December 12, 2024

Houston Youth boxing, a real

KNOCK-OUT NEWS

NEWS

EDWARD POLLARD

REV. HARVEY CLEMONS

The District J Councilman seeks a revised HFD misconduct accountability agreement.

Volume 94, issue 8 December 12, 2024

Pastor under fire as city officials investigate conditions at a 5th Ward senior living center.

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2 | December 12, 2024 |

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DN To the POINT DEFENDER ROUNDTABLE

Rap mogul Shawn “Jay Z” Carter has been caught up in the controversy surrounding Diddy. Getty

Reporter’s Message to go back to the people. But we have to The allegations against Jay-Z by a woman end it.” The claim that the U.S. is the “only who alleges she was sexually assaulted by country” offering birthright citizenship is him and P.Diddy at the same party in 2000 completely false, as numerous countries, have created a whirlwind of public scrutiny, including Canada and Mexico, have simand rightly so, because accountability for ilar unrestricted policies. Realistically, it serious accusations like these is essential. would be extremely hard to overturn the However, the knee-jerk reaction of label14th Amendment, but these days anying someone guilty by association without thing can happen. After all, who would concrete evidence is a serious problem with have thought we would have Trump in people on social media, especially those office again?

Laura Onyeneho who thrive off drama. Social media often becomes a courtroom where public opinion acts as judge Nikki Giovanni’s connection to Houston and jury, ignoring due process. Tony Buzbee’s involvement The recent passing of Nikki Giovanni is a profound loss brings attention to this case, but his high-profile tactics can to the literary world and to all who were touched by her sometimes blur the line between seeking justice and fueling words and activism. Her connection to Houston only deepa media spectacle. ens the sadness of her loss. Giovanni left an indelible mark Jay-Z’s statement about being blackmailed is another on Houston’s cultural landscape, from her powerful talks at example where the accused may face reputational damage the University of Houston to her role as Writer-in-Residence even if proven innocent. This is a critical reminder that while at Prairie View A&M University’s Toni Morrison Writing we must take accusations seriously, we also owe it to all Program. Her poetry celebrated Black resilience, joy, and parties to withhold judgment until the facts are established. struggle, resonating deeply with Houston’s vibrant African Let’s focus on ensuring a thorough investigation and avoid American community. Mayor Sylvester Turner’s declaration falling into the trap of sensationalism. of “Nikki Giovanni Day” in 2022 showed the city’s love and appreciation for her contributions. As we reflect on her life, Trump’s plan to end birthright citizenship let’s honor her legacy by continuing to celebrate Black voices Trump’s call to end birthright citizenship is not just and ensuring her work inspires future generations. unconstitutional—it’s blatantly misleading. He plans on making good on campaign promises aiming to restrict On The Web: immigration and redefining what it means to be American.

• Defender Roundtable: How can Black people combat Obviously, he was asked how he would accomplish this, the anti-DEI and Project 2025 narrative? and he had no direct or reassuring answer except to say, • What can a man get from a wife, but not a girlfriend?

“Well, we’re going to have to change it. We’ll maybe have • Top 5 - Black holiday movie dinner scenes.

Jay-Z: Innocent until proven guilty

December 12, 2024 |

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DN News HISD BOARD MEETING CHAOS

Parents, group clash over explicit content

By Tannistha Sinha

Chaos erupted at the latest HISD board meeting after a group of protestors read explicit content allegedly found in Houston ISD’s libraries.

A few speakers wore “God first” t-shirts and addressed HISD superintendent Mike Miles and the board of managers, claiming children in schools can access books containing graphic and pornographic descriptions, a claim the district denies.

Members of the group read excerpts that contained profanities and HISD school board president Audrey Momanaee, who moderates most of the board meetings, warned against using inappropriate words with students present.

Security escorted the group out, where they clashed with enraged parents.

What parents said Parents at the meeting caused a commotion to stop the group from using further profanities.

Anita Wardhan, an HISD parent of a sixthgrader, changed her speech to express her solidarity with the district’s queer students.

“We love you queer youth, trans youth,” Wardhan said. “For the board to allow that shows a lack of regard but we love you. Transgender students are brave…They have the right to have their own name.”

“They’re picking out books from the internet of books that may not be there,” added speaker Cheryl Hensley. “Right now our libraries are closed, the majority of them, so there’s not gonna be these books on the shelf.”

Kathi Beasley said the school board stops speakers from using words like “hell” and “damn,” which is a disproportionate rebuke when compared with the excerpts that the group read.

What the protesters said Pastor Richard Vega and his group of protesters told the Defender their stance is very clear—to get “all the sexually unsuitable, educationally unsuitable and sexually explicit books out of the libraries.”

They also argued that if such books could be found in school libraries, the protestors would be allowed to read passages from them.

Protesters held signs containing sexual content, including excerpts from books

The HISD school board asked the group speakers to refrain from using profanities during their speech.

Credit: Tannistha Sinha

and photos, and said access to these books can cause mental “harm to students.” They claimed HISD purchased these books for Chavez and Milby High Schools.

