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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 86 | Number 7

DECEMBER 15, 2016 | FREE

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LOCAL HAROLD DUTTON opposes 5th Ward plant

FEATURE DR. EARL ALLEN pens new book

OPINION SPORTS KEION HANCOCK

propels West OrangeStark

P15

TOP EVENTS

KWANZAA

TURNS 50 r PAGE 8

Michelle Obama

Lamar Jackson

The First Lady is weighing her options after she leaves the White House. While many have urged her to run for office, that’s not likely. We look at what’s next for FLOTUS.

The Louisville sophomore quarterback was awarded the coveted Heisman Trophy, the pinnacle of awards in college football. Jackson captured the award over four other finalists. He weighs in on the honor.

looks to the future

Tarisa Busby, Karen Wooten-Miller, Ramona Dalton attend Delta Sigma Theta’s Jazz Soiree.

P16

wins Heisman

r PAGE 4

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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newstalk

Fifth Ward residents oppose batching plant By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender News Service

Calling it an intrusion on their “quality of life,” Fifth Ward residents and elected officials raised concerns about a proposed concrete batch plant in their neighborhood during a public hearing with members of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The TCEQ has the power to allow or prevent construction. A concrete batching plant is a facility where the ingredients of concrete are blended. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, poorly controlled plants can discharge highly alkaline wastewater, dust and excess noise, but plants operated in accordance with EPA guidelines “should operate in harmony with the environment and neighboring communities.” This past January, Raul Garza, owner of CemTech, submitted an application to build a batch plant on 3116 Jensen Drive, directly across the street from homes, schools and other area establishments. Residents are concerned about air pollution causing serious health problems, streets being torn up and loud noises from trucks. “It’s just a senseless decision for our community, period,” said resident Jennifer Gooden. “Just a couple of years ago, Jensen drive was so messed up you couldn’t even drive down the roads and it just recently became drivable. “Now they’re looking to bring in this cementing company where trucks are known to pollute the air, leave rocks and spill cement, only to tear up our streets and neighborhood again. It’s senseless and careless,” Gooden said. “Instead we should build more shopping centers or something of substance that will enhance the community.” During the meeting, Houston State Rep. Harold Dutton asked whether TCEQ or Garza would halt the plant after listening to the residents’ concerns. He did not

Fifth Ward residents are against the construction of another concrete batch plant considering they already have three in the neighborhood.

receive a response. “The problem is, too many times, people have come into our community and done deeds that they wouldn’t do in their own communities,” Dutton said. “But for some reason they come to ours, and it’s offensive to us. In the ‘60s we used to say, ‘If you don’t respect us, then expect us.’ If this permit gets granted [Garza] needs to expect us every single day, outside standing and petitioning.” In addition to Dutton’s sentiments, Mayor Sylvester Turner sent a letter to TCEQ in September requesting a denial of the batch plant. TCEQ has yet to respond, and Dutton wants to take legislative action demanding that agencies reflect what Texas residents want, not just businesses. Brian Butler, communication

outreach director at Air Alliance Houston, added that the Fifth Ward area is already heavily impacted by traffic pollution with three other existing batch plants. “I’m in the business of air quality, and particle matter from a cementing company is so fine it can enter your bloodstream and kill you,” Butler said. “But I don’t want to talk technical tonight. I want to talk common sense, and right now people are experiencing adverse effects due to the current concentration of cement batch plants in their community. [Residents] just want to live in peace and have good health.” Community members who want to take a stand against the proposed plant can call the TCEQ environmental complaint hotline at 888-777-3186.

localbriefs THE MAN AT THE CENTER OF A CIVIL RIGHTS LAWSUIT AGAINST the Houston Police Department, has been charged with capital murder. Chad Holley is charged in connection with the death of 42-year-old David Trejo-Gonzalez on Sept. 21 earlier this year. According to HPD, Trejo-Gonzalez was walking from his car to his apartment when he was robbed, then fatally shot. Holley is also facing three other charges from October 2016 - theft, trespassing and burglary of a habitation. In 2011, Holley made news when a video was released showing four former city police officers kicking and stomping him after a robbery. Community leaders expressed outrage. Holley was convicted of burglary in juvenile court and put on probation. In 2015, a judge dismissed Holley’s federal civil rights lawsuit against the city of Houston and several former Houston police officers….CONSTRUCTION WILL SOON BEGIN ON TWO AREA SCHOOLS. The Houston Independent School District approved construction contracts for Askew Elementary School and Madison High School, both part of the district’s voter-approved 2012 Bond Program. The schools will be among almost three dozen projects across the district under construction by the end of the year. Askew is slated to receive $26.6 million for a new school accommodating 850 pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students. Madison is slated to receive $82.7 million for a new school that will accommodate 1,900 to 2,100 students and incorporate recent science and classroom building renovations.……NON-SMOKING POLICIES ARE COMING TO RESIDENTS OF MORE THAN 48,0000 PUBLIC HOUSING UNITS. Under a new rule issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, public housing authorities nationwide must go smoke-free in the next 18 months. The rule excludes residents living in homes under the Housing Choice Voucher program, formerly known as Section 8, a federal rent subsidy program.

