To the POINT DN
Though the White House and others are intent on coming for Black people and Black history, they may want to step back. Because we’re celebrating it all, including Queen Bey’s recent Grammy win.
Message from the Associate Editor
‘Ban’ of Black History Month?
Pete Hegseth, head of the Department of Defense, banned the observance of Black History Month (BHM) to show his alignment with Trump’s anti-DEI push. Before Hegseth’s move, the U.S. Air Force banned the teaching of the Tuskegee Airmen. After national outrage, the Air Force reversed its decision. But the fact that it was even considered white-ing out the Tuskegee Airmen’s contributions to the history of this nation speaks volumes. Hegseth’s and the Air Force’s actions remind us why Dr. Greg Carr refuses to say Black history is American history. Why? Because American history is oppression, racism and Black erasure. Black History done in the U.S. is what we’ve done to protect and uplift ourselves. Has it aided the U.S.? Absolutely. But most of our (history-making) actions have been for self-preservation. Serving in the military was, on one level, fighting for the U.S., but it was even more so about fighting for victory against U.S. racism, redlining, lynching, theft, educational inequalities, healthcare apartheid and police brutality, etc. So, we don’t need other’s permission to celebrate BHM, including shouting out Beyoncé’s Grammy win for Best Country & Western Album.
Say what?
Second, if Black people did decide to sit this one out, don’t come for us. That “rainbow coalition” of “allies” sure as hell left us hanging when we voted last November to protect us all from the madness we see happening now. But, you know, Blackfolk. We always respond when we see people’s humanity being threatened even if it’s the humanity of those who voted against protecting us and put the ICE raid king back in office in the first place.
Silence of the lames
According to multiple posts on “them innernets,” Black people are being called out by our Brown brothers and sisters for not immediately coming to their aid. Why the call-out? Trump-led ICE raids nationwide are seeing ICE officers bumrush workplaces, schools and people’s homes to arrest, perpwalk, lock up and then deport thousands. First, the idea that Black people have remained silent while this act of white nationalist inhumane cruelty is being perpetrated against our “hermanos y hermanas” is BS. Just days ago, congressmen Sylvester Turner and Al Green held a “rainbow coalition” of concerned Black, Latinx and Asian Houston-area citizens joined together to fight against this White House-led cruelty.
Blackfolk for Trump have been eerily silent amid 47’s first weeks in office madness. And can you blame them? The Trump administration’s level of anti-Blackness is stunning even to those who saw this coming. He attempted to cut off already approved tax dollars (our money) earmarked for various programs (SNAP, Head Start, college scholarships, veterans’ healthcare, etc.) to ensure no money was being spent to further DEI initiatives (DEI being defined by him as “anything Black”). That funding freeze was only halted because of a judge’s court order fueled by the panicked screams of white people who found out that DEI touches everybody (veterans, seniors, neurodivergent folk, the disabled, and mostly white women). So, googobs of whitefolk who voted for Trump felt the sting of his anti-Black policy moves and screamed bloody murder. But Trump’s jock-ridding knee-grows haven’t uttered a mumbling word. Their silence is almost as lame as their slavish commitment to living in White-adjacent-ville… at least until one of Trump’s billionaire buddy bankers forecloses on them due to an illegal subprime loan.
On the web
• What are the Black History Month messages of Houston Black churches?
• Strategies for an empowered Texas Black political future.
• Defender Roundtable: What needs to happen to bring Black and Brown people together?
Credit: Getty Images.
Aswad Walker
News DN
HISD denounces Student Sick-Out protest against Mike Miles
By Raquel Rogers
Prior to the Feb. 5 student sick-out, Houston ISD officials condemned the action calling it an “entirely irresponsible” protest against state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles. The sick-out, organized by the advocacy group Community Voices for Public Education (CVPE), was aimed at voicing frustration over Miles’ leadership and the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) takeover of the district.
In a statement, HISD spokesperson Alexandra Elizondo strongly criticized the protest, arguing that it undermines the progress the district has made under new leadership.
“What bad old days do they want the district’s most marginalized students to be dragged back to now?”Elizondo said. “Do they want to return to a time when only 17% of graduates earned a living wage, when the schools serving our poorest students graduated students with empty diplomas, or when students with special needs were so chronically underserved that the state had to step in?”
Parents and advocates push back
The district’s response follows a recent press conference held by HISD parents and CVPE leaders, who announced the protest as a stand against Miles’ sweeping reforms and the state’s control of the district.
Ruth Kravetz, CVPE co-founder, said the sick-out is one of many tactics being used to oppose the takeover, which began in the summer of 2023 after Wheatley High School received multiple failing ratings from the TEA.
“Our children are our special blessing,” Kravetz said. “And when he doesn’t take care of the safety and well-being of our kids,
people who would never let their children be absent ever are standing up and saying enough is enough.”