Protesters named books like Let’s Talk About It: The Teen’s Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human by Erika Moen and

Matthew Nolan, Gender Queer: A Memoir

by Maia Kobabe, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews and Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You by Kathryn Gonzales.

“It’s straight pornography. It’s extreme sexual vulgarity and sexual content,” Vega said.

“Why is this allowed in our school? Why are we spending money on these types of books and not on resources for our children? Why is not this type of stuff stopped so we can be able to give our kids tutoring and get them back on grade level.”

Upon being asked to leave, Raul Reza said the uproar was simply because of a difference in opinion and that all speakers should be allowed a voice. Reza, who has been imprisoned twice—for 18 months and again for 10 years—said he pulled inspiration from his own prison experiences to warn against the distribution of books that “harm children.”

“We believe that these books that are in these high schools and junior highs are very explicit and they’re taking our innocence from our children,” Reza said. “We believe that we should stand up and stop this agenda. We don’t have no hate towards nobody.”

CITY COUNCILMAN

Edward Pollard seeks revised HFD misconduct accountability agreement CURRENT ISSUE The “current event” to which Pollard referred is the City Council’s current consideration of an $850,000 settlement payment to a former female firefighter who endured sexual harassment on the job.

“Her case highlights the very real consequences of insufficient protections in our workplace policies. Because of the 180-day rule, she was forced to pursue legal action against the city to seek justice—a situation that could have been avoided if proper mechanisms for accountability were in place,” Pollard explained in the letter.

By Aswad Walker

Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard hopes to renegotiate and revise the 180-day misconduct rule in the firefighter settlement agreement.

In a letter addressed to Mayor John Whitmire and Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association President Marty Lancton, the District Pollard J councilmember wants to spur city leaders to move forward on an issue that has plagued the city for years.

180-DAY RULE EXPLAINED The 180-day misconduct rule is viewed by many as controversial because detractors argue it does more to protect and benefit abusers than victims of abuse by limiting the city’s ability to investigate misconduct after 180 days from the incident, regardless of when the misconduct is discovered.

Pollard told the Defender: “Pursuing a change to the 180-day rule is essential right now because this moment demands accountability and justice. Recent events have shown us the real harm caused when systems fail to protect victims and instead shield abusers. By addressing this rule, we’re not only fixing a policy that undermines

Council Member Edward Pollard urges a revision of the Houston Fire Department’s controversial 180-day misconduct rule to enhance accountability and protect victims. Credit: Lucio Vasquez/Houston Public Media.

trust but also sending a clear message that Houston will not tolerate workplace misconduct, discrimination, or harassment— no matter how long it takes for the truth to come to light.”

“While I deeply respect and value the essential work that our firefighters do to protect our city, I firmly believe this provision could have serious long-term consequences for the integrity of our Fire

Department and the trust placed in it by Houstonians, and I urge both sides to return to the negotiation table to revisit this issue, especially in light of current events,” Pollard wrote.

WHITMIRE’S RESPONSE According to a spokesperson for Whitmire, the mayor is not convinced Pollard’s motivations are sincere.

“The council member’s letter attempts to play politics on a very serious issue and does not accurately represent the relevant facts. The incident occurred during the previous administration, and the firefighter in question is no longer with the department. The firefighters’ union contract reflects state law and the same in this regard as in previous contracts,” Whitmire’s spokesperson told the Defender.

READ THE REST OF THE STORY AND HOW THE AGREEMENT PROTECTS VICTIMS.

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DN News More than 50 teachers named in cheating scandal

By ReShonda Tate

Houston lawyer Tony Buzbee holds a news conference at his office announcing that he’s representing 120 accusers who have come forward with sexual misconduct allegations against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, Oct. 1, 2024, in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/AP

Tony Buzbee responds to Jay Z claims of fraud Defender News Service

Houston attorney Tony Buzbee is speaking out after music mogul Jay Z blasted him as “a fraud.” Buzbee recently filed an amended lawsuit accusing rapper Jay-Z of raping a 13-year-old girl in 2000, allegedly alongside Sean “Diddy” Combs.

The anonymous accuser, referred to only as “Jane Doe,” claims the assault occurred after she was driven to an MTV Video Music Awards afterparty. Initially filed in October by Buzbee, the federal lawsuit named Sean “Diddy” Combs as a defendant.

The lawsuit was refiled last week to include Jay-Z, whose legal name is Shawn Carter.

In response to the amended lawsuit, Jay-Z and his Roc Nation team issued a statement on X. “My lawyer received a blackmail attempt, called a demand letter, from a ‘lawyer’ named Tony Buzbee,” Carter wrote. “What he had calculated was the nature of these allegations and the public scrutiny would make me want to settle.

No sir, it had the opposite effect! It made me want to expose you for the fraud you are in a VERY public fashion. So no, I will not give you ONE RED PENNY!!”

Carter further addressed the

Jay Z

nature of the accusations, urging Buzbee to take the matter to criminal court. “These allegations are so heinous in nature that I implore you to file a criminal complaint, not a civil one!! Whomever would commit such a crime against a minor should be locked away, would you not agree?”

Carter wrote. He also expressed his concern about the personal toll the lawsuit is taking on his family. “My only heartbreak is for my family.

