Houston Defender: February 10, 2011

Page 1

ment

NT

onal Black Caucus is the Black community on between education ve Conference (ALC). 80 Number 15 WalterVolume E. Washington

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

FEBRUARY 10-16, 2011

| FREE

www.defendernetwork.com

OUTRAGED

a panel on “Exploring ral Government.” Sen. e future when it comes vote time into learning w jobs in the emerging ★CBC Page 3

ncial dicted Investigating

Save the TSU Murals www.tsu.edu/giving or contact Wendy Adair University Advancement Adair@tsu.edu

The Houston Chapter of the NAACP is among those civic and community leaders asking for stiffer penalties ★INDICTED, Page 3 for the accused officers, more transparency in the justice system. and a civilian review board to investigate claims of police brutality. “There is a problem with police brutality and use of excessive force that will no longer be tolerated,” said Rev. D.Z. Cofield, president of the Houston chapter of the NAACP. Cofield was among hundreds of people who recently attended a rally speaking out

DEFENDER

T

exas Southern University’s president has come up with a plan he hopes will put an end to a controversy surrounding the painting over of some historic murals on the campus of the historically Black university. But some students and community members wonder if his contribution of $50,000 for a Preservation plan is enough to undo the damage. University officials say they know it’s not enough, but it’s a first step. “We know $50,000 isn’t enough for the whole project. It’s just enough to bring in a conservator to analyze the

HPD Police Brutality

nst his relative, who’s n the age of 65. aces charges of False to Obtain Credit, g with a ReShonda Tate Billingsley ental Record, ByTheft, Misapplication ofDefender Property. Three of The investigation into alleged police brutales are first ity by thedegree Houston Police Department is heating hat expose Harrison up as community and political leaders call for swiftin justice, and one congressional leader is goears or life prison. ing jail so far as seeking federal intervention. h is a state felony

By ReShonda Tate Billingsley

★MURALS, Page 7

Second police abuse videotape released

★ @

Houston Police officers were captured on videotape kicking and punching Chad Holley. The tape was aired first on KTRK-TV for public viewing.

defendernetwork.com

Let us know what you think adout the Mural Preservation on Friday @ defendernetwork.com. We want to hear from you!

Quanell X, released a second videotape of a young AfricanAmerican man being assaulted while in handcuffs by a Houston Police officer. Describing the events that took place, Quanell X explained that while his young son was having his appendix removed, Henry Madge, 26, sat in the hospital lobby listening to a church sermon on his laptop. A police officer got angry about how loud the sermon was and proceeded to handcuff the

ontracts divide Dallas uncil in Race debate H HPD BRUTALITY, Page 8

REMEMBERING

Beulah Shepard

H VIDEOTAPE, Page 8

TheofHouston community is remembering Top: Cindy Paxton, an ex-employee the storage company which recorded the incident, dation by city staff to extend included significantwas capital praised by Quanell X as Parks in the Chad Holley assault. Bottom: Mayor a the Rosa longtime political Parker apologized to Quanell X at the townhall meeting. the contracts of Star investments, duringAnnise a periactivist who died Sept. 11, Concessions and Hudson od of uncertainty following 2010. Beulah Shepard, Retail Sales - two firms with the 9/11 terror attacks ulti89, made her mark both ties to prominent mately failed to carry the locally and nationally as a Democrats, including State argument. tireless fighter for civil Rep. Helen Giddings and In the three years since rights and political jusU.S. Congresswoman Eddie the council first embarked Obesity, a major risk facAnd Texas is in even worse tice. tor for many chronic diseases,a shapeHelen — fully two-thirds of Eddie Bernice on its Love Field modernBernice Johnson - without Funeral services will be has reached epidemic proporTexans (66.7 percent) are overGiddings Johnson competitive bid. ization plan, the concesheld at 10am at Galilee Beaulah tions globally.13 A third of the weight or clinically obese.15 The essence of the city sions contracts have NNPA from MBC, 6616 D.S. BaileySpecial to theShepard world’s adult population was According to the CDC, U.S. thedefendersonline.com staff obese recommendation that the no-bid contracts emerged as by far the most contentious issue, or overweight in 2005, adult obesity rates rose from Lane. Pastor Edwin would appropriate given the11.6 incumbents’ have led to accusations of political andbe if current trends continue percent in 1990 to and 27.1 perDavis, officiating. (NewInterment: York, NY) – TheHouston NAACP the share could reach 57.8 per-of minimizing cent in 2009. In Texas, favoritism our share experience, the desirability dison both sides. Legal Defense and Educational cent by 2030.14the renovation ofand adults whobusiare obese more ★SHEPARD, Page 4 ruptions during the Fund, Inc. (LDF) recently presented The U.S. has already passed than doubled from 12.3 percent ness risks taken by the incumbents, which ★AIRPORT CONTRACTS, Page 4

Community leaders speak out ... page 8

Obesity Epidemic in Texas that mile¬stone. The U.S. Centers for Disease Con¬trol and Prevention (CDC) reports that 63.2 percent of U.S. adults were obese or overweight in 2009.

ng in ctions?

defends Voting Rights case

oral argument in Shelby County, Alabama v. Holder, a case challenging a core provision of the Voting Rights Act known as Section 5. The provision requires jurisdictions with

to 29.5 percent (Exhibit 1). Over the same period, the share of Texas adults at normal weight fell sharply, from 57.1 percent to just 33.1 percent, a drop of 42

INTERVIEW

Kickin’ back with K’Naan H OBESITY, Page 6

HNAACP, Page 10

Quality Time with Nia

butions by the likes of Damian Marley, Mos Def, Chali 2na, Kirk Hammett of Metallica and Adam Levine of CONTRIBUTING WRITER00 Maroon 5. During his early childhood, the Western music, which By Kam William Somalia. The name alone conjures up images of K’naan’s was pretty much limited to “Bob Nitara Carlynnmerciless Long was born in Brooklyn on and of the World’s 50 Mostreached Beautiful People, and she alsoearsparenting is following your instincts, and taking the unbridled destruction, warlords ruthless Marley and Tracy Chapman,” until at 10, he became October 30, 1970, but was reared mostly in South Cen- landed the No. 3 spot on Black Men Magazine’s 10 time to actually know your child. I’m raising a 10-yearterror. A place where nobody is safe from the atrocities tral Los Angeles in the wake of her parents’ divorce. Sexiest Women list. Later that same year,by Nia had old boy,being and my son in the film, Tariq [Evan fascinated thea hip-hop emitting from a Ross] tinygoes car of war, and where eight year handle AK-47s likeDoresy Jr. who she is currently raising in The accomplished actress olds first found fame on TV son, Massai through the traditional growing pains associated with speaker. “I had heard a rap verse, but I had no idea what toys. WhenonForbes magazine unveiledL.A. their The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, recently and enjoyed recurring transitioning from a boy to a young man. When I read it was back then,” he recalls. roles on suchDestinations,” series as Judging Amy (2001-2002), Here, she talks about her new movie, Mooz-Lum, the script, I immediately thought to myself, “Wow! “Most Dangerous Somalia, above Iraq Atwhere 14,she K’naan and his friends were attacked Third Watchtopped (2003-2005), Boston (2007), a dysfunctional family drama plays Safiyah, This isthree a really best special movie. It’s entertaining, it deals and Afghanistan, the list.Legal But it’sBigalso “The just one with of countless indelible images Shots (2007-2008) and, most recently, The Cleveland the long-suffering wifeby of anwarlords, overbearing, religious a lot of social issues, and it addresses practicalfor Nation of Poets,” where a poem can both inspire Show (2009-present). zealot.peace parenting concerns that everyone can relate to.” the impressionable teenager. Having chased them and end wars. Her breakout performance on the silver screen KW: You’ve done an impressive body of work KW: Did having a son yourself help in portraying through the streets of Mogadishu, eventually cornering covering comedic and dramatic roles. What attracted the mother in the movie? was in when she starred oppositeSomalias Larenz Tate that Growing up, it 1997 was both of these the boys in an alley, the men beganTheshooting. K’naan you to the script about this mother conflicted between NL: Absolutely! minute your child is born, in Love Jones. And herK’naan resume includes roles in informed musician/emcee Warsame, who is avoided injury, but his three friends were brutally her son and her husband? your life is changed forever. I think I’ve become so such films as Are We There Yet, Are We Done Yet, forging his own musical path via a unique blend of regI just thought the film had so many wonderful NL: aware of how important balance is in life. I have to The Best Man, Boiler Room, Boyz ‘n the Hood, gunned down. gae, funk, pop,Friday, soulAlfie, and, above all, hip-hop. Recorded layers of the journey that women take with motherconstantly make sure that it stays that way for myself Soul Food, In Too Deep and Big Certain that it was only a matter of time before her primarily in Kingston, Jamaica home hood. There’s no book out there that tells you how and for my son, because if I’m not emotionally availMomma’s House 1 & 2. at Bob Marley’s to be a good parent. So much of 2000, People Magazine named her one studio, his second Inalbum, “Troubadour,” includes contriH LONG, Page 11 2 ★K’NAAN, Page By Kam Williams

Click on Defendernetwork.com Click on Defendernetwork.com

al

NAACP

Weekend Weekend

Weekend

Judge Family Greg Mathis:

Julianne Benjamin Malveaux Black Philanthopy: Chavis:

Educate Military Raising Eager Recruits

Monday

Monday

Still Working to Uplift 2012 Hip-Hop Vote Readers the UnderprivilegedRon Walters - A Scholar and a Gentleman


2

FEBRUARY 10-16, 2011| |DEFENDER DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010

K’Naan

continued from page 1 family met the same fate, K’naan’s mother would travel daily through the firefight to the U.S. embassy in the hopes of securing visas for her and her loved ones. Despite daily denials, she persisted, and on the last day the U.S. embassy was in Somalia, received visas to leave for America. “You can’t even describe it,” says K’naan. “It is the most sensational, liberating feeling. There was the weight of a world of hope on your shoulder that has suddenly landed. It was only then that I started to get this certain value of life that I never had before.” With little possessions and no knowledge of English, K’naan and his family boarded the last commercial flight out of Mogadishu for New York before settling in Toronto. The tunes on Troubadour reflect the sum of K’Nasan’s life experiences. Having spent the better part of the last two years on the road, visiting over 50 countries from Slovenia to Peru to Vietnam to Uganda, the album is the sonic document of an artist with much to share, and disproves rap music’s detractors who say that hip-hop has nothing new left to say. The CD’s first single, “Wavin’ Flag,” has become an international sensation, and was the official anthem of the World Cup Championship hosted this summer by South Africa. Reaching over 150 countries, the signature song was featured on K’Naan’s FIFA-sponsored Trophy Tour, which saw the emerging rap star spreading his message to soccer fans in concerts staged all around the world. K’naan has also re-recorded new versions of the track with Will.i.Am and French dance producer David Guetta and a bilingual versions with Spanish pop singer David Bisbal, French MC Fefe, AI Otsuka from Japan, Jackie Cheung and Jane Zhang from China, Tattoo Colour from Thailand, Nancy Arjam from Egypt, HHP from South Africa, and other artists in Greece, Turkey and elsewhere. Kam Williams: Hi K’naan, thanks so much for the time. K: My pleasure. KW: What was the inspiration for Wavin’ Flag?

Musician/emcee K’Naan Warsame is forging his own musical path via a unique blend of reggae, funk, pop, soul and, above all, hip-hop. K: I can’t remember specifically, it was just one of those moments when I had a melody in my head and a discontented, melancholy feeling. I just wrote that. KW: Did it emanate at all from your childhood? K: I think everything kinda’ does. Everything is kind of shaped by life in general, so I guess it does feel like my childhood might have been an influence. But those things are pretty subconscious. KW: Do you still feel a strong connection to Somalia? K: Yes, I have many, many memories, which have impacted my life. KW: Were you listening to a lot of American music while growing up? K: You could live in Somalia forever and never need music from outside Somalia. There are a lot of different styles and a variety of musical ideas developing right there. KW: What did it mean for you to have Wavin’ Flag become the anthem of the World Cup? K: I used to get very excited watching the World Cup on TV as a child. So, to have any kind of involvement with the World Cup is a big, big honor. KW: Are you a soccer fan and did you play

soccer in your youth? K: Yes I am, and I did play, like most other children. KW: How have you been received by the American hip-hop community? K: Great! You can tell from what’s been happening for me. They’ve all been very supportive and showing love for what I do. KW: Where do you think hip-hop is headed? K: I think it will always go through phases, like how philosophy in ancient times would celebrate the body and the physical for a while, then focus on the mind and the spiritual. I think that those phases happen to us as well, and hip-hop is one of the best barometers of what is happening, because it reflects the feeling of young people. I see my music as following the feeling. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? K: [Chuckles] Interesting… I often try to find the face of my teenage years. I don’t know whether it’s like this for everybody, but I can’t find it. KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? K: It probably would be good if I cooked more, but I just don’t do it very often. When I do, I find it very enjoyable. I made a dish

about a year ago. It was stir-fried vegetables with Szechuan sauce. I made it a little too spicy, I admit, but I think everybody enjoyed it, aside from all the sweating. KW: How do you think African music will influence the rest of the world in the coming years? K: I think it’s actually already affecting the world in a big way now. People just aren’t aware of it. For instance, there’s a great tune by Coldplay called “Strawberry Swing.” It’s essentially Afro-Pop music. And most of Vampire Weekend’s music is Afro-Pop. Africa has influenced many of the biggest bands. So, I believe Africa has already crept in and changed music in the West. People just don’t know to call it African. KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be? K: Wow! That would be for a sudden shift in my country from war, distrust and death to peace, love and harmony. KW: Are you ever afraid? K: Yes I am, but not of what people ordinarily fear, fortunately. My fears are all internal. I’m afraid of my own self more than of anything external. KW: Are you happy? K: Happiness, I think, is one of the most elusive things on the planet. I believe that happiness is only appreciated in retrospect. So, I’m always happy, given that I later find out that I was. KW: How can your fans help you? K: By being understanding of the fact that I don’t make music for them, but that I make music that’s about my past and about my most honest internal instincts. They need to understand that more than anything else. Wherever I go, it’s not about them, but where the music takes me. KW: What has been the happiest moment of your life? K: The birth of my first son. KW: Do you have any regrets? K: I guess I do have some regrets, but none big enough to obsess about. KW: How do you want to be remembered? K: As someone who was always interested in walking through life in a positive way and in affecting people in a positive way. KW: Thanks again for the interview, K’Naan, and best of luck on your world tour. K: Thank you so much, Kam.