The district’s reforms under Miles have yielded some improvements in standardized test scores, but they have also triggered widespread staffing turnover and resistance from educators and families. The November rejection of a $4.4 billion bond package has been widely interpreted as a referendum on Miles’ leadership.
HISD parent Kelly Blikre emphasized
that participants recognize the importance of attendance but feel the protest is necessary.
“We believe in consistency and participation in education. We take attendance very seriously,” Blikre said days before the protest. “Also, because in this state, funding is granted based on attendance. So, I participate in this after careful consideration.”
HISD stands firm on reform
Elizondo reiterated that HISD is making
strides in improving academic outcomes, particularly for students who had been underserved in the past.
“The old HISD may have worked wonderfully for a few students, but it didn’t work for most students,” she said. “The systemic transformation underway at HISD is the best shot to ensure that all of Houston’s students have a fair shot at the education and life they deserve.”
She also accused protest organizers of putting “their interests ahead of students.”
Gov. Greg Abbott pushes bail reform as legislative priority
Defender News Service
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared bail reform an emergency item for the current legislative session, aiming to tighten restrictions on who can be released on bond. The move comes after years of debate over cases where violent offenders were released on low or personal recognizance (PR) bonds, only to commit new crimes.
One of the key proposals, Senate Bill 9,
would prohibit PR bonds for defendants on parole—cases like that of Dominique Menifee. In 2023, Menifee, who was already on parole for aggravated robbery, was granted a PR bond for felony drug possession. Just six days later, authorities say he shot and killed 34-year-old Sherniqua Banks in front of her 3-year-old son.
“Whoever let him slip through the cracks, they need to be held accountable because my daughter is gone. I can never get her back. It hurts like hell,” said Lisa Callaway, Banks’ mother, in a November 2023 interview.
Governor Abbott made his position clear: “We must deny bail to criminals charged
with capital murder and other heinous violent crimes.”
Houston Crime Stoppers advocate Andy Kahan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Senate Bill 9: “If you’re on parole for any offense, you shouldn’t get a getout-of-jail-free card, especially with a felony.”
Another proposal under consideration seeks to limit the power of unelected magistrates, who often issue lower bonds than elected judges.
“You can’t give anyone bail if they’re on parole, if they’re habitual offenders, if they have an ICE hold, or if they’re charged with a violent crime such as murder,” Kahan
explained. “These changes would prevent magistrates from issuing bonds in these cases.”
Governor Abbott has expressed frustration over what he calls a “revolving door at the courthouse,” arguing that some judges exercise too much discretion, allowing repeat offenders to walk free and endanger the public.
A public hearing on the proposed bail reform legislation is scheduled for Feb. 12 before the Senate Criminal Justice Committee. Lawmakers, advocates, and community members are expected to weigh in as Texas moves toward significant changes in its bail system.
Abbott
Kelly Blikre speaks on behalf of parents who protest Houston ISD’s state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles’ policies. Credit: Stacey Morris
Congressman Turner, others organize against Trump executive orders
By Aswad Walker
In a local effort to guard against the negative and potentially dangerous effects of President Donald Trump’s barrage of executive orders, first-year Congressman Sylvester Turner recently led a press conference urging Houstonians to know their rights and organize collectively to maintain them.
Some of Trump’s most controversial executive orders, issued during his first two weeks in office, dealt with ending DEI, unleashing the U.S. military as immigration and border officers, and freezing much-needed and previously approved federal funds. The fallout has left many people nationally, globally, and locally scrambling and seeking answers regarding how to protect their seemingly eroding civil and human rights.
“Through [Trump’s] executive orders, he has stopped work by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice,” said Turner. “He has rescinded the order by President Biden to lower the cost of prescription drugs. He has withdrawn the United States from the World Health Organization and the Paris Agreement dealing with climate. And the list goes on. These extreme and divisive executive orders do nothing to lower the cost of everyday items like eggs, milk, healthcare, housing, or insurance.
The Turner-led press conference focused on issues Turner described as two of the most divisive. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and immigration and deportation.”
U.S. Congresspersons Al Green and Sylvia Garcia were on hand, along with a bevy of Black, Latino, and Asian local lawmakers, union organizers, clergy, civic club officers, and more.
“Black people have got to stand, and Asian people and Latino people, we all have to stand together,” said Green. “This is not a fight that we can win siloed… all of the somebodies have to come together and represent everybody.”
Civil rights protections
During the gathering, it was pointed out that Trump has also taken an unprecedented step of pausing all litigation at the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, which is tasked with enforcing laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, gender, religion, and national origin.
“DEI does not mean the unqualified. We are asking for equal opportunities. But you have a president that sees the word Blackhawk helicopter and he thought that meant DEI,” said State Rep. Charlene Ward Johnson, referencing Trump blaming the horrific plane/helicopter crash over Washington D.C. on DEI hires.