My wife and I will have to sit our

children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people.”

In turn, Tony Buzbee fired back with his own statement, accusing Carter of attempting to silence him and his client. “Regarding the Jay-Z case and his efforts to silence my clients: Mr. Carter previously denied being the one who sued me and my firm. He filed his frivolous case under a pseudonym. What he fails to say in his recent statement is my firm sent his lawyer a demand letter on behalf of an alleged victim and that victim never demanded a penny from him. Instead, she only sought a confidential mediation.”

Buzbee continued, “Since I sent the letter on her behalf, Mr. Carter has not only sued me, but he has tried to bully and harass me and this plaintiff. His conduct has had the opposite impact. She is emboldened. I’m very proud of her resolve.”

Buzbee emphasized that the case will be litigated in court and not in the media. “As far as the allegations in the complaint filed, we will let the filing speak for itself,” he added.

Nearly 50 public school teachers from the Houston area were named by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for allegedly obtaining fraudulent teacher certifications as part of a widespread scheme that originated in Houston.

Vincent Grayson, the basketball coach at Booker T. Washington High School, along with Washington assistant principal Nicholas Newton and Yates High School assistant principal LaShonda Roberts, were arrested in October and charged with engaging in organized criminal activity. They are accused of orchestrating the cheating ring, in which teachers paid thousands of dollars for someone else to take the certification exam on their behalf, according to court documents from Harris County.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg confirmed in October that more than 200 teachers statewide were suspected of obtaining fraudulent certifications through this scheme.

The TEA released a list of over 100 teachers currently under investigation for their potential involvement.

“TEA fully expects additional investigations to be opened as the agency continues to gather information,” said a TEA spokesperson in an email.

The list includes teachers who have worked, or are currently employed, in districts such as Alvin ISD, Conroe ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Fort Bend ISD, Galena Park ISD, Houston ISD, Katy ISD, Pearland ISD, Spring ISD, and Spring Branch ISD. Among the names, 15 individuals are linked to Houston ISD, including Grayson, Newton, and Roberts.

“It’s unfortunate that a small group of individuals, among HISD’s more than 10,000 dedicated educators, allegedly attempted to cheat the system and undermine the trust of Houston’s students,” the school district stated. “All individuals See the involved have been removed from their list of positions and reassigned pending the outnames come of the state’s investigation.”

VOLUME 94, NUMBER 8 - DECEMBER 12, 2024 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Cultural Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Education Reporter Tannistha Sinha

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Content Manager Terrance Harris Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Video Editor Bryan Erdy

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 2024 copyright.

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

December 12, 2024 |

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DN News

Ashley circulated photos of the moss-covered walls and sewage-flooded floors to the City Council, which alarmed them. Credit: Tonya Ashley

Mold and sewage in Fifth Ward senior living center raise concerns Whistleblower Tonya Ashley presented troubling images during a public meeting, revealing inadequate living conditions for residents, including her mother Tannistha Sinha

City council officials are investigating Pleasant Hill Village Retirement Community, an affordable Black-majority senior living center in the Fifth Ward, after whistleblower Tonya Ashley circulated photos of moss-covered walls and sewage-flooded floors at a City Hall public meeting earlier this month.

She explained to the council members the “deplorable conditions” in which her 73-year-old mother, Gloria Thomas, lived in a two-bedroom unit for over three years.

In another room was the dumpster, where trash from floors above emptied into.

The images disturbed the officials. Councilmember Willie Davis, representatives from Mayor John Whitmire’s office, and City Health Department officials visited the site, comprising 165 units. The officials then met with Rev. Harvey Clemons Jr., who currently serves at the helm of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

In a private meeting, Clemons Jr. told Davis that the property’s management company had not informed him of the building’s conditions. Clemons quickly clarified that the management company had been terminated, and a forensic accountant had been

hired to assess its work.

Clemons Jr. is a native Houstonian born and raised in the Fifth Ward community.

The church’s Community Development Corporation (CDC) that owns the property and of which the pastor is the president, have since been under scrutiny from the mayor’s administration for lack of oversight and handling of government funds.

in court to compensate them for their loss.

What Clemons said

What happened?

When Ashley, a real estate agent, visited her mother, she found Thomas’ apartment floors flooded with sewage water. The buildup began the day before. The management company that supervised the property had gone home for the day and sent a crew to alleviate the situation, which did not help.

Thomas woke up the next morning to water “everywhere.”

Ashley explored other units when she saw the mold. She recalled Thomas telling her repeatedly she felt ill and showing signs of skin abnormalities and suspected a link between the mold and her mother’s deteriorating health.

“The mold was from the floor going up the wall. It was already on the ceiling,” she said, noticing the strong smell that accompanied what she saw. “It’s by the grace of God that she’s still living and breathing. The hallways always smelled bad. She would always be burning candles, spraying Lysol.”

Other residents of the building told Ashley they complained of mold for months.

“You don’t want to get sick yourself, huh?”

Ashley wondered in retrospect. “You know what else gets me about him? You a Black man, a Black preacher, and you are killing your own people.”