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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T:9.75”

T:12.75”

Changing lives is no easy task. Yet Habitat for Humanity does it every day. Habitat for Humanity works with families in the U. S. and around the world who are in need of a decent and affordable place to call home. Habitat helps build strength, stability, and self-reliance as well as shelter. They offer a hand up so families can stand on their own and build better lives for themselves and generations to come. And, in the process, they also strengthen communities. Wells Fargo and our team members share the goals of Habitat. For 24 years, we’ve been privileged to help Habitat across the country in the communities we live and work in by giving grants and volunteer hours, building and improving homes alongside low-income homeowners, seniors, and veterans. Learn more about our relationship with Habitat and other non-profits at wellsfargo.com/stories.

Wells Fargo and Habitat for Humanity in Texas 2015/2016

Grants

$795,000

Volunteer Hours

12,445

Builds

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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national

U.S.briefs

Michelle Obama: What’s next? Defender News Services

ichelle Obama has had a busy eight years and now, as the First Lady looks to the future, speculation is abound as to what’s next. While FLOTUS hasn’t made any definite decisions, she has dropped plenty of clues. Regardless of where she ends up, Mrs. Obama has made it clear that she will remain committed to healthy living. But during a recent interview she hinted that she could change her focus from children to adult women. “We focused on kids for a reason,” she said. “It’s hard to change adults, and it’s hard to change it from a political position or a perceived political position. Kids, everybody can get behind. It’s a bipartisan thing.” Mrs. Obama has said she wants to shift focus to adults, particularly mothers because she believes “we’ve got to learn how to take care of ourselves” first. Just as the First Lady’s role is undefined, with each woman molding it to her personality, interests and comfort level, there is no script for what comes after the First Lady finishes the job. The widowed Jacqueline Kennedy remarried and became a New York book editor. Laura Bush continues her advocacy for literacy, women in Afghanistan and preservation issues. Hillary Clinton launched her own political career with her bid for the U.S. Senate, even before her family left the White House. As the first Black woman in the role of First Lady, it seems natural that she would shed light on her closely guarded personal life. Book publishers would offer to pay millions for the rights to Mrs. Obama’s insider account. Clinton got an $8 million advance for her 2003 memoir, Living History. Of course, she could follow in the footsteps of Clinton and go on the speaking circuit.

Michelle Obama

Mrs. Obama put her oratory on display with a well-received speech on opening night of the 2016 Democratic National Convention. She followed up with a series of campaign speeches criticizing Republican Donald Trump, now the president-elect, as unsuitable for the nation’s highest office. Her friend, media mogul Oprah Winfrey, said the First Lady will be “one of the most in-demand speakers” as a result of her convention performance. Mrs. Obama has also demonstrated a knack for talk-show banter, and an ease in front of the TV cameras. She co-hosted “The View” before the 2008 election and recently co-hosted Ellen DeGeneres’ gabfest. “It will be fun to see what she actually does,” said Kimberly Archer, head of the Washington office of Russell Reynolds Associates, an executive search and assessment firm. “Wherever she does decide to focus, I would say, `Lucky them.”’

Both the President and First Lady repeatedly have said she will not run for president— despite pressure from Democrats wowed by her campaign speeches challenging Trump. Obama has said she doesn’t have “the patience or the inclination” to be a candidate and is “too sensible to want to be in politics.” A Harvard law school graduate, Mrs. Obama practiced at a Chicago firm but abandoned a legal career after the deaths of her father and a close friend. She entered public service, working for the city of Chicago and running an AmeriCorps service program before she joined the University of Chicago Medical Center as a vice president for community and external affairs. It was the last paid position she held before becoming First Lady. Whatever she does decide to do, President Barack Obama says he knows what she’s doing first—“Going on a really nice vacation because she deserves it.”

HILLARY CLINTON IS WIDENING HER LEAD IN THE POPULAR VOTE, but also gaining more votes than any candidate in history. To date, Clinton has 2.8 million more popular votes than Trump. While these are certainly impressive numbers, it is unlikely that this will change the results of the election, however, as Trump won the Electoral College and has well over the 270 votes needed there in order to become the president. The only way the results can be reversed is if the votes being tallied end up turning one or more of the states from Trump to Clinton…..THE MAN WHO FATALLY SHOT RETIRED NEW ORLEANS SAINTS PLAYER WILL SMITH HAS BEEN CONVICTED. Cardell Hayes was convicted of manslaughter, ending a week-long trial in which the defendant insisted he only fired because the popular football star was drunk, violent and had grabbed a gun following a traffic crash on the night of April 9. Smith was part of the Saints team that lifted the stricken city’s spirits in the years after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, helping carry the team to a winning season in 2006 and a Super Bowl win four years later. His death at the hands of Hayes, 29, was stunning, even for a city where residents are accustomed to regular reports of gunfire deaths. Hayes will be sentenced on Feb. 17. As bad as the conviction was for him, it could have been worse. He was tried on a second-degree murder charge that carried a mandatory life sentence……ALTHOUGH BLACK WOMEN MAKE UP SIX PERCENT OF THE POPULATION, THEY ACCOUNT FOR 35 PERCENT OF ALL ABORTIONS. White woman, on the other hand, make up 77 percent of the population, and 37 percent of abortions. Hispanic women, at 17.6 percent of the population, make up 19 percent of abortions.

