To the POINT
D E F E N D E R R O U N D T A B L E
Michelle Bishop tearfully explains how she isn’t “racist” despite racially profiling
DaMicheal Jenkins in front of his home.
Credit:
Message from the Managing Editor
Target is scaling back DEI?
Say it ain’t so!
It’s a disheartening day when a brand that made bold strides to foster equity decides to backpedal, caving to external pressures. Target’s decision to scale back its “Belonging at the Bullseye” initiatives— programs that supported Black employees, shoppers, and business owners—feels like a betrayal of the values it once claimed to champion in the wake of George Floyd’s murder.
Let’s not sugarcoat this: diversity, equity, and inclusion were never just “nice-to-haves” or trendy corporate buzzwords. For Black communities, they represented tangible pathways to opportunities and respect in spaces that often marginalize us.
Target’s retreat mirrors Walmart’s recent rollback and speaks to a troubling trend. DEI is under attack by those who view equity as a threat rather than a benefit for all. What does this tell Black employees, Black entrepreneurs, and Black customers? That their voices, dollars, and dreams only matter when it’s politically convenient? The message is loud and clear: corporate America’s so-called commitment to equity has a price tag, and apparently, it’s too steep for some.
To Target and other corporations following suit: we see you. And we’ll remember.
No, Trump did not sign a child support order
Misinformation is already swirling after the president signed a flurry of executive orders that shook up Washington. One alarming rumor on social media suggested that Trump signed a new tax law barring any recipients of child support (which are most likely to be women) from claiming their children on tax returns. In the days before the inauguration, a video of two men discussing the supposed new law began circulating on Instagram.
“Trump just tweeted if you put your baby father on child support, you can’t claim income tax — only he can,” a man speaking in the video explains. “When you put your baby’s father on child support, you no longer can claim your child, only the father can only one of y’all can claim your child,” he continued. “If he paying child support, you can’t claim the kids, only he can.” Reactions to the rumor were mixed, as posts ranged from braggadocious by some baby’s fathers to shock and concern from others. Many cited supposed posts made by Trump himself on his various social media accounts, including Truth Social and X, without linking to or showing screencaps of any such posts.
While no such law was among the significant number of executive actions Trump took during his first day, the fact-checking outlet Snopes has also found zero proof of any such child support law. The website combed through Trump’s social media posts, particularly leading up to the inauguration, and turned up nothing.
“As such, we rate this claim as false,” the entity explained.
Trump will do enough real jaw-dropping stuff. Can we please not make stuff up???
More white tears: The Ohio “Karen” saga
Let’s talk about Michelle Bishop, the Ohio woman who racially profiled DaMichael Jenkins in his own driveway, then turned around and unleashed the full force of white tears when called out.
In what should have been a quiet day at home, Jenkins was instead confronted with suspicion—Bishop demanded to know if he lived in the house he was standing in. Despite his calm, polite responses, Bishop escalated the situation by screaming for help, abandoning her children’s stroller, and running away as if her life were in danger.
We’ve seen this play out too many times before. A white person’s unfounded “fear” transforms a mundane situation into a potential life-or-death encounter for a Black person. Jenkins had every reason to fear that the next step in Bishop’s panic would be a call to 911—an act that has cost Black lives in the past.
To add insult to injury, Bishop turned to social media to defend herself with trembling videos of performative apologies and a claim that she didn’t even know Jenkins was Black. Let’s call it what it is: deflection, denial, and the same tired script we’ve seen before.
Here’s the truth: Michelle Bishop wasn’t just afraid of a “car pulling up.” She was afraid because she saw a Black man. That’s what racial profiling looks like. It’s baked into the fabric of our society, and it doesn’t unravel with a half-hearted Instagram apology.
Until white America stops weaponizing fear and excuses, these stories will keep surfacing, damaging lives, and eroding trust. As Jenkins’ wife asked, “How did he scare you, though?” It’s a question white America must answer honestly.
On the Web
• Seven signs you grew up in a Black church.
• Are smart phones making our kids dumb?
• Dynamic Pickens brothers lead Spring Woods basketball to new heights.
ReShonda Tate
News DN
Trump admin retracts order for national freeze on federal grants, loans
By Reasla Teague
After receiving criticisms and pushback from all corners of the country, the Trump administration rescinded its controversial national freeze on federal grant and loan funds.
Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee issued a strong rebuke of President Donald Trump’s freeze on federal financial assistance programs, a decision that threatened to jeopardize hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for critical programs in Harris County, and potentially $3 billion nationally.
“President Trump does not have the power to withhold funds that Congress has already approved. Both the U.S. Constitution and federal law are clear on that,” said Menefee. “This reckless action puts Harris County at risk of losing hundreds of millions of dollars for essential programs—public safety, infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation. These programs aren’t political— they’re vital services that our residents rely on every day. Harris County families should not be victims of the Trump administration’s
Thousands nationally criticized Trump’s order to freeze federal grant and loan funds. Credit: Getty.
extremism. We are exploring legal options to ensure that this unlawful overreach doesn’t harm the people of Harris County.”
Menefee, along with other state attorneys general, were considering legal action
in response.
Trump’s now rescinded freeze on federal funding targeted grants and loans that fuel essential services like housing, healthcare, and education—programs millions depend on.
According to the Trump administration, the freeze was enacted to ensure federal dollars were not being spent on things Trump stands against, including diversity, equity, and clean energy initiatives.
Trump’s initial order spared Social Security and Medicare, but critics warned it was a smokescreen for a larger assault on federal programs.
