Houston Defender: August 18, 2011

NATIONAL

United States Postal Service (USPS) projects 220,000 job cuts by 2015 P4

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source Volume 80 | Number 41

NEWSTALK

RICK Perry

Candidacy surprises no one

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WEEK OF AUGUST 18, 2011 | FREE

Public Affairs Program

‘The Point’

debuts on KTSU-FM H Page 8

BUSINESS

Black TV Viewing habits matter

P6 Cheryl PearsonMcNeil

Photo by Bob Levey

SPORTS

Moses Ellis: PV’s little big man

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CHAG’S PLACE

Texas Senator Rodney Ellis and Rep Ana Hernandez-Luna prepare for “Tax Free Week” - Aug. 19-21

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Tavis Smiley stirs emotions

For much of August, media personality Tavis Smiley and Princeton professor Cornel West have been on an 18-city Poverty Tour to highlight the plight of the disadvantaged. Their nationwide journey has caused mixed emotions. The tour is also designed to attract the attention of President Barack Obama, and Smiley and West are often critical of Obama.

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Eric Benét stars in film

Though he’s best known as a singer-songwriter, Grammynominee Eric Benét has also acted in several TV shows. He will soon be seen in a heartwarming family drama, “Trinity Goodheart,” which premieres on the GMC-TV Network.

The film is about a strained fatherdaughter relationship, and Benét is a single dad of a 19-year-old daughter in real life.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

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Living- Our Children Start Early to Get Ahead Balance is key for school readiness

In The Book Corner I Hate Muscular Dystrophy: Loving a Child with a Life-Altering Disease

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Discover the New Look, New Size, New Content, New Attitude Designed for your convenience, the new Defender is packaged in an easy to handle tabloid size, with a colorful contemporary flair featuring more content as we celebrate 80 years of service to the African-American community.

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Put some sanity in your commute…

and take METRO’s all-new Missouri City/Highway 6 Park & Ride with service to the TMC Transit Center. The 170 Missouri City/Highway 6 starts operating August 22nd, and is conveniently located in the Kroger parking lot at 10250 Highway 6 and Knight Road. Service runs: – Northbound to the TMC Transit Center: 5:06 – 7:48 a.m.

– Southbound: 3:15 – 7:09 p.m.

New transportation options leading to fewer cars on the road – just one more way we all use the New METRO.

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newstalk Analysis Perry candidacy localbriefs surprises no one

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Prairie View A&M faculty honored for teaching excellence

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By ASWAD WALKER Defender

o the surprise of no one, Texas Gov. Rick Perry recently threw his hat into the field of Republican presidential hopefuls, officially declaring his candidacy on the platform of smaller government.

Promising to reduce taxes and ease regulations, Perry told supporters at the RedState Gathering, a conservative event in South Carolina, that he will make the federal government “as inconsequential in your lives as I can.”

Perry launched a campaign website and held a conference call with state activists just before taking the stage in Charleston to make his announcement, during which he resorted to the vague and non-substantive tactics that have garnered criticism from an electorate seeking open and honest dialogue on the real issues of the day rather than the usual catch phrases.

More specifically, Perry accused President Barack Obama of offering the nation “rudderless” leadership and “an unbridled fixation on taking more money out of pockets.”

Perry promoted his record of job creation in Texas and said he would duplicate that success as president, deeming the current state of U.S. jobs as “an economic disaster.”

“Page one of any economic plan to get America working is to give a pink slip to the current resident in the White House,” he said.

Aware of Perry’s anti-Washington, anti-president Obama rhetoric, the President’s campaign spokesman Ben LaBolt retorted that Perry’s policies instituted in Texas were a “carbon copy” of those initiated by the Republican lawmakers presently in Washington—lawmakers whose popularity and approval ratings are currently at record lows.

“In a Republican field that has already pledged allegiance to the Tea Party and failed to present any

plan that will benefit the middle class or create the jobs America needs to win the future, Gov. Perry offers more of the same,” said a statement released by LaBolt.

According to an unscientific polling of AfricanAmerican and Latino Houstonians, local voters see some good and bad in Perry’s decision.

Renaldo Grimes, a Texas transplant originally from Florida, thinks Perry will make the 2012 Presidential race more interesting.

“Perry is known across the country for saying some pretty stupid things. I expect he will do more of the same now that he will be commanding a national spotlight. I’m sure the late night comedians are excited,” said Grimes.

Opinions vary

Jesus Chacon, a parent of two middle school students, views a Perry presidency as bad news for the state of education.

“Perry turned down federal funds to improve education in Texas. Good schools were almost shut down. Good teachers are now looking for work. So how is he going to make America competitive with the top students coming out of India, China and other places around the globe with his good ole boy approach,” asked Chacon.

Thirteen PVAMU faculty members have been honored by the Texas A&M University System for Teaching Excellence Awards, based on rankings from evaluations created and administered by students. Faculty members honored include Ananda Amarasekara, Orion Cijta, Harriette Howard-Lee Block, Dejun Liu, Quincy Moore, Kevin Storr, all of the Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford Collge of Arts and Sciences; Immaculata Igbo, Annette McClinton, Eloria Simon-Campbell and Evelyn Whitley of the College of Nursing; Doris Morgan-Bloom of the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences, and Beverly Roberts and Lisa Thompson of the Whitlowe R. Green College of Education.

Texas Children’s Hospital launches donor milk program A donor milk program launched by Texas Children’s Hospital is designed to help provide for the nutritional needs of newborns in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Because of the proven health benefits for infants, the hospital follows a protocol of feeding 100 percent breast milk to babies weighing less than 3.3 pounds.

Since there is a shortage of breast milk, Texas Children’s is asking local nursing mothers to donate their excess breast milk to ensure an ample supply for the 3,000 critically-ill babies treated each year. Mothers can visit www.texaschildrens.org/milk to complete an online registration form and assessment questionnaire.

Texas Lottery Commission’s sales on pace for record high The economy might be sluggish, but that hasn’t stopped Texans from buying lottery tickets. The state’s Lottery Commission’s 2011 sales are headed for a record high, and are on pace to reach about $3.83 billion. That’s up from $3.74 billion in 2010. In all, the Lottery has generated more than $18 billion for the state of Texas since the first ticket was sold in 1992.

Prior to 1997, proceeds were allocated to the General Revenue Fund. Since 1997, all proceeds have been transferred to the Foundation School Fund to support public education. The Lottery has contributed more than $13 billion to the fund.