Dr. James Dixon, head of NAACP Houston, views Trump’s package of executive orders as a harbinger of perilous times to come, especially for Black people.
“Our late friend Al Edwards coined these words: ‘There were only a few laws between us and the plantation.’ I’ve been repeating his words for the past 20-plus years. And people didn’t think it could ever be the case. And here we are today, the few laws that were between Black people and the plantation are now leaving the books.”
Immigration
With ICE raids happening nationally targeting residences, workplaces, hospitals, and schools, many are scared.
“ICE and others are not just rounding up persons who have committed crimes, but law-abiding citizens as well. Dreamers, construction workers, farmers are scared. And Americans will pay more for housing and food,” shared Turner.
“Look around you. This is a very diverse group. But unless you look like the ICE officer, they can profile you and they can pick you up. And trust me, some of them will ask questions later. That’s un-American. That is old Gestapo Nazi tactics,” said Garcia.
“People need to know their rights,” said Turner regarding potential local ICE raids. “If somebody’s knocking on your door, you don’t have to open the door. You don’t have to say anything to them. It is important to carry on you ID, whether it’s a library card, if you’re in school student identification. But don’t carry false documents. Because that will create a problem.”
Turner, Green, and Garcia will be distributing toolkits throughout the city and their respective congressional districts on how to respond if ICE agents come knocking.
Federal employees punished over DEI training under Trump
By ReShonda Tate
Several employees at the Department of Education have been placed on paid leave after participating in a diversity training course once encouraged by former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos during Donald Trump’s first term. The move reportedly comes as part of the Trump administration’s sweeping efforts to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs across the federal government.
Sheria Smith, president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 252, representing hundreds of Education Department employees, confirmed that at least 55 workers have been placed on leave, with more expected in the coming days.
“It’s very, very, unsettling,” one department employee of over 20 years said. “I don’t get it. What’s my crime? What have I done?”
The affected staff members include civil rights attorneys, loan regulators, program analysts, a public affairs specialist and employees responsible for ensuring schools provide individualized education programs (IEPs) for special needs students. A letter sent to those placed on leave states they will continue receiving full salaries and benefits but are barred from performing work-related duties or coming into the office. Their email access has also been suspended.
“It looks like they’re entrapping people,” Smith said, noting that employees were initially encouraged to take these trainings but are now seemingly being penalized for doing so. She fears the broader goal may be to pressure staff into leaving voluntarily.
“I think it is shock and awe. They’re trying to send us emails that make no sense and are super confusing to intimidate us or to make us run scared so we quit,” Smith said. “They’re trying to make employees feel like they will soon get fired. And at the same time, they are trying to entice employees with an offer to pay them eight months’ salary if they just resigned. So it seems as if you’re choosing between affirmatively resigning, where they’re saying that you might possibly get paid eight months’ salary and benefits, or eventually getting fired.”
Congressman Al Green (l) and Congressman Sylvester Turner (r) bracket several speakers during a recent press conference calling on Houstonians to organize against potentially dangerous executive orders from President Donald Trump. Credit: Aswad Walker.
Feed the Soul Foundation raises over $100k
By Tannistha Sinha
The Feed the Soul Foundation raised more than $100,000 in scholarships for underrepresented culinary and hospitality students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).
The nonprofit supports marginalized culinary businesses and students through grants and scholarships raised through the Global Culinary Conference, where renowned chefs curated a five-course dinner, assisted by aspiring culinary students at the Houston Community College.
“We could not be more thrilled about the turnout of our Inaugural Heart & Soul Culinary Scholarship Dinner,” said Executive Director of Feed the Soul Foundation Juana Collins. “The food and ambiance were spectacular, and we hit our fundraising goal!”
The aim of the fundraising was to support young chefs of color The Feed the Soul Foundation raised over $100,000 for scholarships at its Global Culinary Conference to support underrepresented culinary and hospitality students.
Credit: Rebekah Flores/Feed the Soul Foundation
we don’t see as much funding and resources as other groups of people. This is a mission to bridge equity gaps, offer scholarships and grow that next generation of aspiring culinarians and food artists.”
Why these conferences are important
According to the National Restaurant Association 2024 Industry Report, restaurateurs are facing increasing challenges, including higher labor and food costs and lower profits.
The Independent Restaurant Coalition says 500,000 restaurants and bars are facing challenges due to lost revenue and increased debt. Also, 1.1 million minority-owned businesses encounter disparities when it comes to acquiring funding.