33

FEBRUARY 10-16, DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 –2011 22,| 2010 | DEFENDER

CBC

continued from page 1

Celebrating Black History Month Gaddafi Remarks

green industry. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, which funds the legislative conference, wants to ensure that the Black community is aware of the changing job market, new jobs and how to prepare for them. “So many people will never return to the jobs they lost,” said Rep. Elijah E. The CBC wants to ensure that the Black community is aware of the changCummings (D-Md.), honorary co-chair of this year’s events. “It’s our responsibility to ing job market, new jobs and how to prepare for them. League records – chamJamesto Ford counties. Fidelity was increase theirByability do the jobs that surrounding are ByInterscholastic Shantella Y. Sherman pionships in football, basketball, track Special to the Defender still a commuter school then as the SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER available to them.” row donation. informed,” Scott added. (girls and boys), band and forensics. Let’s play “what if” for a minute. eighth grade graduates would attend They will be holding several town hall The sessions will include “Beyond a Also, for the first time in its history, the are some things you won’t What if Fidelity Manor the Highweek Schoolto discuss Wheatley High School aboutNext Steps in the conference is partnering with the National (NNPA) - In But whatthere appears to be a racially incendiary meetings throughout National AIDSlocated Strategy: find there. still existed? What if an even larger five miles west of Galena Park. move, Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, jobs and education, said Cummings. Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Black America” Black Justice Coalition to hold an LGBT dragging number African-American 1949, Fidelity had obtained recently offered to Like stemIsaac the “DD” steadyWillis influx of Africans Elsie ofScott, president students of the CBC Byand “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership summit. The coalition is the only three to four football defenders fromto keep had the chance to walk through its permission to offer one new grade into various European nations in an effort Foundation, said that people need to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wide Black gay civil rights organizarivalcivilized. schools forGaddafi ten to fifteen yards Prime doors? Whatjobs if more untilMarrow it became Donation a 12th gradeAmong African tion. Europe white and told Italian that federal areHoustonians available, inbut it’s each no year Bone until he finally reached the end general knew about the special place it high school. In 1954, Fidelity saw Minister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip tozone. Rome that longer a matter of taking a civic exam and Americans - A Health and Wellness The goal of this summit is to bring attenOr Robert “Cocky” theatsmallholds in local history? its first graduating class matriculate the European Union (EU) shouldNelams, pay him least 5bn having an application read by a supervisor. Luncheon.” tion to issues pertaining to gays and lesbians; est player onto thestop court, shooting the immiIf it still technological existed, Fidelityadvances and its in from OneFoundation standout emerged euros ($6.3 billion) a year illegal African “There’re the it halls. “CBC has an ongoing project including their fight for equality. The ulti“lights out” shot to win a game. There antecedent schoolScott (Clinton Colored from that Calvin O. White, gration and avoid a “Black Europe.” hiring process” said. “A computer to class. increase AIDs awareness with fulltime mate goal is for people to be able to come was also the time C. Elmore School) would be older than Wheatley after graduating from Prairie View Massaging old racial woundsB.and growingHigh concerns, now scans each application looking for key research on how to prevent the spread of this together and have open and honest discusSchool beat us one week basketball (founded in 1927), Yates (1926), WorthGaddafi hoped to capitalize on fearsinthat millions of words and phrases and we want the commu- disease,” Scott said. “We have a grant from sions. the lived next week we beat in ing (1958), and the Africans, who and once under the them subjugation of nity to be Kashmere cognizant(1958) of these changes to the Centers for Disease Control and are parSaid Sharon Lettman-Hicks, executive Mayor Louie Welch, Fidelity Principal Arthur Lilly and Rev. Battles pose the final seconds of the game. I surely historic Booker T. Washington (1893). European colonial rule and who were made citizens of increase their chances.” ticipating with other Black organizationstogether to director of the coalition, “Black communifor the yearbook. wantcontinue to leave out times when Only Gregory Institutewill (1872) and those nations, don’t would to the migrate to their Thisthe year’s conference also attempt to get out more attention to the public.” ties are in crisis. It’s critical that we support that little school in eastand Harris County clear Central Highthe School (1885) arehealthcare or bered wasdesires the kid to who “slung” his batCountry” school,the which closed four years “Mother impoverished, without break down complex new law This year the conference will have at least empowerment of anyone who beat E. E. Worthing High School, would have been older. after hitting a ball during recess. after I graduated. the time positive meansThat of employment. through a Cliff-notes-type guidebook. Free one workshop focusing on Black women. contributeBy something to rebuilding which was on its way to the district Fidelity’s records arepanel linked to bat careened I arrived at the old facility on LGBT healthcare screenings, discussions, “But we want all aspects of the community our families, including people.”into my forehead and Clinton Colored School, whose known championship, not once, but twice. Page 6 opened a gash big enough to gain me ★GADDAFI, and forums on serious medical issues in the especially those at a higher risk to Bolden be Street from Atherton records date back to 1886. For years, “What if” is a good game to play. six stitches over my left eye. Elementary School, the oneBlack community will be the little one-room school on E Street Maybe if Fidelity still existed, our illusAt Fidelity I knew Shirley, room school had been expanded featured. But there will be in Galena Park, Texas, then known trious graduates would have included to three additional classrooms, a Edward, Joel, John, Gloria, and Rosie. particular focus on as Clinton, Texas, educated the black more than one former congressman By the time we all graduated from cafeteria and gymnasium. HIV/AIDS and bone marJames Ford and Shirley Reescano were selected student population on the east end of (Craig Washington), more than one high school, I had learned their middle The long wall behind the the Most Talented in the Class of ‘65 yearbook. Clinton Drive and the north bank of professional football player (James names if they had one: Shirley Mae, teacher’s desk doubled as a Buffalo Bayou. Todd) and more than three military John Archie, Joel Wayne, Gloria Maxcloakroom on one side and a In 1931, the city’s fathers had the College, returned to Fidelity and led the blackboard on the other. The classroom ine, and Rosie Marie. We all eventually standouts (Harvey Player, James H. continued from page 1 white elementary school in Galena Park Panthers to several basketball champiFord Jr. and Nelson Jones). knew a lot about each other and with was a long rectangular space where the picked up and moved to Bolden Street onships. He recently retired from Texas girls sat on one side and the boys on Fidelity Manor was an outstandthe exception of my wife, whom I have that carries a punishment and Fidelity Road. And as favor would Southern University as athletic director. ing school that produced outstanding been married to for 41 years, I spent the other. Now when I think of those of up to two years in state have it, the Clinton Colored School In 1955, Arthur C. Lilly became students, as demonstrated by its rich more time with those guys than I spent girls sitting uncomfortably in swollen, prison. the first and only principal of Fidelity history and legacy of excellence. began to be called The Fidelity School with my mother and father. I remember bunched up petticoats and dresses with Harrison, 54, has not High School. Both the elementary and James H. Ford Jr. is an awardby the 2.7 mile, two-block wide comrunning track, playing football, singing shoulder pads, I snicker. The boys on been charged in his offithe high school moved to a new location the other hand, were not expected to winning storyteller who blends both munity of Fidelity Road. in the choir, playing in the band and cial capacity, and the allepathos and humor into his personal Ms. Freddie Sandle was the princi- on 16th Street in Galena Manor. And all those long bus rides out of town to be as dressed up as blue jeans with the gations do not involve and family narratives. James, a native pal and Laura Bailey was the only other for the first time, the names of Fidelity compete against rivals like Brenham, cuffs rolled up and t-shirts were our any loss tofrom Harris Houstonian, graduated from Fidelinstructor aboutCounty. 1922 until around Manor Elementary and Fidelity Manor Conroe, Baytown Carver, Rosenburg, daily attire. Still, County Judge High School became official. ity Manor High School in 1965 and 1945.Harris The year 1947 saw the addition Liberty and Lamar. It only took me two weeks on the Ed Emmett said he wants including received a BS Degree in Psychology I remember the last days at the old of three additional instructors, Fidelity was a small school, but new campus to know the first names Harrison removed from at Tennessee State University in 1969. Arthur C. Lilly, a football standout from Fidelity Elementary School, the early when they flipped the lights on in the of all my classmates. Unlike Atherton the job.View College, as well as a vetPresently, he an English professor at days at the new one and a number of Prairie morning, our rivals watched out. The Elementary, the school I left, where the “Looking at the imporyears at the new junior and senior high Houston Community College. eran and an instructor from one of the statistics are logged in Prairie View only student name I knew and rememtance of that position for this county, at this time, bond ratings and all those things, I think it’s very important that he either be suspended or step down in some form or fashion,” Emmett said. Harrison denies the charges, saying he is confident his innocence will be proven. Emmett said if Harrison won’t step down willingly, he says he plans to make sure Harrison is suspended until the charges work their way through the court system. Harrison wife has also been charged.

on ‘Blackening’ Former student has fond memories Europe stirs of Fidelity Manor concerns, anger

Indicted

VOLUME 79 • NUMBER 47 SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor Von Jiles Associate Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Cale Carter Columnist Yvette Chargois Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Webmaster Corneleon Block The Houston Defender Newspaper published by The Houston Defender Inc. Company (713) 663-6996. The Defender audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscriptions, send $60.00 — 1 year, to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All materials covered by 2009 copyright... (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).


4

FEBRUARY 10-16, 2011 | DEFENDER


SPORTS

SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | DEFENDER

SEPTEMBER 16 ––2011 22,| 2010 2010 DEFENDER FEBRUARY 10-16, DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 22, || DEFENDER

Max Edison

on Sports Max Edison Edison Max on Beall is the Man Sports What happens when you blister an opponent for a

career high 195 yards rushing Beall is 19 thecarries. Man You’re Beall is the Man on just Dynamo/TSU break WhatC-USA happens when you you What happens when named Offensive ground blister an opponent for blister an opponent for Player of the Week and aathat The Houston Dynamo career high 195 yards yards rushing career high 195 rushing honor was bestowed on talof Major League Soccer on just 19 carries. You’re on justCougar 19 carries. You’re ented Jr. running broke ground recently on named C-USA Offensive named C-USA Offensive back Bryce Beall. their 22,000seat soccer/ Player ofscored the Week Week and that Player the that Beallof threeand touchfootball stadium in downhonor was bestowed on talhonor bestowed taldownswas tying a career on best and town Houston’s east end. ented Cougar Jr. running ented rattledCougar off runsJr.ofrunning 43, 35 and Excavation of the site back Bryce Beall. back Bryce Beall. 31 yards in helping Houston and construction of the Beall scored three touch-in scored three touchto Beall a 54-24 win over UTEP stadium is expected tobest be-and downs tying a career downs tying a career best and the conference opener. gin shortly, and the Dynarattled off runs runs of of 43, 43, 35 35 and rattled off and Texas Bowl Class mo hopes toAnnounces play their first 31 yards in helping Houston 31The yards in helping Houston Texas Bowl game in thewin new stadium to 54-24 over UTEP in in to aa 54-24 win over UTEP Committee recently by mid-2012. The stadium the conference opener. the conference opener. announced the 2010 class of is located within walkTexas Bowl Announces Class Texas Bowl Announces Texas Bowl Gridiron ingThe distance of Minute Class Texas Bowl ThePark, Texas Bowl Legends presented by R. Maid the George Committee recently Committee recently Wrangler and Cavender’s Brown Convention Center, announced the 2010 2010 class of of announced the class Bootthe City, which includes and Toyota Center. In Texas Bowl Gridiron Texas Bowl Gridiron Pro Football Hall of Famers addition to soccer games, Legends presented byJoe Legends presented by Raymond Berry and the new stadium will host Wrangler and Cavender’s Cavender’s Wrangler and Greene, former University of Texas Southern University Boot City, whichstars includes Boot City, which includes Texas defensive Bill football, concerts, boxing Pro Football Hall Moses, of Famers Pro Football Hall of Famers Bradley and and matches, andBob more. Raymond Berry and Joe Raymond Berry and Joe Aldine native, Texas A&M The stadium will be Greene, former University University of of Greene, star and former operated by the Houston Dynamo Texas defensive stars Bill Texas defensive stars Bill Texan Aaron Glenn. and leased from the Harris Bradley and Bob Moses, and and Bradley and Bob Moses, Texas Bowl Gridiron County-Houston Sports Aldine native, TexasbyA&M A&M Aldine Legendsnative, presented Authority. It isTexas located star and former Houston star and former Houston Wrangler and Cavender’s closer to downtown than Texan Aaron Glenn. Texan Aaron Bootother City areGlenn. all individuals any American staTexas Bowl Gridiron conTexas Bowl Gridiron who made aforsignificant dium built soccer and Legends presented byof footLegends presented by tribution to theaccessible game will be easily Wrangler and Cavender’s Wrangler and Cavender’s ballfans in the state of Texas, to from the entire Boot City are all individuals Boot arehigh all individuals eitherCity at the school, colHouston area. who made significantlevel. conwho made aa significant legiate or professional Renowned archi- contribution to the game of foottribution the gamethe of deepfoot“This firm istoarguably tectural Populous ball in the state of Texas, ball in the state of Texas, est and most star-studded designed the stadium, either at thebehigh high school, colcoleither at the school, class of Gridiron Legends,” which will constructed legiate or professional level. legiate or professional level. saidHouston-based Texas Bowl executive by Man“ThisConstruction is arguably arguably the deep“This is the director Heather Houston. hattan anddeepest and most star-studded est andofmost star-studded “Each these five men left overseen by the ICON class ofGroup. Gridiron Legends,” class of Gridiron Legends,” an indelible mark on the Venue Additional said Texas Bowl executive said Bowl executive gameTexas in Texas and we companies working on are the director Heather Houston. director Heather extremely proud Houston. toarchitect be associsite are landscape “Each of these these five men left left “Each of five men Clark Condon, structural ated with each of them. I an indelible mark on the an indelible mark on the engineer Walter Moore, want to thank theP.Gridiron game in Texas Texas andcommittee we are are game in and we and civil engineer WGA, Legends selection extremely proud to be associextremely proud tojob beinthey’ve associall based for companies the wonderful ated with with each each of of them. them. II ated ★EDISON, Page 6 want to to thank thank the Gridiron want Gridiron H the EDISON, Page 6 Legends selection committee Legends selection committee for the the wonderful wonderful job job they’ve they’ve for

Darrell★EDISON, ArdisonPage 6 ★EDISON, Page 6

on H.S. Darrell Ardison Darrell Ardison Sports on H.S. Houston’s top high school The “Clash of continued the Causevolleyball teams Sports way” Part II is set for Sat-

their winning ways recently. urday (Feb. 12) at Hofheinz In the Class 5A division, Pavilion. Tipofftop is scheduled Houston’s top highWoods school Houston’s high school top-ranked Cypress for 7 p.m. volleyball teams continued volleyball teams continued swept District 17-5A foes Galveston Ball their winning ways(26-2) recently. their winning ways recently. Cy-Fair and Cypress Falls to andIn Marque (25-2), two InLathe the Class 5Aondivision, division, Class 5A improve to 26-1 the seastate-ranked boys high school top-ranked Cypress Woods top-ranked Cypress Woods son. basketball teams,17-5A will meet swept District 17-5A foes swept No. District two Klein Oak,foes 22-2, for the second time in District Cy-Fair and Cypress Falls to Cy-Fair Cypress Falls defeatedand Cy-Fair to win theto 24-4A action. Ball is curimprove to Tournament 26-1 on on the the seaseaimprove to 26-1 Kingwood chamrently ranked No. 3 among son. son. pionship. 4ANo. schools La Marque is twoand Klein Oak, 22-2, 22-2, No. two Klein Oak, Cy Woods is currently No. 4. defeated Cy-Fair to the win the the defeated Cy-Fair to win ranked No. three in In their Tournament first encounter,chamKingwood Kingwood Tournament chamcoaches’ state 5A poll while apionship. standing-room-only crowd pionship. Klein Oak to No. of Cy more thanjumped 3,000 fans Woods is currently currently CyOther Woods is five. Houston-area witnessed Ball winning 81-76 ranked No. No. three in the the ranked three in schools include Katy at Phillips Arena in Pasadena. coaches’ state 5A poll poll while coaches’ state 5A while at No. 11 and No. 15 The Hundreds fans weretoturned Klein Oakofjumped jumped No. Klein Oak to No. Woodlands. away at the entrance. five. Other Houston-area five. Other Houston-area Magnolia is Jerald the top area Ballschools coach Temple ranked include Katy ranked schools include Katy school in the Class 4A said the11 lastand game was a The lotstate of at No. No. 15 at No. 11 No.with 15 The poll at both No.and three fun for Galveston County Woodlands. Woodlands. Friendswood, Brenham and communities and thattop both Magnolia isfalling the area Magnolia is the top area Barbers Hill in line at schools arethe looking forward school in Class 4A state stateis school in the Class 4A four through six. Stratford to theatchallenge of playing a poll No. three withupstart poll at No. three with ranked No.again. nine and great game Friendswood, Brenham and Friendswood, Brenham Pearland Dawson No.and 11. Hofheinz has a is seating Barbers Hill falling in line at Barbers Hill falling in line Dawson is 21-6 after regiscapacity of 8,500 fans. The at four through six. Stratford is four six. Stratford teringthrough awill dramatic comebackis facility host a men’s ranked No. ninePark andlast upstart ranked No. nine and upstart win over Deer collegiate basketball game Pearland Dawson is No. 11. Pearland Dawson is No. week. The Eagles prevailed between the University of 11. Dawson is 21-6 after regisDawson 21-6 after regis19-25, 27-25, 20-25, 25-10, Houston andisTulane earlier tering aasdramatic dramatic comeback tering a comeback 15-12 outside hitter that day at 4 p.m. win over Deer Deer Park last win over Park last Yewande Akanbi ledAT the way GETTING HOT week. The Eagles prevailed week. The Eagles prevailed in the match with 22 kills. THE RIGHT TIME 19-25, 27-25, 20-25, 25-10, 19-25, 20-25, 25-10, After finishing in the top The27-25, Fort Bend Elkins 15-12 as outside outside hitter 15-12 as hitter 10 at the prestigious Pearland girl’s basketball team is only Yewande Akanbi led the the way Yewande Akanbi led Tournament last month, 14-15 on the season. Howev-way in the match with 22 kills. in the match with 22 kills. Dawson is Knights serving are notice er, the Lady 10-1that After finishing finishingwas in the the top top After in accomplishment in District 23-5A and tiednowith 10 at the prestigious Pearland 10 at the prestigious Pearland fluke.Hightower for first place. rival Tournament last month, month, Tournament last Magnolia earned its 20th Leading scorer Donielle Dawson is serving notice that Dawson is serving notice that win of missed the season with Breaux the first fewa 21accomplishment was no accomplishment was no 25, 25-10, weeks of the25-16, season 25-15 due to vicfluke. fluke. ★ARDISON, Magnolia earned its its Page 20th 6 Magnolia earned 20th win of of the the season season with with aa 2121win 25, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vicH ARDISON, Page 6 25, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vic★ARDISON, Page Page 6 6 ★ARDISON,

5

New Attitude Texans Offense Yields Results New Attitude Texans Offense Yields Results SPORTS

55 5

Grammy award winner Donnie McClurkin and director Myron Butler perform with NFL All-Star Choir.

