadmap for political agenda?

By ReShonda Tate

This combo of undated images provided by University of Virginia Athletics shows NCAA college football players, from left, Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr. and D’Sean Perry.

Community seeks answers in Virginia killings Defender News Service

were “reviewing a potential hazing The 22-year-old University of issue,” they “heard from a student” Virginia student suspected of killing that Jones “made a comment to him three football players and wounding about possessing a gun.” The student two other people was facing school did not see the gun, and the comdisciplinary action after officials ment was not made in conjunction learned he failed to disclose his con- with a threat. UVA investigators also viction last year on a misdemeanor spoke with Jones’ roommate, who concealed weapons “gave no indication charge, a school of the presence of spokesperson said. any weapons,” the Christopher Darstatement said. On nell Jones Jr., a forOct. 27, the UVA mer football player, threat assessment faces three counts of team “escalated his second-degree murcase for disciplinary der and three counts action,” the stateof using a handgun ment said. in the commission Suspect’s father: of a felony, UVA S on was ‘real Police Chief Tim paranoid’ Longo said.

Jones was taken The victims had into custody the day just returned from after the shooting. a school field trip His arrest brought on Nov. 13 when to an end an hoursthey were gunned long manhunt that down on and near prompted an overa school bus on night lockdown on the Charlottesville UVA’s campus, with c ampu s . L ongo about 500 people CHRIS JONES, SR., acknowledged that sheltering in classFATHER OF Jones was known to rooms and libraries.

GUNMAN campus authorities Those killed prior to the shootwere Devin Chaning. Now, with the dler, Lavel Davis Jr. suspect in custody, and D’Sean Perry, attention has turned all UVA football to the school’s past players. dealings with him In 2018, Jones – including an investigation this fall was a freshman running back but into comments he made about having didn’t play in any games, according to a gun. his biography on the athletics departIn September, while UVA officials ment website because of an old injury.

He was real paranoid... about something.

He wouldn’t tell me everything.”

Christopher Darnell Jones Jr.

It was his only season as part of the team. Authorities do not fully understand Jones’ possible motive.

His father, Chris Jones Sr. said some people were picking on his son and he didn’t know how to handle it, the father said of a conversation they had a month ago when his son visited.

He said he advised his son to just go to class and ignore them.

The father apologized for his son’s alleged actions and said he couldn’t believe it was him when he was told the news by police.

Jones is from Petersburg, about 24 miles south of Richmond. He went to Varina High School in Henrico County – about 30 minutes from Petersburg – for three years where he was a star football player, a member of the National Honor Society, president of the Key Club and student of the year as a freshman and sophomore, according to the UVA football website.

The Black Futures Lab is conducting a nationwide survey, hoping to reach 250,000-plus Black Americans to gauge their experiences and how they hope to see things change.

The answers from the lab’s Black Census will give elected officials a roadmap to address the needs of the Black community. Organizers hope to make the survey the largest ever of Black Americans who the political process has marginalized for far too long.

“If you want to take a pulse on what is happening with the country at large, listen and be responsive to Black communities,” said Alicia Garza, principal and founder of the Black Futures Lab, who began designing the Black Census Project after the 2016 election.

“Black voters are the backbone of the Democratic party; yet our needs are often neglected and deprioritized by our elected officials. Black people are dissatisfied with how elected officials have shown up for us after we changed the balance of power in Washington,” she said.

“If our communities are not experiencing concrete action and tangible change,

we risk staying home and not participating at all. In an election season that will determine the direction of the country, we are reminding the entire political apparatus that engaging Black communities early and often is a winning strategy – the Black Census is key to that.”

The lab plans to survey “LGB+ communities, trans communities, incarcerated Black people, Black immigrant communities, and Black people in rural areas.

Black Futures Lab will use the findings to shape a robust public policy agenda focused on the lives of Black people, with an anticipated release of an updated Black agenda,” according to organizers.

“At this moment in American politics, it’s necessary not just to talk at Black people [or] about Black people, but to talk directly to Black people about what it is that we experience every day and what we want for our futures,” said Garza. “For democracy or participatory government to be achieved, you have to talk to everybody who has a stake in it,” she said.

You can take the 10-minute Black Census survey at https://blackcensus.org.

VOLUME 92, ISSUE 2 - NOVEMBER 17, 2022 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Creative Director Michael Grant

Photographers Jimmie Aggison

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate

Social Media Manager Tia Alphonse

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Intern Alaina Bookman

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 2022 copyright.

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

November 17, 2022 |

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DN NewsBriefs Houston students work to end road fatalities in Texas

Texas has not gone a day without a motor vehicle fatality since Nov. 7, 2000.

Now, the Texas Department of Transportation is determined to “End the Streak” of traffic deaths in Texas. In 2021, there were 1,312 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the TxDOT six-county Houston district.

To support the effort, TxDOT recently shared with local motorists the features of its Houston ConnectSmart multi-modal mobility app that can support safe driving.

The new tool can be used to alert drivers when they enter school zones and when they exceed the speed limit in those zones.

The alerts are audible and do not require drivers to avert their attention. Students at the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy are actively engaged in development of the app. The goal is to reduce traffic fatalities in Texas by 2035 and eliminate them altogether by 2050.