The four-day conference included business workshops, boot camps, coaching, interactive sessions with chefs on scaling
More than 200 guests attended the inaugural dinner, including Councilman Edward Pollard, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, James Beard Award-winning chef, New York Times bestselling cookbook author, and TV personality JJ Johnson, former district judge Vanessa Gilmore, founder and managing partner at Black Restaurant Week Warren Luckett, and chairs Brittany Gilmore and Kathryn Elise and Gaynell Drexler.
culinary businesses, networking events and master classes for food entrepreneurs.
“The restaurant scene here is just…thriving, but we wanna also highlight the cultural influences that we have in Houston,” said Kathryn Drexler. “Houston is such a diverse city, but oftentimes our folks, the diasporas,
“COVID-19 changed the landscape since 2020,” said Warren Luckett, co-founder of Feed the Soul Foundation. “Now, the price of food is soaring. From being overlooked for revitalization funds to inflation, most Black-owned culinary businesses cannot afford advertisements/PR/marketing to build awareness and attract customers.”
Asking for help from trusted family or friends is a sign you're ready to become a happier, healthier you. And if you need more options to manage your mental health struggles or substance use concerns, there are resources and organizations nearby ready to help.
Explore where to turn to
Houston’s desegregation story, which includes the TSU student-led protest of Weingarten’s in 1960, was unlike such movements in other U.S. cities.
HOUSTON A LOOK BACK DESEGREGATION
By Aswad Walker
While cities like Birmingham, Montgomery and Selma dominated national headlines during the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement, and places from Detroit to Watts went up in fames, actions to end segregation in Houston appeared nonexistent.
Why?
For better or worse, the “invisibility” of Houston’s desegregation story was
purposefully orchestrated.
But the purposeful media “Blackout,” the coordinated effort of local radio, TV and print media to ignore desegregation movement activities, didn’t block Houston’s Black community from experiencing segregation in real-time.
Personal testimonies
Before Jacqueline Brannon-Giles became a nationally recognized mathematician, college professor and minister, she was a Galena
Manor resident who attended elementary, middle and high school in Houston-area schools from the early 1950s until she graduated from Fidelity Manor High School as valedictorian in 1961.
Brannon-Giles, like other Black people in multiple states nationwide, had to endure the indignities of segregation, and denial of admission to white-owned businesses, schools and theaters, etc.
“[Still] We had excellent teachers during the days of segregation,’ said Brannon-Giles.
“Sometimes the school district would send old books to the Black high school and I would complain to my parents. Tey would then take me to Brown Bookstore, and buy new books for me to read to supplement the education I received in the segregated all-Black high school I attended.”
Houston’s desegregation saga was also experienced by students at the university level.
Tough born in Texas, Omowale Luthuli-Allen grew up in Louisiana. He returned to Houston in 1966 to be part of desegregation
on the college level at the University of Houston.
He was inspired by the “Black Freedom Struggle” of the 1960s, especially the work of Freedom Summer (1964) volunteers. He was also motivated by the words of a Houston power broker.
“A few years before I arrived, Ezekiel Cullen, the trustee over at UH, made the statement that no Negro would ever enter UH,” Luthuli-Allen recalled. “I managed to connect with students from various parts of Texas who were also interested in desegregating the University of Houston.”
Luthuli-Allen also connected with Texas Southern University (TSU) student leaders who preceded him in the movement, including Kelton Sams, Eldrewey Stearnes, Holly Hogrobrooks, Otis King and others.
“Tere was a lot of activity taking place at TSU. So, we students at UH fell in love and we mixed with the activist element at TSU,” added Luthuli-Allen who not only added to the UH desegregation movement, he helped found UH’s Black Studies Program in 1968.
Initial lawsuit
But was Houston’s desegregation of schools and public facilities unique? In an HISD timeline sense, defnitely.
In 1956, Delores Ross and Beneva Williams, two Black children from the Houston area, attempted to enroll in white public schools but were denied. Teir families fled a class-action lawsuit against HISD.
But it was not until 1984, 28 years later, that desegregation in Houston was fully realized. Tat year, the now-married Delores Ross Phlegm signed an out-of-court settlement
HISD negotiated with the NAACP and the Mexican-American Legal Defense and Educational Fund to end the HISD desegregation lawsuit.
What made Houston’s desegregation story diferent?
Houston unique
“It’s very much a tale of the strange bedfellows that helped push forward the desegregation of the city,” said Amanda Edwards who, while a Houston City Councilmember, pushed Houstonians to view the documentary chronicling that story, “The Strange Demise of Jim Crow.”
“Tere were some agreements made behind the scenes, much in the Houston-like fashion, where [Black and white leaders] said, ‘Listen, we do not want to see rampant violence,’” added Edwards.
Edwards is referring to secret meetings and other actions involving power players like Mack Hannah, Dr. Samuel Nabrit (TSU president), Joe Weingarten (president, Weingarten’s), John B. Coleman, A.L. Warner, Judson Robinson Sr., Louie Welch (politician), John T. Jones (publisher, Houston Chronicle) and others.