Continued on Page 5

Mayor orders water conservation

By Aswad Walker Defender

Due to persistent drought conditions and continuously decreasing water levels in Lake Houston, Mayor Annise Parker recently mandated the implementation of the City of Houston Stage Two Water Conservation Measures in accordance with the procedures outlined in Chapter 47 in the Code of Ordinances.

During stage two of the conservation plan, custom-

ers are required to repair all detectable leaks within 72 hours of discovery and limit outdoor irrigation to between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. on no more than two days per week according to an assigned schedule.

The schedule is Sundays and Thursdays for customers with even-numbered street addresses and Saturdays and Wednesdays for customers with odd-numbered street addresses.

Failure to follow requirements may result in fines.

Continued on Page 10

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

defendernetwork.com

national

U.S.briefs

Post office

cuts cause concern

By AFRO Staff & Defender News Services

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he United States Postal Service (USPS) is once again tightening its belt with severe budget cuts and office closures.

The company that delivers “40 percent of the world’s mail” has slowly but surely begun the process of closing an alarming number of its doors.

In addition, USPS plans to cut 220,000 jobs between now and 2015.

The bulk of the jobs eliminated are expected to come through layoffs. Other planned cuts will come through attrition, with employees retiring or leaving and not being replaced.

A staple in American communities since its inception in 1775, the post office has been experiencing difficulty for several years. Internet access and serious competition from companies such as FedEx

and DHL have made business increasingly tough.

The USPS incurred a net loss of $3.1 billion in the final quarter of the 2011 fiscal year, and has also seen the elimination of 110,000 jobs in four years.

That said, USPS announced that it would begin a study on the effectiveness of 3,700 retail stores nationwide, all of which are being reviewed for “possible closure.”

In cities such as Baltimore,

there is concern that the inner city will be especially vulnerable.

Councilwoman Mary Pat Clarke has organized a “Return to Sender” campaign that brought attention to the closures with a protest at a branch up for closure.

“We object to the eight closings being in predominantly African-American communities where people don’t have cars and have to walk to get their mail,” Clarke said.

Urban areas nationwide are experiencing the same anxiety over possible closures. Protests are being staged in other metropolises such as Chicago, where eight of 10 proposed closures are also located in low-income and predominantly African-American communities.

“If we were a private company, we already would have filed for bankruptcy and gone through restructuring — much like major automakers did two years ago,” said a Postal Service spokesperson.

Poverty tour causes mixed emotions Special to NNPA from the Washington Informer

TV personality Tavis Smiley and Princeton Professor Cornel West have taken a licking as they near the end of their 18-city Poverty Tour, which included stops in Washington, D.C. and Chicago.

The bus trips have been aimed at bringing President Barack Obama’s attention to the plight of America’s poor people, according to Smiley and West, but particularly Blacks, whose jobless rate exceeds 15 percent.

There have been mixed

emotions over the tour.

While some residents in Obama’s Chicago hometown said the president had been doing all he could to bring the economy back on track, others conveyed that he could still do more to get Black people back to work.

“They are not really giving [Obama] a chance,” Kyshandra Jackson, 26, said.

Jackson, who had just returned to work after a year of trying to find a job, added that, “things Continued on Page 5

Clinton says African drought requires global response Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said the severe drought threatening more than 12 million Africans with starvation must be addressed by global agriculture and nutrition initiatives.

Speaking to the International Food Policy Research Institute, Clinton said the U.S. was providing $17 million in emergency food aid to the Horn of Africa, with $12 million going to Somalia. That brings total U.S. assistance to more than $580 million. “While we hurry to deliver life-saving assistance, we must also maintain our focus on the future by continuing to invest in long-term food security in countries that are susceptible to drought and food shortages,” she said.

Barber, beauty shops continue to grow despite economy Certain businesses may be suffering, but one has been doing particularly well – beauty and barber shops. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of stylists and the shops that employ them grew about 8 percent from 2008 to 2009. “We don’t have to worry about someone flying to China to get their hair cut. Barbering is not going away,” Charles Kirkpatrick, director of the National Association of Barber Boards of America, told the New York Times. Not only are consumers hesitant to give up the service, but many have also entered the field, including those with graduate degrees.

Researchers looking at links to fibroids in Black women Uterine fibroids affect African-American women three times more often than other women. Researchers now believe that poor diet, obesity and the use of contraception might contribute to why Black women are more likely to experience fibroids, which occur when benign tumors grow in the uterus. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 80 percent of Black women develop fibroids by their late 40s. “Fibroids are most common in women in their 30s through their 50s, but they tend to strike African-American women at a younger age,” said Kenneth Pierce, M.D., a Chicago radiologist. “Fibroids also grow more quickly and cause more symptoms…”

VOLUME 80 • NUMBER • 41 WEEK OF AUGUST 18, 2011

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Associate Editors Reshonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Columnist Yvette Chargois Sport Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Webmaster Corneleon Block

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender audited By Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2011 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011 | DEFENDER

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Poverty Tour...Continued from page 4 are going to get done, but it is also going to take some time. He is doing more than everybody else tried to do.”

To the contrary, Lamont Robinson, a 29-year-old insurance agent, voiced frustration saying Obama was disconnected with Chicago.

Meanwhile, Smiley and West have been branded as self-serving Obama haters. And, comedian Steve Harvey recently referred to the pair as “Uncle Toms.”

But Smiley said the tour has gone exactly the way he and West planned. “I am very clear on who I am and who I am not, what I can do and what I cannot,” he said.

“I have a platform that I can use to bring awareness, to draw attention and create a conversation.”

Perry Candidacy...Continued from page 3 Frederica Shirley, a stay-at-home mom and operator of a home business, thinks a Perry presidency is a bad joke.

“Isn’t this the same guy that talked seriously about Texas seceding from the Union because he disagreed with some of President Obama’s decisions? So if Perry is president and he disagrees with France or Germany, is he going to secede from planet earth?” Shirley asked.

“Is he going to close the U.S. borders to people, ideas, products and technologies from other countries? At a time when we all need to work to become better global neighbors I view Perry as a move in the wrong direction—a big step backwards,” said Shirley.

After making his announcement Perry visited New Hampshire, the first-in-the-nation primary state, before heading to Iowa.