Those who download the free Houston ConnectSmart app and use it by Nov. 30, the app’s developer, Metropia Inc., will donate a dollar for every trip you take, up to 10 trips per person and up to $5,000, to the Kailee Mills foundation to promote driver safety education among young people. The app has numerous other safety features such as the ability to recommend

after video posted on social media showed the teacher, who is white, saying to students that he believes his race is superior to others. The students appear to be dumbfounded when he goes on to say that he is racist. Officials say the teacher “is no longer employed” by the district and that the district “is actively looking for a replacement.” The district also apologized to any parents whose students have been included in the video without their knowledge.

Sgt. Stephen Woodard discusses the #EndTheStreak campaign.

safer routes for bicyclists and the ability to help stranded motorists summon a free tow-truck via Tow and Go service where available.

Austin-area teacher fired after telling students he was racist

A Pflugerville teacher is no longer employed by the district after a video surfaced of him describing himself as “ethnocentric.” The teacher still has not been officially identified, but he was a teacher at Bohls Middle School. He was initially placed on administrative leave

Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to call seniors on Thanksgiving

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston’s Meals on Wheels program is seeking volunteers to make phone calls to area homebound seniors on Thanksgiving morning. At this time, 300 volunteers are needed to ensure that the over 5,000 seniors served by Meals on Wheels receive calls. Staff will deliver a special Thanksgiving meal, ahead of the holiday, to seniors on the program.

On Thanksgiving morning, starting at 9 a.m., volunteers are needed to make calls, using a virtual phone bank system.

The EveryAction virtual phone bank system allows volunteers to make calls from their personal computers. It is described as a great holiday activity for the whole

family, one that inspires an “attitude of gratitude” for both the volunteer and the senior. Each volunteer or family will be assigned 15 to 20 seniors to call. For more info visit https://www.imgh.org/events/ thanksgiving2022/ HISD rolls out student designed enrollment truck to reach families

Houston Independent School District is prioritizing equitable access to Houston and surrounding families with a new HISD Mobile Enrollment Unit (E-Unit).

The E-Unit will make its way to families throughout Houston and surrounding areas by stopping through neighborhoods, highly populated areas, local business and local community events to provide assistance with student enrollment every step of the way. HISD families will have the opportunity to use the high-tech enrollment stations inside the truck to enroll at their zoned school or to apply to select schools and programs districtwide.

Families can expect to see the truck in neighborhoods during and after normal working hours.

ONLINE

Read more on newsbriefs

Harris County is Ground Zero for

DWI DEATHS

.

We want you to get home and be able to celebrate with your loved ones this season.

Don’t become a statistic.

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE.

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DN Entertainment

Support Megan Thee Stallion INFLUENTIAL LEADERS SAY: ‘YOU DESERVE TO BE HEARD’

By Raquel Rogers

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and U.S. Representative Maxine Waters are among several politicians and activists who are sending support to Houston rapper Megan Thee Stallion after she said her shooting story is being used for clout.

The Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium partnered with many influential leaders to issue a letter to Megan and denounce violence against women. Megan recently spoke out after she was the apparent target in one of Drake’s lyrics on “Circo Loco,” where he accused the rapper of lying about being shot by Tory Lanez.

Megan, 27, was allegedly shot in the foot

by Lanez, 30, in July 2020, and he was charged that October with two felony counts. He pleaded not guilty to both charges.

In the years since, she has been forced to face critics who support Lanez, and recently said she felt as though she had become “the villain” in the situation.

The letter — which was signed by Jackson Lee, Waters, musician Ethel Cain, MeToo founder Tarana Burke, Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson, and more — expresses regret that Megan has been forced to rehash her trauma so publicly, and so frequently, in the face of doubt.

“While so many of us celebrate you for your strength and perseverance, it must be said that you have been treated in ways that no young woman – no person at all – should be treated,” it reads. “It must be said that our culture has failed you, one of its most brightly shining daughters.” the letter read.

The open letter highlights that an estimated one in three women worldwide has been victims of sexual and/or domestic violence, with higher statistics for Black women, specifically in the United States.

And in addition to the original infliction of harm, the aftermath often includes backlash colored with “humiliation, name-calling, and insults.”

“You may be a boss, the ‘hot girl coach,’ and a bonafide superstar, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t experience pain,” the letter continues. “No one is too ‘bad,’ too famous, too powerful to feel hurt. You’ve had to navigate this deeply difficult experience

in the public eye, and while you’ve managed to stand strong and to keep showing up to work in spite of it all, it can’t be understated how unfair it is that you’re in this position to begin with.”

During an earlier interview with Rolling Stone, Megan Thee Stallion questioned the reasoning behind the doubt cast on her trauma. “I don’t know if people don’t take it seriously because I seem strong,” she said.

“I wonder if it’s because of the way I look.

Is it because I’m not light enough? Is it that I’m not white enough?

READ THE OPEN LETTER IN ITS ENTIRETY.

Am I not the shape? The height? Because I’m not petite? Do I not seem like I’m worth being treated like a woman?”

The letter closes with a statement of support: “We salute you for the bravery it has taken to defend yourself in the court of public opinion, though you shouldn’t have had to do so at all. We raise our voices against those who have made light of this heinous example of violence against women and will drown them out with our demands for society to take what happens to Black women seriously. You are not alone. You are believed, loved, and supported.”

Tory Lanez has been charged in the shooting. In October he was placed on electronic monitoring and house arrest while he awaits trial, which is slated to start Nov. 28.