There was also a 37-member Bi-racial Committee that voted to desegregate Houston immediately even though the committee chair (Leon Jaworski) fought to maintain Jim Crow. Te committee was disbanded immediately thereafer.
Unlike cities like Birmingham and Montgomery, Houstonians fghting for desegregation didn’t receive national support and coordination from groups national civil rights organizations like the Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr.-led Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).
However, according to Edwards and Luthuli-Allen, three things separated the desegregation movement in Houston from similar battles nationally.
Blackout
Media coverage was one of the most efective tools in helping the fedgling Civil Rights Movement gain momentum. Recognizing this fact, Foley’s VP and Publicity Director Bob Dundas devised a plan.
Afer TSU students led a successful “No Shopping Day” on the Saturday before Mother’s Day in 1960, they targeted Foley’s and three other downtown stores.
Dundas then coordinated the media “Blackout.”
“The powers that be realized that the momentum of the movement was dependent upon publicity, and if they could just shut of the publicity then it became more and more difcult for us to get people to be with us and to get contributions to assist us,” TSU student leader Otis King recalled years later.
Black community dynamics
Luthuli-Allen contends the difering “property relations” in Houston compared to those in northern ghettos made for a generally less confrontational local movement.
“Black people were making money, they were buying houses. You had communities like Pleasantville where people had an ownership base. Tat was a conservative mind.
Tey had something to protect. Te urban rebellions that took place in the other parts of the country couldn’t happen here in Houston
because too many Black people were working and had a stake in protecting what it is they had achieved,” he said.
Tat said, zealous Black college students sought to mimic movement actions nationally, like the sit-ins in Greensboro, NC. Black establishment leaders like a young Reverend William Lawson, who initially tried to talk TSU students out of protesting in 1960, called for protests himself in 1965 when HISD’s orders to desegregate were going nowhere fast.
Scripted movement
Lawson’s May 1965 call to protest HISD’s “stair-step” integration plan (one grade level per year) resulted in roughly 92,000 Black students staying home on May 11 while about 2,000 students, parents and faculty marched on the school district’s administration building demanding full-scale desegregation.
It was the exact kind of public actions members of Houston’s “white establishment” sought to avoid years earlier by “scripting” as much of the desegregation movement as possible. Essentially, regarding desegregation in public facilities, stores with lunch counters were instructed to serve a set number of Black patrons.
Nabrit shared in a decade-old interview that the Black business leader “Hobart Taylor agreed to send just one or two well-dressed Blacks to downtown lunch counters, and those businesses received instructions on how to react in case of violence.”
The result: quiet desegregation with no media coverage to galvanize Black support to grow the movement or incite racist white violence in response.
Former TSU student protesters Otis King (left) and Holly Hogrobrooks. Credit: Screenshot UH.
Greensboro NC sit-in participants. Courtesy Library of Congress.
Jacquelin BrannonGiles. Credit: Screenshot SHAPE.
Omowale Luthuli-Allen. Credit: Aswad Walker.
Amanda Edwards. Credit: Aswad Walker.
Credit: Screenshot.
TSU campus. Credit: Aswad Walker.
UH campus. Credit: Aswad Walker.
Rev. William A. Lawson.
BEYONCÉ RETURNS TO HOUSTON
For two shows on Cowboy Carter Tour
Defender News Service
Houston’s own Beyoncé is bringing her highly anticipated Cowboy Carter Tour to her hometown with back-to-back shows at NRG Stadium on June 28 and June 29, 2025.
The tour celebrates the release of her groundbreaking eighth studio album, “Cowboy Carter,” which recently earned Beyoncé three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. The album blends genres like country, rock, and R&B while featuring
CLASSIFIED
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD will be accepting proposals for the following: Gap Analysis of Financial, Human Capital, and Grant Management Systems Specifcations may be secured from The Harris Center website www.theharriscenter.org beginning Monday, February 10, 2025. The Harris Center utilizes Bonfre for their solicitations https:// theharriscenter.bonfrehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities . Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Tuesday, February 17, 2025. Proposals must be submitted by 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Historically Underutilized Businesses, including Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The Harris Center reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.
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. Doc1442992979: Commercial Graphic Installation Services. Solicitation will be available on or about 02/04/2025.
IFB No. Doc1423179582: Concrete and Asphalt Paving for Mobility Improvements within METRO Service Area. Solicitation will be available on or about 02/04/2025.
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 .
collaborations with legends like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson. Her performances in her hometown will be her only Texas appearances on the international tour.
General ticket sales begin Friday, Feb. 14, but there are several opportunities to secure tickets before that. Fans have until 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, to sign up for the artist presale. The BeyHive presale will begin Feb. 11 for those who subscribed before Feb. 3.