Mitt Romney, a former Massachusetts governor, has thus far been the leading GOP candidate.

However, even though this 2012 run is Romney’s second attempt to win the Republican party’s nomination, neither he nor any of the other GOP candidates have been able to generate the level of buzz and enthusiasm among media members, and more importantly, among conservative voters.

After the Iowa Primary, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty dropped out of the race, leaving as Perry’s competition U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota, former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman, former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich, U.S. Rep. Ron Paul of Texas, former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania and Black businessman Herman Cain.

Perry is viewed by many is the most viable Republican candidate because he enjoys support from both Tea Party members and social conservatives because of his opposition to abortion and gay rights. Perry is also known as an evangelical Christian, and recently organized a well-attended prayer rally in Houston.

He is also viewed as viable because of his proven ability to raise funds. Perry supporters believe he will be able to lay the groundwork for a national finance network that can rival President Obama’s.

There are some Republicans who worry that Perry’s hard-core conservatism and cowboy-esque style will not go over well in a national contest, and that the specter of George W. Bush’s White House legacy will turn some voters away.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

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business

Black TV

viewing habits matter

By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil The Nielsen Company

W

ell, we’re more than half-way through these lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer.

You can tell because the barrage of backto-school commercials, which started in July, has intensified.

Like holiday advertising, they seem to begin earlier every year (the Pearson-McNeil household is already prepared). Besides the back-to-school ads, the escalating plugs for the new fall line-ups have me excited about TV again.

What are you watching this summer?

Working for Nielsen, which most of you think of as the “TV Ratings” Company, it should come as no surprise that I can actually share with you who’s watching what (I can also share information on consumer purchases, online, and mobile habits and trends, but for today, we’re going to stick with TV viewing).

Traditionally, summer is designated for fun, sun, a spike in outdoor activities and vacationing, so broadcasters typically see a dip in ratings during this time period.

Nonetheless, according to the latest Nielsen Cross-Platform report Americans overall were watching television an average of 22 minutes more per month per person than last year.

Yes, even though today we have more innovative choices on which to view video content – computers, tablets or even mobile phones – old-school television sets are still the leader in providing that viewing pleasure for all demographics.

The report confirms that Blacks still watch television (approximately 213 hours per month) more than any other ethnic group on both traditional television and our mobile phones.

We average about 57 more hours of viewing per month than Caucasians, and almost four hours more than Hispanics, who follow Blacks in viewing habits. Asian-Americans watch the least amount of traditional television, but make up for it by leading the time spent watching video on the Internet.

African-Americans also watch less time-shifted television (think DVR) than the rest of the population. Television viewing service providers – satellite, broadcast-only and wired cable – are spread pretty evenly across the board

among Blacks, whites and Asians. Hispanics, however, are more likely to get satellite or be broadcast-only.

So I know you’re wondering: in all that television viewing, are African-Americans watching the same programs as the rest of America? Yes and no.

According to the ratings for the week of July 25, “America’s Got Talent,” was the most watched show with both the general population (11. 5 million) and African Americans (1.2 million).

An example of a glaring difference in viewing taste, however, is “The Bachelorette.” It won the number five slot at 8.1 million viewers for the general population, but didn’t even register a blip on the ratings radar screen for AfricanAmericans.

Conversely, “So You Think You Can Dance” made the African-American top 10 Television Viewing List, but failed to find a spot in the ratings that same week among the general population viewers. I haven’t watched the show, but would I be safe in surmising there’s diversity portrayed on it?

Ya’ll know I always go back to our power as consumers. Remember, both programmers and marketers take the viewing choices you make – and don’t make – very seriously.

In addition to race and ethnicity, Americans’ television/video viewing habits also vary by age and gender.

Nielsen data shows that women ages 25-plus watch more television than men at 16 hours more per month. On the other hand, men are consistently bigger fans of streaming video online.

It makes sense that older Americans (65-plus), spend more than twice as much time watching television as teenagers and about 37 percent more than the 35-49 demographic. Here are some other ways video consumption breaks down according to age in the report: • 25 percent of Americans, 50-64, comprise the largest segment of the traditional television audience.

• 27 percent of adults, 35-49, represent the largest chunk of the Internet video audience.

• 30 percent of mobile video viewers are mostly 25-34 year olds.

• Younger Americans, 12 -17 spend a third of their Internet time watching video.

So, as the summer days near an end…what are you watching? Trust me, it matters.

Remember, both programmers and marketers take the viewing choices you make – and don’t make – very seriously.

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Cheryl Pearson-McNeil

WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011 DEFENDER

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entertainment

what’sup H ‘American Idol’ holds

auditions in Houston Friday, Aug. 26

Who will be the next Ruben Studdard, Fantasia or Jordin Sparks? Thousands of “American Idol” hopefuls will try to make their singing dreams come true when the top-rated show visits Houston’s Reliant Park. Registration for season 11 auditions begins with wristband distribution at approximately 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 24 and Thursday, Aug. 25. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to Reliant Park by 5 a.m. on Aug. 26 to try out. Auditioners must show proof that they are a legal U.S. citizen or a permanent U.S. resident who is eligible to work full-time in the United States, and are 15 to 28 years old. “American Idol” has been No. 1 among adults 18-49 for the past seven consecutive seasons.

H Aretha Franklin looks forward to singing at MLK statue dedication

A young Aretha Franklin used to accompany the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to churches in the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King often asked her to sing one song in particular, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” The Queen of Soul will once again sing the song on Aug. 28 when a memorial to the slain leader is dedicated on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. “I’m really looking forward to this moment. It’s going to be another great, great moment in American history, and in African-American history,” Franklin said. “It means as well, after so many years of traveling with him…I would perform in his honor and in tribute to him, and I’m really looking forward to that moment and singing one of his favorite songs, his most requested song by me.”

H Black Women Historians release statement critical of ‘The Help’

The Association of Black Women Historians recently released a statement criticizing the film “The Help,” which tells the story of African-American maids in Mississippi during the 1950s and 1960s.

The group is urging audiences to reconsider their interest in the film and had a particular problem with the way novelist Kathryn Stockett used “Black” dialect in the book, portrayed Black men as cruel, and generally ignored the sexual harassment many Black maids faced at work. The statement said in part: “Despite efforts to market the book and the film as a progressive story of triumph over racial injustice, “The Help” distorts, ignores, and trivializes the experiences of Black domestic workers. We are specifically concerned about the representations of Black life and the lack of attention given to sexual harassment and civil rights activism.