November 17, 2022 |

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DN Feature WHEELER AVENUE SOCIAL JUSTICE MINISTRY

LIBERATION FROM CHAINS

By Aswad Walker

For some people of faith, politics and social action are believed to be outside the acceptable boundaries of being “religious.” However, for others, like Rev. Dr. Angela Ravin-Anderson and members of the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Social Justice Ministry that she co-leads with Rev. Don Odom, such service is at the very core of religious life.

The Defender spoke with Ravin-Anderson about the Social Justice Ministry, its mission, current actions and future programs.

Defender: When was the

ministry founded?

Rev. Dr. Angela Ravin-Anderson: This

version of our ministry probably started about two years ago, following all of the incidents with George Floyd, and we were getting ready for the presidential election.

So, there was a lot of motivation to organize people to really think through the outcomes that we were seeking for that election. And that was a real impetus for us to begin to kind of really formalize this ministry at that point. Following that election though, we

engagement, legislative reform, criminal justice reform, education reform and then what we call community resource development.

Defender: What do you say to peo-

Reverend Dr. Angela Ravin-Anderson at the Defender / Texas Children’s Hospital-sponsored Early Voting Rally, Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022. Photo by Aswad Walker.

really took some time to structure our ministry in a particular manner.

Defender: What’s the mission

and focus of the ministry?

Ravin-Anderson: Our social justice ministry focuses on dismantling systemic

injustices that are experienced in five different categories. We know as African Americans, we experience systemic injustice along a myriad of spaces and places. But there were five areas that we chose to kind of focus on. And we’ve created subcommittees in those areas. Those five areas include voter

READ WHAT ELSE REV. RAVIN-ANDERSON HAS TO SAY ABOUT WHEELER AVENUE’S SOCIAL JUSTICE MINISTRY

ple who think social justice work has no place in the church?

Ravin-Anderson: I would point them to scripture’s word. God says, “I am the God of justice. I love justice.” I’ll point you to the mission of Christ when He declares in Luke 4, that this is what He’s come to do. We’ve made the gospel be solely about our spiritual being. But in truth, the gospel is good news for all aspects of our lives.

When we look at the story that people are so familiar with, the woman who had the issue of blood, she touches the hymn of Jesus’ garment and the words that He uses are, “You’re saved.” The word “saved” is the same word for “heal.” So, salvation really means whatever it is. And she says immediately she felt freed in her body. So, for us, when we think about these issues of oppression that keep us from living into the fullness of who God has created us to be, that’s the mission of the church.

A N I M P O RTA N T M E S S AG E F R O M M E D I C A R E

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Medicare plans change every year and so can your health. Now’s the time to compare your current Medicare plan to other options and choose the right plan for your health and your budget.

Use Medicare.gov to easily compare options for Medicare health and prescription drug plans.

Do a side-by-side comparison of: · · ·

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Medicare Savings Programs, run by your state, can help lower your healthcare costs.

If you’re single with an income of $20,000 or less, or if you’re married with an income of $25,000 or less, you may be eligible to save with Medicare Savings Programs.

Call your state Medicaid office at 1-800-252-9240.

Find your plan at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048)

Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

8 | November 17, 2022 |

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DN InFocus

BLACK CAREGIVERS I

Taking care of themselves while taking care of others

By ReShonda Tate

t’s a Monday morning in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Shelly Taylor Page is rushing to get to her full-time job as a law professor at Southern Illinois University.

But before she can get out the door, she must contend with her other full-time job as a caregiver to her elderly mother, who has dementia.

“I had to bring my mother from Houston to live with my husband and I here in Tennessee.

And I’m not going to lie, it’s hard,” Page said.

“I walk into her bedroom and she’s packed up everything. I have to find the toothbrush, the comb. I have to explain to her why she’s living in my house because in her mind, it’s 2006.

She’s belligerent and wants to go home. Many mornings, I just burst out crying because I’m tired and I have to get to work.”

Page is grateful for the support of her husband, James, who works from 8 a.m. to noon, and helps out a lot. Support, she says, is crucial.

“The first two months was so hard. I’m yelling at my mom because I didn’t really get it.

I struggle with my weight and she’d call me a fat, ugly b*tch and I would just break down.

My husband steps in to remind me, ‘That’s not your mama saying that, it’s the disease.’ I didn’t get that. So it’s super important to have a serious support network, not just to help you physically, like if you need to run to H-E-B, but mentally,” Page said.

Gigi Taylor

BY THE NUMBERS

November is National Family Caregivers Month, and as the population ages, more caregiving is being provided by people who aren’t health care professionals. Page is one of 4.3 million Americans who have found themselves in such a role. According to AARP/ National Alliance for Caregiving: • African Americans often have more burdensome caregiving situations than their non-Hispanic white or Asian caregiver counterparts. They also tend to be younger, are often unmarried, have poorer health, and frequently have to balance caregiving with full-time jobs.

• More than half of African American caregivers find themselves “sandwiched”

Shelly with her family.

between caring for an older person and a younger person under age 18, or caring for more than one older person.

• African American caregivers are also more likely to reside with the care recipient and spend an average of 20.6 hours per week providing care.

• 66% of African American caregivers are employed full or part-time.

AN ISOLATING EXPERIENCE

Many caregivers are hard pressed to keep together even a small team of immediate family members who are agreeable to contributing.

When those few later disappear, the entire crushing weight lands on the primary caregiver’s shoulders.