The freeze could have disrupted $3 trillion in funding—about one-third of the federal budget—impacting everything from nonprofit operations to university research and children’s health insurance. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer slammed the move, calling it “chaos that hurts families and communities nationwide.” States relying on federal funds will bear the brunt, red and blue alike.
For Black communities disproportionately reliant on federal programs—from SNAP benefits to Head Start—this freeze spelled immediate harm. Additionally, Trump’s initial freeze order wasn’t just viewed as policy, but as a direct attack on equity, progress, and the principles of shared governance.
District J rebranded as “J City”
Aims to tailor services for its 200,000 residents
By Tannistha Sinha
District J has a new name and a new identity.
One of 11 City Council districts nestled in southwest Houston, District J will officially be called ‘J City,’ according to City Councilmember Edward Pollard.
The Council District Demographics report of 2022, a majority of the district’s 202,357 residents are people of color, including 16.4% Black and 65.6% Hispanic or Latino residents.
J City will be run with services and programs specifically tailored for its residents, supplementing the city departments’ efforts to address constituent concerns.
“We look at District J as its own municipality the size of a mid-size city in America…It’s very difficult for our city departments to be able to answer all the calls and all the questions and concerns in a very prompt fashion,” Pollard said. “And so we wanna supplement the work that they do.”
Areas of focus
Pollard says he plans to focus on a number of areas.
“I want people to see that the issues and concerns that we have in District J are being resolved in creative and innovative ways,” Pollard said. “And we believe that these programs and services that we’re providing to J City residents can be a citywide model.”
The services will include a District J patrol, which is a community patrol initiative that will allow district residents to report lowlevel crimes and violations in their neighborhoods. Residents who use districtjpatrol. com to report these crimes will be routed to a specialized HPD unit. The team’s patrol vehicles will also patrol the entirety of the district, according to Pollard.
Pollard said this service will receive a quicker response than dialing 311, which usually handles traffic fines, sewer concerns, pothole issues, and neighborhood complaints.
The programs also include a supplemental maintenance team to maintain the weekly mowing of right-of-ways, medians, public lots and ditches. In contrast, a beautification team will be responsible for graffiti abatement, clearing of scattered debris, and addressing illegal dumping.
Pollard also plans to introduce an animal welfare team, which will help pet owners provide medical treatment, free pet food, and neighborhood sweeps for strays in
partnership with the Houston Humane Society, BARC, Hope Clinic, and Pets for Life. The Good Neighbor Program, on the other hand, will provide exterior home repair for seniors, disabled, or military veteran residents.
Who comprises these teams?
Pollard said he introduced these services because of the unique challenges residents face daily in District J and the shortage of city labor to address them. He intends to hire more people to each team “to get the job done faster.”
“Putting the dollars toward per sonnel and our projects will stretch that money much longer, and we’ll have more hands whenever you have issues either around your house or in your work of employment,” Pol lard said.
for these services.
“Each year, each council district office gets a million dollars,” he said. “We’ll match that with management districts, with TIRZs, and we’ll work with our county commissioners and outside providers through nonprofits to be able to ensure that we have the resources and services that are necessary to put forth the dollars for those programs.
Funding the services
Pollard has a plan to pay
District J Councilmember Edward Pollard said District J is seen as its own municipality, the size of a mid-size city in America. Credit: Edward Pollard’s office
News DN Ben Crump calls NNPA, Black press to save Black people
By Aswad Walker
Many African Americans have expressed worry about a potentially perilous four years under President Donald Trump. To that point, nationally renowned attorney Ben Crump called for an often under-appreciated force to come to Black people’s rescue – the Black press.
Specifically, Crump called on The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a trade association of African American newspaper publishers, to be Black people’s “North Star.”
“As we come upon this new year, now more than ever, we’re gonna need the leadership of the NNPA to lead our Black community,” said Crump, who views that leadership coming in the form of providing unfiltered, truthful hard news to combat potential dangers.
Crump’s NNPA call
“To all the [NNPA members] and executives across the country, I say, now is our time to stand up and be counted. History will ask the question, where were you when they tried to roll back our civil rights, when they tried to destroy Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and when they try to say to our children that Black history doesn’t matter? Where were you,” he stated.
Crump added that NNPA members must be ready to confront individuals, Black people, lawmakers, and others who turn their backs on the needs of the Black community.
“This time in history, we must challenge [the] souls of Black people every opportunity we get. Because there will be some people who would take the path of least resistance, and we have to be ready to call them out,” he said.
Crump is not the only one sounding the alarm about Trump’s actions. Even before Crump’s charge to Black media, multiple Black media members have used their platforms to keep the general public, and Black people specifically, up to date on the barrage of Trump executive orders impacting Black people.
Trump-era challenges New York Times–bestselling author, TV and film producer, and former CNN political commentator Keith Boykin, recently spotlighted the eight different goals of the federal DEI program Trump demonized and ended.
Some of these goals include data collection, to give the public a better understanding of who is and isn’t in the federal workforce; fair treatment of people with disabilities; pay equity for women and people of color, and more.
“These are not radical, illegal, or immoral ideas,” said Boykin. “These are calls to the highest principles of America, with the stated
goal that “all employees are treated with dignity and respect.”
Word In Black reporter Jennifer Porter Gore reported on Trump’s executive order rescinding a Biden administration order on prescription drugs, “a move that could hike drug prices for millions of Medicare and Medicaid enrollees,” reported Gore. “At the same time, Trump also reversed Biden’s efforts to make it easier for people to enroll in Medicaid or to get insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act.”
With just over seven million Black people who have health coverage through Medicare, that Trump move could prove fatal on a large scale.
Black press needed
Crump told NNPA members during his address that Black people can’t rely on mainstream media to keep us
informed about weighty issues like those mentioned.