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Eric Benét

Singer takes on film role

By KamWilliams Defender

B

orn in Milwaukee on Oct. 15, 1970, two-time Grammy-nominee Eric Benét is an actor, singer and songwriter whose music has been influenced by such R&B greats as Al Green, Sly Stone, Chaka Kahn and Marvin Gaye.

His first professional break came back in the late ‘80s while he was in a local group called Gerard.

Since then, Benét has struck gold on the R&B charts and released albums such as “True to Myself,” “A Day in the Life” and “Love and Life.” He has collaborated with a range of highly respected artists, including Something for the People; Earth, Wind, and Fire; and Wynonna Judd. As an actor, he’s enjoyed recurring roles on the TV series “For Your Love,” “Half & Half” and “Kaya.”

Here, he talks about starring opposite Erica Gluck in his new film, “Trinity Goodheart,” a heartwarming family drama about a strained father-daughter relationship. The movie premieres on the GMC-TV Network on Saturday, Aug. 20th at 8 p.m.

CT. KW: I love your music, Eric. Great to see you back in films.

What interested you about this particular project?

EB: Well, my manager had read

the script, and liked it a lot. And I finally got around to it after I was ambushed at a gig in Atlanta by the producers and the scriptwriter. They told me they felt I was perfect for the part. So, I took the initiative to read it that night and fell in love with it, because there were so many parallels between the main character’s life and my own. And I also liked how the story was so warm and about faith

and how it reminded people that love and family are both worth fighting for.

KW: This film has some similarities to your having been a single-dad with a young daughter in real life. Is that one of the reasons why you chose to do the film?

EB: I felt that if this was going to be my first male lead in a film, then it would be a great opportunity to latch onto since there were so many anchors in this character that I could sink my teeth into because of all the parallels with my life.

KW: You play a Black, single father raising his child alone.

This is definitely not the norm in the Black community where there are so many single-female headed households. What message do you want to communicate through your role?

EB: It’s not the norm. But it was my reality. I was pretty much a single father for most of my daughter India’s life. She’s 19 now, just finished her freshman year at USC, and she’s blossomed into an incredibly talented, beautiful, strong young woman. Looking back, were there things I could’ve done better? Yes, but I’m still pretty proud of myself for having raised such an amazing individual. Being a parent is not Continued on Page 10

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

coverpage

Texas Southern University Dean of the School of Communications Dr. James Ward and KTSU-FM General Manager George Thomas were interviewed by Messiah Jiles about the goals of the new public affairs program “The Point.”

Public Affairs Program

‘The Point’

debuts on KTSU-FM

By RAQUEL ROGERS Defender

H

available at Texas Southern University,” she said.

“Third, the strategic alliance between KTSU-FM and the Defender Media Group provided a unique editorial content sharing partnership similar to the Washington Post and NBC-TV. And fourth, I love that I’m returning to radio and to an institution [TSU] which is very dear to me.”

TSU President Dr. John Rudley says it’s that love that has the university excited about the partnership.

always supportive of the University and highlights the many contributions made by TSU’s students, faculty and alumni.

“The show is a perfect fit for what Mrs. Jiles is already doing for Texas Southern and for Houston. Her support for TSU has never wavered.”

ouston’s African-American community now has a new venue for public affairs programming, thanks to a unique partnership between A wealth of experience the Defender Media Group and Texas Station Manager George Thomas Southern University’s KTSU radio station. agrees.

The new show, “The Point,” is the “The reason why KTSU decided to only daily show on FM focused on public partner with the Defender is because of affairs for AfricanSonny Jiles,” Thomas said.

Americans. It airs “News and public affairs Monday-Thursday on is a core function of public KTSU, and is hosted broadcasting and having

by Sonceria “Sonny” Sonny on board as our Messiah Jiles, the news and public affairs CEO of the Defender director is a plus for KTSU, Media Group.

TSU and the community.

It’s a labor of love She brings a wealth of exfor the noted journalperience to the position and ist, who saw the show we are proud to have her on as an opportunity to our team.” continue her commitDr. James Ward, TSU ment to Houston’s associate professor and African-American dean of Communications community, and return Arts and Sciences, said the to her roots in radio. program allows the univer“The show was sity to tell its own story. a new adventure KTSU’S philosophy that offered so many as a public affairs program opportunities I could is that if we are to remain not refuse,” Messiah- Recording studio engineer/manager Sinclair Ridley talks to Messiah Jiles about recording local talent in the KTSU studios. a public radio station and an Jiles said. “First, this important voice for the composition and the medium allowed me to “This energetic show will address munity, we must educate that community further my commitment to the Houston area the concerns of the community but more through public affairs. ‘The Point’ is a Black community to inform, entertain and importantly highlight the great strides TSU breath of fresh air for KTSU and for Houseducate. is making,” Rudley said. “Mrs. Sonny Mes- ton,” Ward said.

“In addition, the station on the campus siah Jiles, a veteran journalist, has always Messiah Jiles is hoping that listeners of Texas Southern University gave me acbeen supportive of the university. see “The Point” as an opportunity to further cess to training and teaching future Black “While serving as president of the dialogue on issues of importance to the journalists, as well as showcasing what National Newspaper Publishers AssociaAfrican-American community.

W.E.B. DuBois called the “talented ten” or tion, a TV personality on Channel 11, and “I hope to provide quality content the educated knowledge resources that are as owner of the Houston Defender, she is that is interesting and empowering. The

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@ 7:30 am for y calling 713-313-4354.

Photos by Bob Levey

paternity fraud, discipline and the soarmorning starts with “Politically Speaking divorce rate. We won’t be engaging ing” and rotating discussions with TSU in idle chatter. ‘The Sista Xchange’ is professors Franklin Jones, Craig Jackson all about uplifting, empowering and and David Baker.” laying out a plan of action to bring about In addition to providing topic-driven change.” discussions, interviews with civic, political, and educational professionals, Pressing issues as well as community leaders, featured While Billingsley’s segment will segments will further the dialogue. focus on the women, Clyde Jiles and Those segments include: “The Davies-Yemitan will focus on the men.