Beyoncé recent Grammy wins bring her to a total of 35 Grammy Awards and 99 Grammy nominations, both of which are records.
More information about ticket sales can be found online at Beyoncé’s at https:// www.beyonce.com.
Council meetings are open to the public and Public Comment is welcome at the beginning of every meeting. The Council meets in a hybrid format - in person and on Zoom - at 12 noon on the dates listed above. Meeting information and agendas are posted on the web calendar about one week prior to each meeting.
Check our website, email us, or call the office for more information about Council or Committee meetings, to request a Blue Book, apply for Project LEAP 2025, or apply for Planning Council or Committee membership.
Attend a Meeting Apply for Membership Be a Participant
The meeting calendar, Blue Book Resource Guide, and much more is available on our website. Join our E-List to receive info about Council and community events and follow us on Facebook. We hope to see you soon!
The Ryan White Planning Council is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the Council &/or participate on a committee. No experience required!
Each year, the Houston area receives over 30 million dollars in Federal funding to provide medical and support services to people living with HIV.
The primary responsibility of the Council is to determine what services are most needed and design them to meet the needs of people living with HIV, and then divide the funding to pay for each of the services to be provided.
Call for more information or visit us online to view the meeting calendar and apply for membership
Your voice DOES make a difference!
Ryan White Planning Council Office of Support
Phone: 832.927.7926 Fax: 713.431.4880
Email: FeedbackRWPC@harriscountytx.gov
Online: rwpcHouston.org
Andrea Odom Profile DN
Makes moves as a PR powerhouse, community advocate, and mom-ager
ReShonda Tate
Houston native and Texas Southern University alumna Andrea Odom has established herself as a dynamic force in public relations and community advocacy. Her career is defined by a commitment to amplifying voices, building impactful campaigns, and fostering collaboration across the city. And she’s doing it all while wearing her ‘Mom’ hat with pride.
Building a PR legacy
Andrea’s journey into public relations began serendipitously when civil rights attorney Lee Merritt asked her to manage his brand. That collaboration evolved into a high-stakes career managing media strategies for notable cases, including the high-profile Ahmaud Arbery case.
“The Ahmaud Arbery case blew both of our worlds upside down,” Odom said. “We were in Georgia for four weeks, handling interviews with 60 Minutes, 20/20, Nightline—everything you can imagine. It was like drinking out of a fire hose, but I gained invaluable lessons and relationships with nearly every major news outlet in the country.”
Her experience with landmark cases solidified her reputation as a crisis management expert. For her ability to navigate sensitive, high-pressure situations, she is often likened to the fictional Olivia Pope from the drama series Scandal. She thrives on helping individuals and organizations tell their stories, whether advocating for justice, managing campaigns for political figures, or crafting narratives for businesses.
Championing diversity in business and community
Odom’s influence extends far beyond public relations. As part of the diversity consulting team with Mpact Strategic Consulting, Odom plays a pivotal role in Houston’s innovation hub, The Ion. For four years, she has worked to ensure that historically underutilized businesses (HUBs) gain access to opportunities within the Ion District. Her efforts, including working with her own company, The Odom Group (www.theodomgroup.com) have opened doors for minority-owned businesses across the city, from construction contracts to corporate catering partnerships.
“We want to make sure historically underutilized businesses get a seat at the table,” Odom explains. “Everything from signage to lighting to security contracts—we ensure that minority firms are represented at every level.”
Odom’s advocacy also shines through her passion for Houston’s local businesses. She curates events that bring people into the Ion,
Houston is a city of collaboration, especially within the Black community. There’s always enough for everyone, and I’m proud to be part of that energy.”
ANDREA ODOM
creating exposure for restaurants like Stuff’d Wings and helping them thrive.
“It’s about making sure these businesses are successful, not just within The Ion, but across Houston,” she said.
Balancing career, family, and philanthropy
As a dedicated mother of three - Dylan, Ayden and Justin - Odom has masterfully balanced her demanding career with her family life. Her oldest son, Dylan, plays for the Phillies after being drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023, and Odom has embraced her role as “Mom-a-ger,” managing his brand while supporting his journey.
“I always knew Dylan’s baseball talents would take him far,” she said of her son who was a standout star at Strake Jesuit High School and The University of Texas at Austin before being drafted in 2023. It’s fun to manage his brand and pursue deals on his behalf. Having a supportive agency like Klutch Sports on our team also helps a lot! He was hesitant at first and didn’t want his mom on all of his Zoom calls. He gives great input and now sees me as more of his business mom-ager.”
“It is great working with my mom on
managing my brand and launching this foundation. Being my mother, she knows me so well which allows us to work very efficiently and she’s comfortable pursuing partnerships and things I wouldn’t normally seek out. She advocated for the startup, as I was skeptical at first now I am very grateful that we started it and enjoy the impact we have made and will continue to build,” said Dylan Campbell.