By Max Edison DEFENDER

By MaxEdison

W W

ell, it’s only the first game of the season, but By Max Edison Max Edison you have By to be excited about the way the fightDEFENDER DEFENDER in’ Texans dismissed their old nemesis, the Indy Colts, last weekend at Reliant. Of course, there was a sellell, it’s it’s only the first game of the season, but ell, first game out crowd that wasonly morethe than amped upof forthe theseason, kick-offbut of you have to be excited about the way the fightyou have to be which excitedlongsuffering about the wayTexan the fightthe NFL regular season, fans in’their Texans dismissed their old nemesis, nemesis, the the Indy Indy in’ Texans their old hope will be firstdismissed visit to the playoffs. Colts, last weekend at Reliant. Of course, there was a sellColts, Ofatcourse, there was a sellYou last alsoweekend have to at beReliant. enthused the intensity level the out crowd that was more than amped up for the kick-off of out that was morequite than amped the kick-off of teamcrowd displayed, which franklyup hasforbeen somewhat the NFL regular season, which longsuffering Texan fans the NFL regularon season, Texan fans underwhelming far toowhich many longsuffering occasions when the team hope will be their their first visit visit tooutcome the playoffs. playoffs. hope be first the takes will the field. Normally, theto is very predictable, Youfat also have to to be be enthused enthused at at the the intensity intensity level level the the You also have a big loss. team displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat team displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat No, this was a different group of fightin’ Texans. On underwhelming on far far toowith many occasions whenled thebyteam team underwhelming on many occasions when the defense, they came outtoo a surly attitude, his takes the field. Normally, the outcome is very predictable, takes the field. Normally, the outcome is very predictable, “royal highness of surliness,” safety Bernard Pollard. big fat fat loss. All-World defensive end Mario Williams aaEven big loss. potential No, this was different group of fightin’ fightin’ Texans. Texans. On On No, ready this was aa different of came to dominate, andgroup did just that. defense, they came out with a surly attitude, led by his defense, they with that a surly led simply by his The real keycame for theout squad, madeattitude, yours truly “royal highness of surliness,” safety Bernard Pollard. “royal highness of surliness,” Bernard giddy with joy, was the way thesafety vaunted Texan Pollard. offense Even potential All-World defensive endJohnson Mario Williams Williams Even potential defensive end Mario performed. NowAll-World we all know that Andre is one of came ready truly to dominate, dominate, and did just justand that.Matt Schaub is a came ready to and did that. the world’s dominant receivers The real key for the squad, that made yours truly simply The real QB, key for squad, yours Pro-Bowl whothe can pass that withmade the best of truly them.simply What Photos courtesy of the Texans giddy with joy, was the way the vaunted Texan offense giddy withunsure joy, was the way vaunted Texan offense we were of was if thetherevamped offensive line #1 Right guard Antoine Caldwell, above, (college photo) and left tackle #76 performed. Now wearound all know knowinthat that Andre Johnson isprovide one of of performed. we all Johnson one could moveNow folks theAndre trenches and is Duane Brown, below are key components of the Texan new rushing attack. the world’s truly dominant receivers and Matt Schaub is the world’s dominant Matt Schaublanes is aa Schaub withtruly enough time toreceivers pass andand create running Pro-Bowl QB, who can pass with the best of them. What Pro-Bowl who canFoster. pass with theI’m best of them. What for runningQB, back Arian Well, pleased to report Photos courtesy of the Texans Photos courtesy of the Texans we were unsure unsure ofthewas was ifwith the flying revamped offensive line we were of if the revamped offensive line the O-line passed test colors, for at least #1 Right Right guard guard Antoine Antoine Caldwell, Caldwell, above, above, (college (college photo) photo) and and left left tackle tackle #76 #76 #1 could move folks around in the trenches and provide could move folks around in the trenches and provide week one. Duane Brown, Brown, below below are are key key components components of of the the Texan Texan new new rushing rushing attack. attack. Duane Few-Harrison recognized that many play-we Schaub withknow enough time to pass pass and create create running lanes By Max Edison Schaub with enough to running lanes Now thetime Texans can and score points in bunches, ers and fans desired a safe, entertaining venue for running back Arian Foster. Well, I’m pleased to report for back Arian I’m pleased report but running it traditionally has Foster. been anWell, air based attack.toAgainst to celebrate the big game, not only to the show In the mid midst of the glitz, glamour and the O-linethey passed the test testthe with flying offense, colors, for for at least least O-line passed the with flying colors, at Colts, introduced balanced which featheir love for football, but also to be inspired business that is at the core of the Super Bowl week one. week tured one. the running of Arian Foster and the outcome was a by the uplifting sounds and the rich culture week experience, one of the hottest tickets in Nowofwe we know know the Texans Texans can can score score points points in in bunches, bunches, Now the record-setting afternoon. gospel music. Teaming up with founding parttown is not to one of the hundreds of secular but it traditionally has been an air based attack. Against butConsider it traditionally hasArian beenFoster’s an air based attack. yards Against this: RB 231 rushing on ner, the NFL Players Association, the the event celebrity affairs. The toughest ticket to come the Colts, they introduced the balanced offense, which feaColts, they introduced the balanced offense, on which fea33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most Kickoff started out as a gospel brunch, quicklytured evolvacross is to the star-studded Super Bowl Gospel tured the running running of Arian Arian He Foster and the the outcome was aa the of Foster and was Weekend in NFL history. recorded theoutcome first 200-yard ing into the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. Celebration. record-setting afternoon. record-setting afternoon. rushing performance in franchise history. Foster rushed A major highlight of the concert is the This year in the Dallas, some of gospel Consider this:in RB RB Arian Foster’s 231125 rushing yards on this: Foster’s 231 rushing yards on forConsider 191 yards theArian second half and yards in the NFL Player’s All-Star Gospel Choir, which music’s top stars came together the first week 33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most on Kickoff 33 carries (threeHouston’s TD’s) were second-most on Kickoff fourth quarter. 257therushing yards represented features more than 40 past and currentWeekend NFL in February for a concert that puts the Christian Weekend in NFL history. He recorded the first 200-yard in NFL history. He recorded the first 200-yard just the second 200-yard rushing performance in team hisstars. faith at the top of the agenda and celebrates rushing performance in franchise history. Foster rushed rushing performance in franchise history. Foster rushed tory. Atlanta Falcon Pro-Bowl fullbackfor Ovie the unique union of faith and football. The list 191 yards inover the and second half and 125 yards for in the the forIt’s 191 yards the second and yards in been saidin overhalf again that125 in order Mughelli participated for the fourth year in quarter. Houston’s 257 rushing yards represented of celebrity performers read like a gospel Pro fourth fourth quarter. Houston’s 257 rushing yards represented Texans to achieve their goals this season, they must feathe choir and shared exactly why. Bowl roster: Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans, just the secondbalanced 200-yardoffensive rushing performance performance in team team hisjust second 200-yard rushing in histure the a more attack. In other words, “The Super Bowl is the biggest stage for Israel Houghton, Mary Mary, James Fortune and tory. tory. improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009. our league,” Mughelli explained. “The best Marvin Sapp. It’sback been said Foster over and and over again that in inthe order for the the It’s been said over that order for Big Arian saysover the again team heard comments, and the brightest come here to play. SomeThe event, in its 12th year, is the brainchild Texans to achieve their goals this season, they must feaTexans to achieve their line. goals this season, they must feaespecially his offensive where amongst all these parties and allture thisa moreAtlanta of Atlanta based Melanie Few-Harrison, presibalanced offensive attack. In other other words, Falcon Pro-Bowl fullback Ovie Mughelli ture“We’ve a moreheard balanced offensive attack. In words, this whole offseason about how our run fun there should be a celebration of God. dent of Results Marketing and Media. improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009. improve a rushing game that abysmal in 2009. game wasn’t as efficient last was year simply and how if we had a run Big back Arian Foster saysthis the and teamcould heardhave the comments, comments, Big back says the team heard the game, weArian could Foster have done done that,” H SUPER BOWL Page 6 especially his offensive line. especially his offensive line. “We’ve heard heard this this whole whole offseason offseason about how how Page our run run “We’ve about our ★TEXANS, 6 game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run game, we we could could have have done done this this and and could could have have done done that,” that,” game,

Super Bowl

Gospel Celebration combines faith and football

Houston High School Basketball profile: H.S. Football Games of the Week H.S. Football Games of the Week

Bellaire girls point guard A.J. Alix ★TEXANS, Page Page 6 6 ★TEXANS,

By Darrell K. Ardison DEFENDER

Bellaire, Alix has to rate right By Darrell Ardison Houston areaA.J. high up there at the top with the ItSeveral stands to reason that By Darrell Darrell K.toArdison Ardison By K. schools projected earn athan spot best guards he’s ever had.” Alix would like math more DEFENDER DEFENDER the playoffs went into their Alix understands that she anyinother subject in school. third game of thesheseason still has to improve every year to As a freshman, scored 45 Several Houston area high high Several Houston area seeking thatregional first victory. continue improving. points in the final against schools projected totoearn earn spot schools to spot After projected advancing the aaClass A.J. remembers playing orstate-bound Hightower, when her in the playoffs went last into year, their in playoffs went into their 4A the state semifinals ganized basketball for the first undersized team stood the test at third gameDawson of the the was season still game of season still Pearland of time when she was five or six thethird Campbell Center with aone berth seeking that first victory. seeking that first victory. schools after tournament losing to years old. She attended Pershin those the state basketball After advancing to the theSprings Class After to Class Class 5A stalwarts ing Middle School, and was in Austin atadvancing stake. Clear 4A state semifinals semifinals last year, year, 4A state and Conroe Oak Ridge.last headed for another high school Head coach Michael Kramer Pearland Dawson was (1-2) one of of Pearland Dawson was one DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ before deciding on Bellaire. took it all in perspective. those schools after losing to those schools after losing to Dawson broke intothat thewewin“As a freshman point “Everybody knew Class 5A stalwarts stalwarts Clear Springs Class 5A ning column with 28-0 Springs victory guard last year, I was a little returned most of ouraClear players from and Conroe Oak Ridge. 4A powConroe Oak Ridge. onyear, the road perennial nervous,” Alix said. “Nobody lastand and at we’re all small DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ (1-2) led DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ (1-2) erhouse Dayton. The Eagles thought we could make it as kids with our guard play dictatDawson broke into into the the Steve winDawson broke winatwehalftime far as we did and coach sat me ing21-0 what want to behind do,” Kramer ning columnthree-yard with aa 28-0 28-0TD victory ning column victory Orisakwe’s down and told me that playing said. “When wewith penetrate, it run, on the road at at11-yard perennial 4A powpowon road perennial 4A Trethe Oliver’s scoring in the playoffs was just like would help to have a big post run erhouse Dayton. TheTD Eagles led erhouse Dayton. The Eagles led and an but eight-yard runthat. by playing any other game and presence, we don’t have 21-0 atJones. halftime behind Steve at halftime behind Steve Payton A 40-yard pass Austin (dark uniforms) hopes to improve to 3-0 this week against rivalthat’s Milby. Here they faced just what I did.” So21-0 we have to upgrade theTD tempo Orisakwe’s three-yard TD run, Scarborough last week in a 50-0 victory. run, from Kimble to TD Randall Alix said the pain of losing andOrisakwe’s get aGarry littlethree-yard rhythm going with Tre Oliver’s 11-yard scoring was run Oliver’s scoring run Weeks in the11-yard third quarter to Hightower in the regional ourTre guards.” and an eight-yard TD run by he purposefully set up a tough Garner rushed for 164 yards and 3 loss final and anpossesses eight-yard TD by the only scoring ainsilky the run second to Elkins in the 2010 sea- her has served to ignite Alix smooth Payton Jones. A 40-yard TD pass pass Austin (dark (dark uniforms) hopes to added improve toadditional 3-0 this this week week against rival Milby.play Heretothey they faced Austin uniforms) hopes improve 3-0 Milby. Here faced Payton 40-yard TD half.shotJones. schedule to help pre- to twoto scoresagainst to sonrival opener, Dayton couldn’t team’s repeat this seajump from A the perimeter and non-district from Garry Kimble to Randall Randall Scarborough last weekdown in aa 50-0 50-0 victory. Scarborough last week in Garry Kimble to son. DAWSON VS. for district games the victory. give SFA an advantage they overcome four first-half thefrom handles to NIMITZ beat defenders and pare Weeks in paint. the third third quarter was Weeks in the quarter was Some people that The Eagles look to only continue line. “You have to get through would never relinguish. turnovers despite rushing think for 178 score in the She’s a the only scoring in the second he purposefully settoup up tough Garner Garner rushed for 164 to yards and 33 loss in to the Elkins in the the 2010 sea- team, the scoring in the purposefully set tough 164 yards and loss to Elkins in 2010 seabecause we have a young sophomore. theironly winning ways thissecond week he some tough games getaabetter,” Milbyrushed will befor trying get into yards game’s first 24 minhalf. non-district scheduleisn’t to help help pre- added added two additional scores of to son son opener, Dayton couldn’t half. to preadditional scores to that we Dayton can’t do couldn’t it again,” she In addition an all-state when they to take on Aldine non-district Wells said. schedule “There an easy the wintwo column at the expense utes. opener, DAWSON VS. NIMITZ pare for district games down the give SFA an advantage they overcome four first-half DAWSON NIMITZ an advantage they overcome fourgoing said. “I’m to do in everypresence Alix, she’s surrounded Nimitz.inVS. The Cougars notched pare weekfor fordistrict us.” games down the give their SFA long-time rivals. Buffs’ Angleton turned the first-half tables Thefirst Eagles look toshoot continue line. “You have to get get through would would never relinguish. relinguish. turnovers despite rushing for to 178 The Eagles look to continue line. “You to through never despite for 178 thing I canrushing to get quarterus state.” by their teammates can the winthat last week by rallyAUSTIN (2-0)have vs MILBY (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman turnovers the second half. Senior their winning ways thisroad week some tough games to get get better,” better,” Milby will be be trying trying toreceiver get into into yards yards in the theAlix game’s first 24 mintheir winning this week to Milby will get in game’s first 24 wants beminaon business ball distance. ingfrom from behindways on the to some Thistough is angames old-fashioned rival- and dimunitive wideto back Quandre Diggs (91toyards when they take on Aldine Wells said. “There isn’t an easy easy the win win Bautista column at atwill the expense expense of utes. utes. when they Aldine Wells said. isn’t an column the of major in college, even though “That’s whattake is 13-9. so on much fun defeat Conroe Nimitz ry game so“There you can throw the the Sergio have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard Nimitz. The Cougars notched week for us.” their long-time rivals. Buffs’ Angleton turned the tables inher The Cougars notched week for us.” their long-time rivals. Buffs’ Angleton turned the tables she’s still not sure whatin forNimitz. us this season,” Kramer said. trailed 9-6 with less than two records out the window. team primed for confrontation. sneak to cap a 53-yard, 15-play their first win last week by rallyAUSTIN (2-0) vs MILBY (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman the second half. Senior quarterfirst win last week by rallyAUSTIN (2-0) vs MILBY (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman the second half. Senior quartereventual career path might “Iftheir we get going, we can cause minutes remaining in the fourth SFA has a chance to improve ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) drive in the third quarter to give be. ing from behind on the road to is an anafter old-fashioned rival- and and dimunitive widepossum receiver back Quandre Diggs (91 yards yards on HerDiggs favorite color on is pink ing from behind on the road to This is old-fashioned rivalwide receiver Quandre (91 some damage because you never quarter when Torian Amos to This3-0 demolishing Thedimunitive Wildcats played in back his team a 17-10 edge. defeat Conroe 13-9. Nimitz ry game so you can throw the Sergio Bautista will have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard Alix possesses a silky smooth jump shot from the perimeter. and her favorite movie defeat Conroe 13-9. Nimitz ry game so you can throw the Sergio Bautista will have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard know who is on that night. That’s hauled in a 65-yard touchdown Scarborough 50-0 at Barnett the first quarter against Dayton. The Wildcats were at it againis trailed 9-6 with less than two records out the window. team primed for confrontation. sneak to cap capand 53-yard, 15-play Basketball.” been an added dimension this seatrailed 9-6 with less than two records out the window. team primed for confrontation. sneak to aa 53-yard, 15-play pass from Flavies Heffner at the Stadium. Mustangs’ quarterback the opening 12 minutes, the in the“Love fourth quarter. had to do things a little In different this season. minutes remaining in the fourth SFA has a chance to improve ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) drive in the third quarter to and give She was born May 9th, 1995 son. minutes remaining in the fourth SFA has a chance to improve ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) drive in the third quarter to give 1:58 mark to provide game- Casey DavisShe tossed Broncos dictated the game’s Ryan Jackson, who rushed forher canthree pull touchup, and she has a little floater quarter when Torian Amos to 3-0 after demolishing The Wildcats played possum in his team a 17-10 edge. birth sign is Tauras. “A.J. was an unknown commodity last quarter when Torian Amos to 3-0 after demolishing The Wildcats played possum in his team a 17-10 edge. winner. down passesto and for two something tempo andelse jumped out to an early giveran the defense to think hauled inhad 65-yard touchdown Scarborough 50-0 back at Barnett Barnett the the first quarter against against Dayton. The Wildcats were atthing it again again season andin 145Eric points in said the playoffs could change oneat about hauled aacoach 65-yard touchdown Scarborough 50-0 at quarter Wildcats were it Dawson Wells more while running Tavares 10-0first advantage. After a Dayton. tough 8-If sheThe about.” ★H.S. FOOTBALL, Page 6personpass from from Flavies Heffner atthe theteam Stadium. Mustangs’ quarterback In the opening 12 minutes, the in the fourth quarter. alone,” Kramer said.Heffner “I toldat that weMustangs’ pass Flavies the Stadium. quarterback In the opening 12 minutes, the in the fourth quarter. herself, it would be her attitude and Kramer says that during his tenure at 1:58 mark mark to to provide provide the the gamegame- Casey Casey Davis Davis tossed tossed three three touchtouch- Broncos Broncos dictated dictated the the game’s game’s Ryan Jackson, Jackson, who who rushed rushed for for 1:58 Ryan H BELLAIRE, Page 6 winner. down passes and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early winner. down passes and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early Dawson coach coach Eric Eric Wells Wells said said more more while while running running back back Tavares Tavares 10-0 10-0 advantage. advantage. After After aa tough tough 88Dawson ★H.S. FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL, Page Page 6 6 ★H.S.