Currently, there is no federal law covering a landlord’s responsibilities when it comes

Ashley discovered the mold in other units when she visited her mother at her sewage-filled apartment earlier this month. Credit: Tannistha Sinha

to mold, which can start to develop on surfaces within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. Texas also does not codify any laws that require a landlord’s duties or liability in mold prevention and remediation. Tenants harmed by mold concentrations have the right to recover damages from their landlord

Clemons Jr. said residents were immediately relocated after complaints of sewage reached his office, but not until the Houston Housing Authority approved the request.

He said his 89-year-old sister also lives on that property, and had it been “unsafe and unhealthy,” he would not let her live there.

He also categorically denied housing seniors in mold-affected units, maintaining those apartments were empty and were “taken offline” after sewage backed up repeatedly on the first floor. He stated that was also the reason why these units would no longer be repaired.

He also denied claims of mishandling funds when he presented his side at the last city council meeting. He said he used the funds for renovation, landscaping, irrigation, carpentry, roofing, flooring, painting, plumbing, cooling systems, and life safety measures, but at $20,000 “a door,” it was not enough. He added that the rent, capped at 60% Area Medium Income (AMI) and $874 for a one-bedroom apartment, is insufficient to cover the routine maintenance and renovations of these properties.

“I wish there were a way that you [Mayor Whitmire] and I could keep people from criticizing the work we do, whether good or bad. When we are doing our jobs as public officials, we cannot stop people from coming to criticize our work.”

REV. HARVEY CLEMONS JR.

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DN InFocus A lot of kids, they’re hungry. They wanna become someone.

They wanna become champions. And not only our gym but other gyms, if they give the opportunity to kids, I think pretty much they’re doing a good job to keep these kids off the streets. If they’re hungry for something, why not support them?”

Marcus Johnson, Freudis Rojas, Mario Simpson and Pamela Walker. Credit: Aswad Walker.

LAURA ROJAS

Matthew Simpson (left) sparing. Credit: Aswad Walker.

Matthew Simpson (third from left), surrounded by two of his coaches and father, is an example of Houston’s powerful youth boxing scene. Credit: Aswad Walker.

HOUSTON’S SCENE

YOUTH BOXING: A REAL KNOCK-OUT I

By Aswad Walker

t’s a cool November night, and in one corner of a nondescript strip center, Matthew Simpson is just one of many individuals, from pre-teens to adults, packed into a gym reeking of sweat, grit, and sacrifice.

Simpson, aka “Young Matt Spice,” is working out at 0 to 100 Boxing Club, a gym near what used to be Sharpstown Mall. The gym is as gritty as Sharpstown Mall’s reputation was just before it died a slow, painful death.

But there’s nothing lifeless about 0 to 100, or Simpson. It’s a Tuesday night and the place is bustling with energy.

And dreams.

Simpson, a Randall High School 9th grader, is hard at work honing his craft for the fast-approaching USA 2024 Boxing National Championships, Dec. 16 – 21 in Richmond, VA. An all-around athlete, Simpson “retired”

other sports when introduced to boxing.

“It was actually seeing this boxer named Shakur Stevenson,” said Simpson. “He inspired me to do a lot of great things in this sport. Just watching him accomplish so much inspired me.”

“The US championships is for all the elite boxers out there,” said Simpson’s father, Mario Simpson. “We hope to get that ranked number one spot. That’s what we’ve been training so hard for.”

Though this particular November evening finds Simpson at 0 to 100, he officially boxes out of Fifth Ward’s Prince Boxing Gym (3000 Jensen Dr., Houston, 77026), owned by local hip-hop legend J. Prince.

SIMPSON’S STORY

But the fact that Simpson willingly grinds for hours in anybody’s gym is due, like so many other young boxers, to exposures made possible by his parents.

“His mother (Pamela Walker) brought him to the gym when Matt was about three years old. He put the gloves on, he looked good with the gloves and he wanted to throw punches. It caught my eye, and I was like, ‘Maybe that’s something we may try,’” said the elder Simpson.

“Matt loves all sports, especially football, but he got tired of taking those licks,” recalled Walker. “That year, between little league and school sports, we had the pandemic. Then Matt got into training and was just playing around on the heavy bag and was noticed by a gentleman who said, ‘Hey, let me work with your son for the strength and conditioning part of it.’ Then, there was a match and Matt did well. And there was another match and it’s just gone from there.”

Stevenson, Matt’s inspiration, has held multiple world championships in three weight classes from featherweight to lightweight. Before that, he was a dynamic

amateur fighter who represented the U.S. at the 2016 Summer Olympics, winning a silver medal as a bantamweight.

Young Matt Spice seeks to establish himself similarly. But he is nowhere near alone.

HOUSTON’S YOUTH BOXING SCENE

Though it’s not headline news, Houston quietly has developed a solid reputation for producing highly talented boxers, amateur and pro.

In fact, former World Heavyweight Champion George Foreman wasn’t the only Houston-area product to fight Muhammad Ali. Cleveland Williams took on “The Greatest” in the Astrodome in 1966. Additionally, Renaldo Snipes, Roscoe Hill, Jermell and Jermall Charlo and others have made names on the national boxing scene, after beginning their journeys in the Bayou City.