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 7 DECEMBER 15, 2016

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Marshall A. Latimore Proofer Maia Shelby

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

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

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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Shell expands community engagement Defender News Service

It is no secret that 2016 has been a rollercoaster ride for Houston’s petroleum industry. Since the middle of 2014, the price of oil has fallen and recovery remains elusive, causing a lack of confidence in the job market and slow growth. The impact of this data is greatly felt in diverse communities throughout the Gulf Coast region. “Industries like oil and construction are driving forces in the labor market in states like Texas and Louisiana,” said Dr. Julianne Malveaux, a nationally recognized labor economist and former college president. “Unfortunately, minority communities tend to suffer the greatest during these economic trends.” As a world leader in the industry, Shell Oil Company is no stranger to this uncertainty and held fast to their ongoing commitment to expanding and diversifying their workforce while cementing community partnerships. “At Shell we are committed to creating and promoting stronger ties with local and national stakeholders who share our workforce and educational achievement vision,” said Frazier Wilson, Director, Workforce and Community Strategic Initiatives.

“We recognize the strength of our industry and the sustainability it adds to our regional economy. Because of that, it requires an increased investment in STEM education and support for scholarship programs which are imperative for growth.” For the sixth year, Shell served as the presenting sponsor of the Back 2 School Fest. Shell executives and over 160 company volunteers, joined Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner to give away backpacks filled with school supplies and provide a wide range of health and social services to over 25,000 Houston families. “We believe it is a great way to start a new school year and demonstrate the impact the education, political and business communities Houston area students compete in the 2016 Shell/Great Minds in STEM Annual Showdown held at the University of Houston PHOTO CREDIT: SHELL OIL COMPANY can have when we work together to improve the achievement of our by the Independent Petroleum Asthat supporting education is a priority. students,” said Scott Ballard, vice sociation of America (IPAA) and PESA In late September, all roads led to president, Human Resources, US the campus of the University of Hous- (Petroleum Equipment & Services Operations at Shell Oil. Association) to address the worker ton where more than 130 high school The company’s Workforce and shortage in the energy industry. students came to participate in an allCommunity Strategic Initiatives At the event, students were put day science competition known as the team partnered with the Shell Black into teams and challenged with buildShell STEM Showdown. Sponsored by Network Group (SBNG) to raise more ing a working model crane from PVC than $90,000 for United Negro College Shell and their partner Great Minds in STEM, the competition brought middle pipe and battery-powered motors. Fund’s (UNCF) 31st annual walk for The students also programed a robotic and high school students who currenteducation. To develop future leaders NB:9.75” rover that navigated a large maze. ly attend “energy academies” founded and a diverse workforce, Shell knows

NB:6.5”

Being a Houstonian means being there for your family, friends, and neighbors. It’s a way of life. That’s why AARP is committed to building better communities by helping you connect with others who share your interests and passions. Whether you want to learn something new, volunteer, or just have fun with new people, we have the resources to help you tap into a community of people like you right here in Houston. Check out the free events we’re holding all around town and get to know us at aarp.org/Houston

Houston

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

Christian book offers daily nuggets Defender News Service

A new book by Dr. Earl Allen provides new and seasoned Christians a daily dose of practical, relevant and easy-to-remember nuggets of wisdom for meditation and immediate application in their lives. The book, How to Live Like a Christian Should: Daily Nuggets, contains a page for each day, which begins with a “believer’s declaration.” The daily reading is designed to take just 15 seconds and to Dr. Earl Allen teach Christians how to consistently exhibit biblical character and a Christian lifestyle by releasing control to the Holy Spirit. “When I received the revelation about the believer’s declaration, my assignment was to give it to people, ask them to memorize it and say it each day,” said Dr. Allen. “I soon began to get reports that many were noticing a favorable adjustment in their attitudes and an overall positive change in their lives. The book’s concise bits of advice are varied and include how to become a winner, how to pray answerable prayers, how to be prepared to pass any test, how to look for good in others and how to be who God created you to be. A near-drowning experience when he was nineteen, prompted Dr. Allen’s spiritual journey and led to the release of this book. In the midst of drowning, a voice told him to yell for help, then let his body go limp. He did and was ultimately rescued. “I learned that God was not ready for me to die and that when you listen to and obey the voice of the Holy Spirit you hear on the inside, you will live and not die,” said Dr. Allen. Dr. Earl Allen’s book can be purchased at major online bookstores including amazon. com and barnesandnoble.com.

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DECEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER

entertainment

The “Believe” Interview

Issac Ryan Brown

By KAM WILLIAMS

ssac Ryan Brown is best recognized as Young Dre from the ABC Series “Blackish.” He was introduced to America on the television show "America’s Got Talent” at the tender age of six, when he dazzled the audience and judges alike. Issac’s resume includes voicing recurring characters on the cartoons “Miles From Tomorrowland,” “Bubble Guppies” and “The Land Before Time XIV: Journey of the Brave." He also has been on the Dreamworks series “OMG,” has enjoyed a recurring role on "How to Get Away with Murder,” and appeared on the big screen in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” Here, Issac talks about co-starring in Believe, a faith-based, Christmas film about a homeless kid who comes to the aid of and inspires hope in a jaded businessman with money woes. Kam Williams: What interested you in Believe? Issac Ryan Brown: My real life parallels the character CJ and how his faith pulls him through the film. CJ's a kid at heart who never grew up and keeps his faith. He believes all things are possible, you will find that life is better. He finds a way to look at the bright side of everything even through his circumstances. KW: What would you say was the message of Believe? IRB: Having faith and believing. We see relationships crumble and build in

the film. Love, faith, hope and relationships are constant. KW: You won America's heart on “America's Got Talent” when you were only six. At what age did you start singing? IRB: I started at the age of 10 months when my mom and dad placed me in the choir. When I started speaking, it took off from there. KW: What do you enjoy more, singing or acting? IRB: I love them both the same, but singing edges out acting because you can express your feelings and convey a message with songs. KW: What projects do you have coming up next? IRB: A role in a great feature film I can’t talk about right now! And voiceover work on the Disney animated series “Puppy Dog Pals” and on “The Stinky & Dirty Show.” KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? IRB: I see a child of God. No matter who I play on TV or what people say about me, I’ll always see a handsome, educated, sophisticated, young man named Isaac. KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? IRB: Always stay humble and prayed up… In this business, you face a lot of "No’s." You are going to be sad and disappointed. But believe your time is coming and God will always help you.