SPORTS

6SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | DEFENDER

Super Bowl Max Edison

5 FEBRUARY 10-16 | DEFENDER

New Attitude Texans Offense Yields Results

lot about them that they are here mix- Pat, the 501 (c) (3) public charity creing and working with us. It is a treates unique experience and educaContinued from page 5 mendous experience. In this program tional enrichment opportunities for the stars are the quarterbacks and we underserved children. These opportuA celebration of who God is, His follow their lead and work with them. nities give children the chance to demight, His power, His glory and Him We are all on the stage together. The velop a strong cultural identity, solid allowing us to participate in this little bottom line is that God gets the glory foundation for success and a vehicle Beall is the Man game called football.” in all we do.” for transforming their communities. What happens when you “The road to the NFL is not Since its inception in 1999, the “We are truly honored to have blister an opponent for a easy,” Ovie continued. “Fighting celebration has partnered with a charPat & Emmitt Smith Charities as our career high 195 yards rushing through injuries, trying to make the ity in each Super Bowl host city, and North Texas charitable partner for on just 19 carries. You’re team, dealing with teammates, fighthas donated more than $400,000 and the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration,” named C-USA Offensive By Max Edison ing for playing time, so many things said Melanie Few-Harrison. “This more than 5,000 tickets. Player of the Week and that DEFENDER that can keep you from getting to the This year Pat & Emmitt Smith is a natural match, a charity founded honor was bestowed on talNFL, so I just thank God daily for the Charities was named the official by one of the most celebrated NFL ented Cougar Jr. running ell, it’s only the first gameand ofthe theonly season, privilege to play in the NFL.” North Texas charitable partner for the players NFL but sanctioned back Bryce Beall. you have to be excited about the way the fight-Bowl Like many players, Mughelli’s 2011 Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. gospel concert during Super Beall scored three touchin’Cowboys Texans dismissed their oldThat’s nemesis, the Indyfor us feels his Christian foundation Founded by retired Weekend. a win-win downs tying a career best andhas Colts, last weekend at Reliant. Of course, there was a sellbenefited his of personal superstar Emmitt Smith and his wife, and the Dallas community.” rattled off in runs 43, 35and andprofesout crowd that was more than amped up for the kick-off of 31 yards in helping Houston the NFL regular season, which longsuffering Texan fans to a 54-24 win over UTEP in hope will be their first visit to the playoffs. the conference opener. You also have to be enthused at the intensity level the Texas Bowl Announces Class team displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat The Texas Bowl on farthem too many when team rival Madison recently was no excep- Westside have risen to the underwhelming forefront. face one occasions more time andthe then get Committee recently takes the field. Normally, the outcome is very predictable, tion. Facing a taller team that had Kramer covets another talented big ready for the playoffs.” announced the 2010 class of a big fat loss. battled the Lady Cardinals for most girl to add to the arsenal. Yet he’s do Kramer says that a Texas Bowl Gridironfrom page 5 Continued No, this was number a different group ofcould fightin’ Texans. On of the game in the first round, Beling the best he can with the hand he’s of teams eventually Legends presented by defense, they came out withRegion a surlyIII-5A attitude,throne, led bybut his laire took an early edge and fought been dealt. rise to the ality. Wrangler and Cavender’s “royal highnessthat of surliness,” safety Bernard Pollard. off the Lady Marlins during a tough Bellaire lost some disappointing Cy-Falls is probably the favorite always want to be there for Boot City, “I which includes potential All-World defensive Mario Williams third quarter before winning going games in the early season, Even particuwith North Shore, end Alief Elsik, Westmy teammates, and at times, I find Pro Football Hall of Famers came ready to dominate, and did just that. away. larly in out-of-town tournaments, side and a few others in close pursuit. Raymond Berry and Joe for answers when I myself searching Therival real key for the“You squad, that made When Kramer took over as head and dropped a game to district never knowyours whattruly cansimply hapGreene, former University of them as opneed to lean more on giddy with joy, was the way the vaunted Texan offense coach at Bellaire during the 1990s, Westside in the HISD Tournament. pen,” Kramer said. “I remember one Texas posed defensive stars Bill to trying to figure out things performed. Nowyear we allwhen knowIthat Andrewe Johnson is one of Madison was the king of girls’ bas“We were able to beat Westside thought had the best Bradley and Bob Moses, and for myself.” the world’s truly dominant receivers and Matt Schaub is ketball not only in District 20-5A, but in the first round of district play and team and we came up short. It just a Aldine native, Texassays A&M Kramer the season has proPro-Bowl QB, who can pass best of them. I always say that when it is the depends on with who the is playing well What on a star and formernicely Houston Photos courtesy of theis Texans gressed thus far, and Bellaire’s also in the greater Houston area. we were unsure of was if the revamped offensive line the interim, Bellaire and mostand important,” Texan78-47 Aaron victory Glenn. over District 20-5A #1 Right guardInAntoine Caldwell, above, (college photo) left tackleKramer #76 said. “We’ll given night.” could move folks around in the trenches and provide Texas Bowl Gridiron Duane Brown, below are key components of the Texan new rushing attack. Schaub with enough time to pass and create running lanes Legends presented by for running back Arian Foster. Well, I’m pleased to report Wrangler and Cavender’s the O-line with flying colors, for popula¬tion at least Texas’ fastest-growing percent of Texas children aged passed 10 to 17the testare chises adhere to the Rooney Boot City are all individuals week one. group, are expected to drive obesity rates were obese, compared to 16.4 percent for Rule stipulations. The FPA who made a significant conNow we know the Texans caninscore in bunches, higher futurepoints years.24 all U.S. children.19 Continued from page 1 provides the NFL with the Continued from page 5 tribution to the game of footbut it traditionally has been an air based attack. Against BY EDUCATION AND INCOME Comparing the 2007 NSCH with “Ready List” annually. The ball in the state of Texas, two-thirds of Texans (66.7 percent) the Colts, they introduced the balanced offense, which feaHouston. Socioeconomic factors such as lower its 2003 predecessor yields more alarmeither at the high school, col- “Ready List” is a carefully are overweight or clinically obese.15 tured the running of Arian Foster and the outcome was a can be The stadium will comeducational attainment and income ing results. The number of states with compiled list of qualified According to the CDC, U.S. adult legiate or professional level. afternoon. correlated to obesity in adults, and to some child¬hood obesityrecord-setting rates at or above 18 plete a trio of state-of-the-art minority candidates for all obesity rates rose from 11.6 percent in “This is arguably the deepextent in children as well.25 percent doubled, fromConsider six statesthis: in 2003 RBtoArian Foster’s 231 rushing yards on athletic facilities all within a executive positions. Many in 1990 to 27.1 percent in 2009. In Texas, est and most star-studded Studies have found that obesity is less 12 in 2007 (Exhibit 4). 33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most on Kickoff stone’s throw of each other the media have been critical our share of adults who are obese more class of Gridiron Legends,” common amongthe people with more The Demographics of Obesity downtown. That fact makes Weekend in NFL history. He recorded first 200-yard than doubled from 12.3 percent to 29.5 of the Rooney Rule process said Texas Bowl executive education, and Foster Texas isrushed no exception. The incidencerushing of obesityperformance has increasedin franchise Mayor Annise Parker beam history. percent (Exhibit 1). Over the same period, without a true understanding director Heather Houston. In 2009, college graduates across the board, but moreyards pronounced with pride. foris 191 in the second halfTexas’ and 125 yards in thewere the the share of Texas adults at normal weight of how the process works. “Each of these five men left least likely to beyards obese,represented at 22.2 percent. among some groups. “We believe the stafourth quarter. Houston’s 257 rushing fell sharply, from 57.1 percent to just 33.1 The Rule can’t force an an indelible mark on the BY AGE Texans without a highin school dium is going to be good just the second 200-yard rushing performance teamdiploma his- were percent, a drop of 42 percent.16 NFL owner to hire a qualified game in Texas and we are the most likely to be obese, at 37.4 percent Obesity rates have risen for all age for the citizens of Houston, tory. It Starts in Childhood extremely proud to be associ- minority, just make sure they 6).26that in order for the groups, but the older It’s you been are, the more excellent for that end of said over and (Exhibit over again Obesity has risen even faster in interview one. Let’s face it ated with each of them. I between likely you are to beTexans obese. to achieve their goals The downtown and it will spur this relationship season, they must income fea- and children than adults. According to CDC, if you paid close to a billion want to thank the around Gridironit,” Texans aged 55 to 64 had the state’s obesity in adults is well-established.27 In economic growth ture a more balanced offensive attack. In other words, the rate of obesity among U.S. children dollars for a franchise no one Legends selection committee 2009, Texans earning between $15,000 highest obesity rate in 2009, at about Parker said. “It will make a improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009. aged six to 11 tripled from 1980 to 2008, should tie your hands when for thedynamic wonderful job they’ve and $24,999 annually were the most likely 33.7 percent. The 45-to-54 age group was really triangle with from 6.5 percent to 19.6 percent. Among Big back Arian Foster says the team heard the comments, making key decisions. Smart, to be obese (38.1 percent); those earning sec¬ond, at 33.6 percent. Texans aged the Toyota★EDISON, Center, Minute adoles¬cents aged 12 to 19, obesity rates Page 6 successful teams use the Rule especially his offensive line. $50,000 or more per year were least likely, 35 to 44 came in third-heaviest, at 31.4 Maid Park, and now the new rose even faster, from 5.0 percent to 18.1 “We’ve heard this whole offseason about how our run to their advantage (Mike at 26.3 percent.28 percent.21 Dynamo stadium – with the percent.17 game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run Tomlin & Pittsburgh SteelURBAN VS. RURAL BY RACE/ETHNICITY Excessive weight puts children at risk George R. Brown Convengame, weblack could have done thisTexans and could done that,” are Darrell Ardison ers), bad teams continue to livinghave in rural counties In Texas, Hispanic and adults of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, tion Center right in the stumble in mediocrity (guess more likely to be obese. In 2009, Texans in had the highest obesity rates in 2009, at gall¬bladder disease, depression, anxiety middle of the action.” ★TEXANS, Page 6the state’s of a local example). 36.4 percent and 35.7 percent, respectively. rural areas — those lying outside and lower self-esteem, while increasing TSU President Dr. John Even though a minormetropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) — By contrast, 25.7 percent of Texas white their risk of chronic disease in adultM. Rudley was all smiles as ity candidate doesn’t get a had much higher obesity rates than city adults were obese (Exhibit 5).22 Child hood.18 well. head coaching job after the obesity is more common among blacks and dwellers, at 34.3 percent versus 28.8 The 2007 National Survey of Chil“One of our major initia- interview there is opportunity Hispanics as well.23 And Hispanics, which percent. dren’s Health (NSCH) found that 20.4 tives was to bring a stateHouston’s top high school for the case of diversity. Take of-the-art to Texas volleyball stadium teams continued the recent case of the TennesSouthern University athlettheir winning ways recently. see Titans. Another big key for Elkins The USA Today newspaper the death of quarterback Reggie ics,” Rudley new In the Classsaid. 5A “This division, By recently DarrellletK. Ardison The Titans has been the play of post Breanna made the full-page announceGarrett. stadium hasCypress helped us reach DEFENDER top-ranked Woods coach Jeff Fisher go and Barnett, who is averaging more ment last week. Continued from page 5 that goal. It also givesfoes us one immediately the heir apswept District 17-5A than 17 points per game. of the best facilities in the to personal Several area highreasons. Since her reCy-Fair and Cypress Falls parent for the vacant Houston posiCLASSIFIEDS ETC. Southwestern Athletic turn, Knights have picked up a the spot improve to 26-1 on theConseation was schools said to beprojected Hall of to earn DAVIS A NATIONAL POY The Texas High School ference. It’s a huge boost to their level in the their of play and won nine son. Fame player andplayoffs long timewent into Stephen F. Austin quarterCoaches Association recently  theNo. overall athletic program.”  consecutive gameMike of the season still games. two Klein Oak, 22-2, offensivethird line coach back Casey Davis is one of 50 recognized West Orange-Stark      Panthers reload Munchak. It seems Titan seeking that first victory. Head coach Willie Yardefeated Cy-Fair to win the national winners of the Old Spice head coach Dan Ray Hooks and    A total Tournament of 20 studentber says his group has played Adamsadvancing has alwaysto the Class Kingwood cham- owner BudAfter Player of the Year Award. his staff with its Courage in Ac      athletes                   together for awhile and once all had a passion for Munchak, 4A state semifinals last year, pionship.recently signed The award recognizes high tion award. national letters intent to    pieces a high character guyDawson coached wastheone Pearland ofwere back in place, a Cy Woods is of currently school football players who The West Orange-Stark       play football for Prairie comfort to zone led to better team Joe Paterno those schools after losing ranked No. three in the View by the venerable elevate their play and that of their coaching staff was selected  A & M University. at Penn State. the Clearchemistry. Class Of 5Acourse stalwarts Springs coaches’ state 5A poll while teammates. because of how they handled hastogone Titans interviewed a quality and Conroe Oak Ridge. Klein“Recruiting Oak jumped No. well as we’ve met our minority for the position, DAWSON (1-2) vs.but NIMITZ (1-2) five. Other Houston-area critical needs,” said first-year clearly Munchak was the true Dawson broke into the winranked schools include Katy head coach Heishma Northobject ofning theircolumn affection. with a 28-0 victory at No. 11 and No. 15 The ern. “I’m happy with our asNow comes the good on the road at perennial 4A powWoodlands. sistant coaches for going out part, the erhouse winning by losing The Eagles led Dayton. Magnolia is the top area and doing their due diligence part. My sources tell me that 21-0 at halftime behind Steve school in the Class 4A state as they did a fine job of the FPA has used theirthree-yard influOrisakwe’s TD run, poll at No. three with keeping our class intact after ence and recommended that scoring run Tre Oliver’s 11-yard Friendswood, Brenham and the coaching change.” an Africanand an eight-yard TD run by Barbers Hill falling in line at Ray Sherman, Winning While Losing American assistant coach Payton Jones. A 40-yard TD pass Austin (dark uniforms) hopes to improve to 3-0 this week against rival Milby. Here they faced four through six. Stratford is Much has been said dur- formerly of the Cowboys from Garry Kimble to Randall Scarborough last week in a 50-0 victory. ranked No. nine and upstart ing this portion of the NFL (interviewed for in the the Cowboy Weeks third quarter was Pearland Dawson is No. 11. season about the relevance of job), has been recommended the only scoring in the second he purposefully set up a tough Garner rushed for 164 yards and 3 loss to Elkins in the 2010 seaDawson is 21-6 after registhe Rooney Rule as it relates for the Titan half.position of asnon-district schedule to help pre- added two additional scores to son opener, Dayton couldn’t tering a dramatic comeback to truly promoting diversistant head coach/offense. DAWSON VS. NIMITZ pare for district games down the give SFA an advantage they overcome four first-half win over Deer Park last sity in the coaching ranks of Also sources tellEagles me thatlook to continue line. “You have to get through would never relinguish. The turnovers despite rushing for 178 week. The Eagles prevailed the NFL. The Rooney Rule former Oiler/UT standoutways this week some tough games to get better,” their winning Milby will be trying to get into yards in the game’s first 24 min19-25, 27-25, 20-25, 25-10, simply states that an NFL will be offered the position of on Aldine Wells said. “There isn’t an easy the win column at the expense of utes. when they take 15-12 as outside hitter franchise must interview at coordinator the TheforCougars notched week for us.” their long-time rivals. Buffs’ Angleton turned the tables in Yewande Akanbi led the way defensiveNimitz. least one minority candiTitans. their first win last week by rallyAUSTIN (2-0) vs MILBY (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman the second half. Senior quarterin the match with 22 kills. date for all vacant executive The ing possibility now ex-on the road to from behind This is an old-fashioned rivaland dimunitive wide receiver back Quandre Diggs (91 yards on After finishing in the top positions within an organizaists for adefeat win/win Conroe in Nash- 13-9. Nimitz ry game so you can throw the Sergio Bautista will have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard 10 at the prestigious Pearland tion. Positions such as: Team ville. Thetrailed Titans 9-6 get their with less than two records out the window. team primed for confrontation. sneak to cap a 53-yard, 15-play Tournament last month, president, General Manager, man in Munchak and diver- in the fourth minutes remaining SFA has a chance to improve ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) drive in the third quarter to give Dawson is serving notice that Head Coach, etc. sity is served by 2 Africanquarter when Torian Amos to 3-0 after demolishing The Wildcats played possum in his team a 17-10 edge. accomplishment was no The Fritz Pollard AlliAmericans obtaining quality hauled in a 65-yard touchdown Scarborough 50-0 at Barnett the first quarter against Dayton. The Wildcats were at it again fluke. ance, an advocacy group for coachingpass positions that moveHeffner at the Stadium. Mustangs’ quarterback from Flavies In the opening 12 minutes, the in the fourth quarter. Magnolia earned its 20th diversity, has been entrusted them 1 step closer totobeing 1:58 mark provide the gameCasey Davis tossed three touchBroncos dictated the game’s Ryan Jackson, who rushed for win of the season with a 21by the NFL as the “watchin head coaches at some point winner. down passes and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early 25, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vicdog” agency to insure franthe future. Dawson coach Eric Wells said more while running back Tavares 10-0 advantage. After a tough 8★H.S. FOOTBALL, Page 6 ★ARDISON, Page 6