Just two years ago, Houstonians Danny and Steven Grandy came to the public’s

SEE HOUSTON’S YOUTH BOXING SCENE FROM A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE.

attention as up-and-coming boxing brothers, ranking No. 1 and No. 2 in the nation in their respective youth boxing divisions. Earlier this year, Steven won his first fight as a 17-yearold professional.

So, to local boxing coaches, Houston’s punching power comes as no surprise.

One of those coaches, Marcus Johnson, gives Houston’s youth boxing scene two thumbs up, in part because of the city’s 70-plus gyms. And Johnson should know.

He had a lengthy and successful amateur boxing career, winning multiple national tournaments including the National Silver Gloves. He also had a nice pro career.

Currently, he’s coaching Simpson.

“This is my time to give back to the youth,”

said Johnson, whose father boxed in the Army and introduced Johnson and his older brother to the sport.

Johnson coaches Simpson alongside Antonio “Kool-Aid” Ortega.

“There’s a whole lot of talented kids around here, from the Blacks and Hispanics to the whites,” said Ortega. “There’s a lot of talented kids here in Houston.”

“The majority of top boxers are from Houston,” declared 0 to 100 Strength and Conditioning Coach William Alvarez. “From amateurs to pros, there’s plenty. We have over 70-plus gyms in Houston and a lot of these kids, they’re just built different nowadays…

I’ve seen several amateurs that could match up with the pros.”

MOTHER ENDORSED

Laura Rojas, who has two sons and a daughter who are pro boxers and another daughter who coaches boxing, agrees that Houston is the place for practitioners of the “sweet science.”

“A lot of kids, they’re hungry. They wanna become someone. They wanna become champions,” said Rojas, whose husband Freudis (Coach Fredd) Rojas runs 0 to 100.

“And not only our gym but other gyms, if they give the opportunity to kids, I think pretty much they’re doing a good job to keep these kids off the streets. If they’re hungry for something, why not support them?”

“This 0 to 100 Boxing Club was my two boys’ desire. They decided to open a gym in

this area here to reach all those teenagers on the street doing things they’re not supposed to do. That’s why 0 to 100 sits here right now, to build champions,” said Freudis, who has seen Simpson grow from a beginner to who he describes as a “masterpiece of boxing.”

Simpson’s mom appreciates Houston’s boxing scene, as well as the national oversight.

“Once you get serious about boxing you have to register through Team USA. So, Matt’s a registered boxer with Team USA. He has his certification number. He has to take his safe sports classes where he understands the dynamics of working within the sport. Also, all of his matches are sanctioned through that organization. And then the wins and losses are tracked that way so that when they do national rankings up to the Golden Gloves, Junior Olympics, and the Nationals, they have it all registered through Team USA boxing,” said Walker.

8 | December 12, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature Internet crimes resulted in a loss of more than $37 billion last year. Getty

Watch out for holiday scams use credit cards instead of debit cards for The holidays are a time for celebration, added protection. gift-giving and joy—but it’s also a prime opportunity for scammers to take advan- 2. Gift Card Scams tage of unsuspecting consumers.

Gift cards are a favorite tool for scamWith more people shopping online, mers, especially during the holidays. traveling and donating to charity, fraud- Fraudsters may pose as a friend, family sters find new ways to trick individuals out member, or even a company, urging you of their money. to buy gift cards as a quick solution to an The FBI recently warned consumers emergency or to claim a prize. Scammers about online scams as the holiday shop- may ask you to share the card number and ping season begins.

PIN, then use or resell the cards, leaving “Don’t let #holiday excitement cloud you with nothing. Always verify the legityour judgment! Always verify the legiti- imacy of such requests directly through a macy of online retailers and be cautious phone call or trusted contact. with unsolicited offers,” the FBI said on X. A 2023 report from the Internet Crime 3. Travel Scams Complaint Center found that non-payTravel-related fraud is another common ment and non-delivery scams cost con- scam during the holiday season. Fraudsters sumers more than $309 million last year may advertise incredible vacation deals and credit card fraud resulted in an addi- or discounts on flights and hotels, only tional $173 million in losses. to steal personal information or make off The FBI provides ways for with deposits. If you see a consumers to protect themselves deal that seems too good to against scams, such as refraining be true, research the travel from clicking suspicious links, company thoroughly, look being discerning with passfor customer reviews, and word change requests, knowing avoid clicking on unfamiliar who they are purchasing items email links. from online, being careful with HOW TO payment methods, and track4. Charity Scams PROTECT ing packages and addresses of The holidays are a time of YOURSELF. cardholders. giving, and unfortunately, Experts warn you to be extra scammers take advantage vigilant this year to avoid falling of this goodwill. Fake charvictim to these holiday scams. ities often reach out for donations, especially during major natu1. Online Shopping Scams ral disasters or times of crisis. Scammers The rise in online shopping has led to an may even mimic well-known organizaincrease in fraudulent websites, especially tions to trick people into donating money those offering “too good to be true” deals. or personal information. To avoid these Scammers often set up fake e-commerce scams, research the charity before donatsites that look legitimate at first glance ing, and use trusted platforms like Charbut disappear once they’ve collected pay- ity Navigator to verify the legitimacy of an ment information. To avoid these scams, organization. shoppers should stick to well-known websites, ensure the URL starts with 5. Phishing Emails and Texts “https://” (indicating a secure site), and Phishing attempts surge during the

By ReShonda Tate

holidays as scammers look to capitalize on increased online activity. These fraudulent emails or text messages often claim to be from retailers, banks, or delivery services, asking for personal information or directing you to a fake website. If you receive an unsolicited message that asks for sensitive information, don’t click any links or open attachments. Instead, contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website.

