Houston Defender: February 15, 2018

FEATURE

FACT OF FICTION: DISPELLING THE MYTHS ABOUT MEDICARE P11

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Volume 87 | Number 16 FEBRUARY 15, 2018 | FREE

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NEWSTALK JOSEPH WILLIAMS tapped to lead Wheatley

P2 NATIONAL MICHELLE OBAMA and Barack Obama portraits released

P4 H.S. ZONE JEREMIAH GAMBRELL leads as Madison guns for playoffs

P15 TOP EVENTS

Steven A. White, Mayor Sylvester Turner and Ray Purser at the Mayor’s History Makers program.

FINDING Love S H O U L D YO U T RY O N L I N E DAT I N G ?

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Quincy Jones

Shani Davis

The 84-year-old record producer is revealing some long-held secrets that has all of Hollywood buzzing.

Find out what Jones has to say about Michael Jackson, Ivanka Trump, the Beatles and more.

The 2018 Winter Olympics have officially begun in South Korea. The games, which air on NBC, feature close to 2,900 athletes, representing 92 nations in 102 events. Davis is among many Black faces hoping to take home the gold.

telling secrets

diversifying Olympics

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018

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newstalk

Natural disaster plan approved, ignored Texas Tribune

Seven months before Hurricane Harvey inundated the Houston area with a trillion gallons of water and led to widespread criticism of the Red Cross, Harris County adopted a disaster-preparation plan whose key assumption was that the Red Cross would be slow to act.

“In a major disaster where there is widespread damage, the local resources of the Red Cross may be overwhelmed and not available immediately,” stated the plan. “It may be upwards of 7 days before the Red Cross can assume a primary care and shelter role.”

But in the seven months between the plan’s passage and the landfall of Harvey, the county took few steps to implement its strategy. Indeed, when dire flooding forced thousands of people from their homes, 3,036 emails

obtained in a public records request suggest officials didn’t even seem aware that a plan existed.

“Harris County had the forethought to identify – and rightfully so – that the Red Cross might not be able to be there for upwards of seven days depending on storm severity, and then they The gym at Kempner High School in Fort Bend County was converted to a shelter during Hurricane Harvey. didn’t follow through on their plans,” said Meghan McPherson, an adjunct spokesperson, was to provide shelter request. professor of emergency management The plan described the Red Cross for up to 10,000 displaced residents. at Tulane University, who reviewed the [Harris County’s population is 4.5 milplan at ProPublica’s request. “It doesn’t as the county’s “lead partner” but was unequivocal in assigning responsibillion; roughly half of those people live seem they made a connection between in Houston.] what they promised the public and what ity should a calamity occur: “In the event of an emergency that requires The plan proposed that county they did.” evacuation of all or any part of the employees be trained as shelter volunThe 17-page document, titled the Harris County population, Harris teers, outlined specific roles for shelter “Mass Shelter Plan,” was unanimously County is ultimately responsible for staff and indicated the county would approved by the county’s governing the coordination of the evacuation, identify and survey buildings that body on Jan. 31, 2017. ProPublica (an shelter and mass care of displaced locould be used for emergency housing investigative news source) obtained cal residents.” beyond those already identified by the the plan, which until now has not been The goal, according to a county American Red Cross [ARC]. public, as part of a public records

New Wheatley High principal named Defender News Services

HISD selected 22-year veteran educator and administrator as the new principal for Wheatley High School.

Williams is known for transforming underperforming schools into thriving campuses. Wheatley is in Year Six Improvement Required status, as designated by the Texas Education Agency, meaning it has not met state standards for six years.

For 90 years, Wheatley has

Joseph Williams

served Houston’s historic Fifth Ward community and is recognized for its award-winning athletics program and notable alumni, who include the late Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, the late Congressman Mickey Leland and musician Archie Bell of Archie Bell & the Drells.

“Joseph has consistently demonstrated a commitment toward improving teaching and learning while serving at HISD,” said Area Superintendent Erick Pruitt. “Every campus Joseph has led has consistently

improved outcomes for students. I am excited to see what he will offer to Wheatley students and its community.”