what’sup Blacks won big at the Critics’ Choice Awards. Winners of some of our favorite films and TV shows included DONALD GLOVER, for Best Actor in a Comedy for his hit show “Atlanta,” as well as MAHERSHALA ALI for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Moonlight.” Other winners included: VIOLA DAVIS for “Fences,” “Moonlight,” THANDIE NEWTON for “Westworld,” COURTNEY B. VANCE for “The People v. O.J. Simpson,” STERLING K. BROWN for “The People v. O.J. Simpson,” and REGINA KING for “American Crime.”….BEYONCE netted nine Grammy nominations, but she won’t be getting

any in the country music category. She submitted her twangy song “Daddy Lessons,” which showcases her Southern roots, but the Recording Academy’s country music committee rejected it. This decision comes after she performed the song at the Country Music Association Awards alongside the Dixie Chicks last month….. WILL SMITH and MARTIN LAWRENCE are teaming up again for another “Bad Boys” franchise. The actors have signed up for two films. “Bad Boys for Life” will release in 2018, with “Bad Boys 4” coming in 2019. The first film debuted in April 1995 and made $141.4 million in box office sales.

Its follow-up “Bad Boys II” made $273.3 million….SHIRLEY CAESAR is denying that she’s filed a $5M lawsuit over the #UNameItChallenge. The alleged lawsuit claimed Atlanta-based producer Suede was profiting off the challenge by selling his remixed version of the track and his second video (hailed as the original) features people twerking and consuming alcohol, a few things the singer has condemned in interviews. Taking to Facebook on the singer says a lawsuit was never filed, but she filed an injunction to stop the sales of the track and an image that contradicts her brand.

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

KWANZAA

cente

TURNS 50 By ASWAD WALKER | Defender

ith Kwanzaa turning 50 on Dec. 26, some Blacks are preparing to celebrate, while many others still know little or nothing about the African-American holiday, or merely choose not to observe it. Kwanzaa, founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, is an annual celebration running from Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 that seeks to reaffirm and reinforce the best of African and African-American views and values. Because Kwanzaa is observed during the last week of the year, some erroneously label it the “Black Christmas.” However, Karenga, a long-time scholar/activist and author, asserts that Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, but rather a celebration of family, community and culture designed to reconnect Black people with values that affirm Black dignity and worth. “I created Kwanzaa for three basic reasons: to reaffirm and reinforce our rootedness in African culture; to give us a time as African people all over the world to come together, reinforce the bonds between us and meditate on the awesome meaning of being African in the world; and to introduce and reaffirm the importance of the Nguzo Saba,” said Karenga, a professor of Africana Studies at California State University–Long Beach. The Nguzo Saba are the seven principles celebrated on the seven days of Kwanzaa. They include Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamma (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). Though Kwanzaa is not tied to a specific religious tradition, many participants see it as a very spiritual

experience. Donna Kadirifu, a member of the Greater Houston Area Kwanzaa Planning Committee for nearly two decades, is one of those people. “For me the original idea was to bring Black Americans and others of the African descent together in a spiritual way to reinforce a value system that goes back for generations,” said Kadirifu. Over its 50-year history Kwanzaa has experienced a growth in the number of Blacks who observe the holiday. Kevin Johnson, an engineer by trade and current student in the UH AfricanAmerican Studies Graduate Certificate Program, is a Kwanzaa veteran. “My first Kwanzaa celebration was about 21 years ago at a friend’s house,” recalled Johnson. “It was the first Kwanzaa for nearly all of us present. We heard the term, but were Dr. Maulena Karenga just learning the details.” Johnson believes it helps that Kwanzaa falls during the traditional holiday season, when spirits tend to be uplifted and hopeful. “Kwanzaa makes one reflect that optimism of the season into contemplation and deeper understanding of the uniqueness of the African American experience, and a longing for a better future,” he said. Still, many Blacks have yet to observe Kwanzaa. “I’ve never celebrated Kwanzaa in my house due to the religious differences we have,” said LaMarque resident Kevon Loctor. “They’re more of the