According to the AARP/NAC study, over half of caregivers feel they have no choice. As onerous as that sounds, for African Americans, a “majority find a sense of purpose” in caregiving — more than among white caregivers.

That sense of purpose could be defined in religious terms (“doing God’s will”) or family terms (“giving back to someone who took good care of me”). Or it could be about doing right by the community that has done right by you.

SEEK SUPPORT

The need for support has never been greater for African American caregivers, who are becoming older, are more likely to be isolated and to experience care-related strain. In the study, more than a fourth of African American caregivers’ report having no family, friends or neighbors to help them, which makes them solely responsible for all caregiving duties and increases their risk of

CAREGIVER BURNOUT Caregiver burnout is a real thing and it’s not taken lightly by psychologists, who define it as a debilitating psychological condition brought about by unrelieved stress.

WARNING SIGNS:

• Lack of energy • Overwhelming fatigue • Sleep problems (too much or too little) • Changes in eating habits; weight loss or gain • A feeling of hopelessness • Withdrawing from, or losing interest in, activities you once enjoyed • Neglecting your own physical and emotional needs • Feeling like caregiving is controlling your life • Becoming unusually impatient, irritable or argumentative with the person you’re caring for and/or with others

• Anxiety about the future • Depression or mood swings • Headaches, stomachaches, and other physical problems • Lowered resistance to illness PREVENTION Accept help. Needing help doesn’t make

Focus on what you are able to provide. It’s normal to feel guilty some-

times, but understand that no one is a “perfect” caregiver. Believe that you are doing the best you can and making the best decisions you can at any given time.

understand what you may be going through.

Seek social support. Make an effort to stay well-connected with family and friends who can offer nonjudgmental emotional support. Set aside time each week for connecting, even if it’s just a walk with a friend.

Set realistic goals. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time.

Prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine. Begin to say no to requests that are draining, such as hosting holiday meals.

your shoulders by giving you more hours in your day.

Take care of yourself. Don’t skip your

Get connected. Find out about caregiving

Consider respite care. It may be hard to

resources in your community. Many communities have classes specifically about the disease your loved one is facing.

Join a support group. A support group

can provide validation and encouragement, as well as problem-solving strategies for difficult situations. People in support groups

Caregiving can be lonely and tiring and some seek support from outside sources when it gets to be overwhelming.

Page says the adult daycare that her mother attends has been a lifesaver. That and edibles. “Weed is legal here and those edibles

Read more of Shelly’s story on Dealing with Dementia.

work wonders in calming my mother down,” Page said. “Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.”

RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS

www.caregiveraction.org www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/longterm-care/aging-disability-resource-center/ find-adrc

A PERSONAL STORY

you a bad caregiver. It simply means you can’t do it alone -- no one can. Make a list of your daily activities and tasks. Delegate when you can.

own doctor’s appointments because you’re too busy. Make sure to tell your doctor that you’re a caregiver. Exercise, eat well and get enough sleep. Get up 15 minutes earlier and use the time just for you. Sit with your coffee or tea and enjoy it. Journal about your struggles and feelings. Meditate, pray, stretch, etc.

care-related strain.

Other survey findings revealed that about a third of African American and Black caregivers report being more isolated, experience mental health strain and physical health strain due to caregiving.

Check into family-leave benefits from your job. Take a huge weight off

imagine leaving your loved one in someone else’s care, but taking a break can be one of the best things you do for yourself — as well as the person you’re caring for. Most communities have some type of respite care available, such as in-home respite, adult care centers and programs and short-term nursing homes.

By ReShonda Tate

It was Aug. 2013. I had just wrapped a wonderful booksigning for my latest novel in Southwest Houston. As usual, my vibrant, independent mother was in attendance. As the signing wrapped, she complained of a headache and said she was heading home.

Fifteen minutes later, a reader ran back inside and yelled, “I think something happened to your mother!”

I raced outside and found my mother passed out in the parking lot. Thank God she had on white because it was dark and a passer-by just happened to see the white clothing. My mother was rushed to the hospital where she was told those incessant headaches (for which she swallowed Aleve like candy) was actually a grapefruit-sized brain tumor and she would have to undergo surgery asap. After fighting my sister and I (she had a trip to Arkansas the next day that she didn’t want to cancel), she was taken

ReShonda Tate, Nancy Blacknell and Tanisha Tate.

into surgery.

Those were the longest hours of our lives.

Fourteen hours later, we got word that my mother had suffered a stroke during surgery.

Her skull had to be removed and her prognosis was bleak. She couldn’t talk or walk.

But seven surgeries and six hospitals later, my mother was released home.

That’s where our lives changed forever.

My sister, Tanisha Tate, became her primary caregiver, moving into our mother’s home.

To date, she remains her primary caregiver, with my assistance, my mother’s longtime boyfriend, Phil, and a few family members.

When I have my mom, it’s hard. She’s in a wheelchair. She has aphasia, which is the loss of ability to understand or express speech, caused by brain damage. She’s still feisty and knows what she wants, but because she can’t talk or walk, she will always need a caregiver.

I know that if it’s hard for me, it’s ten times tougher for my sister, who is there every single day.

My sister is an inspiration to other caregivers though. She has found a way not to lose herself in caring for our mother.

“I had to find a way to have my own life,” Tanisha said. “I schedule time for self-care.

I get massages regularly. Get my hair done.

I’m active with my sorority. I enlist the help of family members and go places with my friends. It’s important that you don’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself.”