6. Package Delivery Scams

With the increase in online shopping comes a rise in package delivery scams.

Fraudsters might send text messages or emails pretending to be from delivery services like FedEx or UPS, claiming there is an issue with your shipment and asking you to confirm personal details or pay additional fees. Always double-check tracking information on official delivery websites and avoid clicking on unsolicited delivery messages.

CLASSIFIED LEGAL NOTICE An application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a mixed beverage and late hours permit by D N T Holdings, LLC. dba El Mochomo to be located at 2022 Allen Genoa Rd Houston Harris County, Texas 77017. The officers of said corporations are D N T HOLDINGS, LLC.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) is planning to issue the procurement documents listed in this advertisement.

IFB No. DOC1347269325: BOOST Bus Shelter Installations. Solicitation will be available on or about 12/10/2024. Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements. If you are unable to download the documents or are having difficulty, please contact 713-615-6125 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSAL FOURTH WARD REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, CITY OF HOUSTON The Executive Director for Fourth Ward will only receive competitively sealed proposals electronically on the CivcastUSA website ( www.civcastusa.com) for the following project: Project Name: FWRA Phase III Street Rehabilitation WBS Number: N-T14090-0002-4 Proposal Due Date: January 7, 2025 Project Location: Fourth Ward Houston, TX Project Manager: Vanessa Sampson, 713-526-7577 Estimated Construction Cost Range: $6,000,000 - $8,000,000 Pre-proposal Meeting: 12/11/2024 at 10:00 AM, CST Proposals will be accepted until 10:00 AM on the proposed date shown above only on the CIVCASTUSA website. Proposals received after the deadline will not be accepted and will be returned unopened.

Proposal price totals will be publicly read on January 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Accepted proposals will be preliminary listed and posted on CIVCASTUSA by 4:00 PM CST, after the bid opening. A full bid tabulation will be posted after bids are reviewed and confirmed by the Owner. Although cost is a factor, proposals are being evaluated by other factors. Lowest proposal does not guarantee selection of proposer. Copies of the CSP Documents may be obtained online from www.civcastusa.com; search FWRA. Contractors and the public must register on this website to view and/or download specifications and plans for this project. There is NO charge to view or download documents. Proposers may submit questions online through CIVCASTUSA. Addenda and other documents will be addressed on CIVCASTUSA website.

Scope of Work Project consists of roadway and sidewalk removal, and the construction of roads, curbs and sidewalks.

Streets within this project are one-way and have limited ROW. Project area is bounded on the north

by Saulnier Street, on the east by Valentine Street, on the south by W. Gray Street and on the west

by Wilson Street. Due to the historical significance of the hand-laid bricks by Freedmen’s Town along Andrews Street and partially along Wilson Street, these streets are excluded from the scope of this project.

The Project includes City of Houston Standard Construction Specifications for Storm Drainage, Street Paving and Traffic Control, that are incorporated into the Project. These Standard Specifications, along with Standard Details, may be acquired at no cost on the City’s website at https://www. houstonpermittingcenter.org/office-city-engineer/design-and-construction-standards. Proposers shall comply with City Ordinance 2013-0428, Chapter 12, Article C, City of Houston Code of Ordinance’s, as amended, and City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise (MWSBE) Procedures. Proposals will be required to demonstrate good faith efforts to achieve participation goal as stated in Document 00800 – Supplementary Conditions in (Contract Goal 19%) accordance with Document 00808 – Requirements for the City of Houston Program for Minority, Women and Small Business Enterprises and Persons with Disabilities Enterprise (PDBE). A bid bond in the amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the COST PROPOSAL must accompany each Proposal as a guarantee that the SELECTED PROPOSERS will enter into a proper contract and execute bonds and guaranties on the forms provided within (10) days after the date contract documents are received by the selected proposer. Proposal security shall be in accordance with Section 00200– Instruction to Proposers and Section 11.6 of the General Conditions of the Contract (Document 00700).

Pre-proposal Meeting: A virtual pre-proposal meeting will be held on December 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM CST. Attendees may join with the following link: https://tinyurl.com/Fourth-Ward-Ph-III or teleconference by dialing 469-848-0114, Meeting ID: 733 411 370#

December 12, 2024 |

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| 9

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season meals lighter. And healthier sides or lighter takes on favorites might may even surprise and delight everyone at the table.

By ABBY SOKUNBI, MD

The holidays are a time for family, friends, traditions, and plenty of food.

For those managing high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease — conditions that disproportionately affect African Americans — it’s important to enjoy gatherings while keeping your health a priority.