“There’s a fourth branch of government. It is called the independent press. And I’m not counting on MSNBC. I’m not counting on CNN. I’m not counting on Fox News. Me and my house, we will count on the NNPA to be our
fourth branch of government. To make sure that we get information that is hard-hitting facts and it’s not watered-down, it’s not orchestrated, it’s not manipulated. But it is the information to help us be unapologetic defenders of Black life, of Black liberty, of Black culture,” said Crump.
Ben Crump urges the Black press and NNPA to lead and empower Black people via truthful information during the Trump era. Credit: Jimmie Aggison.
Keith Boykin. Courtesy photo
Jennifer Porter Gore. Credit: Word In Black
KEY ISSUES TO WATCH
Texas 89th legislative session
By Tannistha Sinha
The 89th Texas Legislative Session is poised to address several significant issues that will shape the state’s future. The session opened on Jan. 14 and is set to close on June 2.
With Republicans maintaining control of the House and Senate, the legislative agenda reflects the party’s priorities.
During this session, lawmakers will pass new bills out of the 2,400 that have already been filed — a record for the state. However, the only bill lawmakers are required to pass is HB 1 or the state’s budget for the next biennium of 2026 and 2027, which covers the school years 2025-26 and 2026-27.
The Texas House and Senate released their initial budget proposals for the biennium. The Senate’s draft (SB 1) calls for $332.9 billion in spending from state and federal funds, while the House (HB 1) version totals $335.7 billion in spending. These proposals include funding for tax relief, public education, pay raises for teachers and a program to promote school choices.
Among the several bills are a few pertinent discussions Texans need to look out for, with issues spanning across education, immigration, and gender identity.
1School Choice and Vouchers
A prominent topic is the introduction of a school voucher program. Per Texas Tribune, the Texas Senate’s bill, co-authored by Sen. Brandon Creighton, proposed allocating $10,000 a year to families for private school enrollment, along with other expenses like books and transport.
Gov. Greg Abbott, who has been advocating for school vouchers, could not pass a similar bill in the last legislative session.
The bill says disabled students will receive $11,500, while home-schooled students will get $2,000 annually.
“Texas families are rejecting the status quo and calling for an education system that prioritizes their children’s success. Senate Bill 2 places parents at the center of their child’s education, empowering them with the freedom to choose the educational path that works best for their families,” Creighton said.
Proponents argue that vouchers provide parents with more educational options for their children, and opponents raise concerns about potential impacts on public school funding and educational equity.
2
Border Security
Several bills also discuss border security, including the HB 1832 –Dangerous Aliens Act, which was filed by Texas State Rep. Stan Gerdes. It aims to punish migrants who illegally cross into the United States through the Texas border if they have been convicted of an offense or crimes in other states or countries.
Bills, such as HB 176 and SB 136, allow the sharing of intelligence on illegal activity at the Mexican border. This includes “sharing state resources in order to build a physical barrier, a comprehensive technological surveillance system, or both, on state land to deter or detect illegal activity occurring at the border with Mexico.” It also aims to collaborate with federal authorities to implement enhanced measures.
Other bills ask for tax breaks for border security infrastructure, proof of citizenship to vote and reimbursing public schools to report the number of noncitizen students.
3
Abortion Legislation
Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, abortion has been a recurring topic among Texans. In the state, all abortions are banned, except when it saves the mother’s life or reverses “a serious risk of substantial
impairment of a major bodily function.”
Texas also codifies up to 99 years in prison, $100,000 in fines and loss of medical license for doctors who perform abortions.
Some representatives like Donna Howard filed bills that allow physicians to rely on their “best medical judgment” to perform abortions. Other lawmakers filed bills aimed at restricting the distribution of abortion pills, including measures to classify them as controlled substances and making it hard to order abortion pills online.
4Property Tax Relief
Addressing property tax relief is a key concern, with discussions likely to focus on strategies to alleviate the tax burden on homeowners and businesses.
Both the House and Senate have budgeted $51 billion for the 2026–27 biennium, aimed at maintaining the property tax relief provided in previous sessions. The House included $26.3 billion to keep funding the cost of the $100,000 homestead exemption, which passed last session. In comparison, the Senate has allocated $32.2 billion for property tax relief, to increase the homestead exemption to $140,000 for homeowners and $150,000 for seniors.
Other potential measures might include adjustments to appraisal processes, tax rate
reductions, or increased exemptions.
5
Teacher raises and campus security
Beyond school choice, the legislature is expected to consider proposals to increase teacher salaries and overall education funding. The House budget does not include details on whether public education funding includes teacher raises, but state law requires school districts to use at least 30% of the funding for non-administrative employee raises.
Both chambers proposed the addition of $400 million for school safety. Rep. Dustin Burrows expressed support for “public education funding and increased support for teachers.”
Teacher unions like the Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) support basic allotment raises, or the base amount of funding per student school districts are entitled to. This supports educators’ pay, more funding for special education, bilingual education and career and technical education, and an increase in recruiting and retaining quality educators.
Advocates are pushing for an increase to the basic allotment of at least $1,340 to beat inflation and address the lack of an increase last session.
The 89th Texas Legislative Session is tackling major issues with a Republican majority House and Senate, which reflects the party’s priorities Credit: Brandon Bell
Abbott
Black & Trans
By Laura Onyeneho
Sasha “Barbie” Braxton came to Houston from Baton Rouge at 12 years old afer a tumultuous and abusive childhood. She wanted to be in a safe and comfortable environment where she could live her truth as a Black trans woman. Now as an adult, her purpose is to protect other trans individuals. With President Donald Trump in his second term, Braxton is disappointed at the news.