Williams comes to Wheatley from Key Middle School, where he spent the last four years as principal.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Texas Southern University, obtained his teacher’s certification from St. Thomas University, and holds a master of education degree in administration and supervision from the University of Houston.

localbriefs TEXAS CITIES HIT BY HURRICANE HARVEY will get over $1 billion in hazard mitigation funds from FEMA. Gov. Greg Abbott announced that some $500 million of that is expected to be available immediately. The money can be used for buyouts, home elevations, critical drainage projects and other disaster mitigation projects……..FEMA IS HOSTING A WORKSHOP for residents still in need of repair on their homes from Hurricane Harvey. The Direct Assistance for Limited Home Repair Outreach Event is designed to give residents an opportunity to meet contractors and hear about opportunities to perform residential construction repair services. The event takes

place Feb. 16 from 9 a.m.-noon at Houston Community College Southeast Campus, 6815 Rustic Street……..

THE CITY OF HOUSTON HAS EXPERIENCED another record-setting year in convention sales. Houston First Corporation announced that for the third straight year, an unprecedented number of room nights tied to future conventions were booked in 2017. The sales team booked 429 conventions and meetings in 2017, representing 802,852 room nights, up from 765,401 room nights in 2016. Many of the citywide conventions secured in 2017 are first-time bookings, thanks in large part to recent improvements that further showcase Houston as a world class destination. Houston First

operates in partnership with the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau under the brand name “Visit Houston” and that partnership is responsible for bringing conventions and tourism to the city…….

MISSOURI CITY IS TAKING PART IN THE STATEWIDE WARRANT Roundup again, allowing offenders to settle their fines without going to jail.

Payments will be accepted in person and by phone through Friday, Feb. 23. Individuals who do not settle their fines risk arrest by the Missouri City Police Department at their homes, schools and businesses.

For information on how to pay a warrant fine in Missouri City call 281-403-8669 or visit http://bit.

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FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Meet Orgena.

Cafe owner.

Community builder.

Join us at a special event.

We’re celebrating community builders. You know one.

Everybody does. They’re the people who go above and beyond to build better neighborhoods. They give their time, and reinvest in their communities. They’re people like Orgena Keener. Join us and Majic 102.1 as we celebrate Orgena and her contributions to Houston.

Location: Kaffeine Coffee Cafe 5225 Alameda Rd. Date:

Saturday, February 24

Time:

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

wellsfargo.com/communitybuilders © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. IHA-5462201

Orgena Keener Orgena’s Kaffeine Coffee Internet & Office Café is a neighborhood cafe with a twist. On top of great food, the cafe has office supplies and computers available for kids to use for homework free of charge.

The cafe honors veterans daily, offers free delivery to Hospice care, and more. Orgena gives new meaning to the phrase “serving the neighborhood”.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018

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U.S.briefs

National Portrait Gallery unveils Obama paintings Associated Press

When former President Barack Obama speaks, people listen. At least they did when he was in the White House. But that kind of authority didn’t hold much sway when it came time for his presidential portrait.

At a recent ceremony to unveil portraits of him and former First Lady Michelle Obama, Obama said artist Kehinde Wiley cheerfully ignored almost all of his suggestions.

“He listened very Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama appear onstage as thoughtfully to what I had their official portraits are unveiled at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. to say before doing exactly what he always intended to “I am humbled, I am honored, I am proud,” do,” he said. “I tried to negotiate less gray hair but Michelle Obama said. “Young people, particularly Kehinde’s artistic integrity would not allow it. I girls and girls of color, in future years they will tried to negotiate smaller ears and struck out on that come to this place and see someone who looks like as well.” them hanging on the walls of this incredible instituThe final product depicts Obama sitting in a tion.” straight-backed chair, leaning forward and looking Barack Obama spoke of his choice of Wiley, serious while surrounded by greenery and flowers. saying the two men shared multiple parallels in Michelle Obama’s portrait, painted by Amy Shertheir upbringing; both had African fathers who were ald, shows her in a black and white dress looking largely absent from their lives and American moththoughtful with her hand on her chin. ers who raised them.