Christmas Christians.” Loctor added that he would love to celebrate Kwanzaa but has yet to find anyone to celebrate it with since moving to the Houston area. Deloyd Parker, founder of SHAPE Community Center and member of the Greater Houston Area Kwanzaa Planning Committee, has been instrumental in expanding Kwanzaa’s outreach. “Kwanzaa has something for everyone regardless of age, religious affiliation or organization,” said Parker, whose organization has participated in Kwanzaa since its doors opened in 1969. “The lack of participation among our people in Kwanzaa can be attributed to the overall lack we see plaguing our people in general regarding a lack of knowledge of self, a lack of racially-affirming experiences, and more. But during Kwanzaa, we don’t focus on lack; we celebrate the abundance of love, skills and victories we’ve achieved. And we share all those in powerful ways,” said Parker. During Kwanzaa festivities singers, poets, dancers and musicians regularly share their talents. Moreover, Black dollars are shared with Black businesses during the daily Kwanzaa Marketplace. Still, some are concerned about Kwanzaa’s future. Two years ago Wisconsin State Senator Glenn Grothman made national headlines calling Kwanzaa a “fake holiday,” adding “almost no Black people today care about Kwanzaa.” Criticisms of Kwanzaa, a celebration of blackness, should be expected from white conservatives. However, Blacks have also weighed in with some deriding Kwanzaa’s claims to African roots, or believing the celebration is divisive and sepa-

rates Blacks from society’ stream. In 2011, newsone. an article—“Kwanzaa is W There, I Said It”—voicing concern; accusing Kareng an FBI informant working Black Panthers, thus dest integrity of Kwanzaa. However, others disagre “Whether Karenga was a or not, the Kwanzaa princ real and needed,” shared more RayMond Spencer. “ no sense to throw out uni creativity just because yo about Karenga.” Though Kwanzaa has no the status of Easter or Tha its practitioners believe it dying. Kadirifu, who hadn Kwanzaa until she moved nearly 30 years ago, sees t increasing youth and you participation. “They see the challenge zaa. But they also see its p an explosion of self-love c individuals to make histo selves and honor the cour ancestors.”

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The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa Day 1. Umoja (oo-MO-jah) / Unity: To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race. Day 2. Kujichagulia (koo-gee-cha-goo-LEE-yah) / SelfDetermination: To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves. Day 3. Ujima (oo-GEE-mah) / Collective Work & Responsibility: To build and maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems and to solve them together. Day 4. Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) / Cooperative Economics: To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together. Day 5. Nia (NEE-yah) / Purpose: To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness. Day 6. Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) / Creativity: To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it. Day 7. Imani (ee-MAH-nee) / Faith: To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

LOCAL KWANZAA HAPPENINGS Saturday, Dec. 17

SHAPE’s 3815 Live Oak location Pre-Kwanzaa Holiday Marketplace, 10am – 7pm Pre-Kwanzaa Brunch, 9am – 3pm) Contact: 713-521-0629 or 713-521-0641; www.shape.org

Monday, Dec.26 (Day 1)

Third Ward Multi-Service Center, 3611 Ennis, 77004 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: 713-521-0629 or 713-521-0641; www.shape.org

Tuesday, Dec. 27 (Day 2)

SHAPE’s 3903 Almeda location (Sponsored by NBUF) Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: 832-422-7806; www.nbufhouston.org

Wednesday, Dec. 28 (Day 3)

Bethany Baptist Church, 7304 Homestead Rd., 77028 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: Jackie Tatum, 832-359-2732 or Edward Smith, 281-460-6909

Nation of Islam (NOI) Muhammad Mosque No. 45 and Muhammad University of Islam, 4443 OST, 77021 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: Sis. Helen Muhammad, 713-398-2681 or Sis. Chejuana Muhammad, 713-501-3091

he Houston area for over 85 years

Thursday, Dec. 29 (Day 4)

SEHAH Youth Center, 5110 MLK Blvd., 77021 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: Baba Shango, 713-747-0271; www.sehah.org

Friday, Dec. 30 (Day 5)

Nia “Old Central” Cultural Center in Galveston; 2627 Avenue M, 77550 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Celebration & Feast, 6pm Contact: Sue Johnson @ 409-457-8955 or suejohnson54@hotmail.com; www.niacultural.com

Nia Kwanzaa Boogie

SHAPE’s 3903 Almeda, 77004 location Kwanzaa Market Place, 6pm

Celebration, 7pm

Contact: Keshia “K Boogie” Shantae, 713-569-1155 or templeofshe42@gmail.com; www.zora42.com

Saturday, Dec. 31 (Day 6)

SHAPE Community Center, 3815 Live Oak, 77004 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 8pm Contact: 713-521-0629 or 713-521-0641; www.shape.org

Sunday, Jan. 1 (Day 7)

Shrine of the Black Madonna Cultural & Events Center, 5309 MLK Blvd., 77021 Kwanzaa Market Place, 5pm Opening Ceremony, 7pm Contact: Jaha Kadirifu, 713-876-8226 or kadirifu@ hotmail.com or cmbarton@aol.com

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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The #BuyBlack movement is real By STACY M. BROWN NPPA

It’s a trend that many are hoping won’t just turn into a passing fad. Late last month, Essence magazine noted that after years of slowburning idealism, #BuyBlack has seen a community-wide takeoff. And, as the holiday season moves into full swing, the #BuyBlack campaign has led many to imagine what would happen if African-Americans — the largest consumer group of color in the United States with an estimated $1.2 trillion in spending power — routinely demonstrated allegiance to the 2.6 million Black-owned businesses that exist in America. “I think the #BuyBlack initiative is a good move for the Black community and not just because of dollars and cents,” said Walt L. Jones III, principal of the SEQ Advisory Group, a Bethesda, Maryland-based management consulting and advisory firm dedicated to helping businesses achieve the highest level of performance and efficiency. “There’s the deeper perspective of reinvesting in our own community and building up the local businesses, some that are owned by our friends, neigh-

Unity Bank is among the many Black businesses that benefitted from the #BuyBlack movement.