“You have people on his side using us like Guinea pigs to see how things will go,” Braxton said. “It’s sad that we don’t have protection like we should.”
The reelection of Trump has created a sense of fear and frustration within the Black transgender community.
For many, the fear isn’t just about potential policy changes. It’s about survival.
Advocates are mobilizing to address what they see as an existential threat, spurred by Trump’s campaign promises to tighten restrictions on gender-afrming care and bar transgender athletes from competing in sports under Title IX, and gender changes on IDs. Recently, Trump issued an executive order to ban transgender troops from serving openly in the military.
Tese promises are part of a broader push that has already seen nationwide restrictions enacted. According to the Movement Advancement Project, half of all U.S. states now prohibit transgender youth from accessing gender-afrming healthcare, while 26 states enforce strict limitations on sports participation. Te policies disproportionately afect Black transgender individuals, compounding barriers they already face.
Much of Trump’s rhetoric resonates with America. According to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 people who cast ballots nationwide, 55% of voters and 85% of Trump supporters believe that support for transgender rights has gone too far.
Te Republican Party spent $222 million on anti-trans advertisements as part of a nearly $1 billion ad campaign. Tese ads have fueled legislative eforts targeting transgender individuals. Also, Trump and other Republicans hold majorities in both the House and Senate afer the 2024 Presidential election cycle results.
Voices from the Frontlines Braxton is a part of the Transgender Allyship Collective (TAC), a fagship program powered by Te Normal Anomaly Initiative Inc., Houston’s premiere Black LGBTQ+ organization. She not only has to deal with the complexities of being trans in the Black community, but she has also faced discrimination, misgendering and being denied employment.
“I’ve been to many interviews and they be like, ‘You have the right energy. We love your look. You’ll be perfect here.’ Ten it’s time to give them my I.D. I’ve been turned down like that,” Braxton said. “I’ve been fred because people found out I was trans. I’ve had managers come and dead-name me. Don’t do that because that puts me in harms way.”
She also disagrees with anti-transgender bathroom bans and doesn’t support them in using locations that align with their gender identity. Instead, she says it's very risky because someone in her position who passes as a woman would be odd using the men’s restroom.
“I'm going into the women's restroom; I'm not worried about the next lady or about a child.
Joelle Espeut, Advocacy Director at the Normal Anomaly Initiative and co-lead of TAC is more determined than ever to keep fghting the good fght.
“For me, being a part of the Black trans community is about family, joy and hope,” Espeut said. “It’s about showing up unapologetically for myself and for the younger version of me who didn’t have the freedom I have now.”
Drawing strength from Black history, Espeut remains resolute.
“Historically, Black people have faced immense adversity and still persevered,” she said. “I pull from that resilience when I think about the trans part of my identity. Regardless of what the government does, I still believe in hope, representation, and liberation. We are on the right side of history.”
Sisters United Inc. (S.O.S.U), shared these sentiments but acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“I’m a little afraid, honestly,” she admitted. “While I’ve been able to sustain a job, other girls who are just starting to get it together… might not have the same opportunities because of this situation.”
Historically, Black people have faced immense adversity and still persevered”
Men are visual creatures, and they may not think about it, but now you have these girls built like this going into the restroom,” she said. “What if the man is drunk or he's high or anything and we get sexually assaulted in there, or we get raped or anything like that. It is way bigger than what people are making it.”
TAC has trained hundreds of elected ofcials, business owners, and community members on the importance of actionable allyship to people of transgender experience. Braxton is a part of a research cohort for gender expansion services.
Te Normal Anomaly Inc. launched several programs, including its BQ+ Transportation program for individuals who need assistance with job interviews, employment, and doctor's and counselor's appointments. Tey also launched Project Liberate, a sixmonth small business development initiative, and Peer Support, a program designed to help Black LGBTQ+ individuals navigate sexual health and wellness.
“When we think about communities at the margins, youth facing housing insecurity, even like the drag community or adult content creators [these] are ofen forgotten about when we think about advocacy conversations,’ Espeut said. “For us, it's really about doubling down on our mission-driven work and making sure that we are helping to continue to provide community with tools and resources so that they can advocate for themselves.”
MiKayla Poche, a member of Save Our
Poche believes there is a human cost of discrimination that people don’t see when it comes to these policies. Coming from Baton Rouge, she described her experience in Houston as a “blessing.” She hasn’t had to face many negative encounters because of her gender identity, and that is the kind of experience she is advocating for others to have.
“We are not just sex workers or prostitutes,” she said. “We work, have jobs, are educated, and contribute to society. We’re not trying to compete with cisgender women. We are your sisters, your friends. We go through the same struggles—abuse, neglect, and pain,” Poche said.”
S.O.S.U was established to facilitate the connection between transwomen of color and appropriate resources, enabling them to navigate the world and live their authentic selves. It is prioritizing mental health resources and recognizing the toll of heightened stress and anxiety.
“We need allies who want to stand with us,” Poche said. “We’re not powerless. We have to stand up for [our] rights. Because if you don't stand up for your rights, nobody else will.”
Joelle Espeut, Advocacy Director at The Normal Anomaly Initiative Sasha “Barbie” Braxton, Transgender Allyship Collective member. Credit: Sasha Braxton
Transgender rights advocates argue that the election of Trump and his allies is a significant setback for their cause. Credit: The Normal Anomaly Inc.
Education DN
Lone Star College ‘Next Start’ classes still open for this semester
By Gregory Stevenson
The Lone Star College System (LSCS) is ofering an opportunity for students seeking to start, continue, or complete their educational journey via its LSC Next Start program.