Practical Tips for Healthy Holiday Choices • Control Portions: Start by filling half your plate with vegetables or higherfiber foods, then adjust portions of richer options to maintain balance.

If healthier options aren’t available, enjoy a small taste and plan to eat more balanced meals later.

• Stay Active: Balance heavier meals with movement. A family walk, dancing, or an active game can boost your energy and add fun to the celebration.

Abby Sokunbi, MD is a board certified internal medicine and primary care physician who cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Katy Clinic.

Scan to view Dr. Sokunbi’s online profile.

• Make Healthier Adjustments: Simple recipe changes — like reducing fat, sugar, or salt — can make traditional

• Manage Stress and Look for Ways To Recharge: While the holidays may feel overwhelming, remember to focus on what matters most to you. Set realistic expectations and try not to overcommit, give yourself permission to recharge and rest, and if you are experiencing any mental health concerns, reach out to a health professional or loved one for help.

• Prioritize Sleep: Skimping on rest can leave you fatigued, irritable, and more prone to seasonal illnesses. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night to stay refreshed and resilient. Be sure to create a calming bedtime routine, avoiding screens and heavy meals and limiting alcohol and caffeine before turning in.

Personalized Support When You Need It Kelsey-Seybold offers primary care and nutritionists to help guide your health journey. Our coordinated care team helps patients manage their health while enjoying the holiday season.

Call 713-442-7025 or visit Kelsey-Seybold.com to schedule an appointment.

Get Care NOW! In-Person and Video Visit Primary Care Appointments.

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10 | December 12, 2024 |

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DN Sports

Kenny Hunter TSU POST PLAYER

Embraces increased expectations

By Terrance Harris

Kenny Hunter probably envisioned his college basketball career playing out differently than it has.

Still, the Texas Southern senior post player, whose career began at Louisiana Tech University (La Tech) before shifting to the Tigers last year, is grateful for the journey and where it has landed him.

“It’s been a blessing. A lot of kids don’t get to play Division I basketball at the end of the day,” said Hunter, a fifth-year senior. “I started off at Tech. I had my ups and downs there. I had a good time when I was there. I feel like I got extremely better from my freshman year.

“Then coming here, coming to an HBCU, a lot of people were surprised that I made that move. But I felt like it was the best decision for me. And I’m sticking with it. It’s been going good.”

Preseason SWAC honoree

Under TSU coach Johnny Jones’ guidance, the 6-foot-8 Hunter has gone from playing only center at La Tech to a versatile post player who seamlessly slides from center to power forward and has become a force in the post since arriving at TSU in 2023. He has emerged as one of the best shot blockers and shot changers in the SWAC. The respect he gained in the post as a firstyear SWAC player last season, earned Hunter recognition as the SWAC’s Preseason Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) and Preseason Second-Team All-SWAC placement along with his frontcourt partner Grayson Carter.

Hunter is living up to the increased expectations through the Tigers’ first nine games this season with 11 blocked shots while ranking

Kenny Hunter takes pride in his defensive play.

Credit: AP.

fourth in the SWAC in rebounding with 6.2 per game and averaging 9.9. points.

The bar has certainly been set higher, and Hunter believes he is up for it.

“It’s a lot of pressure, but I’m embracing it at the end of the day,” said Hunter, who is shooting nearly 48% from the floor. “I know God wouldn’t put too much on me that I couldn’t handle.

“So having the DPOY, all-conference and I’m up for HBCU All-Star, as well. Having that pressure is not bad at all. I embrace it. I try not to think about it and just play at the end of the day because it’s all about playing and winning games.”

While most coaches might try to downplay the preseason expectations the conference has put on Hunter, Jones sees it as a motivation that will push Hunter throughout the season.

“I think it’s exciting for him because he wants to be that,” Jones said. “I think that helps

us as a team because he goes out every night wanting to impact our team on the defensive end, which is huge.

“A lot of times guys are trying to figure out how many points they can score. He is trying to figure out how he can impact the game on the defensive end and that’s a huge plus for us.”

Embracing Versatility

Hunter also embraces the more versatile role Jones wants him to fill. Thought of purely as a center during his three seasons at La Tech, Hunter is now tasked with not just banging inside but being able to step and knock down shots from 15 feet out and to be able to defend on the perimeter.

“Coach asks a lot of me and I just take it to the chin and I go with it. I’m at the four (power forward) and then I’m at the five, I’m switching back and forth but they are both

ABOUT KENNY HUNTER

Position: Power Forward/Center Height: 6-8 Weight: 236 pounds Classification: Fifth-year Senior Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Shreveport, La. Stats: 9.9 points per game, 6.2 rebounds, 11 blocks, 47.6% FG

kind of the same positions. At the four you are kind of playing out on the perimeter a little bit more but I’m versatile. I can play the four and hit the jump shot and playing the five, I can bang down low.

“So whatever he asks me, I can do.”

TERRANCE’S TAKE

Right or wrong SEC, 12-team College Football Playoff bracket set 4 conference high of four teams in.