Sista Xchange,” hosted by veteran news “The issues we address will focus journalist and national bestselling author on discussions centered around pubReShonda Tate Billingsley; ”The Men’s lic policy, business and the economy, Room” hosted by Clyde Jiles and Laolu innovation and current trends, and the Davies-Yemitan, and “Faith Walk” broader African American social experihosted by minister and journalist Aswad ence,” Davies-Yemitan said.

Messiah Jiles is a veteran journalist of 35+ years and is excitedWalker.

“The hope is that listeners garner a about the partnership with KTSU-FM. “I’m thrilled to bring an open diafeeling of empowerment from the show, logue to the community every Thursday “We’ll be discussing everything from and that the information received provides morning,” said Billingsley, whose segment relationships, to parenting to careers to them with the ‘how’ and ‘what’ to do about will be a roundtable discussion with women beauty. We’ll tackle controversial topics like improving their lives and making a difference on a variety of subjects.

he Houston area for over 80 years

Continued on Page 12

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

Mayor orders...Continued from page 3 “While these restrictions are mandatory, we will begin with warnings and an informational campaign because the goal is voluntary compliance,” said Parker.

“For those who insist on not being good neighbors, citations will follow.”

The City itself will also take internal water conservation measures, including suspension of any scheduled window washing; suspension of any scheduled power washing of buildings, sidewalks and parking areas; and discontinued washing of city vehicles or equipment except for health, safety or critical maintenance reasons.

The City will also order an audit of all irrigation systems for leaks to ensure proper operation of timers and sprinkler heads.

The Public Works Department website has a Daily Water Supply Monitor and continues to encourage residents to use water wisely, which will reduce the large demand on the City’s water system. According to the City, using water wisely can not only save water, but also reduce water bills.

The website lists the following as ways to conserve water: keep showers under five minutes; turn water off while brushing your teeth; wash only full loads of dishes or clothes; replace older model showerheads and

faucet aerators with new low-flow models and install low water use toilets.

Also, inspect toilets for silent leaks by putting food coloring in the toilet tank (if colored water leaks into the toilet bowl before flushing, water is being lost due to a worn flapper).

In addition, residents are advised to refrain from washing any vehicle or motorbike unless the dirt poses a driving hazard; refrain from washing down any sidewalk, walkway, driveway, parking lot or any other hard-surfaced area; and refrain from filling, refilling or adding water to any indoor or outdoor swimming pool, spa or whirlpool.

Eric Benét...

Continued from page 7 easy, but speaking for myself, it’s a wonderful blessing and the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.

KW: Will your daughter India be following you into the music business, and if so, how do you feel about it?

EB: India is an extremely talented singer/songwriter, and she is absolutely forging her own way musically. She’s majoring in music business and communications, and she’s been spending a lot of time in the studio while at school, so I think we’re going to see a whole lot from India in the future.

KW: If you could back in time and speak to the Eric Benét of 1992, when your first album was released with the band called Benét, what advice would you give to yourself?

EB: The number one tip I would probably give myself is: “Enjoy every moment of this journey,” because back then I would really get caught up in the details of “Why aren’t we signed yet?” and “Why isn’t this happening faster?” I would have to tell myself that there’s always a reason why things happen. I’ve learned in my older age how to let it go when things don’t work out, because something incredible that I don’t know about yet is probably right around the corner.

KW: What is more challenging for you, singing or acting?

EB: Singing, for me, is like breathing air. Acting is a challenge. I find it difficult to switch gears emotionally.

KW: There are probably a lot of struggling young artists who are working at UPS and trying to break through into the music industry at the same time, like you did. What advice do you have for them besides, “Lift with your back?”

EB: I think the best advice I would give them is to always be working on your craft, because there are so many people out there with a dream similar to yours, a whole lot more than when I started.

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11CI0424_Aug18_OOTETH.indd 1

8/10/11 10:46 AM

WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011 DEFENDER

defendernetwork.com

opinion Nate Beeler, The Washington Examiner

pointofview

Wake up Black community

A

re we waiting on a magical moment or a great Black leader to take us to the promise land?

Conditions in our community are increasingly getting worst from the economic squeeze on our pocket book, to the cuts in education and healthcare to the growing unemployment lines. Who are we waiting on?

The Tea Party has taken the strategies of the Civil Rights Movement and is playing the game to win.

Across the ocean, people of foreign lands are copying the tactics of social disobedience and non-violence to topple governments and achieve change.

Who said the tool kit used during the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s does not work today? The marching, public protest, boycotting, mobilizing the masses, speaking out against injustice – it is working for everyone else.

We cannot sit idly by, complaining and sitting on our behinds talking about the problem but not implementing a solution. We have more tools today to communicate and motivate the masses than ever before yet we stew in the pot of “woe is me.”

Stop the whining and get started. Many believe our young people will lead us and they are probably right especially when you look at American history from the American Revolution led by young men drafting the Constitution to the young men between the ages of 25-32 like Martin Luther King Jr., Jesse Jackson and Andrew Young stepping out on faith for a worthy cause.

Granted it will not be easy but nothing worth having is easy.

As the gap between the haves and the have-nots continues to grow, the old saying comes to mind: You can pay me now or you can pay me later but you will pay me.

Members of the Black community, we have to step out of our comfort zone and show up and show out that the conditions being perpetuated by our society today will not be tolerated and will not go unchallenged. This is not about violence. It is about standing up for what is right and just.

Wake up Black community!

To Be Equal

Pass the Urban Jobs Act Now

D

By Marc H. Morial NNPA Columnist

espite all the attention paid in recent months to spending cuts, there are some members of Congress who agree with the National Urban League that the nation’s number one priority must be job creation and putting America back

to work.

Months ago, New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and New York Representative Edolphus Towns introduced the Urban Jobs Act that would provide much-needed federal funding to non-profit organizations engaged in preparing at-risk youth, ages 18-24, for the world of work.

Gillibrand, Towns and I participated in a press conference at the New York Urban League in Harlem to generate greater Congressional and public support for this important legislation.

We were joined by New York Congressman Charles Rangel, New York Assemblyman Keith Wright, and New York Urban League President Arva Rice.

All of us agree: the nation’s recovery cannot be complete until we bring jobs and hope back to hard pressed urban communities.

More than one-third of the nation’s minority youth are unemployed. But, even with 14 million Americans out of work, at least 2 million jobs remain unfilled because employers can’t

find workers with the needed skills.