LSCS, an open-enrollment institution, began its spring 2025 semester Jan. 13, but insists there’s still time to enroll in a course through LSC Next Start.
“Lone Star College has truly shaped who I am today, both academically and personally and has given me a strong foundation to build on,” said Kamryn Bonds, LSC-Houston North student. “Te skills, perspectives and connections I’ve gained at Lone Star College will continue to infuence me as I grow into a more confdent, open-minded and motivated person.”
LSC Next Start classes range from eight to 14 weeks. Available courses are said to ft various academic and career goals to help students earn bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, workforce and continuing education certifcates, or transfer credits to a four-year university.
“Lone Star College’s Next Start ofers students various academic and workforce courses each semester that can easily ft into their busy lives,” said Christina Hagerty, Ed.D., LSC interim chief academic ofcer. “Additionally, Next Start allows students to earn a degree, transfer to a university or quickly enter the workforce at an accelerated pace.”
Visit LoneStar.edu/Class-Start-Options for more information on Next Start classes at Lone Star College System.
CLASSIFIED
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR SERVICE PLAN RENEWAL FOR THE HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive Proposals for the preparation a service plan renewal for Downtown Houston, Texas. Proposals will be received until 2:00 P.M. CST, on Friday, Feb 14, 2025, by Kris Larson, President & CEO, at kris.larson@downtownhouston. org per instructions outlined in this project’s RFP document. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted.
Beginning Wed, Jan 22, 2025, this project’s Request for Proposal (RFP) may be reviewed and downloaded from the organization’s website: https://downtownhouston.org/do-business/procurement-rfp
Only queries or requests for information submitted via email will be addressed by the Downtown District. Please submit written queries or requests for information directly to kris.larson@downtownhouston.org on or before 2:00 P.M. CST, Friday, Feb 7, 2025. Please note that telephone or mail queries or requests for information will not be addressed by the Downtown District.
Based on the Proposals submitted, an evaluation and selection committee will identify up to three qualifying consultants for a second-stage interview to be held in late-February. The Downtown District will award the contract to the selected consultant based on the qualifcations and interview performance.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) is planning to issue the procurement documents listed in this advertisement.
RFP No. Doc1408148482: METROLift Eligibility Services. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
IFB No. Doc1417022192: West Bus Operating Facility Bus Wash System Rehabilitation. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/14/2025.
IFB No. Doc1416979028: Northwest Bus Operating Facility Automatic Transfer System and Electrical Switchgear Construction. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/14/2025.
RFP No. Doc1420379592: Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Responses are to be submitted to Gallagher Consulting Services. Contact Person: Jessica Gonzales at jgonzales@archerinsgroup.com. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
RFP No. Doc1421696795: Flex Spending Account (FSA). Responses are to be submitted to Gallagher Consulting Services. Contact Person: Jessica Gonzales at jgonzales@archerinsgroup.com. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
RFP No. Doc1421679426: Vision Insurance. Responses are to be submitted to Gallagher Consulting Services. Contact Person: Jessica Gonzales at jgonzales@archerinsgroup.com. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
RFP No. Doc1125000921: Benefts Afordable Care Act. Responses are to be submitted to Gallagher Consulting Services. Contact Person: Jessica Gonzales at jgonzales@archerinsgroup.com. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
RFP No. Doc1421694138: COBRA. Responses are to be submitted to Gallagher Consulting Services. Contact Person: Jessica Gonzales at jgonzales@archerinsgroup.com. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/13/2025.
Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements. If you are unable to download the documents or are having difculty, please contact 713-739-6886 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.
Stay ahead of identity theft
Did someone use your information — like your name, credit card or Social Security number — without your permission? Did they buy things, open accounts, get a job or medical treatment, or steal your tax refund? If so, they stole your identity.
Protect yourself from identity theft.
• Keep documents with personal information locked up
• Never share your Social Security or credit card number with someone who contacts you unexpectedly
• Don’t click links in unexpected emails or text messages
• Review your bills to look for unexpected charges
• Place a freeze on your credit reports
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) is planning to issue the procurement documents listed in this advertisement.
IFB No. Doc1417054131: Northwest Bus Operating Facility Bus Wash Rehabilitation. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/21/2025.
CSP No. Doc1427021294: TMC TC Escalator / Elevator Construction. Solicitation will be available on or about 01/23/2025.
Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements. If you are unable to download the documents or are having difculty, please contact 713-739-6886 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.
THE HARRIS CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND IDD REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL
Construction of a Northeast Community Wellness Center
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD is requesting Competitive Sealed Proposals pursuant to Chapter 2269 of the Texas Government Code and 2 CFR Part 200 from qualifed construction frms for construction of Northwest Community Wellness Center for consumers served by The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. The site will be located at 7529 Little York Road, Houston, TX 77016
Project Number: PUR-FY25-309 . Specifcations may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7279, The HARRIS CENTER website www. theharriscenter.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Monday, February 3, 202 5. A mandatory in-person Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Thursday, February 27 , 2025, 10:00 a.m. CST at 9401 Southwest Frwy, Room 104, Houston, TX 77074.
Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this CSP is Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 5:00 p.m . CSP responses must be submitted to Purchasing, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m. March 17, 2025, in a sealed envelope marked "CSP - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL–10:00 a.m. March 17, 2025 “Northeast Community Wellness Center CSP ”. A public opening of the proposals will occur immediately following the proposal submission deadline at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Sharon Brauner, C.P.M., Purchasing Manager, Sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org , James Blunt, C.P.M., James.Blunt@theharriscenter.org , and Nina Cook, MBA, CTCM, CTCD, Director of Purchasing, Nina. cook@theharriscenter.org or fax to (713) 970-7682. Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all right to postpone, accept or reject any and/or all proposals as it to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests and waive formalities and reasonable irregularities. is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal. This solicitation (CSP) is subject to addenda, including but not limited to, an extension of the submission deadline, communicated through www.theharriscenter.org .