She’s even started a blog – https://whocaresforthecaregiver.net to help others.

I often find myself feeling sad because my mother was such a fierce and independent woman and now requires constant care. But instead, I have chosen to focus on the positive. That despite what doctors said, God had the final say – and she’s still here and He’s given us - especially my sister, the strength to care for her.

Tanisha talks tips for Caregivers.

10 | November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Health

A DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE

November Is Diabetes Awareness Month limb amputations, kidney disease, heart attacks, strokes, and diabetic blindness.

By NDIANABASI MBRIDE, M.D.

Diabetes is a leading cause of disability for people in the United States. The disease occurs when your glucose (blood sugar) level remains too high for too long.

What is glucose?

Glucose is a simple carbohydrate (sugar) that mostly originates from foods you eat. Glucose moves through your bloodstream and puts fuel into your cells to provide energy for muscles, tissues, and even your brain.

What’s the insulin connection?

Insulin is a hormone secreted by your pancreas. It unlocks cells and allows glucose to enter and be utilized as fuel.

If this insulin “fueling station” breaks down, glucose can’t get into cells and floats around in your bloodstream: This is diabetes. Left uncontrolled, this glucose build-up can lead to circulatory problems,

Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 usually occurs in adulthood when your body doesn’t use insulin properly. It’s often called a “silent” disease because in the initial stage symptoms may seem insignificant and be dismissed — until the disease progresses.

FROM THE DOC “Diabetes is a leading cause of disability for people in the United States.”

Dr. Mbride is a boardcertified Family Medicine physician.

Type 2 diabetes early-warning symptoms: • Unusual thirst • Overly frequent (often nighttime) urination • Chronic fatigue • Susceptibility to infections • Sexual dysfunction Type 2 diabetes risk factors: • Being overweight

• Sedentary lifestyle • Being an African American older than 45 • Family history of diabetes

To help lower your risk: • Eat healthy, low-sugar, high-fiber meals.

• Exercise most days of the week.

• Maintain a doctor-recommended weight.

• Avoid tobacco and nicotine in any form.

• Have regular medical checkups.

Cooperate with your doctor to develop lifestyle strategies, and, if necessary, take prescribed glucosecontrolling medication to help manage or prevent this all-tooprevalent disease.

Dr. Mbride welcomes new patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Spring Medical and Diagnostic Center.

Get KelseyConnected

SM

Healthcare That Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, you have an entire healthcare team that can share your medical history through one electronic medical record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you.

Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: Locations close to home and work. Choose the location most convenient for you at kelsey-seybold.com/locations.

24-Hour Nurse Hotline. Speak with a Kelsey-Seybold nurse after 5 p.m. and on holidays and weekends.

MyKelseyOnline. Email your doctor’s office, make appointments, refill prescriptions, view test results, and more.

Appointments today! Book a Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics appointment online at kelsey-seybold.com/NOW.

24-hour Appointment Scheduling:

713-442-0000 | kelsey-seybold.com

November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Health ORAL HEALTH FOR HOUSTON SENIORS

| 11

GET THE BOOSTER!

A mission we can all support

By Dr. Karen Millender and Alicia Johnston

You won’t find many people who love going to the dentist. But we all know it’s important to keep our teeth healthy. Without good dental care, our overall health is at risk, especially for seniors.

CenterWell Senior Primary Care applauds everyone who supports the cause of better oral health, particularly the community groups municipalities, and educational institutions who came together earlier this year to bring the Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) mobile dental clinic to Houston.

The City of Houston Complete Communities, University of Houston Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine and United Methodist churches in Boynton Chapel, Trinity, Trinity East and Riverside were among the supporters. In collaboration with local teams from CenterWell Senior Primary Care and Humana, these valued community partners contributed to TMOM’s mobile dental clinic to deliver more than 2,500 oral health services to residents of Houston’s Third Ward, where lack of resources and access to quality dental care are prevalent.

This dental clinic travels the state organizing two-day events in which volunteer providers perform extractions, fillings and cleanings to relieve pain and prevent more serious health complications. Here in Houston, the clinic made a tremendous impact in the community, providing 2,763 free treatments worth nearly $375,000 to 508 residents For seniors especially, optimal oral health is an essential part of long-term wellness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Older Americans with the poorest oral health tend to be those who are economically disadvantaged, lack insurance, and are members of racial and ethnic minorities.”

Being disabled, homebound or institutionalized (e.g., living in a nursing home) also increases one’s risk of poor oral health, and Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care. Unfortunately, people over 65 – many of whom are on fixed incomes – suffer higher rates of tooth decay, gum disease,

Protect Your Family during the HOLIDAYS

Oral health services being provided.

tooth loss and oral cancer.

Here in Houston, senior dental hygiene is a real public health concern. According to the Houston State of Health public health data portal, about 25% of locals residents over age 60 no longer have any natural teeth. Missing teeth can impact a person’s diet, nutrition and self-confidence, and seniors living in poverty are twice as likely to have lost their teeth. The most recent data shows that 11.2% of Houstonians 65 to 74 live below the poverty line. For those 75 and older, it’s 12.6%.

Good oral health makes a positive impact both physically and emotionally by preventing tooth decay, tooth loss and other health-related complications, as well as boosting one’s sense of self-esteem. That’s why CenterWell and Humana wholeheartedly support the work of the Texas Mission of Mercy. Oral health impacts overall health, and we want to see Houston seniors happy, healthy and smiling.