Odom and her son recently launched Dylan’s foundation and website (thedylancampbellfoundation.com), focusing on providing youth with access, funding, and opportunities to play baseball.
“The whole reason that the foundation was started is because growing up, Dylan was usually the only African-American player and we had a difficult time finding teams that would allow him to try out. So we want to remove those barriers for African-American boys to choose baseball. We’re committed to offering exposure and support to young African American baseball players, whose numbers continue to decline.”
The foundation’s first major initiative, a winter camp, occurred this past December, underscoring the dedication to youth development and equity in sports.
A member of the Houston Chapter of Jack and Jill of America and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Odom also founded the National Sales Network Houston Chapter. She balances everything by being realistic about what she can do.
“Many successful women say you can have it all, but not at the same time. I agree, having my own business allowed me to travel and support Dylan’s college baseball career. His siblings also had to make a sacrifice because of the time committed to getting him to this level. Plus the support of family over the years has been priceless. Now the energy moves to my youngest 2, one who is finishing college and the other who is finishing high school,” Odom said.
Looking ahead
As she reflects on her career, Odom is energized by the opportunities ahead. As she continues to grow in the PR space, she hopes to deepen collaborations within Houston, and stay true to her role as a vessel for connection and impact.
“Houston is a city of collaboration, especially within the Black community. There’s always enough for everyone, and I’m proud to be part of that energy,” she said.
Andrea with her children, Ayden, Justin and Dylan.
Andrea Odom at work navigating a press conference with Attorney Ben Crump and Al Sharpton. Credit: Andrea Odom
Sports DN JALEN HURTS’ DAD AWAITS
A FATHER’S PRIDE
SUPERBOWL REMATCH
By Terrance Harris
A week before Super Bowl LIX, Averion Hurts still hadn’t quite figured out all of the family’s travel plans over to New Orleans.
But the longtime Channelview head coach and father of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts just knows he will be in the building at Caesars Superdome come game time – maybe.
Jalen and the Eagles will take on Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Sunday’s Super Bowl, which will be their second such meeting in the last three years.
“When you get into those things, logistics are totally different than the outside world can think,” Averion said in a conversation with The Defender. “It’s different, but hopefully everyone will be there to support him… if not, I love watching TV because I can cuss at the TV.
“In the stadium, I have to act like his dad. At home, I can be me. Ain’t nothing but the walls here.”
Of course, Averion is only joking. He will definitely be in the building as a proud father of the young man he not only raised but also coached at Channelview.
“I’m proud of him, but I’m happy for him because I understand the hard work he put in along the way,” Averion said of the Eagles’ return to the Super Bowl stage. “Two times in three years ain’t normal. I’m happy for him and his teammates and everybody involved in the organization. They’re back.”
then went on to Texas Tech before being picked 10th overall by the Chiefs in the 2017 NFL Draft. Since then, Mahomes has become the most accomplished quarterback with three Super Bowl titles and three Super Bowl MVPs to his credit.
Jalen, meanwhile, has become one of the NFL’s best and most successful quarterbacks after being drafted in the second round (53 overall) in 2020 after starring at both Alabama and Oklahoma.
In a state that hasn’t always been known for producing great quarterbacks, Jalen and Mahomes seem to have changed the narrative.
“It speaks volumes to me for them,” Averion said. “Being a high school coach and a member of the THSCA (Texas High School Coaches Association) and to have two young men anytime, but when you say a rematch and for the second time… When you say both quarterbacks are from the state of Texas, it’s an honor to be able to call yourself a Texas high school coach. And for one of the players to happen to be your son, that’s a little extra.”
It’s also a little extra because it’s just the second time that two Black quarterbacks are facing off in the Super Bowl. The first was when Jalen and Mahomes went head-to-
four Black quarterbacks playing for the right to go to the Super Bowl, but Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens came up short against Buffalo, leaving Washington Commanders’ rookie Jayden Daniels, Jalen and Mahomes to vie for the two Super Bowl spots. The Eagles, of course, smashed the upstart Commanders and their spectacular young quarterback, 55-23, during the NFL Championship Game.
hell of an athlete or whatever and you don’t need to play this position. You’ve got to play something else,’” Averion said. “Lamar might win his third MVP, but you weren’t supposed to play quarterback.”
But now the focus is on the rematch and Jalen getting a chance to right the little wrongs that played a part in the Eagles’ narrow loss to the Chiefs the last time.
Indeed they are.
So is the matchup that produced a thriller during Super Bowl LVII in 2022, in which the Eagles came up three points short (3835) to begin the Chiefs’ current two-champi onship run. But it’s also the second time that these two Texas-bred quarterbacks go headto-head on the NFL’s biggest stage. Mahomes is a product of Whitehouse High School and
While Averion believes that storyline is now in the past, there is also no ques tioning the growth of the Black quarterback in
“I think the narrative is flipped because there are so many tal ented young men out there playing and still coming and of all colors.