The Urban Jobs Act would help close that gap by targeting federal funding to assist urban youth, many of whom have dropped out of school or are in need of a second chance, in obtaining the education and skills necessary for success in the labor market. This would help reduce youth unemployment, provide workers for open jobs and strengthen the economy.

The average unemployment rate for minority youths in urban communities in July was approximately 39 percent for African Americans and 36 percent for Latinos. Clearly, we must make targeted, effective investments now to spur urban job growth and prevent the loss of an entire generation. That is the real potential of the Urban Jobs Act. The Act would create an Urban Jobs Program that would award competitive grants to national non-profit organizations, in partnership with local affiliates, to prepare youth ages 18 through 24 for entry into the job market. A national organization that received a grant would provide a comprehensive set of services.

The Act would increase the capacity of organizations like the Urban League of New York, which operates two city employment centers and has helped prepare many young adults for full-time employment.

Our message to Congress is clear: The time for debate and delay is over. Pass the Urban Jobs Bill now.

nextweekonlineopinions Jaz-Z and Kayne West: Hip-Hop

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

11

Marian Wright Edelman

Can We Save Detroit?

England Struggles to Understand Causes of Riots

Getting Children Ready For School George Curry

Harry C. Alford

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

12

DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

‘The Point’...

Continued from page 9 for the greater good.”

“I am extremely excited about the ‘Men’s Room.’ The show provides an unfiltered look at what’s really going on in the mind of today’s Black male,” said Clyde Jiles. “Expect to laugh, learn and think.

Considering the state of Black males in America, it is necessary that we voice our thoughts and opinions on certain issues to reach common ground, take action and initiate change.”

Minister Aswad Walker will handle the religion aspect, tackling an array of issues.

“We’ll deal with any issue that affects our quality of life,” Walker said. “No issue is too controversial or too challenging for us to discuss and figure out how we are supposed to respond to as women and men of faith.

“We’ll tackle issues dealing with the economy, with the culture of ignorance and apathy that has engulfed so many of our youth, with the Black church’s feelings on a woman’s place – is it in the pulpit or not. These issues are relevant because they deal with life on this side of the grave,” Walker said.

“I want listeners to be challenged to think. I want listeners to be challenged to act. From each conversation we have on Wednesdays, I want listeners to leave with a specific action they can incorporate into their faith walk so that they are always in the process of becoming better people of faith.

“I also want listeners to move beyond the spiritual bigotry that plagues too many of us. I want listeners to be open to respecting the God in themselves and their neighbor – no matter that neighbor’s race, gender, sexual preference or faith tradition,” Walker added.

“The Point” already has given listeners a taste of what’s to be expected.

“We work tirelessly to educate, inform, entertain, empower and engage our listeners,” said Messiah Jiles.

“The show will position the station as the best radio source of community information and news and more importantly will share the knowledge and expertise of Texas Southern University.”

Metro begins southeast rail line

By Aswad Walker Defender

Metro officials celebrated as workers recently poured concrete for a new section of light-rail track for the first time in 10 years. The portion of rail under construction is an 80-foot section of steel rail that will serve as part of the Southeast Line that will stretch over six and one-half miles.

“This is an exciting day for all of us,” said Metro Board Chairman Gilbert Garcia.

Scheduled for completion in 2014, the Southeast Line will extend from its northern terminus at Smith Street downtown to the Palm Center in southeast Houston at Griggs and Beekman Roads. The Southeast Line will have split tracks on Capital and Rusk Streets.

The northbound track will run along Capital Street in downtown, while its southbound counterpart will run down Rusk Street. Four of the line’s stations will be in downtown with stops at Smith, Main, Fannin, and Crawford.

Transfers to the Red Line will occur at the Fannin Station. Before crossing US 59 the two tracks will converge to run together on Texas into the East End where it and the East End/Green Line diverge after Bastrop Station. From there, the line continues southward towards the next stop at Leeland.

Travelling south on Scott Street leads to the next stop, which will be at the intersection with Elgin Street, on the northwest corner of the campus of the University of Houston, providing both access to the university and transfers to the University/Blue Line.

The next stop at Cleburne will also provide access to UH. The route then takes a southeastern turn onto Wheeler to the Wheeler/MLK Station.

Turning onto Martin Luther King Blvd., the route will head to the MacGregor Park Station.

Another southeastern turn onto Griggs will lead to the line’s southern terminus, the Palm Center Station. From here the tracks continue a short distance further into a planned storage facility for the rail.

Bishop Djenaba Akida, associate pastor of the Shrine Christian Center, located on MLK Blvd., is excited to see the rail coming.

“Nationally, where rail lines come, major investment dollars come with it on both sides of the tracks,” said Akida. “With the number of seniors that live in this area, the rail will make it easier for many of them to get to the medical center and other destinations critical to their health, while also bringing visitor traffic to our neighborhood. This means potentially stronger schools, more housing development, and more families.”

The area has undergone a major renovation with the opening of the Houston Texans YMCA at the corner of MLK and Griggs, the opening of KIPP Liberation Academy across the street from the Shrine, and the rebuilding of Peck Elementary School on MLK closer to OST. “The rail coming down MLK makes perfect sense, and it’s right on time,” added Akida.

Smart DeciSion HCCfacultyfacts.org

At HCC, our faculty knows the theory yet applies the practice of real-world experience in the very same classroom.

We are preparing students to be the next generation of thinkers and doers.

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Dept. Chair for Health Information Distinguished Author

&

Dr. Carla Tyson-Howard

hccs.edu

Defender Summer 2011c ad.indd 1

6/1/11 3:06 PM

The line expansion event, attended by members of the Metropolitan Transit Authority board and administration as well as dignitaries including U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston, took place about half a mile east of downtown just north of Rusk Street.

Houston is set to receive $900 million in light-rail funding from the Federal Transit Administration, according to Lee. The grant has been delayed for almost a year because of problems with the process used by previous Metro leaders to purchase new rail cars.

According to Lee, the money will not only improve Houston’s transportation system but will help create thousands of jobs through related projects and the growth of small businesses.

“If you look at the landscape of the community, you will see housing that is coming because people know rail is coming to Houston,” she said.

Although Metro has not yet received the $900 million grant, agency President and CEO George Greanias said the steps toward completion are moving on schedule.

“We’re building the funds into our budget for next year,” said Greanias.

Part of the funding will go for the Southeast Line and part for the North Line, also under construction and scheduled for completion in 2014.

The third line under construction, the East End line, is being built with local money.