on Sports

sional life. “Church from an early age always gave me a great foundation to move forward on, not just in football, but in life. Building that relationship with God early in my life was so very, very key and instrumental in me getting to the NFL.” Former University of Houston standout and retired Dallas Cowboy linebacker Eugene Lockhart is a proud member of the choir and further explains the role of Super Bowl Gospel and the choir. “Most of the guys in the NFL love the Lord. You see it so often when guys score touchdowns or make a big hit they do a gesture that acknowledges their faith,” Lockhart

said. “All the guys here are singing to the glory of God, that’s the most important thing. We are able to give inspiration to kids, to fan, for people to see us in a different light. We want to portray something positive, not the stuff about drugs or alcohol that often people see in the media. We want folks to see that we are singing Zion songs to praise and glorify the Lord.” Of course Lockhart and his fellow NFL choir members enjoy the opportunity to rub shoulders and interface with some of the biggest stars in the gospel industry. “We appreciate the gospel stars being apart of the program. They are just as big in their business as many of our current or past players. It says a

W

Bellaire

Edison

on H.S. Sports

Obesity

H.S. Football Games of the Week Ardison


They will be holding several town hall The sessions will include “Beyond a Also, for the first time in its history, the meetings throughout the week to discuss National AIDS Strategy: Next Steps in the conference is partnering with the National (NNPA) - In what appears to be a racially incendiary jobs and education, said Cummings. Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Black America” Black Justice Coalition to hold an LGBT move, Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, FEBRUARY DEFENDER Elsie10-16, president recently offered to stem the steady influx of Africans SEPTEMBER 16Scott, –2011 22,| 2010 | DEFENDERof the CBC and “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership summit. The coalition is the only 37 Foundation, said that people need to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wide Black gay civil rights organizainto various European nations in an effort to keep that federal jobs are available, but it’s no Bone Marrow Donation Among African tion. Europe white and civilized. Gaddafi told Italian Prime CBC longer a matter of taking a civic exam and Americans - A Health and Wellness The goal of this summit is to bring attenMinister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip to Rome that continued from page 1 having an application read by a supervisor. Luncheon.” tion to issues pertaining to gays and lesbians; the European Union (EU) should pay him at least 5bn green industry. “There’re technological advances in the “CBC Foundation has an ongoing project including their fight for equality. The ultieuros ($6.3 billion) a year to stop illegal African immiThe process” Congressional Black“A computer Caucus hiring Scott said. to increase AIDs awareness with fulltime mate goal is for people to be able to come gration and avoid Europe.” Charles S. Dutton prison Wintley Phipps, founder willingness to share his time emy Learning Center is a “Black the ages of 8-13 through skill opportunity Foundation, whichdid funds the legislative con- to partner with now scans each application looking for key research on how to prevent the spread of this together and have open and honest discusMassaging old racial wounds growingbuildconcerns, time for wants manslaughter. the University of Houston’s and chief executive officer and talent to raise much located at Foster Elementary building,and character ference, to ensureDurthat the Black comwords phrases and we wantjob the commu- ofdisease,” haveDream a grant Academy. from sions. needed funds for our after hoped to capitalize ondream fears that millions of ing those seven years, he Department AfricanScott said.of“We the U.S. School at Gaddafi the intersection ing and building munity isand aware of the changing market, nity to and bewith cognizant of these changes toStudies the Centers Control and are Sharon Lettman-Hicks, Africans, who once lived underincluding the subjugation fell injobs love playwriting, American to bringfor Disease “Charles Dutton is aparcon- Saidschool program in Hous- executive of Yellowstone and Scott activities, cultivat- of new how to prepare for them. “So many people will never return to the acting andtheir theater. He started this riveting stage presenmaster of acting ton. streets. It European serves more than rule ing for theof increase chances.” ticipating with othersummate Black organizations to director of” the coalition, “Black communicolonial andtheir who appreciation were made citizens they lost,” said Rep. Elijah E. ajobs drama group while incartation to campus, ” said and we are grateful for his The Houston Dream Acad60 students daily between arts. This year’s conference will also attempt to get out more attention to the public.” ties are in crisis. It’s critical that we support those nations, would continue to migrate to their The CBC wants to ensure that the Black community is aware of the changCummings honorary co-chair of cerated and,(D-Md.), after his release, break down the complex new healthcare law This year the conference will have at least the empowerment of anyone who desires to “Mother Country” impoverished, and without clear this year’s events. to “It’s our responsibility to ing job market, new jobs and how to prepare for them. won a scholarship Yale throughtheir a Cliff-notes-type guidebook. Free one workshop focusing on Black women. contribute something positive to rebuilding means of employment. increase ability to do the By Shantella Y. Sherman School of Drama and gradu- jobs that are healthcare screenings, panel discussions, “But we want all aspects of the community our families, including LGBT people.” SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER available to them.” row donation. informed,” Scott added. ated. They will on be serious holdingmedical several issues town in hall The sessions and forums the especially thosewillat include a higher“Beyond risk to abe Also, for the first time in its history, the ★GADDAFI, Page 6 The story of how he defied (NNPA) In what appears to be a racially incendiary meetings throughout the week to discuss National AIDS Strategy: Next Steps in the conference is partnering with the National Black community will be low and purmove, Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, jobsexpectations and education, said Cummings. Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Black America” Black Justice Coalition to hold an LGBT featured. But there will beof the CBC and “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership summit. The coalition is the only sued his dream become recently offered to stem the steady influx of Africans Elsie Scott, topresident particular luminary aFoundation, Broadway and onneed to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wide Black gay civil rights organizainto various European nations in an effort to keep saidfocus that people HIV/AIDS and are bone mar- but it’s no Bone Marrow Donation Among African tion. Emmy Award-winning actor Europe white and civilized. Gaddafi told Italian Prime that federal jobs available,

Broadway, TV and film star Charles DuttonGaddafi comesRemarks to UH on ‘Blackening’ Europe stirs concerns, anger

longer a matter of basis takingofa civic exam and and director is the having anone-man application read by a supervisor. Dutton’s show From “There’re technological Jail to Yale: Serving Time onadvances in the hiring process” Scott said. “A computer Stage. now scans each application continued from page 1looking for key The African-American Studwords and phrases and we want the commuies program and U.S. Dream nity be cognizant of these changes to thattocarries a punishment Academy havechances.” partnered increase their up toDutton two years in state toofThis bring to Cullen year’s conference will also attempt to prison. Performance Hall for a onebreak down the complex new healthcare law Harrison, 54, night-only has not through a Cliff-notes-type guidebook. Free been charged inperforhis offihealthcare screenings, panel discussions, cialforums capacity, andmance themedical alleand on serious at issues in the Black community will be on gations do not7 p.m. involve featured. thereSaturday, will be any lossBut to Harris County. particular focus Feb.Judge 26.on Still, Harris County HIV/AIDS and bone marEd Emmett said Dutton he wants will also Harrison removed from Charles Dutton participate the job. in a moderated conversation “Looking at thepage imporcontinued 1 with studentsfrom from 5 to 6:30 tance of that position for p.m. 25 in the that Friday, carries Feb. a punishment this county, at time, Honors College lounge in the of up to two yearsthis in state bond ratings and all those M.D. Anderson Library. prison. Harrison, 54, not “This program willhas provide things, I think it’s verya been charged in his offistructural analysis of culture, important that he either cial capacity, the ”allerace, andand gender, be class, suspended or said step gations do not involve Dr. James Conyers, chair down some County. form ofor any loss in to American Harris the African Studies fashion,” Still, HarrisEmmett County said. Judge program. “Charles Dutton Ed Emmett he wants Harrisonsaiddenies the has a history of developHarrison removed from charges, saying is an coning art he with the committed job. fident his innocence emphasis on Africana lifewill and “Looking at the imporbe proven. customs. tance of” that position for said ifis Harrison The theater a fundthisEmmett county,event at this time, bond ratings andU.S. allwillingthose won’t step down raiser benefitting Dream things, I think it’s veryto Academy, a national afterly, he says he plans important that he either school mentoring pro-is makeand sure Harrison be suspended orchildren step gram that motivates suspended until the down in some form or with relatives in prison to charges Emmett work their fashion,” said. way break the cycle of incarcerathrough the court Harrison deniessystem. the tion in their families. Tickets charges, saying he is conHarrison wife has also are $45.his innocence will fident been “We arecharged. very pleased for this be proven.

Indicted

Indicted

Emmett said if Harrison won’t step down willingly, he says he plans to make sure Harrison is suspended until the charges work their way through the court system. VOLUME 79 80 ••NUMBER • 15 VOLUME NUMBER Harrison wife has also47 FEB 10-16, SEPTEMBER 16 – 2011 22, 2010 been charged.

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor

VOLUME 79 • NUMBER 47 Von Jiles 16 – 22, 2010 SEPTEMBER

Associate Editor

Publisher ReShonda Billingsley Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor Art Director Von Tony Fernandez-Davila CaleJiles Carter Associate Editor Columnist ReShonda Billingsley

Yvette Chargois

Art Director Cale Carter Sports Editors

Max Edison

Columnist DarrellChargois K. Ardison Yvette

Contributing Sports Editors Max Edison Writers Darrell Ardison AswadK.Walker Contributing Webmaster Writers Corneleon Block Aswad Walker Webmaster The Houston Defender Newspaper published by The Houston Defender Inc. Company Corneleon Block

(713) 663-6996. The Defender audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subThe Houston Defender Newspaper scriptions, send $60.00 — 1published year, to: by The Houston Defender Inc. Company Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288. (713) 663-6996. Defender audited by Payment mustThe accompany subscription Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subrequest. All materials 2009 2011 scriptions, send $60.00 covered — 1 year,byto: copyright... material hereinTXmay be Defender, P.O. Box(No 8005, Houston, 77288. reproduced without the written permission Payment must accompany subscription request. All materials covered by 2009 of the publisher). copyright... (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

Americans - A Health and Wellness Luncheon.” “CBC Foundation has an ongoing project to increase AIDs awareness with fulltime research on how to prevent the spread of this disease,” Scott said. “We have a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and are participating with other Black organizations to get out more attention to the public.” This year the conference will have at least one workshop focusing on Black women. “But we want all aspects of the community especially those at a higher risk to be

The goal of this summit is to bring attention to issues pertaining to gays and lesbians; including their fight for equality. The ultimate goal is for people to be able to come together and have open and honest discussions. Said Sharon Lettman-Hicks, executive director of the coalition, “Black communities are in crisis. It’s critical that we support the empowerment of anyone who desires to contribute something positive to rebuilding our families, including LGBT people.”

Minister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip to Rome that the European Union (EU) should pay him at least 5bn euros ($6.3 billion) a year to stop illegal African immigration and avoid a “Black Europe.” Massaging old racial wounds and growing concerns, Gaddafi hoped to capitalize on fears that millions of Africans, who once lived under the subjugation of European colonial rule and who were made citizens of those nations, would continue to migrate to their “Mother Country” impoverished, and without clear means of employment. ★GADDAFI, Page 6


8

FEBRUARY 10-16, 2011 | DEFENDER

Videotape Continued from page 1 young man and punch him. Pointing out that Madge had ‘no criminal history and had never been in trouble a day of his life,' Quanell X stated, “There is a systemic culture within the Houston Police Department that makes many officers believe that they themselves are above the law and that they are not subject to the very laws they are paid to enforce.” The intent of releasing the second videotape is to expose the culture that exists in HPD

HPD Brutality Continued from page 1 against the videotaped beating of 16-year-old burglary suspect Chad Holley.

Caught on Tape

Authorities said police suspected several young men of breaking and entering, and then fleeing the scene in a pickup truck. After a short chase, police caught Holley, then an Elsik High School sophomore, near a self-storage facility on Cook Road and allegedly handcuffed him on the ground and began hitting and kicking him. The controversial tape shows several Houston Police Department officers punching and kicking Holley, who was later convicted. The video showed one officer delivering at least seven kicks to Holley while another officer punched Holley five times, Holley is not seen on tape struggling with the officers or resisting arrest. Defense attorney Dick DeGuerin, who represents one of four officers indicted, said the release of the tape has him considering whether to request a change of venue for the trial. Seven police officers were terminated in connection with the incident. Four officers were also charged in connection with the incident Former officers Andrew T. Blomberg and Drew Ryser were indicted on official oppression. Former officer Phillip Bryan and Raad M. Hassan were indicted on official oppression and violation of the civil rights of a prisoner.

A Community enraged

For months, rumors swirled as to exactly what was on that video, which had been recorded on a surveillance camera at a nearby storage facility. An employee of that facility, Cindy Paxton, gave the video to activist Quanell X. Paxton was later fired. “You had a right to see that tape,” Quanell X, the leader of the New Black Panther Party in Houston. Quanell decided to release the tape after he obtained a copy as part of a defamation lawsuit filed against him by one of the officers. Initially, Mayor Parker didn’t want the tape released. She, District Attorney Pat Lykos and Police Chief Charles McClelland said they wanted to keep the tape from airing before the trials of the charged officers to ensure fair trails. A federal judge also banned the tape from being released to the public. “There is no explanation for what in fact, is criminal behavior,” Mayor Anise Parker said. Since the release of the tape, community leaders have taken their complaints about police brutality to Houston City Hall. “After the event, not one single officer filed a report of excessive force upon any other officer,” said Randal Kallinen with the Greater Houston Coalition for Justice. Many of those protesting want the officers involved to face charges of aggravated assault instead of the official oppression charge some have received.