To learn more about upcoming TMOM initiatives and get involved, visit tdasmiles. org.

Dr. Karen Millender is a physician with CenterWell Senior Primary Care.

Alicia Johnston is a population health strategy lead with Humana.

Get a FREE Vaccination Insurance, payment, and ID are not required AVAILABLE AT THESE LOCATIONS Acres Home Multi-Service Center 6719 W. Montgomery Rd., 77091 Mondays, Wednesdays*: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closes at 11:30 a.m. on second Wednesdays of the month) Fridays: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Hiram Clarke Multi-Service Center 3810 W. Fuqua St., 77045 Tuesdays: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Sunnyside Health Center 4605 Wilmington St., 77051 Mondays: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Wednesdays: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

CLASSIFIED BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT

Sicarria Goodman of Houston, Texas has announced the birth of her daughter, Xahra Aset Swan.

Xahra was born at 6:03 AM, June 1, 2016, at Magnolia Birth Center in Cypress, Texas. Xahra weighed 8 lbs. 3 ounces and was 20 inches long.

The maternal grandparents are Sidney Goodman of Richmond, Texas and Carleen Webb of Alexandria, Louisiana. The paternal grandparents are Donna Swan of Spring, Texas and Roosevelt Swan of Houston, Texas.

more information: bit.ly/FreeVaccinesHouston

ai1668550702208_2022_PCO-30674_AEP_CTW_Houston_The Defender_ENG_4.812x13_11-17-22_F.pdf

12 | November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

For Medicare Patients

Senior primary care for your mind, body and more

My doctor.

My center.

My health.

“I feel like CenterWell provides me with the personal care that I need. I find it easy to make an appointment when I need it.”

AP Photo by Matthew Meade.

Bread of Life, Lucille’s 1913 partner to provide

C

M

Joyce, CenterWell patient

Y

CM

1,000 Thanksgiving meals MY

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CMY

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By Aswad Walker

Two Houston entities with long histories of giving are gearing up to do what they do best—serve the community. Literally.

Bread of Life, Inc. and Lucille’s 1913 have teamed up on an effort to distribute up to 1,000 pre-cooked Thanksgiving meals, household supplies and groceries at a pre-Thanksgiving event at St. John’s United Methodist Church in downtown Houston.

The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 19 from 8a.m. – noon.

Bread of Life, a non-profit organization that provides a full spectrum of services and addresses inequities impacting individuals and families living in the Houston area, was recently awarded a $3.8 million grant from Quest Diagnostics Foundation to fund the Bread of Life Healthy Houston Collective, a multi-year initiative focused on addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities and reduce health inequalities for more than 9,000 people in Houston and Harris County.

Bread of Life will regrant funds to community partners, including Lucille’s 1913, to achieve these goals.

“Thanks to a generous grant from Quest Diagnostics Inc., the Bread of Life Inc. Houston, in partnership with Lucille’s 1913 and Matthew 25 Ministries Inc. will distribute 1,000 Thanksgiving turkeys and side dishes to families this Saturday during our monthly drive-through food and supply distribution on the campus of St. John’s Downtown (2019 Crawford @ Gray, Houston, TX 77002),” said Dr. Rudy Rasmus, pastor of St. John’s Downtown and executive director of Bread of Life Inc. Houston.

The meals will be cooked and packed

by Lucille’s 1913, the non-profit arm of Lucille’s restaurant. Each meal will feed up to four people. Donors like Matthew 25 Ministries, a Proctor & Gamble partner, will contribute household supplies such as cleaning agents, toilet paper and more. The Houston Food Bank will supply additional groceries.

281-609-6150 SeniorFocusedHouston.com

We accept Aetna, Amerigroup, Cigna, Humana, KelseyCare*, Memorial Hermann and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans.

Follow us @CenterWellPrimaryCare to learn about activities and events *KelseyCare contract begins on 1/1/23. CenterWell does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費 獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711).

GCHLSQ4EN

1

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November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 13

DN Business HOUSTON BLACK OWNED VEGAN PIZZA SHOP

Demetrius Walker: Shark Tank Winner

By Laura Onyeneho

When Demetrius Walker launched Meek Vegan Pizza (MVP) in Third Ward in 2021, he never expected the overwhelmingly positive response from the people who weren’t vegan.

What started off as an idea to create healthier cruelty free options for his son was recognized by Shark Tank star Daymond John.

The celebrity business icon awarded MVP the NAACP Powershift Grant made possible by PepsiCo as part of his third annual Black Entrepreneurs Day [powered by Chase] at Harlem’s world-famous Apollo Theater. In the wake of George Floyd’s death John curated the event as a way to educate, inspire, and provide financial support to Black entrepreneurs nationwide.

“Over the past few years, my personal health has become a priority and though I have seen benefits across the board, I know more than anything I am doing it for my family. So, when I heard Meek’s backstory, I was fully on board with his commitment

Founder, president, and chief executive officer of FUBU, Daymond John

to providing healthy food for his son and his community,” said John. “Historically, urban communities have less access to healthy foods and I think Meek’s desire to make Vegan accessible is really commendable.”

Walker also says the funds will help him realize a future goal of his which is to expand across the state of Texas and beyond. MVP pizza’s will be sold at a new location in Iconic

Demetrius Walker owner of Meeks Vegan Pizza in Houston Photo: D’Anthony Lewis

Eatery and Ice Cream Bar located in Dallas and hopes to be in 300 locations in two years.