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WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

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sports Moses Ellis: PV’s little big man T

By MAX EDISON Defender

here’s a tried and true cliché that folks often use when describing athletes that are, shall we say, a little undersized: “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.”

Well in the case of Prairie View’s All-American cornerback senior Moses Ellis, remove the dog reference and insert Panther. At 5’9”, 175 pounds, Ellis doesn’t exactly make you fearful at first glance, that is unless you’re an opposing quarterback. In that case he’s downright frightening.

In 2010 Ellis led the nation (Div. IAA) in interceptions with eight. He also had 22 passes defended, 43 total tackles, 28 of which were solo. For his efforts Ellis was named a Walter Camp Foundation Division IAA, All-American. Because of his exploits in 2010, Ellis was named 2011 SWAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.

A Fort Worth native (Everman High School), Moses is a laid back guy who is somewhat humbled by the national spotlight.

“It’s an honor to be put up there with some of the best DB’s in the country, but I’m really my biggest critic,” he said. “I feel I have a lot of room for improvement.

I try to be the best at what I do and I work real hard at it.

“Growing up in Fort Worth I was of course a big Deion Sanders guy. I also try to mold myself like Champ Bailey [Denver Broncos]. Although I consider myself a cover corner my goal is to be a complete player; a guy who comes up and make tackles to support our run defense.”

At 5’9”, playing in a conference known, for big fast wide-outs has not kept Ellis from being successful.

“I love the challenge. A lot of the receivers in the conference are bigger and I guess offense thinks they can throw at me because I’m not a big guy, but I think they know now what I capable of doing with my ability.”

The Panthers finished third in 2010 with a 6-3 conference mark, good enough

Ellis will lead a stingy Panther defense.

for third in the Western division, 7-4 overall. In years past a PV baller would be elated, but after winning the championship in 2009, the season was bittersweet.

As a senior, Ellis reflects on what the Panthers have accomplished on his watch.

“It’s been a great experience. A lot of guys come out of high school and go to big programs that already have a winning tradition,” Ellis said. “When I got here out of high school I didn’t have that initially, but we were working toward it.”

Coach Frazier convinced us that we could be winners, champions. The older players bought into and so did I. Now I’m a senior and I can say I was a part of the class that brought a championship to Prairie View and changed the way folks looked at us.”

Ellis further explained how his role has changed. He has moved from a valued team contributor to a respected team leader.

Photos by John Posey

“Last year I wasn’t what you call a real vocal leader. I was more of a watch me type guy. This year as a senior I have to be a little more vocal with the young guys. Some times they don’t always see you. They have to hear you as well.”

As Ellis heads into his final season there will many changes in the 2011 Panthers. Gone is Henry Frazier the architect of the PV renaissance, replaced by former defensive coordinator Heishma Northern.

Northern was brilliant as a coordinator, now he’ll have to reload the Panthers big time offense (four starters return) and maintain there ultra-aggressive defense (six starters return). Call him greedy, but Ellis for one would like to leave “the Hill” with one more crown.

“We’re still hungry. We know we have a target on our back. We know they’re [other SWAC teams] out to get us, but we’re out to get them. I’d like to go out on top!”

Panther cornerback Moses Ellis (#6) is one of the nation’s top defenders.

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WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011 DEFENDER

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h.s.zone

sportsbriefs

Pearland Oilers

look to reload for 2011

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

ball team overall. We’ll be able to run our defense starting out.

“On offense, it’s going to be a process, like it is every year,” Heath said. “We’re in for the long haul, not the short haul.”

Finding a new starting quarterback to replace Anderson will be a major priority. Offensive lineman Fermin Sanchez, tight end Cole Staudt and wide receiver Cody Sandman give Heath and his staff experience.

Running back Jackie Robinson could be the centerpiece of the Oilers’ rushing game during the 2011 season.

Robinson gained 446 yards and scored

There are normally two sides to every story.

The good side for the Pearland Oilers is that they are defending Class 5A Division I state champions after beginning the 2010 season unranked in the preseason state poll and picked to finish second in District 24-5A. An unbelievable season concluded with Pearland rallying to defeat the reigning 5A DI state champs and the top-ranked prep team in the U.S. (Euless Trinity) by a score of 28-24 in front of 43,321 fans at Arlington’s Cowboys Stadium.

The victory earned the Oilers a first-ever state football title and an undefeated 16-0 record.

Setting the stage for high drama in the season’s late stages was a 38-35 victory over 2009 Class 5A DII state finalist Katy in the regional finals.

The bad side is that Pearland lost its top quarterback, running back, wide Pearland has plenty of lineup holes to fill in 2011 receiver and two best defenders to graduation.

Gone is much of the experience that five touchdowns a year ago. enabled the Oilers to win six one-posThe Pearland defense figures to be session games last season and average in far better shape to start the season. better than 41 points per contest.

Linebacker Kendall Ehrlich recorded Head coach Tony Heath and his 150 tackles last year and upon his return staff will have to find replacements for is considered one of the state’s most the likes of departed Trey Anderson, promising prospects. Ehrlich is gaining Dustin Garrison, Myles Kanipes and quite a bit of attention from Division I Sam Ukwuachu. colleges.

Rebuilding a championship-caliber Dyquan Roberts and Juan Trujillo offense with only four starters back will join Ehrlich in the Pearland linebacking need immediate attention. Seven startcorps that most often will feature eight ers are back on defense. players close to the line of scrimmage.

“We lost a lot of kids, but we do Other notables to look for on defense have some quality kids back,” Heath include tackle Chris Alexander, end said. “More on the defensive side, so Tyler Hellaire and Johnathan Hardy in it’s going to be a different type of footthe secondary.

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While 24-5A was considered an offensive-oriented league last season, most of the brightest returning stars are on the defensive side of the ball in 2011. Clear Springs, Clear Creek and Dickinson all scored more than 300 points last season. Those three schools and Brazoswood figure to be the main competition for Pearland in district play.

Should Pearland advance to the postseason, the Region III-5A landscape might not be as imposing as it has been in recent years.

Katy, North Shore, Cypress Woods, Hightower and Clear Springs deserve attention along with Cinco Ranch and Spring Branch Memorial.

Head coach Gary Joseph has eight starters back, including four on each side of the ball for the Katy Tigers. Quarterback Brooks Haack is back along with running back Adam Taylor.