The College Football Playoff The Crimson Tide believe they Selection Committee revealed deserve the at-large spot that the very first expanded went to SMU based on strength 12-team playoff bracket. of schedule alone. They don’t want And boy is it a controverto discuss that embarrassing 24-3 sial one. loss to a mediocre Oklahoma squad Did we expect anything less? a couple of weeks ago and how that Terrance Harris Alabama, which has long existed could factor in when the committee as a perennial power that almost seemed to weighed them versus an SMU team that made hold rights to one spot in the old four-team it to the ACC Championship Game this past College Football Playoff format, is beyond weekend. upset. The SEC, which believes it’s the best at Cry us a river, and in the meantime, start football only got three teams into the playoffs playing nine conference games instead of while the coast-to-coast Big Ten got a Power eight in the SEC.

By Terrance Harris

“I think one of the things I’ve mentioned throughout this football season is, if we don’t take strength of schedule into consideration, is there any benefit to scheduling really good teams in the future?” former Bama coach Nick Saban griped. “Here at Alabama, we’re supposed to play Notre Dame, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Florida State in the future outside the league. Those are great games for fans to see.”

There is no perfect college football playoff format. We can already see that when the next contract is up, the format will likely expand to 14 or 16 teams.

But in the meantime, fans in Texas have

something to be excited about. New SEC members Longhorns, who faltered against Georgia in this past weekend’s SEC Championship Game, got in as the No.5 seed and will face 12-seed Clemson in the opening round for the right to face Arizona State in the Peach Bowl.

SMU, which still isn’t receiving a cut of the ACC money as a new member, will travel as the 11th seed to face No.6 Penn State in another opening-round game.

“It’s an exciting time in college football,” UT coach Steve Sarkisian said. “We’re fortunate that we’ve earned the right to be in the playoffs and compete with Clemson.”

December 12, 2024 |

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| 11

DN Sports

KALEB BAILEY

Leads North Shore to semi-finals

By Jimmie Aggison

ABOUT KALEB BAILEY

Class: 2025 IG: @Roccouttkb Twitter: @Unexpectedkb9 Position: Quarterback Height & weight: 6-feet-2, 200 pounds Favorite artist: VonOff1700 Status: uncommitted Favorite subject: Reading

Kaleb Bailey’s journey with the North Shore Mustangs has been one of triumph and resilience. He has moved from being a newcomer to being injured, to becoming a familiar face again, then being doubted.

“I just thank my Lord and savior for putting me in a position to be the underdog,” said Bailey. “He always brought me through things.

I was sidelined due to injury my sophomore season; now I just have to go out and play my game, and everything else will fall in place.”

After a promising start to his sophomore season in 2022, Bailey’s rise was abruptly halted when he suffered a devastating ACL tear in a game against C.E. King. The injury, which occurred just five games into the 2022-2023 season, stunned the Mustangs’ fanbase and forced Bailey to watch from the sidelines as his team continued without him.

Despite the loss of their star quarterback, the Mustangs demonstrated remarkable tenacity, finishing the 6A Region III District 21 season undefeated and making it to the state championship game but would fall to Duncanville 28-21.

“Having to watch from the sidelines was building me mentally and physically,” said Bailey. “I just had to go out there and be a leader to my teammates and everybody else around me, by keeping high spirits.”

For Bailey, the injury was a turning point.

Determined not to let it define his career, he embarked on a grueling rehabilitation process, working closely with trainer J.P. Tillman to rebuild his strength and agility.

Doubts circulated among recruiters and fans alike. Would Bailey ever return to his former self? Could he regain the elite pocket maneuverability that made him such a standout player?

Bailey answered those questions with authority in his junior season. Not only did he return, but he did so with a vengeance.

Bailey threw for 3,665 yards and 40 touchdowns, boasting an impressive 72.36% completion rate. He also showcased his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for 579 yards and 12 touchdowns. His leadership and performance propelled the Mustangs to yet another appearance in the 6A Division I UIL state championship game at AT&T Stadium.

However, the Mustangs again lost to Duncanville 49-33.

“The only thing that was on my mind was to play my game. Go out there and play hard, fast, and physical,” said Bailey.

Known for his arm strength and ability to scramble while dissecting defenses, Bailey proved he could not only deliver the ball when needed but could outrun many opposing slower defenders on the field. His comeback season not only solidified his reputation as a top dual-threat quarterback but also as a player with a high football IQ and a no-quit attitude.

In North Shore’s recent quarterfinal victory over Atascocita, Bailey delivered an outstanding performance, rushing for 261 yards and passing for 202 yards. He contributed four touchdowns, with two through the air and two on the ground.

While some fans see him at the quarterback position, others believe his athleticism could see him thrive at another position on the collegiate level. Bailey, however, remains unfazed by the chatter. His Twitter bio boldly declares, “I love being the underdog; just makes me go harder,” a testament to his relentless drive and determination.

“I’m a quarterback. Most definitely, I’m a quarterback, but if they need me somewhere, I’m a dog, I’m an athlete, so I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get on the field,” said Bailey.

North Shore stands one game away from punching their ticket to the state game at AT&T Stadium. North Shore will take on Austin Westlake on Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at Legacy Stadium.

12 | December 12, 2024 |

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