Jalen had a spectacular game. The twotime Pro Bowl quarterback completed 27-of-38 passes for 304 yards and a touchdown while running for 70 yards and three
“I’ve moved on,” Hurts said to the Phila-
But Averion sees it for the opportunity
“If they were fortunate enough to come out with a win, it’s great to have it against the people who beat you the last time,” he said. “No matter what, you want to get the win, but to get it against someone who kept you from it the last time, that adds a little extra
Averion Hurts (right) coached and groomed his son, Jalen Hurts (left) in high school at Channelview and is now playing the role of proud father and cheerleader as Jalen gets set to play in his second Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles. Courtesy: Averion Hurts
Sports DN
DERRICK BAINES
Grows into
leadership role
By Jimmie Aggison
Derrick Baines, a three-year varsity player, is stepping into a new role his senior year at Heights High School as he guides a much younger team to playoff hopes in 6A Region III District 18.
“This is his first year in our program,” said Heights High School head basketball coach Ralph Barreras. “He came into our program having been a role player at Cy Falls High School on a pretty good team. For us, he has had to take on the job of being a team leader, on a young team. He is not a very vocal player, but he does a great job of leading by example. He is becoming more vocal as the season progresses. I’ve been very impressed with his work ethic, maturity, and willingness to be coached. He is an outstanding, well-rounded young man who does a great job in the classroom as well as on the court.
Originally from Alexandria, Louisiana, Baines’s first love was baseball, but when his mother received a new job in Houston, his path shifted.
“l was all about baseball until I was about 10 years old,” said Baines.
His older twin brothers, Garrick and Jerrick Baines were into basketball. They introduced Baines to basketball as they later grew to play for coach Ralph Barreras at Sam Houston High School. Once Barreras took the head coaching job at Heights High School and the family moved again, Baines found himself playing for his brothers’ old basketball coach.
“Coming in, I was excited to play for Coach Barreras. I learned that it was going to require hard work every day if I wanted to go out there and win,” said the soft-spoken Baines.
At 5-feet-10 and 165 pounds, Baines’ challenge was steep: competing against taller, more vocal guards who had been honing their basketball skills for years. Yet, with guidance from his brothers and an unrelenting work ethic, Baines gradually
evolved into one of the leading figures in Heights’ basketball program.
“My sophomore season at Cypress Falls I played with JoJo Tugler, and playing with him taught me that leading a team started in practice. Practice was the time to make mistakes because you had time to clean it up. Cleaning things up in practice helps the team be ready for the game, where you can lead them to another level, but it all starts in practice. I took this same mentality with me when I moved to Heights High School,” said Baines.
Baines’ commitment to improving his game has been evident. He studies the playing styles of multiple top collegiate and professional guards, from University of Houston’s LJ Cryer and Tennessee’s Zakai Zeigler, to NBA stars like Stephen Curry and Chris Paul.
“On the collegiate level, I watch players like LJ Cryer and Zakai Zeigler because they are smaller guards just like myself, so I try and study them and their leadership style.
On the professional level, I watch players like Curry and CP3. I watch Curry to see how he moves without the ball and gets his team involved. I watch CP3 to see how he reads pick-and-roll situations. Every morn ing, I’m working on my game, trying to get better. I’m not a vocal leader, but if my team sees my putting in the work, they’re more likely to follow me,” said Baines.
relentless defense will be crucial in the second half of the season.
IG: @Dj2cold._
Twitter: @DjBaines_
Baines has translated these lessons into his play, emerging as a key leader for Heights. While he ranks second on the team with 325 points, his impact goes beyond scoring. With 72 assists and 53 steals, Baines’ leadership and fierce defense make him an indispensable asset to the team.
Heights’ basketball team ranks fourth in 6A Region III District 18, behind Bellaire, led by elite forward Shelton Henderson, with Lamar and Westside tied for second.
To contend with these dominant teams, Baines will need to continue being the
“As a team I need to get my guys to focus and give great effort. We need to have great practices where we are clicking as a unit and translating that into the games. A big key will be showing up defensively and getting buckets in transition,” said Baines.
When asked about advice for aspiring athletes, Baines’ message is clear: “No matter where you’re at or from, if you want to chase a big dream, it’s going to require you to work and grind. It’s not going to get any easier as you go.”
As Heights continues its pursuit of a playoff spot, Baines will undoubtedly
Position: Point Guard
Height & weight: 5-feet-10, 165 pounds
Favorite artist: NBA YoungBoy
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: English
Shout-outs: Mom
remain a central figure in their efforts to outperform the competition and secure a place in the postseason. His transformation from team member to team leader is a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination.