Haack passed for 1,461 yards and 16 touchdowns a year ago while Taylor was voted the District 19-5A Newcomer of the Year after rushing for 1,553 yards and 18 TDs. Yet it’s the players in the trenches, the offensive and defensive linemen, that must be replaced in Katy.

“We have to be able to control the tempo of the game and the running game to be successful,” Joseph said.

“I’ve been around here long enough to understand and appreciate that.”

North Shore head coach David Aymond has to nearly rebuild his entire offense with only two returning starters.

Cy Woods must rekindle the big play-potential that typified the Wildcats’ play the past few seasons.

Could a rematch between Pearland and Katy be in the offing? What a game that matchup yielded in 2010.

Public & Private: High School Football Previews Private schools Kinkaid finished 10-1 last season and won the Southwest Parochial Conference Division I state championship with a thrilling 27-24 victory over Holland Hall.

That was the same Holland Hall that defeated Kinkaid 33-14 in week four. Kinkaid head coach Stephen Hill may have turned in the best in-season coaching job anywhere in the Lone Star State last season as his team averaged better that 40 points per contest while allowing less than 20 ppg. St. Pius has its third new head coach in three years in Blake Ware. Episcopal, Concordia Lutheran and Cypress Christian are other schools to watch.

Class 2A Rice Consolidated was the Houston area’s closest Class 2A championship-game qualifier in 2010 with a threepoint loss to Lago Vista in the Division I regional finals.

The Raiders have 15 starters back, including talented junior running back James Garner, who rushed for 11 TDs in 2010. East Bernard, Hempstead, Boling and New Waverly figure to have good seasons in 2011. Nine starters are back in East Bernard and two-way performer Ty Slanina and running back Donnell Schuler will try to get the Brahmas past the third round of the playoffs.

Class 3A There are a slew of top-notch Class 3A football programs in the greater Houston area with Coldspring at the top of the list. The Trojans return 2,000-yard rusher Sherman Gilbert and the willpower to avenge last season’s loss to Carthage in the Division II state title game.

Lots of perennial 3A powerhouses landed new head coaches for 2011 including Wharton (Brad Wright), Needville (Jamie Valentine) and Bellville (Grady Rowe).

Wright is coming over from the collegiate ranks at Texas State while Valentine was promoted from defensive coordinator. Sealy, Columbia, Liberty and Columbus will also be formidable opponents in 2011.

Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame welcomes inductees Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has welcomed 10 new members. Dennis Rodman, Chris Mullin, Artis Gilmore, Tom “Satch” Sanders, Arvydas Sabonis, Reece “Goose” Tatum, Tex Winter, TaraVanDerveer, Teresa Edwards and Herb Magee were all inducted in gala ceremonies recently. The combination of players and coaches represents all aspects of the sport – men’s and women’s basketball, coaches and players, as well as international stars.

Texas Southern Lady Tigers acknowledged in soccer Two Texas Southern Lady Tigers were named to the Preseason All-SWAC Soccer team. Senior Midfielder Saycha Mitchell and sophomore forward Jessica Smith were picked for the honor. Mitchell was named to the preseason All-SWAC first team while Smith earned second team honors. The TSU soccer team was picked to finish second in the West behind Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

The Lady Tigers finished the 2010 season in second place with a 4-1 conference record. It was the best finish in the program’s history. Texas Southern will play their first game on Aug. 26 at home against North Texas.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 18 | 2011

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For Event Coverage...visit

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chag’splace

A MOVING LEGEND……..A-Rocket Moving and Storage founders, Irlene and Herbert Sam, president and CEO has been in the relocation business for over 50 years. To DeAndre Sam and the entire A-Rocket team. Continued celebrate this milestone, the A-Rocket team chose to honor success!........CELEBRATING 20 YEARS………. several corporate and small business The Honey Brown Hope Foundation partners that collaborated with them over recently celebrated 20 years of cultivating Join Yvette Chargois the years. Since its inception, the company and empowering people, especially our has become a Houston institution and will youth, by promoting respect and providing Events of the Week More photos on defendernetwork.com certainly enjoy the continued growth of drama, writing, character building, its reputation during the next 50 years. diversity, environmental programs and See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m.

Attendees included Phillip Green, Diedra much more. Actor, singer and songwriter Dr. Clifton Davis was the keynote speaker Sam, Jewel and James Smith, Jared and delivered an inspiring message.

Lofton, Glenda Peters, Reynold Godine, Former Mayor, Lee P. Brown and vice president and general Aileen and Sharone Mayberry, Tiffany Johnson, Jon Sam, manager of A News Corporation Company, D’Artagnan Bebel, Debra Stewart, Brian Clark, Jason Clark, Councilmember served as honorary co-chairs of the event. Several individuals Wanda Adams, Gerald Womack, Duni Hebron, Cheryl were the recipients of the Citizen’s Improving America Awards Rivers and Jarrett Villery, to name a few. We salute the

Herbert Sam, Diedra Sam and DeAndre Sam

Lucette Galan and Alvin Thorn

and included Dr. Alma Allen, Judge Zinetta Burney, Joyce Tyler-Williams, Misty White, Nathan Williams, Vanessa Reed, Winell Herron and Willie Standfield, to name a few.

Kudos to Tammie Lang Campbell, founder and executive director, husband Dennis Campbell Sr. and children Shar-Day and Dennis Campbell, Jr. for a job well done. Congrats!.........

TAX FREE HOLIDAY……In 1999, State Sen. Rodney Ellis passed Senate Bill 441 that’s designed to give hard-working Texans a tax break on necessities such as back-to-school clothing and much more. Rodney and Rep. Ana Hernandez Luna held a press conference to kick off the Back to School Sales Tax Holiday weekend at Macy’s Department Store in downtown Houston. It’s predicted that shoppers will save $62.1 million in state and local sales during August 19-21. For a list of tax exempt items, visit texastaxholiday.org........From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!

Phillip Green and Jared Lofton

Tiffany Johnson and Jon Sam

Honoree Willie Standfield and Rosa Stanfield

Honorees Vanessa Reed, Dr. Alma Allen, Judge Zinetta Burney and Winell Herron

Monica and Dr. Clifton Davis and D’Artagnan Bebel

The Campbell Family, Dennis Jr., Shar-Day, Tammie and Dennis Campbell, Sr.

Senator Rodney Ellis and Rep. Ana Hernandez Luna

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