Seeking Justice

U.S. Rep. Al Green said he

and to seek the indictment of the officer on assault charges. When asked if the officer was employed by the hospital, Quanell X explained that he was still in uniform and operating as a HPD officer. Considering the historical issues of police brutality and the repeated recommendation of establishing a stronger Civilian Review Board with enforcement power, Quanell X said, “I’m extremely disappointed Mayor Parker would not support a Civilian Review Board with subpoena power.” Adding that the current civilian review board is a “toothless tiger.”

wants the U.S. Department of Justice to review the incident to ensure fairness and transparency. “We are shocked and we are dismayed,” Green said. “We are outraged at what occurred. That video speaks for itself, and because it speaks for itself, we want the Justice Department to review it and make a determination as to whether or not charges should be brought. There may be civil rights violations. But now, some are calling for a federal investigation by the U.S. Dept. of Justice. The FBI is monitoring the state prosecution of the case, but said if they were to launch their own investigation, they wouldn’t do so until the officers were tried in state court. That is standard procedure. Parker said, while she apologized for trying to keep the video from being made public, she does think the city is properly investigating. “The city acted swiftly and appropriately throughout. We notified the appropriate investigative agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, nine months ago. The FBI is the entity responsible for gathering information related to possible civil rights violations and forwarding that information to the U.S. Department of Justice.” District Attorney Pat Lykos added, “The Police Integrity Division of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office conducted an independent and thorough investigation into the allegations. The investigation included trips to the crime scene, interviews with witnesses (including Chad Holley, his mother and another relative), and careful examination and reviews of surveillance videos and medical records. As part of the investigation, medical records were subpoenaed and obtained from West Houston Medical Center, the Juvenile Justice Center and Ben Taub Hospital. District Attorney Pat Lykos stated that the investigators and prosecutors conducted a meticulous investigation, including a frame-by-frame analysis of the surveillance video.” That evidence was presented to a Harris County Grand Jury to determine which charges, if any, should be filed against the officers. Grand jury proceedings are secret by their very nature, and the law does not allow public discussion of them. However, in order to indict the officers for a felony offense, there would have to be a finding that a deadly weapon was used in the commission of the offense, or that the assault caused serious bodily injury. “It should be noted that the Texas Penal Code restricts the legal definition of what is considered serious bodily injury. That Code defines serious bodily injury as ‘bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes death, serious permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.” On June 23, 2010, the Grand Jury indicted the four officers for Official Oppression. Two of them were also indicted for Violating the Civil Rights of a Prisoner. On each charge, the officers face up to one year in the Harris County Jail and up to a $4,000 fine. Trial is pending in each case.

Community leaders

speak out

Several community leaders are speaking out about the disturbing tape of Houston Police Department officers viciously beating a 16-year-old burglary suspect, Chad Holley.

C.O Bradford - City Councilman

“Having served 24 years as a Houston police officer, including seven years as Chief of Police, I am extremely disappointed that the actions of a few police officers have tainted the uniform which is respected in the community, worn by so many, and which some have given their lives while wearing. I am hopeful that we will take this tragic incident and use it as a means to ensure that proper charges are filed in this incident, that police officers in the field report misconduct and those arbitrators assigned to police discipline cases have a specific nexus to the Houston community.”

Garnet Coleman - State Rep.

“It is especially disturbing when those charged with keeping us safe so blatantly abuse their power and violate our trust. These individuals are not above the law and must be appropriately dealt with… individuals who have been trusted with power should be held to a higher standard. I will work with my colleagues to push legislation that reflects that standard into law… It is through cooperation, mutual respect, and appropriate sanctions on officers who violate the public’s trust that we can ensure that all our communities are safe and that such actions never occur again.”

Rev. D. Z. Cofield President, NAACP Houston Branch

“The dismantling of Jim Crow has left us weak and impotent as a community because we are still waiting for someone to negotiate our freedom. We haven’t fought and then (we) got mad when somebody didn’t give us what we were not willing to fight for. So tonight by any means necessary, I hope you will make a commitment to see change through…. There’s a problem of police brutality and the use of excessive force that will no longer be tolerated.

Rodney Ellis State Rep. Chief Michael Dirden HPD Executive Assistant Chief

“Know that it is not something that we as police officers that are sworn to protect want to see….but when those things happen we have an obligation to do what we can to ensure that even police officer who engage in conduct they should not engage in are brought to justice.”

Rev. James Dixon National Action Network

“Official oppression is a joke. This should be classified as a “hate crime.” If any person is handcuffed and beaten by a police officer it is a “hate crime.”

“The actions of the HPD officers shown in the taped beating of Chad Holley were excessive, deplorable, and cannot be tolerated. These rogue officers not only brought unnecessary physical injury to Chad Holley, but have undermined the good work of the vast majority of HPD officers. They violated the trust of the community and must be dealt with accordingly. As a city, we need to take a serious look at our practices and review public policy to prevent such injustices from occurring in the future. It is essential that we protect the relationship between the police and the community that is integral to public safety.”

Borris Miles State Rep.

Jolanda Jones

Howard Jefferson National NAACP Board member

“This is not a local thing, it is a national thing.”

City Councilwoman “I am requesting a comprehensive review of our policies and procedures. Likewise, I am requesting a task force to look at best practices around the country so that we can take definitive action to prevent these kinds of incidents from occurring. Prior to my election, I started my efforts to improve our justice system by helping to shut down the Crime Lab because of its use of poor science and calling for an independent regional crime lab in Harris County. It’s important that we remove the bad actors from the police force so that we can improve communication between our community and the force.”

Al Green U.S. Rep. “We are shocked and we are dismayed. We are outraged at what occurred. That video speaks for itself, and because it speaks for itself, we want the Justice Department to review it and make a determination as to whether or not charges should be brought. There may be civil rights violations.”

Jim Leitner

Harris County First Assistant District Attorney “It was a crime against this community…. The law is such that if an individual strikes a public servant, and causes bodily injury, that it is a felony. If a public servant strikes an individual and causes bodily injury, it’s a misdemeanor.”community.”

“I will be filing the legislation that will help us in dealing with the problem of police brutality in this state….As we move forward, let us continue to stand as one acting as the voice of Chad Holley and other citizens who have been brutalized by the hands of other rogue officers and work with the federal, state, and local authorities to insure that those rogue officers are punished and Mr. Chad Holley’s civil rights are properly addressed. The cancerous nature of these officers must be cut out of the ranks of the Houston Police Department….Let us remember that we do have good cops but the actions of these few taint the character and actions of the many.”

Ron Reynolds State Rep.

Annise Parker Mayor

“I remain shocked and disgusted by the behavior of the police officers charged in this incident. That has not changed since I first viewed the tape. It is my desire they never again work at the Houston Police Department and that they be brought to justice. However, I do not have a say in what charges they face. That is under the control of the district attorney and the grand jury.”

“I have reviewed the video tape and find the actions of the HPD officers deplorable. The officers should be terminated from HPD and charged with a felony. I strongly believe that the actions of the police officers should be subjected to a review that is equal to what would be expected of every citizen within the state of Texas. I truly believe that this has brought attention to a legislative loophole that I am committed to change. I am extremely disappointed that the actions of a few police officers may have contaminated the relationship with those that wear the uniform, and often make the ultimate sacrifice. I am encouraged that we will take this terrible incident and use it as a means to ensure that proper charges are filed in this incident, that police officers in the field report misconduct and those arbitrators assigned to police discipline cases have a specific nexus to the Houston community.”

Quanell X Community Activist

Brother Kofi Taharka Black United Front

“We need a bona fide ‘no compromise, no sellout’ Social Justice Movement. The voice of outrage needs to be multifaceted. We need to come out of the church and get in the streets.”

(Speaking to Mayor Parker) “In all due respect, I’m a real Black Man. You don’t have a city contract to give me. I don’t need a proclamation. I will never come asking you for nothing because GOD is sufficient…..Brothers and sisters you had a right to see that tape. They fired this lady for giving up the tape. She lost her job. They threatened this lady…They threatened me because I wanted you to see the tape.”


FEBRUARY 10-16 | DEFENDER

9


10 4

SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY 16 – 22, 2010 10-16| |DEFENDER DEFENDER

Moseley Braun considering run for Chicago mayor Bernice King resigns SCLC presidency Aims to form ‘army of young people’ committed to non-violence Shepard

continued from page 1

National Cemetery. Shepard was an outspoken federal prosecutor in Chicago in 1977, she was Democrat who moved to elected state representative the next year. In 1987 Special to the NNPA from the Chicago Defender Houston from Louisiana nearly she was elected Cook County Recorder of Deed. 60 years ago and lived for CHICAGO (NNPA) - Carol Moseley Braun Five years later, history was made in the U.S. decades in Acres Home, where may put her hat in the ring to succeed outgoing Senate. Braun held the post for one six-year term. unofficially as the Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, sources said. She served a U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand Amid recordshe youth violence known and bulcourt-recognized board leadership regarding By Hazel Trice Edney “Mayor of Acres Homes.” The former U.S. Senator was flooded with and Samoa from 1999 to 2001 under the Clinton lying, she said she anticipates carrying the her transition, but there was no agreement on Editor-in-Chief, Trice Edney News Wire “Beulahfurther was into a woman calls on the day Daley made the surprise administration. message of non-violence other of how to move forward. WASHINGTON (TEWire) – After guts, purpose and presence,” U.S. presidentialAtlanta election, announcement that he would not seek a seventh schools, “particularly those named “When During there wasthe no 2004 consideration months of conflict, which Elder Bernice A. said then state Rep.parts Sylvester term in office –– encouraging her to mullfor a run a candidate for the Democratic after nomimy father” and to other of the talkingBraun aboutwas it, discussing a win-win King described last year as suffocating the Turner, D-Houston. “If she nation as well. situation,”nation. she said, “I felt it was in my best for the mayoral post. Southern Christian Leadership Conference, said an it. She Her goal, shethought says, isit,toshe “have armywas of interest as in the best runs interest the Braun, who made history in 1993 as the first as well Braun currently herofChicago-based comshe has selected to step down from the presidirect. That was Beulah people who are committed to embracorganization if IGood declined theOrganics, position and dency of the organization before ever really African-American female U.S. Senator said that pany, Food the alparentyoung company Shepard. You didn’t have to ing non-violence.” lowed them move in the Organics, direction that they manufactures taking the helm. she is “seriously considering it.” of to Ambassador which guessguardedly what she about was thinking. King also spoke a choose move in.” “After numerous attempts to connect Braun’s political career spans more than two toseveral products including coffee, food spices, She loved politics, “ministry an- loved But, as the oil youngest King with the official Board leaders on how to olive and tea. Shedaughter, founded the company fiveinitiative” that she will beshe decades. the year. process and shedeclined loved parnouncing later this But, she to her oratorical skills, she appears move forward under leadership, Carol my Moseley Braun unfortuAfter leaving the U.S. Attorney’s officerenown as a for years ago. ticipating in the process. If you to be moving ahead with clarity of vision and expound. nately, our visions did not align. Therefore, political Finally, Kingsought announced that office, she has you purpose. She outlined three key roles that she after praying mightily and seeking wise will take on in coming years in her mission to formed a partnership soughtwith herRev. out. Samuel She hadRo-the counsel, I have decided not to assume the driguez, of the National Hispanic continue to her legacy of progress presidency of the Southern Christian Leaderpower.” putfamily’s all of the concession space for up for bid once thepresident Christian Conference, people ofairport color. renovation is completed in 2014. This ship Conference,” King said 1in a statement Shepard enjoyedwhich rare was 24madeLeadership continued from page inspired by the SCLC. She the announced that she is shifting her fo-polarized. recently released. hour access to Texas governors final outcome appear less racially “I In think what happened is, we’ve been working on “I’m hoping that it (politics) did not playcusa to further “We’ll be dealing with theand black-Brown grow the legacy herhave mother, an exclusive interview she explained and other state local politiBoth Hudson and of Star been tight-lipped this for years,her even before Iafter camebeing on the coundivide, addressing issues education Coretta Scott whowill maintained vision its public that shethree had made decision cians, andofwas invited and to the Bernice King I want to be able to say that he did aboutKing, how they respond. aThrough relarole... it cil,” saida Councilwoman CarolyntoDavis, who voted disparities” with House 6-9th graders, for leadership the disclose,health offered contract that appeared be irrecWhite a few she times, tions development firm, Hudson through would only “At this in favor ofboard-driven the no-bid contracts. “And for thethecity of Dallas.” not assume office during legal turmoil said.a plan Coretta Scott YoungCity Women’s Leaderoncilably when she hadso– Iatwent the with meeting at least a handful of point,King the Dallas Council has approved staff recommendation. I’ve always supported staff – Dallas Councilwoman surrounding the 53-year-old organization Leaving behind the SCLC controversy, ship Academy Atlanta. and process for awarding concesboard’s request three months ago – submitted presidents, including John F. for theinallocation Carolyn DavisShe sions recommendation, butaffable we didn’t It takes eight co-founded by her father, Dr. Martin Luther of how she just King indicates that she carries no bitterspokeatexcitedly her vision of a more stylewin. of leaderKennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Love Field. Hudson will continue to work votesbetween to win here the chief Horseshoe, and the eighth King, Jr. Following a September 2010 court kicked offwith 100the days non-violence on plans the day nessby or the ill will: “IJimmy will continue toBill prayClinton. for ship boardat and executive. Carter and cityofstaff based on the approved vote In won.” ruling, which determined SCLC’s legitimate after the King Birthday Holiday “and will culSCLC’s growth andShepard, resurrection wishasthea a nutshell, King was elected as who and worked city council.” Hudsonand is part-owned by Giddings by a trust theof parking they’veout been through minate 9/11, on my mother’s birthday on April 27.” board directors,garage, King reached to the organization success inliaison its mission.” president CEO in October 2009, and but did constituent for former Aranza of Star Concessions could not be reached great that manages the assets of Johnson. Star is owned by they’ve been through the remodeling of the terminal, Harris County Commissioner for comment. prominent Democratic donor Gilbert Aranza. [and] they’re now going through another remodelSquatty Lyons for some 20 For Davis and others, what stands out about the To some, it was the direct - some say heavy-hand- ing.” years and then Sen. John council’s decision is the second-guessing of city ed - involvement of Mayor Tom Leppert that turned Davis expresses similar feelings. In 2006, staff, the City of Calera, of Congress, – that althoughfor there Whitmire, D-Houston about which Davis says ismajority unprecedented duringand, herin a erwise the tide. In April, Leppert began his campaign to stop “We also felt that they had never missed awhich pay- lies within Shelby have been improvements, 10, was gifted at reading people three years on the council.2009 case argued by LDF, the the deals from being approved, calling them too ment, they had paid on-time, and I asked the County, ques- enacted a discrimina- Supreme Court issued an 8-to- Section 5 remains appropriate and politics at play. In fact, it Continued from page 1 “This has been the only time since I’ve been on the sweet for the incumbents and bad for Dallas’ image tion, ‘How much money had these concessionaires tory redistricting plan without 1 ruling that left Section 5’s because of persistent and onwas Shepard who convinced council, that my colleagues have gone against city history of discrimination to as a fair place to do business. given the citya of Dallas?’” she said. complying with Section 5, important protections intact. going voting discrimination. Turner to run for political office staff,” said Davis. “Remember, coming out of the voting changes “These contracts, lasting 19 years, would award The answerhave to her question soonreviewed became evident. leading to the loss of thecommittee This case differs oppo“Congress recognized the in the late 80s. transportation we voted 10 to in 0. that Being a the U.S. of major portions of our new terminal to the two incum“They havebygiven the Department city a lot of money. Lots ofsole African-American city’s nents are challenging both the progress that the Voting RightsI “I told her, ‘Ms. Shepard, newbie on the council, I looked to [the committee Justice the U.S. and District bent concessionaires without having been vetted money. If you own or a building you’ve got councilman, good Ernest Montconstitutionality of Section 5 Act has helped to bring about, have no interest in running. To chair’s] leadership on what we should do, because I Court for the of Cothrough the competitive process. This has short-cir- tenants, you just don’t say,District ‘Well, I’m going togomery. kick The Department of on its face and challenging the but also grappled with a subwhich she replied, ‘You have just hadn’t been briefed on the Love Field situation.” lumbia to ensure they are cuited new ideas and concepts and discouraged com- them out because I think I wantthat someone else who is however, subsequently Section 4(b) coverage proviJustice, stantial of continuing no idea degree what you’re interested Davis’ recollections also suggest that the council’s petitors, including firms owned by minorities, going to givenondiscriminatory. me more or pay me more,’ you tend to Calera to draw a non- sion which determines where required and concentrated discriminain.’ She was literally the one deliberations weren’t always as contentious as they Budget Deficit, Charles D. Ellison as the said. womenByand emerging entrepreneurs,” Leppert saidEconomic in keep the good“Widely paying regarded tenant,” Davis discriminatory redistricting the law applies. Although tion. Partial progress is not who put the idea in my head,’?” eventually became. Indeed, before the August meetCrisis and Wealth Creation.” Special to the NNPA from the Voting Rights is encouragan opinion letter. “What theyheart wereoftrying to accomplish plan in compliance with SecShelby County argued that synonymous with victory. The he said. ing there was literally no argument since the option Indeed it was a “first,”ing keepThehoping Philadelphia Act, Section 5 remains vitalrenovation, “I’m thatTribune it [politics] did not play a role,” the incumbents to stay througha the tion 5 and to conduct another Section 5 is no longer necesVoting Rights Act still matShepard’s love of politics to grant the no-bid contracts was the only one then on ing in“Ifashion with dusty safeguard an inclusive Davis said of Leppert’s involvement. want to be theand then having space for in the new terminal at aelection, rate after which Montsary,ofthe recent hearing demters inevident our democracy, said was in her ”constant the table. It was at the urging the mayor during the classroom clamor of Black said John Payton, able WASHINGTON to say that he did — it for the city of Dallas.” that was moredemocracy, than what”the consultants even recomKristen Clarke, co-director of gomery regained his seat. onstrated that a compelling efforts to get people out to vote. June council meeting that voting on the proposal be firsts and Political on six Capitol LDF president director-space would Davis, tensions along with of her History council Month colleagues, mended,” said Oakley. “Theand remaining LDF’s Political Participation Section 5postponed was reauthorized and detailed legislative record “She knew the value of the so that other options could be added. patronizing accolades. Hill hot as aby street fight counsel. was are impressed the incumbents’ track record as be bid out, and if [the new tenants’] rates were in highled Congress to of conclude othGroup, who argued 2006 by an overwhelming vote because she the hadcase. been “There was never an argument. Most the conThe Caucus, that with Democrats and Repubtenants, their post-9/11 hardships and the unanimous er than what [the incumbents] were paying, the denied the right to vote,” tracts were going out for bid anyway,” Davis said. tightly-knit and reliably licans poised forof a the bloody recommendation transportation committee that incumbents’ rent would automatically escalate to Turner said. “We just wanted the incumbents who [had] been Democratic voting bloc that How is that not fair?” face-off over the nation’s the deal go forward. match. Shepard's survivors include there through 9/11 to stay there and recoup their acts as a noisy thorn in the finances. It’sbeen the necessary, “They’ve through thick and thin out there,” In another victory for the mayor, three council seven children, 30 grandchilinvestment, with the amount of money they put into side of House Republicans, crucial timeCouncilman of year law-Ed Oakley in support of the members on the losing end of the vote eventually said former dren, 24 great-grandchildren that airport. had been clowned for years makers love “They’ve to hate, pushing incumbents. been through the building of crossed over to side with the majority on an 11-4 vote and 10 great-great children. about “the budget no one their staffers to sweat over ever knows about,” quipped bulky Power Points and one amused and longtime black ink in a complicated senior Congressional aide cage dance over how the at a recent staffer gathering. federal government spends Press conferences and CBC taxpayer money. member statements were “The budget is a bold typically sporadic, with the declaration of a nation’s CBC unable to coordinate an priorities,” argues Congresauthoritative voice in annual sional Black Caucus Chairbudget swordfights. man Rep. Emanuel Cleaver Starting this year, (D-MO), the loquacious This is the uptown version. Cleaver promises to change Methodist minister and The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown all that with an aggressive former Kansas City Mayor small wagon is the answer for buyers campaign waged on the Hill seeking fuel economy, safety and verand beyond Washington. satility. “You will find that, at least I remember two years ago when for we the next two years, we were heading for Niagara will Falls, dramatize the CBC Canada and Buffalo, New York, the says Cleaver. “It budget,” Dodge Caliber was the vehicle of for us to present a is useless choice when it came to rent cars.budget that is virtually useWe test droved the Dodge Caliber less beyond the Beltway.” for a week prior to going on vacation. As important to Cleaver Then when we arrived in Buffalo, the is ensuring that the CBC Caliber was our first option as aagenda rental on national spendcar. It seemed like the Caliber was ing the priorities resonates loud vehicle of choice. and clear with a core Black With a 2.o-liter, four-cylinder engine audience disproportionately matchedCleaver with a continuously-variable Emanuel crushed under the weight of a transmission, the Dodge Caliber had seemingly endless recession. who barely squeaked past a more enough power to transport us While White House officials Republican challenge in his everywhere we wanted to go. express cautious jubilance district during the 2010 midThe cargo space was more than adeover the latest unemployment term election. “I always tell quate, and we my church thattravel if yoularge. want to figures, with official rates Between my wife and daughter, we from 9.4 percent dropping know who a person is, look travel with everything except the in December to an even 9 at their checkbook and how kitchen sink. percent in January, attitudes they handle their finances.” Standard equipment includes air in CBC offices are more Back from what some conditioning with automatic reluctant. observers described as near temperature control, power windows with driBlack unemployment, political death, Cleaver ver’s one-touch feature and SIRIUS for a multitude of reasons, sounds revived and recharged satellite radio. remains stuck near 20 percent in his new role as two-year Other standard equipment includes — officially. Manyiseconochair of the Caucus, eager to There an information display that dow. heated front seats, leather-wrapped mists observing the what situation tussle — and possibly deal CALIBER: HIGHLIGHTS tells you direction you’re heading, The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown steering wheel and tiltbudget steering column. are a bit more frank about the — with conservative the temperature outside and how fast gets five-star government safety ratings We drove 2010 Dodge Caliber situation, and Caucus mem- You can also see what in the frontal driver, crash passenger, hawks circlingthe over endless MSRP base price 23 miles per gallon (city), 27 you’re traveling. Uptown from Houston to Austin for the bers seem less inclined to rows of line items. $19,995 (as tested- $22,965) mpg (highway) you’re fuel economy is and what your side front seat and crash rear seat cateannualHill high school tour- incremental drops celebrate heads werebaseball turning state tire inflation-level is. gories. It also rates four stars in the Engine Estimated annual fuel cost nament without incident. we unemployment when in high and brows raised when the In fact, The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown is a rollover division. 2.0-liter four-cylinder $1,560 enjoyed our drive, with smooth riding they head back to districts Caucus unveiled its budget crossover vehicle waiting to happen. Warranty coverage includes a fiveon I-10 leading up to Highway 71 into where countless constituents recommendations for the Safety equipment Exterior features include 17-inch alu- year or 100,000-mile powertrain limitthe state are underemployed, out of year in a capital. politico-studded Speed sensitive power locks minum wheels, power-heated exterior ed warranty and 24-hour towing assisMy of partner, Big John, mentioned that or off the grid. benefits event the African-Amerimirrors, fog lamps and a bright front tance. thereWho’s was Who no road noise and the car “In Black America we can in Washinggrille. Big John told me this is a vehicle for need to handled like a mid-sized sedan. This is stop the bleeding,” ton, billing it as the first ever Optional equipment includes a power college students starting out or newlyFuel economy a vehicle that listson for thanCleaver. annual “Commission the lesswarns express moonroof, media center and weds getting out of the starting gate. $20,000. 6.5-inch touch screen navigation winI tend to agree By Kathy Chaney