bors, and relatives.” Jones continued: “Similar to the #ECStrong initiative, a community can only heal, recover, and persevere if its residents are willing to make an investment in its infrastructure.” The #BuyBlack movement has helped Black-owned banks to realize substantial gains. In one month, this summer, Unity Bank in Houston saw

a rash of new accounts. “The primary reason was the new consciousness of the African-American community that they want to do business with Black businesses,” said John Scroggins, president and CEO of Unity. The idea of supporting the community is vital for all involved, said Shahara Wright, an attorney and busi-

January 16, 2017 @ 8:15 am

ness development strategist with The CEO Effect, LLC, a Stafford, Texasbased organization that provides small and mid-sized companies with legal and business strategies including entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, investor packages and contracts. “I think it only works when it is local. Many people point to Jewish and Asian communities, which seem to have cohesive purchasing power to support their own,” Wright said. “The #BuyBlack seeks to create that same idea…it ultimately has to be a community that you support consistently.” Results from the most recent Nielsen study revealed that the Black buying power has continued to increase, rising from its current $1 trillion level to a forecasted $1.3 trillion by 2017. Black buying power has seen an 86 percent increase since 2000 and accounts for 8.7 percent of the nation’s total. The growth in Black buying power stems in part from an increase in the number of Black-owned businesses as well as from an uptick in education among the African-American population, which leads to higher incomes, the report noted.

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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Four retirement withdrawal strategies By WALTER HOPKINS Wells Fargo Advisors

Retirement represents a shift from depending upon income from work to accessing other income sources such as Social Security, pensions, annuities, savings, and investments. Making this transition from the asset accumulation phase of your financial life to the distribution phase requires striking the right balance between how little you can withdraw and still live comfortably vs. how much you can withdraw and not outlive your savings. The rate at which you draw down your assets, generally known as your withdrawal rate, is the single most important determinant of success in terms of making sure your savings last throughout your lifetime. The following is an overview of four basic strategies for choosing how to make withdrawals. Which withdrawal methods you choose to implement will depend on your personal situation. This information provides a good overview, but you may want to enlist the help of a Financial Advisor to help you choose which method – or combination of methods – works best for you. Keep in mind, regardless of which withdrawal methods you use, the more critical piece in determining how long your savings will last is how much you withdraw and when. “Income only” method. The first method is the traditional “income only” method. With this strategy you withdrawal only the interest and

dividends generated by your portfolio and do not touch the principal. This might be a good option if: (a) you have a substantial portfolio; (b) you have spending flexibility and can restrict your spending to the income your portfolio generates each year; or (c) you have other sources of income (e.g., pensions, annuity payments, Social Security) that can supplement any shortfalls in years of lower than anticipated returns. However, this strategy may not deliver enough income to meet the spending needs of most retirees. “Total return” method. A second method to consider is the “total return” method. Using this strategy, your portfolio is invested according to your asset allocation guidelines and rebalanced periodically to maintain the allocation. You determine what percentage you want withdrawn at periodic intervals to provide income. This strategy can be useful if you have a relatively large portfolio, you’re comfortable with market volatility, and you can adjust your spending (as market fluctuations affect how much income is distributed and the value of your portfolio). “Income floor” method. The third option is the so-called “income floor” method. Using this method, you establish a minimum amount or “floor” of income that supports your essential spending. This strategy is geared toward generating enough income from lifetime income sources, such as Social Security, pensions, and annuities, to cover essential needs (e.g., day to day living expenses). Discretionary spending such as travel,

leisure activities, etc., is typically drawn from other income sources as well as your investment portfolio. In order to make this strategy work, you need to have sufficient lifetime income sources to draw upon and other sources of income to make up any potential essential spending shortfalls and to cover discretionary spending needs. “Bucket” method. Using this final strategy entails dividing your overall portfolio into separate investment pools or “buckets” designed for a specific purpose. Each pool has its own investment goals, strategies, and time lines. For example, you might have a pool of cash and short-term investments for near-term spending, fixed-income investments to cover mid-term spending, and a balanced stock/bond portfolio to cover long-term spending. This strategy can be less daunting than trying to create a sustainable income stream from one large portfolio and help you feel more in control of your assets. Determining which withdrawal methods will work best for you depends on the size and composition of your portfolio, income needs, risk tolerance, and the amount of flexibility you have in your overall spending. Deciding how much to withdraw when and from which accounts can be complex. A Financial Advisor can help evaluate your personal circumstances and create a customized plan that will generate income and help ensure that your portfolio is positioned to continue to generate income over the course of your retirement years.

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We look forward to the holidays all year because we love sharing good times with the people we care about most. We hope your holidays are the best ever.

Wells Fargo wishes you happy holidays. wellsfargo.com

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EXPERIENCE ALL THE

GAMES, MUSIC, TAILGATING, MEMORIES, CHEERING, ATHLETICS, FAMILY FUN AND

SUPER BOWL EXCITEMENT FOR FREE AT THE TOUCHDOWN TOUR #HOUSUPERBOWL

December 10 10:00am – 2:00pm Blueridge Park 5600 Court Road Houston, TX 77053

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HOUSUPERBOWL.COM January 7 10:00am – 2:00pm Burnett Bayland Park 6000 Chimney Rock Houston, TX 77081

January 14 10:00am – 2:00pm Alief Community Park 11903 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX 77072

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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LAMAR JACKSON