“Daymond John is somebody who I’ve

idolized for a long time and his commitment to supporting businesses like mine,” Walker said. “This is certainly a huge relief for me because with inflation and the rise in costs of goods, the legal costs around launching a startup, and marketing have been challenging.”

Before launching MVP, Walker had no culinary background or business experience. With the help of the internet, books, the plant-based advocate was able to introduce customers to vegan food in one of the most popular food dishes in the country. He said he hopes to transform the community’s mindset around the kind of food choices that contribute to diet-related disparities.

“The Third Ward is ground zero for Black culture in Houston and it’s a historically Black neighborhood with young innovation and energy,” Walker said. “The vegan scene in Houston is a tight-knit community, and as a New York native, people are open and have good intentions and look out of each other, and that is another important factor we need for Black businesses to sustain collectively.”

defendernetwork.com

Congratulations!

Editor & Publisher Best Black Newspaper Website An Amazing Website Produced

By An Amazing Team!

▲ Aswad Walker

▲ Laura Onyeneho

▲ Sonny Jiles

▲ ReShonda Tate

▲ Clyde Jiles

▲ Terrance Harris

Team Members Not Pictured: • Jodie B. Jiles • Jimmie Aggison • David Wall

14 | November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Prairie View A&M freshman right side volleyball hitter Leila Smalls had a game-high 23 kills and also contributed three blocks during the Panthers’ narrow 3-2 win over Southern.

Sports Briefs Elvin Hayes receives city Proclamation

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner presented former Rockets great and Hall of Famer Elvin Hayes with a procElvin lamation at City Hayes Hall. Hayes, known as Big E, will also have his No. 44 jersey retired by the Rockets during a special ceremony during halftime of Friday night’s game versus the Indiana Pacers. Hayes was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history in 1996 and also made the cut as one of the top 75 players for the NBA’s 75th Anniversary in 2021. A Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee in 1990, Hayes also has his No. 44 jersey retired at UH.

TSU stuns Arizona State

The Texas Southern men’s basketball team coming up with a huge upset over a Power 5 opponent seems like a yearly occurrence now.

Last season, they Zytarious shocked Florida.

Mortle This past weekend, it was Arizona State’s turn. The Tigers stunned the Sun Devils in the waning seconds of the Pac12/SWAC Legacy Series with a 67-66 win after a tip-in basket by freshman swingman Zytarious Mortle with 5.6 seconds remaining followed by a heads-up steal by senior guard P.J. Henry to seal the game.

PVAMU close to division title

The Prairie View A&M football team can clinch its second-straight SWAC West division title with a win in Saturday’s reguBubba lar-season finale at McDowell Mississippi Valley State, which has won just one game all season. The Panthers are 5-5 overall and 5-2 in the SWAC after defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 55-24, on the road last weekend. PVAMU could still win the division with a loss but the Panthers would need both Southern and Alcorn State to lose too.

Texas Southern senior guard P.J. Henry led the Tigers’ men’s basketball team with 22 points, including four 3-pointers in their upset win over Arizona State.

ROCKETS ROOKIE

TARI EASON OFF TO IMPRESSIVE START

By Terrance Harris

The young Rockets have certainly struggled during the early part of the season, but some of their young players are showing flashes of how promising the future could be.

Rookie forward Tari Eason is definitely giving fans a lot to be excited about.

The 17th overall pick in last summer’s NBA Draft has offered glimpses as to why many believe the former University of Cincinnati and LSU product could be the steal of the draft. The versatile forward has been the player the Rockets need off the bench, able to fill up a stat sheet in a hurry.

In a couple of recent outings, Eason scored a career-high 17 points versus the Minnesota Timberwolves on Nov. 5, knocking down 6 of 8 shots from the floor while going 2-for-2 Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) shoots during the second half of from 3-point range in the loss. Then on an NBA basketball game against the LA Clippers in Los Angeles, Monday, Nov. 9, he came off the bench to contribute Oct. 31, 2022. AP Photo/Ashley Landis 14 points, six rebounds, five assists and five steals against the Toronto kind of ran over me before the Defender: How do you feel you are Raptors. game. Obviously, it was some- fitting in with this team?

The 6-foot-8 Eason is Eason: I think I fit really well with this thing you dream about since averaging 8.3 points, 4.9 you were a child. I dreamed team. Someone who is an energy piece. I rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.5 about it as a child so for all can provide a lot of energy off the bench. steals while shooting nearly of that to come to fruition for I’m just a sparkplug for the second unit.

43% from the field and 44% me to play in an NBA game As long as I can go in there and make from 3-point land and logwas super dope for me. It an impact when I get into the game, I’m Tari Eason ging 18.4 minutes a night. would have been better if we happy.”

“It’s been a pleasant surwon it but at the same time, a prise. I didn’t really know what to expect,” lifelong dream came true.

Defender: How are you feeling about the buzz and excitement Rockets coach Stephen Silas said of Eason. Defender: How different surrounding you after how you has the regular season been “He had a good summer league, he doesn’t performed in summer league, from the preseason and NBA need the ball to be successful and that’s preseason and to this point?

Summer League games? always good for a rookie because you don’t get the ball very much.

Eason: I don’t think it’s much different.