Airport contracts

Black Caucus confronts GOP on budget

NAACP

AUTO NEWS

2010 Dodge Caliber

By Darrell K. Ardison


11

FEBRUARY 10-16 | DEFENDER

Nia Long Continued from page 1 and for my son, because if I’m not emotionally available for him it will impede his development. Yet, if I don’t work, we’ll be living in a cardboard box. So, that calls for a tremendous amount of balancing constantly. Therefore, working on this film, I understood Safiyah’s search to balance being a devout Muslim woman with allowing her child his natural curiosity and desire to explore in life. KW: What were your feelings about Islam before taking the role and after the film wrapped? NL: When I was a young girl, my mother traveled to Abu Dhabi, which is a Muslim country. When she returned home, she taught me a lot about Islam. So, I was already familiar with the religion’s basic teachings. But in preparation for this role, I definitely got to experience Islam on a much more intimate level. The one thing that stands out in my mind is the commitment Muslim women make to each other. They are so supportive and so loving, and they do everything together. It’s really all about family, and I like that, because I’m a familyoriented person. I believe that whatever your religious preference, there has to be a commitment to family because everything really does start there. Hopefully, this film will help to eliminate stereotypes, because Muslim women are misunderstood. They’re strong, beautiful, classic, contemporary and so much more KW: What is your favorite scene in Mooz-Lum? NL: I’d say the pivotal scene where I notice the scars on Tariq’s back. KW: Is there a novel that you would like to see turned into a movie and also star in? And which African-American icon would you love to portray in a film? NL: There’s a novel I just read called Queen Pin that I’ve been talking to the author about optioning. I encourage everyone to read it. It’s a great story. As for an African-American icon, I was very interested in portraying Nina Simone until I heard that Mary J. Blige is doing it. I’m sure she’ll do the role more justice, because I am not a singer. I just think Nina was a very mysterious woman, and a trailblazer who came along at such an important time in our history. She did it her way, and she has one of the most unique voices in jazz history. KW:: Does being such an accomplished actress give you a different perspective when you direct a music video? NL: Directing a music video is all about capturing images. I think my experiences in front of the camera have enhanced that because I know how to make other women look beautiful: from hair to makeup to wardrobe. So, I feel that I have a gift with imaging, and that’s kind of fundamental to the music video process. KW: Were the scripts on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air written with a predominately white audience or an AfricanAmerican audience in mind? Or was this not a factor? NL: I don’t think it was a factor at all. Funny is

funny: black, white, yellow, purple. Funny is funny! KW: How do you feel about the number of black actors who are often paired with white leading ladies in movies, such as Will Smith, Wesley Snipes and Denzel Washington? NL: It is what it is. As long as the acting is good, I can appreciate it. It would certainly be great to see more films featuring the black family and showing that we are capable of having that unit strong and present and beautiful, because that’s so much of who we really are. For me, that’s missing sometimes when I watch films. But since Denzel and Will are superstars, studio execs don’t necessarily see them as black. They see them as superstars. I suspect they pair them with a white or a Latina star because that takes the pressure off their having to market the movie as a black film, which in my opinion is completely ridiculous. But we still have a lot of growing and maturing to do in terms of how we view black people, the black family and black filmmaking, because we shouldn’t be narrowly pigeonholed. We are not just one thing. We have so many different voices and experiences. And on the flip side, there are black men who are madly in love with white women. God bless them, if that’s what works for them. I just hope that we can strike a balance that portrays black folks and the black family in a light that’s not extreme. Those are the types of characters that I find myself attracted to. KW: Have you ever considered creating a project like Single Ladies, the upcoming movie that Queen Latifah plans to turn into a series? NL: I am in constant search for that project that speaks to me personally. And when all the pieces come together properly, it’ll happen. KW: Is there any truth to the rumor that there’s going to be a sequel to the classic film Love Jones, especially since there appears to be a demand for it from the fans? NL: We’ve been trying to make that happen for a long time, and if it were my decision I would say “Yes.” But it’s out of my hands. Larenz and I have definitely discussed it, and we’re committed to doing it. KW: How about The Best Man? I saw that you just had a cast reunion the other day. How was it seeing everybody together at the same time? NL: Oh my goodness! That was the highlight of my new year so far. We were all so excited to get together.

We had such an amazing time! And Malcolm Lee’s a genius for pulling it all together. He’s so kind, so humble, and such a great director. We’re really going to try to do it again, because there was still that chemistry that had worked so well. It was a great night. KW: What was it like to make People’s 50 Most Beautiful People in the world list? NL: I was flattered. I was shocked. I was happy. I was like, “Really? Me? I’ll take that. That’s a blessing.” But it’s also pressure, because it means you gotta be beautiful on the inside, too. It’s something I can tell my grandbabies someday. KW: Your folks are from Trinidad. Do you still eat any traditional Trinidadian dishes like callaloo, roti, bake and curried goat? NL: I don’t eat goat, but I love roti. My friend Carol owns a fantastic restaurant in Englewood, called the Caribbean Treehouse which is one of the few places in L.A. that serves truly authentic Trini food. KW: Is there any question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would? NL: I don’t know how to answer that. I guess the question would be: Are you happy? People never ask that. KW: So, are you happy? NL: I am! I am very happy. At this moment, I’m the happiest I’ve been in a very long time. But it’s different from the surface happy, it’s the soul happy. That’s how I’m feeling right now. The last couple years have been difficult, not just financially, but for my 90-year-old grandmother suffering from Alzheimer’s and for my mom who’s a retired schoolteacher. So, it’s been difficult seeing the cycle of life changing. Things that used to work a few years ago don’t anymore. And that transition form the old to the new can be challenging. I’ve spent a lot of time recently sorting out what’s important and what’s not so important. And after doing that spring cleaning of the self you end up with a streamlined life that’s simple, balanced and very clear. After working 20 years in the business, it’s been satisfying to take the time to do that for Nia. It’s a testimony to my personal growth. So, yes I am happy! I have a little bit of everything and a lot of God in my life. For me, that’s the most important thing. I feel really safe. I have my family and a handful of close friends, and a great man in my life who is very supportive and my best friend. KW: Are you ever afraid?

NL: Oh, gosh, yes. KW: When was the last time you had a good laugh? NL: I have a good laugh everyday. Yesterday, my son and I and my mom were cracking up watching YouTube bloopers in the kitchen. KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? NL: Chocolate. KW: What are you listening to on your iPod? NL: Lupe Fiasco. KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? NL: I love making breakfast: turkey bacon, fried eggs over-medium, home fried potatoes, English muffins, oatmeal with berries and a great fruit smoothie. I love breakfast! KW: Who is your favorite clothes designer? NL: Ooooooh! I’m going to have to say Badgley Mischka’s beautiful gowns for women. I love Dolce for that classic sexy look. And Stella McCartney’s fantastic, because she takes a classic design and makes it really functional, but funky and edgy at the same time. And I love shoes. I am a shoe fanatic. I have a special closet in my home just for my shoes. I hope I have a little girl one day, because she is going to win the lottery in the shoe department. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? NL: I see a pretty, brown girl who was born in Brooklyn, grew up in South Central L.A. and did all right for herself. KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? NL: A conversation with Michelle Obama. KW: What is your earliest childhood memory? NL: Waiting for a school bus in Iowa City when I was five. We moved there so my mother could attend college at the University of Iowa. I was standing on the corner in a red parka in front of a bakery. I could smell the aroma and I couldn’t understand why mother wouldn’t let me go inside and buy a donut. She was a health food nut. KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? NL: Enjoy life, study hard, play hard, be kind to other people, set high standards, and don’t be afraid to say “No.” KW: How do you want to be remembered? NL: As a great mother and a great friend, and as truthful and fair. KW: Do you think that the success you’ve achieved in your career is because of you, because of a higher power, or because of a mixture of both? NL: I attribute my talent and my success to God, but I believe that the only way you can manifest what He has ordained for you is by being close to Him and by making it happen. But we have to stay close to Him in order to be an image of Him.