CAPTURES THE HEISMAN By MAX EDISON Defender

t’s considered the most glamorous award in all of college football, the Heisman Trophy. It’s given to the most outstanding player in the game. This season, Louisville sophomore quarterback Lamar Jackson was awarded the 25 pounds of bronze for his trophy case. Jackson captures the award over a group of four other finalists that included: Clemson junior quarterback Deshaun Watson, Oklahoma junior quarterback Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma senior wide receiver Dede Westbrook and Michigan junior linebacker Jabrill Peppers. Lamar, a 19-year-old Pompano Beach native, becomes the youngest player to win the Heisman, edging out 2013’s winner, Florida State redshirt freshman quarterback Jameis Winston by a couple of days. He is the first Louisville Cardinal to win the Heisman. To say that Jackson had a huge year in 2016 would be an understatement. Jackson is the first player in major college football history to throw for at least 3,300 (3390) passing yards and run for over 1,500 (1538) rushing yards in a season. He accounted for 51 touchdowns, 21 rushing and 30 passing.

Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson received the coveted Heisman Trophy.

An elated Lamar Jackson found it hard to contain himself when he heard his name called. “I’m overwhelmed right now,” Jackson shared. “My chest just started jumping. I never get emotional, but to hear my name with all of the great players. My heart started racing. When I heard them say my name, well, I just thanked God. “I’m extremely proud to represent this class and Louisville as their

first Heisman Trophy winner,” Lamar continued. “For my teammates, it’s an award for all of us. I can’t wait to cherish it with all of you.” Louisville head coach Bobby Petrino was happy his QB won the prestigious award. “I want you to know how proud I am of Lamar,” Petrino explained. “He’s a young man that prepared extremely hard, went out on the field and played as hard as he pos-

sibly could and did a great job being a leader for this football team.” Petrino provided insight into the evolution of Lamar’s ability. “We knew how well he could run the football, and he did a tremendous job of running it, but I think because he could throw the ball and because people had to defend the pass, it opened up his ability to run also,” Petrino continued. “The improvement that he’s made since he came to our program is because of his dedication and his hard work and his drive.” Jackson exploded out of the gate this season with electrifying performances. He put 70, 62, 63 and 59 points on his first four opponents. The most notable was a 63 point annihilation of Florida State. He even excelled in a 42-36 loss to then-#2 ranked Clemson. His numbers took a dip toward season’s end, with a 10 point effort in a loss to Houston. The Cardinals also lost the season finale against Kentucky 41-38. Overall, the team record was 9-3 and the Cardinals offense travelled on the back, legs and arms of Lamar Jackson. Lamar Jackson and the Louisville Cardinals take on LSU at the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Saturday, Dec. 31.

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DECEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Strong is a Bull

Charlie Strong may not have been successful as a Longhorn, but he’s a Bull now. The embattled former Texas coach was not unemployed long. He was recently hired as the new head coach of the University of South Florida Bulls. In case you had forgotten, Strong is a two-time Big East Coach of the Year and a vital part of two national championships at the University of Florida, Strong served head coaching stints at the University of Texas (2014-16) and the University of Louisville (201013). Overall, in his 34 seasons as a collegiate coach, Strong spent 15 seasons working in the state of Florida. Strong will succeed Willie Taggart, who left to accept the Oregon job. Unlike the Texas job, Strong will find the cupboard stocked at USF. The Bulls were 7-1 in AAC conference play, 10-2 overall.

Ed Oliver, All-American

Cougar freshman defensive tackle Ed Oliver continues to add post season honors after his freshman season. The former Westfield All-American has been named All-American by Associated Press, ESPN, Sports Illustrated, USA Today and The Sporting News. Oliver, The American Athletic Conference’s Rookie of the Year and one of only two unanimous picks to the league’s All-Conference Team, finished the regular season second in The American and ninth nationally with 19.5 tackles for loss and led all defensive linemen nationally with nine pass breakups. His 61 tackles led all freshmen in The American, regardless of position, and all freshmen defensive linemen nationally.

The Woodlands in 6A Title Game

For the first time since 2003 The Woodlands will play for a state football championship Dec. 17 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The unbeaten Highlanders (15-0) will take on 14-1 Lake Travis in the Class 6A Division I title game with the kickoff set for 8 p.m. The Woodlands upset topranked Allen 36-28 in the state semifinals as quarterback Eric Schmid passed for 369 yards on 19-of-30 passing with three TD passes and no interceptions. The Woodlands led 20-3 at halftime. Kesean Carter had nine receptions for 183 yards, including a 72-yard TD pass on the Highlanders’ first possession to start the second half. Dylan Casey recorded five catches for 140 yards and a 68-yard TD reception in the second quarter. Defensive tackle Michael Purcell anchored the Highlanders’ defense with 2 ½ quarterback sacks, three tackles for a loss, a pass breakup and six overall tackles. Lake Travis advanced with a 63-21 victory over Atascocita.