Eason: I let the people talk. I try not to “His rebounding has been really good, I think everything I’ve done to this point, get caught up in that sort of thing. That’s not his pace getting up and down the court has all of the work I’ve put in has prepared me something I try to do. I just play basketball. been really good and he just makes plays for these moments so it hasn’t been too difdefensively. To have a guy who does things ferent, it’s just more that it’s official.

Defender: What’s your perfect scenario for how this season plays on both ends of the floor is great.” out for you and the Rockets?

Eason is enjoying the start to his rookie Defender: Can you talk about how have you adjusted to the NBA game season while also staying mindful that he Eason: Get to the playoffs. That’s perfect still has a long way to go. Eason recently sat and NBA lifestyle? case scenario, we get to the playoffs. Get a down with The Defender for an exclusive Eason: I think I’ve adjusted pretty well. top six seed or something like that.” one-on-one interview.

I think with the way I play, how hard I play, Here is what he had to say about his my motor has given me the ability to find Defender: What about your game rookie season to this point. opportunity on the floor, especially being do you feel will be an asset to this a rookie. I think my adjustment has been team?

Defender: What was it like pretty well, obviously still learning things.

Eason: I feel like I do a little bit of going into your first official The lifestyle, I haven’t played 82 games yet everything. I can rebound, I can defend, NBA game this season? so I will have to get back to you on that. I can pass…really whatever the coach Eason: It was just a super special expe- Other than that, I think my adjustment is needs me to do. That’s a part of my game, rience, my first NBA game. The emotions going pretty well. my versatility.

November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 15

DN Sports

CINDY TCHOUANGWA & TENDAI TITLEY KATY TOMPKINS DUO TO WATCH

By Jodie B. Jiles

After being ranked as the eighth best volleyball team in Texas by Max Preps, the Katy Tompkins Falcons have exceeded expectations after securing a spot in the state championship and sweeping the Regional Semifinals and Final in six straight sets.

After watching the Falcons in the regional rounds, there is no question that seniors Cindy Tchouangwa, a Rice University commit, and Tendai Titley, a Bradley University commit, are impact players.

Tchouangwa is the motor that keeps the team going. Her athleticism at the net makes her a force to be reckoned with offensively and defensively because she can basically jump out of the gym. It appears that she delivers harder spikes and more aggressive blocks at the net as the game draws closer to the end.

Tendai’s game is fundamentally sound on every level. She is a natural-born leader who assumes the role of player-coach on the floor, continuously communicating with teammates to ensure everyone is on the same page. Titley is a winner who never loses her cool. You will get the same Tendai when they are winning or losing -- a true champion’s spirit.

The Defender spoke with the duo after the regionals to discuss their journey to state, keys to success and more.

ABOUT CINDY TCHOUANGWA Instagram: @stargirl.inc Player she studies: Chloe Chicoine (McCutcheon HS, Indiana) Favorite Artist: 21 Savage Shout-outs: “Me because I had a bad year mentally with playing volleyball and I picked myself up.

And shout-out to my team because a lot of people said we couldn’t do it.”

STYLE OF PLAY Tchouangwa: “It is very intense and aggressive but I still manage a way to compose myself.”

Titley: “I play hard and fight for every point. I never give up.”

BIG ENERGY Tchouangwa: “It is really all about communication and talking about what is going on. And I think every point matters. So even when it is a little thing we celebrate like crazy.”

ABOUT TENDAI TITLEY Instagram: @tendaititley Players She Studies: Her sister and Morgan Hentz Hobby: Travel Shout-outs: “My parents, my sister and my brotherin-law Blake.”

SENIOR LEADERSHIP Titley: “We just hold each other accountable, even the underclassmen. We really want them to succeed, we don’t let anyone take plays off, and just constantly reminding each other ‘don’t take a play off ’”.

SPIKE GAME Tchouangwa: “I really focus on my technique with hitting because sometimes it can get out of control.

So, I like to go slow to fast and really dominate.”

NET GAME Titley: “I was definitely focused on the hitters I was in charge of. So

I was keeping an eye on them and calling them out to my teammates so that they can help me out.”

KEYS TO SUCCESS Tchouangwa: “Being confident and calm. And another big key is meditation and positive affirmations before games.”

Titley: “Staying focused. It is really easy to get distracted while playing…Between plays I take a breath and just calm my emotions down.”

HOW STATE WILL BE WON Tchouangwa: “I think playing together, staying up, starting strong, and playing to our standard.”

RICE COMMITMENT Tchouangwa: “I like the coaching staff because they are really honest, and when I did camps there I felt like they pushed me.”

ADVICE TO OTHERS Titley: “Keep fighting and keep getting better. Keep grinding because literally anything is possible. Stay in the gym, keep working and always critique yourself.”

16 | November 17, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

11/11

Honoring those who serve

24/7

With over 200,000 veterans and service men and women reentering the workforce each year, Bank of America is supporting the unique needs of our heroes as they transition to civilian life and careers.

Some steps we’re taking to support veterans and military members: • Offering free online resources through BetterMoneyHabits.com on topics specific to them, from home buying to retirement • Expanding the number of financial centers near military installations to address the needs of military customers • Continuing our hiring momentum — more than 15% of our new hires are military veterans My teammates and I here in Houston are proud to support our military service men and women, especially as we celebrate Veterans Day. Thank you for your service.

Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston

What would you like the power to do?® Learn more at bankofamerica.com/houston

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