Profle DN
Meet Jasmine Robinson
Leads the Collegiate Mom Coalition
By Laura Onyeneho
Jasmine Robinson’s journey from teen mom to founder of the Collegiate Mom Coalition is nothing short of extraordinary.
Te odds were stacked against her, but she defed expectations, shattered stereotypes, and created a movement that championed the potential of student mothers. What began as a single pageant to ofer scholarships to mothers in college has evolved into a powerful nonproft organization that is changing lives, challenging societal norms, and inspiring a generation of women to dream big and break through barriers.
As a Prairie View A&M University graduate, the spark that ignited her mission came during a moment of exclusion that could have broken her spirit.
“I wanted to compete in the Prairie View University pageant,” Robinson said. “When you win, you get a scholarship, a full wardrobe, and the chance to represent the university.” However, she was met with disheartening news. “I was pulled aside and told I couldn’t compete because I had children.” Te news stung, compounded by stipulations against being married, divorced, or having had an abortion.
“Tey wanted someone ‘pure,’” Robinson said with disbelief still evident in her voice years later. “I had a 3.6 GPA, but my motherhood made me ineligible.” Afer attempting to challenge the rules and receiving no support from university leadership, Robinson’s academic advisor gave her advice that would change her perspective: If you can’t join them, beat them.
A movement is born
Robinson created the Miss Collegiate Mom Scholarship Pageant in 2013. The pageant celebrated mothers pursuing higher education, offering scholarships with no restrictions. Over two years, the initiative awarded $6,000 to participants for childcare, professional needs, or even self-care. “I didn’t want stipulations,” Robinson said. “Moms need fexibility—they might want to get their hair done or go on a trip, and that’s okay.”
The pageant sold out Prairie View’s
Motherhood doesn’t defne your potential. You can be a mother and still achieve your dreams.”
JASMINE
ROBINSON
auditorium twice, featured on the front page of the campus newspaper, and marked the beginning of something much larger. As Robinson observed the needs of collegiate moms, she realized her work couldn’t end on stage. “Tey needed help with credit recovery, budgeting, professional dress seminars, and more. So, the pageant evolved into a nonproft.”
Robinson understands frsthand the challenges collegiate mothers face. Pregnant at 19 and a mother of two by 22, she defed daunting odds. Statistically, fewer than 2% of teen moms graduate college by age 30. Robinson earned two degrees by 23. “It was about choosing my hard,” she said. “Life is hard, but I decided to work hard in school to make my future easier.”
Her mother and grandmother, both teen moms themselves, had set a precedent she was determined to break. “My mom went to college for one semester before dropping out, something she regrets to this day. I didn’t want to repeat that cycle.”
Robinson’s Collegiate Mom Coalition is a hub of resources, support, and inspiration today. Te organization boasts a 100% graduation rate among participants. “Tese women prove it can be done,” she said. “Motherhood doesn’t defne your potential. You can be a mother and still achieve your dreams.”
Di’Shae Winbush was a former participant
of the pageant when it frst started. At the time, she had her frst son and balanced fulltime motherhood, education, and part-time employment. Te pageant gave her hope.
“Carrying such a heavy load felt very isolating,” she said. “I couldn’t really participate in activities such as pledging because having a child at the time wouldn’t have put the school in the best light.”
But she applauded Robinson for her determination and heart of service for collegiate mothers.
“The bond, the sisterhood, all of this changed my perspective on life. I wanted to do better,” said Winbush. “My advice to young girls in this situation is to stay connected to a mentor, get therapy, pray, and remember your why.”
To learn more visit: Te Collegiate Mom Coalition Collegiatemomcoalition.org
Email: Collegiatemoms@gmail.com Contact: 321-555-5555
Statistically, fewer than 2% of teen moms graduate college by age 30. Robinson earned two degrees by 23. Credit: Collegiate Mom Coalition
Jasmine Robinson (center) created the Miss Collegiate Mom Scholarship Pageant in 2013, hosted at Prarie View A&M University. Credit: Collegiate Mom Coalition
LEARN HOW SHE DEALS WITH STIGMA IN HER LINE OF WORK
PRAIRIE VIEW A&M FOOTBALL COACH
TREMAINE JACKSON
Takes unusual path to new job
By Terrance Harris
It wasn’t long after Van Malone, a former star defensive back at the University of Texas, had fallen into coaching at his alma mater (Waltrip High School) that he met this one player he couldn’t shake.
The kid wanted to know everything Malone could tell him about football, asked for extra work and wanted to break down film every chance he could. What made the relationship so strange was Malone coached defensive backs and Tremaine Jackson, who was recently named the Prairie View A&M football coach, was a defensive lineman.
“The fact that I’m a defensive back coach, and even when I was coaching him, the D-line and the front wasn’t my thing, but here he is hanging out with a DB coach,” Malone chuckles at the recollection. “I was like, here is what you are going to do. You are going to be doing DB drills.
“He talks about to this day, `This man had me out there back peddling and this and that.’ I remind him, you hung around me. That made you a better defensive line when I had you out there doing the DB drills.”
That was and remains who Jackson is at his football core. He identifies those he can learn and grow from and then he becomes a sponge, absorbing every bit of knowledge.
Jackson has made a career of doing just that. And what a career it’s been with the 43-year-old set to take on his biggest challenge yet as the head coach of the Panthers following a successful three-year run at Division II powerhouse Valdosta State.