12 8 4

MAY 23FEBRUARY – 29, 2010 | DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | |DEFENDER 10-16 DEFENDER

Moseley Braun considering run for Chicago mayor

Shepard

continued from page 1

National Cemetery. Shepard was an outspoken federal prosecutor in Chicago in 1977, she was Democrat who moved to elected state representative the next year. In 1987 Special to the NNPA from the Chicago Defender Houston from Louisiana nearly she was elected Cook County Recorder of Deed. 60 years ago and lived for CHICAGO (NNPA) - Carol Moseley Braun Five years later, history was made in the U.S. decades in Acres Home, where may put her hat in the ring to succeed outgoing Senate. Braun held the post for one six-year term. she unofficially known as the Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, sources said. She served a U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand “Mayor of Acres Homes.” AN EVENING WITH A The former U.S. Senator was flooded with and Samoa from 1999 to 2001 under the Clinton EBONY FASHION FAIRwinning playSTAR……..Tony Award “Beulah was a woman of calls on the day Daley made the surprise administration. COLLECTION………….As part of treated its wright and performer, Sarah Jones, guts, purpose and presence,” During the 2004 U.S. presidential election, announcement that he would not seek a seventh Black Historywith Month Macy’s Houstonians hercelebration, multi-character solo said state Rep. Sylvester term in office –– encouraging her to mull a run Braun was a candidate for the Democratic nomiGalleria hosted& a cocktail show “Bridge Tunnel.”reception The show was Turner, D-Houston. “If she for the mayoral post. nation. showcasing the fabulous “Eunice Johnson originally produced off-Broadway by thought it, sheSarah said it.Jones She was Braun, who in 1993 as the first Braun currently runs her Chicago-based com- Jr., Playwright Audrey, Rev. Billmade and history Roxanne Lawson John Guess, Retrospective” featuring the best the on to Oscar-winner Meryl Streep andofwent direct. That was Beulah African-American female U.S. Senator said that pany, Good Food Organics, the parent company and Melanie Lawson Ebony Fair collection 1958 becomeFashion a critically acclaimed,from long-running Shepard. You didn’t have to she is “seriously considering it.” of Ambassador Organics, which manufactures through today. TheInexhibit was onproduction, display hit on-Broadway. this stirring guess what she was thinking. Ethan Foster, Jeanine political Collins andcareer Robert spans Beaupremore than two Judson Robinson Michael Pearson Braun’s several products including coffee,and food spices, February 3-8 and consisted of iconicAmerican images, she examined Jewish and African She loved politics, she loved olive oil and tea. She founded the company five decades. fashion and memorabilia from the relationsdesigns in America that was developed the process and she loved parCarol Moseley Braun After leaving the U.S. Attorney’s office as a years ago. leader of thefor African American and especially the final event offashion a fabulous ticipating in the process. If you beauty industry. Johnson created, debut season forEunice the Houston Museum of sought political office, you directed produced the Ebony Fashion No African and American Culture (HMAAC). sought her out. She had the Fair, the world’s largest traveling fashion one can reflect on that better than Sarah, power.” to put all of the concession space up for bid once the show, more thatof50 years and raised who isfor a product a Black father andmore a Shepard enjoyed rare 24airport renovation is completed in 2014. This made continued from page 1 than $55mother. million for charity. has Working Jewish HMAAC had anside hour access to Texas governors the final outcome appear less racially polarized. by side withfirst herseason husband, Johnbeen H. working on “I think what happened we’ve “I’m hoping that it (politics) did not play a incredible andtheis, islate quickly estaband other state and local politiBoth Hudson and Star have been tight-lipped Johnson, Mrs. Johnson helped build a media this foritself threeasyears, even I came on the counlishing a place thatbefore attracts national cians, and was invited to the about how they will respond. Through its public relarole... I want to be able to say that he did it and powerhouse, anchored by disJet who voted cil,”cosmetic said Carolyn Davis, talent and Councilwoman initiates thought-provoking White House a few times, tions firm, Hudson would only disclose, “At this and Ebony magazines with Fashion in favor of the no-bid contracts. “And so I went with for the city of Dallas.” cussions about people,along places and times. meeting at least a handful of point, the Dallas City Council has approved a plan Fair Evenincluded though Councilwoman staffCosmetics. recommendation. I’ve weather always supported staff Lindsey, Lou and Linda Lorrell – DallasGregory Ayesh Mutope Ellenpresidents, Ray and C. B. Claiborne Spotted at the show Melanie including John F. for the allocation and process for awarding concesreports were predicting snow and roads, Carolyn Davis sions at Love recommendation, but we didn’t win. It takes eight andField. Calepha Johnson Lawson, HMAAC Chairman of icy the Board Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Hudson will continue to work that didn’t keep about from votes to win here at150 the Houstonians Horseshoe, and the eighth of Directors, John Guess, Jr. Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. with the city staff based on the plans approved by the attending the event. Some of the attendees vote won.” HMAAC/CEO, Rev. Bill and Audrey Shepard, who worked as a city council.” included Liz regional VP of Macy’s Hudson isAmbriz, part-owned by Giddings and by a trust the parking garage, they’ve been through 9/11, Lawson, Roxanne Lawson, Vanessa constituent liaison for former Aranza of Star Concessions could not be reached Stores, Robert Beaupre, VP and general that manages the assets of Johnson. Star is owned by they’ve been through the remodeling of the terminal, Williams, Alyce Coffee, Vanessa Gilmore, Harris County Commissioner for comment. manager of Democratic Macy’s Galleria, andGilbert LarryAranza. prominent donor [and] they’re now going through another remodelSharon Owens, Roxanne Chargois, Lisa Squatty Lyons for some 20 For Davis and others, what stands out about the Green, SakiJanice Indakwa, Paul Charles, To some, it wasBeal, the direct - some say heavy-hand- ing.” Chargois, Linda, Lindsey years and then Sen. John council’s decision is the second-guessing of city Judson Robinson, Michael La that turned ed -Lou involvement MayorPearson, Tom Davis expresses similar feelings. and Gregory,of Michael Helm,Leppert Ellen Whitmire, D-Houston for about staff, which Davis says is unprecedented during her Tarsha Chanta Brown, Lloyd the tide. In April, Leppert beganPinkett his campaign “We also felt that they had never missed a payRay, C.Mallard, B. Claiborne, Carole and to stop 10, was gifted at reading people three years on the council. Gite, Mark Whitener, Cheryl Beausoliel, the deals from being approved, calling them too ment, they had paid on-time, and I asked the quesCarol, Carolyn and John Guess, III. and politics at play. In fact, it La Tarsha Mallard, Liz Ambriz and Chanta Brown Jeanine Collins, Ralph Hughes, Kristyn Page and Ethan Foster “This has been the only time since I’ve been on the Franklyn Barnett and Henderson sweet forShow!.......PUMP-Athe incumbents and badSmith, for Dallas’ image tion, ‘How much money had these concessionaires Fabulous was Shepard who convinced council, that my colleagues have gone against city to few. Also, lettingbest weather asname a fairaplace to do not business. given the city of Dallas?’” she said. LICIOUS…….Putting their foot forTurner to run for political office staff,” said Davis. “Remember, coming out of the prevent them from coming to Houston “These 19 the years, would award The answer to her question soon became evident. ward, aboutcontracts, 200 ladieslasting attended 2010 in the late 80s. transportation committee we voted 10 to 0. Being a for thisOut fabulous exhibit were Jeaninetoby major portions of our new terminal the two incum“They have given the city a lot of money. Lots of Kick Kidney Disease Luncheon “I told her, ‘Ms. Shepard, I newbie on the council, I looked to [the committee Collins, Johnson Publishing spokesperson, bent concessionaires without having wearing their pump-a-licious shoes. Thebeen vetted money. If you own a building and you’ve got good have no interest in running. To chair’s] leadership on what we should do, because I Ethan Foster, VP of for Fashion Lady Merele Gail Smith, Rhonda Adams and Florence Love through the competitive process. This has short-cir- Michael tenants, Helm you just don’t say, ‘Well, I’m goingChair to kick event was chaired bysales Merele Yarborough which she replied, ‘You have just hadn’t been briefed on the Love Field situation.” Fair Cosmetics, and Ralph Hughes, VP of Roxanne Chargois Yarborough who knows first-hand about thisand terrible cuited new ideas and concepts discouraged com- and them out because I think I want someone else who is and Honoree no idea what you’re interested Davis’ recollections also suggest that the council’s Macy’s Communications, all from Myra disease andincluding the need tofirms kick itowned outChicago, of exispetitors, by minorities, going to give me more or pay me more,’ you tend to Rega in.’ She was literally the one deliberations weren’t always as contentious as they and Kristyn executive from tence. On thePage, sceneMacy’s were Terri Phillips, women and emerging entrepreneurs,” Leppert said in keep the good paying tenant,” Davis said. who put the idea in my head,’?” eventually became. Indeed, before the August meetNew York. Special to photographer Board Chair/National Kidney Foundation an opinion letter. thanks “What they were trying to accomplish is encouraghe said. ing there was literally no argument since the option Lyn Sullivan for helping Ms. ChagSonnier, Serving Southeast Nicole “I’m hoping thatTexas, it [politics] didthis not play a role,” ing the incumbents to stay through the renovation, Shepard’s love of politics to grant the no-bid contracts was the only one then on week. We salute Macy’s for bringing us Regional Vice Wright, Davis said of President, Leppert’s Crystal involvement. “I want to be and then having space in the new terminal at a rate was evident in her constant the table. It was at the urging of the mayor during the some Black History memories!............ Marion Johnson, Rega, able to say that he Myra did it for the Phyllis city of Dallas.” that was more than what the consultants even recomefforts to get people out to vote. June council meeting that voting on the proposal be ENJAY BOUTIQUE………The latest, Williams, Clarease Douglas, Davis, along withYates, six ofKeryl her council colleagues, mended,” said Oakley. “The remaining space would “She knew the value of the postponed so that other options could be added. exclusive street chic fashions were on Regina Carrington, Gail Smith, Rhonda was impressed by the incumbents’ track record as be bid out, and if [the new tenants’] rates were highvote because she had been “There was never an argument. Most of the condisplay recently at the Michelle Y. Williams Adams, Florence Love,hardships Ebele Iloanya, tenants, their post-9/11 and the unanimous er than what [the incumbents] were paying, the denied the right to vote,” tracts were going out for bid anyway,” Davis said. Art Gallery. Enjayand Boutique is Jackson, the result to Stacy McIntosh Elouise recommendation of the transportation committee that incumbents’ rent would automatically escalate to Turner said. “We just wanted the incumbents who [had] been of a life-long dream of young entrepreneur name a few. Adding a special touch to the Larry Green, Saki Indakwa and Paul Charles Mark Whitener and Cheryl Beausoliel the deal go forward. match. How is that not fair?” Shepard's survivors include Natalie Johnson. This is an online, highthere through 9/11 to stay there and recoup their luncheon included greetingsthick fromand Deborah “They’ve been through thin out there,” In another victory for the mayor, three council seven children, 30 grandchilend women’s apparel boutique featuring investment, with the amount of money they put into Duncan, KHOU ChannelEd 11Oakley Great Day said former Councilman in support of the members on the losing end of the vote eventually dren, 24 great-grandchildren aHouston, variety ofHFD chic poster-boys apparel fromErrick some ofPresley that airport. incumbents. “They’ve been through the building of crossed over to side with the majority on an 11-4 vote and 10 great-great children. the best designers of our time. They also and Aaron Bond and a fabulous fashion strive to stimulate the local community’s presentation by Neiman Marcus. John W. Johnson, Jr. Ebele Iloanya Nicole Sonnier, Errick Presley awareness fashion and encourage their Continuedof Success!.....MENTORING and Linda Johnson and Stacy McIntosh and Marion Johnson clients to maintain a kick-off strong fashion sense MIXER………To the 2010 Black by conducting seminars Expo, the Houston Areageared Urbantoward League promoting high-end couture and ecohosted a mentoring mixer welcoming friendly fashion design. While the boutique Susan L. Taylor, Publisher Emeritus of is exclusively online, you can host trunk Essence Magazine to the city andahonoring show and shop thementors. latest styles and trends in five outstanding The honorees the comfort of your own home. The mistress included Charles Savage, Executive of ceremony for this event was 39 news Director of the Fifth Ward Enrichment anchor Katishia Cosley. Good luck!......... Program, Scott-Davis, Executive This is theAlgenita uptown version. THE REACH CARD……..Tom Joyner, Director of Houston Habitat for Humanity, The 2010 Dodgesyndicated Caliber Tom Uptown host of the nationally Joyner Lawrence Allen, Director/Special Projects small wagon ishas the answer with for buyers Morning Show, partnered Houstonfor HISD,fuel Dr.economy, Jonita Reynolds, CEO /Gulf seeking safety and verbased PreCash to launch his REACH Card,and Coast Community Services Association satility. Models Brittany, Sharia, Owner Natalie Johnson and Models Jessika and Yossuana aDr. Visa prepaidWilson, card that offers African Vice President/Shell I Frazier remember two years agobank when we Americans and others without accounts Oil Company Foundation. were for their Niagara aCongrats!......NEWEST better heading way to manage financesFalls, in a CHAPTER….. Canada and Buffalo, New York, the smart, fairly priced way. While in our city The recently organized Cy-Fair Chapter of Dodge Caliber was the vehicle ofthe he placed a few customer service calls tohostTerri Phillips and Deborah DuncanJasmine Long Kicking Out Kidney Disease the National Women of Achievement choice when it came to rent cars. surprise of those at PreCash headquarters. edWe theirtest first event, “Sister II Sister” Health themore Dodge Caliber The goal is todroved empower folksHope looking & Wellness Breakfast at Good for a week prior to going on vacation. for modern solutions to help manage their Baptist Church. In addition to a delicious Then when we arrived in Buffalo, the finances, and use the card as a stepping breakfast, the guests were treated to a panel Caliber was our first option as a rental stone to takepresented control ofbytheir moneyShepard, and discussion Venisha car. Itgreater seemed like the Caliber was the bring financial stability to their nutritionist, Dornne Burnside, pharmacist vehicle choice. lives. It’sofalso a good tool for parents to and Officer Rachelle Holman. Although With a 2.o-liter, four-cylinder engine teach teens and college students money new, the chapter has already surpassed their matched with a continuously-variable management at an early age because expectations skills in providing service to the eldNatalie Johnson and Katishia Cosley Sharia Roberts transmission, the Dodge Caliber had they can only spend the money that’s on erly, veterans, youth and women. Should more enough power to by transport us the card is issued the Bancorp youcard. wishThe to join the chapter, contact Helen everywhere we wanted to go. one Bank and consumers can purchase Johnson at 281-852-4405 or Chapter Theatcargo space was more than adeonline www.thereachcard.com. Photos President Anne Harris at 713-937-3320. quate, and we travel large. for this event are courtesy of photographer Congratulations and continued sucBetween my wife and daughter, we Scott Kilgore…………KUDOS…….The cess!........ KUDOS…….Mt. Horem Baptist travel with everything the Houston Citizens Chamber ofexcept Commerce, Church family and Minister Thomas F. Arlener Poydras, Susan Taylor and Phyllis Bailey Charles Savage kitchen sink. the nation’s second oldest African American Markel Darby and Tom Joyner Freeman celebrated their 60th Annual and Algenita Scott-Davis Standard equipment includes airfirst chamber, its 2011 board members Women’sinstalled Day Program…….Houston’s conditioning withCongregational automatic temperaand officers. Mayor Annise Parker was African American Church ture control, power windows with drithe featured speaker and presided over the and Senior Pastor Rev. Myron E. Cloyd ver’s one-touch feature and SIRIUS ceremony. Officers installed include Carroll celebrated its 106th year of service withst a satellite radio. Robinson, chairman; William Taylor, 1 dedication and unveiling of the Official nd vice chair; LaTayne Bruce, 2 vice chair; Other standard equipment includes Texas State Historical Marker presented by There is an information display that dow. Francis Cook, treasurer; Vernita Harris, heated front seats,Commission leather-wrapped CALIBER: HIGHLIGHTS the Texas Historical and the tells you what direction you’re heading, The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown secretary, and Laolu Davies-Yemitian, steering wheel and tilt steering column. Harris County Historical Commission and the temperature outside and how fast gets five-star government safety ratings parliamentarian. board members We drove theNew 2010 Caliber Mayor Anise Parker hasDodge been named one you’re traveling. You can also see what in the frontal driver, crash passenger, MSRP base price 23 miles per gallon (city), 27 joining the organization are Carla Lane, Uptown from Houston to Austin for the of “The World’s Most Influential People” $19,995 (as tested- $22,965) mpg (highway) you’re fuel economy is and what your side front seat and crash rear seat cateCatherine Flowers Courtney Johnsonannual schooland baseball tourby Timehigh magazine…….. Havestate a great weektire inflation-level is. gories. It also rates four stars in the Rose. Congrats continued Engine Estimated annual fuel cost nament without incident. Insuccess!......... fact, we on and remember toand watch CROSSROADS The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown is a rollover division. Have a great week and remember to watch 2.0-liter four-cylinder $1,560 enjoyed our drive, with smooth riding Channel 13 Sunday morning with Melanie crossover vehicle waiting to happen. Warranty coverage includes a fiveCrossroads on Channel 13 Sunday morning on I-10 leading up to Highway 71 into Lawson for your event covered by Ms. Safety equipment Exterior features include 17-inch alu- year or 100,000-mile powertrain limitwith Melanie Lawson your event at the state capital. Chag. Also check outforour website Speed sensitive power locks minum wheels, power-heated exterior ed warranty and 24-hour towing assiscovered by Ms. Big Chag. Also check our My partner, John, that defendernetwork.com tomentioned view theout“Event mirrors, fog lamps and a bright front tance. website at defendernetwork.com to there was no road noise andPlace theview car of the Week.”…..From Chag’s to grille. Big John told me this is a vehicle for the “Event of the Week.”…..From Chag’s handled like a mid-sized sedan. This is Dr. Jonita Reynolds Joe Arrington and Jerome Love Yvette Pawnell your place, Ciao Darling! Optional equipment includes a power college students starting out or newlyPlace to your that place, lists Ciao Darling! Fuel economy a vehicle for less than and Dr. Frazier Wilson and Deanna Santiago express moonroof, media center andJoyner weds getting out of the starting gate. National Syndicated Radio Host Tom Yulaiza Rodriquez and Tom Joyner $20,000. 6.5-inch touch screen navigation winI tend to agree By Kathy Chaney

Airport contracts

AUTO NEWS

2010 Dodge Caliber

By Darrell K. Ardison


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.