Dynamic duo propels West Orange-Stark By DARRELL K. ARDISON | Defender Kentavious Miller and Keion Hancock form a dynamic tandem on the football field for defending Class 4A Division II state champion West OrangeStark. That was never more apparent than in the Mustangs’ 49-7 bludgeoning of previously unbeaten Navarro (14-1) in the state semifinals at NRG Stadium. Hancock got the onslaught underway with a 24-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Jack Dallas with two minutes, 34 seconds left in the first quarter. An extra point kicked by Chad Dallas gave WO-S a 7-0 advantage. A 28-point second stanza by the 15-0 Mustangs put the game out of reach and left little doubt as to which school would advance to this week’s state title game against Sweetwater at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Sweetwater defeated Gilmer 48-35 in the other 4A Division II semifinal. Miller returned a punt 65 yards for a touchdown with 10:23 remaining in the second quarter to give West Orange-Stark an insurmountable 21-0 lead. It marked Miller’s sixth punt return for a touchdown this season. “Once I caught the ball, I made a little move and saw a hole,” said Miller, a senior who’s being recruited by Grambling, Blinn, Kilgore and East Texas Baptist University. “I hit it full speed after that. I just make plays when I have the opportunity.” Hancock closed out the first-half scoring with his second TD reception of the game. With 4:28 left before halftime Hancock hauled in a 23-yard scoring pass from Jack Dallas. Chad Dallas’ PAT gave WO-S a 35-0 edge at intermission. “I’ve been playing with most of my teammates since I was little,” Hancock said. “I’m just trying to make it back to state because this is my last route with these dudes and we want to make it our best run. “It was special coming back here (NRG Stadium) to play again,” Hancock said. “It feels like we won the state championship all over again.” West Orange-Stark will be making its third consecutive appearance in a state championship game. The Mustangs defeated Celina 22-3 last year at NRG Stadium after falling to Gilmer in 2014. A two-year starter in the WO-S secondary, Miller electrified the crowd in the early stages of the fourth quarter when he returned an interception 71 yards for a touchdown. “He’s fun to watch, isn’t he? I just love to watch him,” said WO-S head coach Cornel Thompson. “He’s dangerous back there and if you kick the ball to him, he can be lethal. “We work on the return game all the time and every time we have a defensive workout, we finish up

Kentavious Miller, West Orange-Stark, DB-KR

Keion Hancock, West Orange-Stark, WR

DefenderNetwork.com How did Klein Collins fare in state semifinals? with punt returns because that’s a big deal,” Thompson said. Miller says there is a reason why WO-S is on the brink of repeating as state champions. “We came back with the same mindset as last year,” he said. “We had to work hard through the summer with championship aspirations like we did before and maintain that mindset throughout the season.” For Miller and Hancock, both seniors, seeking championships has become like a family tradition. “Keion and I have been playing together since we were four years old,” Miller said. “He’s like a brother to me and this is like a bond that can’t be broken.”

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 15 | 2016

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Happening in Houston

For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

WORLD AIDS DAY LUNCHEON……..AIDS Foundation Houston, together Rhonda Eaglin. The keynote speaker for the evening was Dr. Elwyn C. Lee. with event chairs Ernie Manouse and Bill Baldwin, hosted the annual World Proceeds from the gala benefit the needs of scholars with uniforms, supplies, AIDS Day Luncheon, sponsored by Chevron at the Hilton Houston Post Oak. field lessons and more. In attendance were Blackshear Elementary Principal The sold-out event drew over 500 guests who supported AIDS Foundation Alicia Lewis, Jolanda Jones, Assistant Principal Yaneka Walker, Elneita Houston’s goal of “Getting to Zero”, zero new infections, zero AIDS-related Hutchins-Taylor, Flossie Norman, Gloria Mundine and a host of others… deaths and zero stigma. Author and longtime HIV activist Sean Strub was …..15TH ANNUAL JAZZ SOIREE……..The Houston Alumnae Chapter of the keynote speaker. Joni Baird from Chevron Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. with co-chairs presented AIDS Foundation Houston’s Shelby Angela Sterling and Angela Jones, hosted its Hodge Vision Award to Houston Methodist Research 15th Annual Jazz Soirèe at the Hilton Americas Institute and the Department of Nanomedicine. More photos on defendernetwork.com Houston Hotel. Guests were treated to a silent Alessandro Grattoni, PhD was also honored. In auction and live performances by Shout Young, attendance were Bill Baldwin, Ernie Manouse, Theresa Grayson and Joe Carmouche. The Sean Strub, Alessandro Grattoni, Ph.D., Kelly Young; Melody Patelis, gala also featured celebrity waiters, individuals who have either enhanced an Mayor Sylvester Turner and many more……..BLACKSHEAR ELEMENTARY existing Houston Alumnae Chapter scholarship or established an additional 100th YEAR GALA………Edward L. Blackshear Elementary recently hosted scholarship for deserving Houston area students. 27 celebrity waiters were its 100th Year Gala at the Buffalo Soldiers Museum, celebrating a 100 year inducted at the gala including Lashondra Boddy, Rosalie Buggs, Kimberly legacy. Guests were treated to a meet and greet gospel fest with Myisha A. Richardson Curtis, Brenda Parker Dean, Peggy A. Engram, Betty Tate, door prizes, a jazz performance by Abdurraoof Abdullah and a live Forman, Bentè Gage, Tiffany Gilbert, Anand Goel, Thelma Robins Gould, performance by Brandalyn Hare, Bennie Thomas III, Carlan White and Carolyn Guess, Evelyn Banks, Norman Sterling and several others.

Defender TOP EVENTS

Bethsheba Johnson, Maggie White

Travis Torrence, Jessica Trincanello, Cicely Reid

Megan Canon, Michael Henley

Tami Newton, Yaneka Walker

Chelette Gaskin, Dianne Davis, Alicia Lewis

Jolanda Jones, Cherrise Taylor

Tarisa Busby, Karen Wooten-Miller, Ramona Dalton

Gidget Borne, Ivy Ricketts

Charolette Poole, Brenda Powell, BJ Huffman

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