TERRANCE’S TAKE
A Tribute to Jerry Woodley
By Terrance Harris
One thing was for sure about Jerry Woodley, Jr.: You met his big smile before you met him. That was one of the many great qualities I learned about Jerry during the last 20 years I’ve covered sports in this market. Jerry was a longtime sports journalist and a friend to us all. Unfortunately, Jerry died on Jan. 15. He was 69.
Malone couldn’t be more proud of the coach Jackson is today, especially knowing he played a part in his success.
“As a coach, you have certain kids and they are always in your face,” Malone said. “They are always, ‘What you want me to do. I’m coming up there on a Saturday, can you help me do this’ Or ‘Coach, are you going to be watching film at your house? This dude helped me move, I took him to his first (NCAA Football Coaches Convention). He went to the convention with me one day when he was still in college.
“You just couldn’t get rid of the dude and I ain’t been able to get rid of him in all of these years. Fortunately, for a lot of kids, he went down the path of coaching.”
GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION
Former Texas Southern coach Johnnie Cole had a similar experience after hiring Jackson as a restricted earnings coach in 2008. It was a chance for the Houston native to return to his alma mater and Jackson took full advantage as a defensive coach and top-notch recruiter.
Cole, who proudly refers to Jackson as his protégé, was so impressed that after a year, Jackson was promoted to full-time assistant.
“Tremaine had it in him. He loved the game, he studied the game,” said Cole, who won a SWAC title with the Tigers in 2010 that was later vacated. “His attribute was he knew how to go recruit, he knew how to hunt players down. Part of our success was his ability to recruit. And he was hungry.
“I tried to reward him for the things he had
While we are all sad about Jerry’s sudden passing, we are all left with so many great memories of a man who was a friend to us, a mentor, and just an all-around fun guy. He knew a lot, too, when it came to college sports in the area, especially women’s college basketball.
Jerry and his camera were fixtures at games, whether it was Texas Southern, Rice, University of Houston, or Houston Christian. And I could always count on some laughs and nuggets of knowledge I hadn’t had before.
brought to our staff.”
JACKSON JOINS VALDOSTA STATE’S CRADLE OF COACHES
After leaving TSU, where he also played under Steve Wilson, Jackson went about constructing a career that would one day land him a head coaching spot at the collegiate level. There were assistant coaching stops at Texas A&M-Kingsville, Abilene Christian and Texas State before landing his first head coaching job at Colorado Mesa in 2021.
Following one successful season at Colorado Mesa, Valdosta State athletic director Herb Reinhard had seen enough to believe that the confident Jackson was the right man to take over his Division II power program.
Valdosta State, a small school in southern Georgia, has made getting to the Division II national championship game a habit—appearing in seven and winning four of them since 2002—and in the process has become known as the cradle of coaches. Well-known college
buddies. Jerry and Kris made road trips to the NCAA Women’s Final Four every year for the last 20-something years.
Terrance Harris
We all felt we were friends with Jerry, but TSU Sports Information Director Ryan McGinty and Houston Roundball Review founder Kris Gardner were his true running
He and McGinty formed a bond after making impromptu runs together or when Jerry became a fixture around TSU events working the scorers’ tables on gamedays.
“He was just a likable guy,” McGinty said. “When he came into a room it was, `Ah man, Jerry Woodley is here.’ You are going to get a good laugh or something out of him.”
Jerry was also about his business. Over the years, he worked with Ralph Cooper at KCOH and did freelance work. But his passion was his own. Jerry worked for himself, shooting video
coaches like Hal Mumme, Kirby Smart, Mike Leach, Will Muschamp, Dana Holgorsen, and Kerwin Bell got their starts there as either head coaches or assistants.
Jackson could be next in line.
It was a rocky first season in 2022, but Jackson worked the transfer portal and quickly got the Blazers back on track. He was named the AFCA Division II National Coach of the Year after guiding the Blazers to an undefeated regular season and the Division II National Championship Game.
Reinhard, who retired from Valdosta State last June after 32 years on the job, was quite impressed with Jackson and the way he was able to connect with his players and get the best out of them on the field and in the classroom.
“I’m certainly very, very proud of the work he did at Valdosta State,” Reinhard said. “I’m very proud of what he was able to do with the team on the field and I think he did just a good a job, if not better job, off the field. He has a real ability to connect with his football student-athletes.”
interviews of all the sporting events around the city and then posting on his YouTube channel, @jerrywoodley.
But he didn’t just do sports. You might bump into Jerry running the elevator over at Toyota Center, where he had worked as an usher for years. He also worked high school games and helped at Conference USA and Southland Conference tournaments that came through town. Jerry knew everybody. Everybody knew Jerry.
He was a proud 1973 graduate of Phillis Wheatley High School and an enthusiast for all things sports. He rode with the Comets until the end and was a presence at most of the women’s basketball games, but he didn’t limit himself to basketball. It wasn’t unusual to bump into him at soccer matches, softball games… you name it.
Tremaine Jackson. Credit: X
Sports DN
KASHMERE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR
CLYMOND HILL
Prepares for life after sports
By Jimmie Aggison
At 5-foot-11 and 149 pounds, Kashmere High School senior Clymond Hill doesn’t stand out as the tallest wide receiver or the flashiest basketball player on the court. Yet, he’s carving a unique path by planning for life after sports.
“Clymond is a very intellectual, diverse and reliable student-athlete,” said Kashmere head football coach Joshua Harris.
For Hill, being a student-athlete means prioritizing the “student” part of the equation. While sports have been a part of his high school experience, with the boys’ basketball team currently ranked 6th in 4A Region III District 20 and the football team finishing their fall season in 8th place in 4A-1 Region III District 11, Hill has always focused on his future outside athletics.
“I’ve thought about what’s next,” said Hill. “Sports won’t last forever, but education and preparation will.”
Hill’s vision is clear as he plans to attend Lamar University to study software engineering, a field he sees as increasingly vital in a tech-driven world.
“With the growth of AI and technology, software engineering will be in high demand for future jobs,” said Hill. “I chose Lamar University because it’s a great school and their computer science programs have classes small enough to equate to a good student-teacher ratio.”
Hill’s ambitions extend beyond that. He has outlined a clear plan to reach his objectives, starting with earning a master’s degree in software engineering at Lamar University. After completing his studies, Hill plans to work for two years to save for law school, where he aims to specialize in patent law.
“Financially my family doesn’t have the funds to just send me to law school. My mother is a single parent and I’ll have to do all I can to help her out,” said Hill.
As a child, Hill dreamed of becoming a criminal defense attorney but decided the field might present moral conflicts he wasn’t comfortable navigating.
“Specifically, any case dealing with rape victims, I would feel uneasy about hearing, so I decided to shift my focus,” said Hill.
Patent law, however, offers an exciting opportunity to merge his passion for technology with his legal ambitions.
“I am part of the Miles Ahead Scholars program
at my school. This program is where I learned about an internship opportunity at the Harris County Summer Legal Academy. Through that experience, I discovered the role of a patent attorney, which aligns per fectly with my major. It showed me how I could combine computer engineering with the study of law,” said Hill.
The Miles Ahead Scholars program focuses on empowering young men of color to ignite positive change in their lives, schools, and communities by preparing them to attend and graduate from top universities.
Upon graduating high school, Hill will achieve the milestone of becoming a first-gener ation college student. He encourages others con sidering college but concerned about the cost to remain motivated, determined, and focused on their goals.
“There are plenty of opportunities to pay for col lege. You just have to put your mind to it and work hard,” he said, encouraging others to seek scholar ships, grants, and other financial aid options.
Hill is aware of the challenges ahead, from aca demic demands to financial pressures, but he’s ready to meet them head-on with faith, dedication, and hard work.
“I’ll lean on my faith in God and stay focused on what’s important,” said Hill.
Hill’s story is one of perseverance and prepara tion, proving that the lessons learned on the field and court can lead to success far beyond the game.
ABOUT CLYMOND HILL
Class: 2025
IG: @Clymondhilljr
Basketball Position: Small forward
Football Position: Wide receiver, safety
Height & weight: 5-feet-11, 149 pounds
Favorite artist: Rylo Rodriguez
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: AP pre-calculus
Shout-outs: Mom, Coach Johnson, Coach
Harris, Mr. Beeks, Mr. Williams
Entertainment DN
RODEO FANS REACT TO BUN B Headlining Black Heritage Night again
By Laura Onyeneho
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has announced its 2025 concert lineup. For Black Heritage Night on March 7, Houston rap legend and Trill Burgers owner Bun B will headline once again.
“Bun B’s Birthday Bonanza” promises to celebrate the Houston icon’s legacy while showcasing his impact on the city’s music scene.
He has become a staple of Black Heritage Night, bringing in a roller deck of top-tier Hip-Hop R&B performers. But reactions to his return for a third consecutive year have been mixed. Some celebrate his consistency and the tribute to Black culture, while others hope for a shakeup in the lineup to highlight new voices.
Christopher Jarmon, a Texas Southern University graduate student and lifelong rodeo attendee, has seen firsthand how the Houston Rodeo bridges the city’s rich traditions with evolving entertainment tastes.
“For the past few years, Bun B has done a great job putting on for the rodeo,” Jarmon said. “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. But I’m also a big advocate for independent and up-and-coming artists. It would be nice to see some local talent get the opportunity to perform on a stage of this caliber.”
As someone who grew up on a ranch with deep cowboy roots, Jarmon appreciates the historical significance of the rodeo and Black cowboys’ role in its narrative. However, he suggests the Black Heritage Night programming could expand to include diverse musical genres and lesser-known artists.
“There’s so much untapped talent here in Houston,” Jarmon continued. “The rodeo could be an even greater platform for showcasing the incredible diversity within Black music and culture.”
There’s so much untapped talent here in Houston. The rodeo could be an even greater platform for showcasing the incredible diversity within Black music and culture.”
CHRISTOPHER JARMON
Bun B set to headline Black Heritage Day with a performance that will celebrate his city and his birthday in a memorable way. Credit: Getty Images
Sierra Adams, a budding R&B artist from Houston, shared Jarmon’s perspective. Bun B’s consistent presence is proof of his loyalty to the city, but there’s room to elevate more local voices.
“It’s really cool that Bun B keeps putting Houston first,” Adams said. “But talking to other young people, there’s definitely chatter about wanting more variety in the lineup. It would be great to see more Black country artists and other genres represented. Houston has so much talent across
the board.”
Adams dreams of one day performing on the rodeo stage. She believes showcasing emerging talent at the rodeo would reignite hometown pride. Even if it isn’t on the big stage, she hopes that Bun B considers incorporating smaller sets during the rodeo schedule to highlight the local talent in the city.
“There’s something powerful about bringing back to the roots,” Adams said. “It’s nostalgic and keeps the cultural circle
going. We need to be reaching out to the next wave of artists.”
Fans on social media appreciate Bun B’s dedication to celebrating Houston’s culture and music, while others were hoping for something different. However, many look forward to his Birthday Bonanza, which he promises will be “a party for everybody.” His social media teaser urging fans to “expect the unexpected” has fueled excitement for what surprises might be in store.