Both artists were personally chosen by the The former president drew multiple laughs from Obamas. the audience for his remarks, starting out by praisThe portraits will now hang in the National ing Sherald for capturing, “the grace and beauty and Portrait Gallery, which is part of the Smithsonian charm and hotness of the woman that I love.” group of museums. The gallery has a complete colObama said he found the process of sitting for lection of presidential portraits. A different set of the portrait to be a frustrating experience because portraits of the former first couple will eventually of his impatience, “but working with Kehinde was a hang in the White House. great joy.”

Member of Central Park Five blasts Trump Defender News Services

A member of the Central Park Five blasted President Donald Trump for his hypocrisy when he seemed to call for “due process” for a staffer accused of domestic abuse.

Trump defended former White House staff secretary Rob Porter, who was accused by two of his former wives of domestic abuse.

Yusef Salaam, one of the Central Park Five who were wrongfully accused and convicted of rape following an attack on a jogger, pointed out the huge difference in the way Trump treated him and the other

four as opposed to the way he treated Porter.

In 1989, Trump took out a full-page ad that called for Salaam and the rest of the Central Park Five to receive the death penalty.

“The Central Park Five (and) their families were not able to move on with our lives. Our lives were completely destroyed and devastated,” Salaam said.

“Any kind of dream or idea or goal that we had in life was quickly erased by this accusation.”

Members of the Central Park Five are all Black and Latino. Their case is considered an example of racial bias in the criminal justice system. They were exonerated in 2002 when the real attacker confessed.

NEARLY 11.8 MILLION AMERICANS ENROLLED in Obamacare for 2018, despite the Republican campaign to erase it from the books. An Associated Press count found that nationwide enrollment was about 3 percent lower than last year. Sixteen states increased their enrollment from last year, according to AP’s analysis. Six of those were carried by President Donald Trump in 2016, while 10 went for Democrat Hillary Clinton.

Total enrollment remained remarkably stable despite the fact that the Trump administration cut the sign-up window in half, slashed the ad budget, and suddenly stopped a major subsidy to insurers, which triggered a jump in premiums……..ATTORNEY GENERAL JEFF SESSIONS URGED a group of law enforcement officials to never forget the “Anglo-American heritage” style of policing. Speaking at the National Sheriff’s Association winter conference in Washington, D.C., Sessions reportedly went off script and said, “The office of sheriff is a critical part of the Anglo-American heritage of law enforcement.” As attorney general, Session has taken steps to relaunch the war on drugs in which the criminal justice system warehoused a generation of African-American men. A Department of Justice spokesperson released a statement saying the term “Anglo-American law” is commonly used among lawyers and legal scholars……..A BLACK LIVES MATTER ACTIVIST WHO made headlines after video of him wrestling a Confederate flag out of the hands of a protester in Charleston, S.C., went viral, was shot and killed in New Orleans. Thirty-two-year-old Muhiyidin Moye was shot in the thigh and transported to a nearby hospital where he died from his injuries.

The details surrounding his death are unclear, but according to a police report, police dispatch received a call that a Black male was lying on the ground and asking for help.

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 16 FEBRUARY 15, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

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

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FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

Texas Trailblazer: Nat Q. Henderson He was so active in civic, community and educational affairs that he was known as “The Mayor of Fifth Ward.”

Nat Q. Henderson (18651949) was the principal of Bruce Elementary School in Houston for more than 30 years, and is one of the local historical figures featured in the Texas Trailblazer series

by Patricia Smith Prather and the late Bob Lee. While serving as principal, Henderson took a leadership role in all aspects of the community. He helped establish the first public library for African-Americans in Houston, the city’s first Negro Day Nursery, the Dorcus Home for delinquent females and a Farm for Delinquent Colored Youth.

In 1912, he helped victims of the Great Fifth Ward Fire, which destroyed some 40 blocks in Houston’s central city and left

hundreds homeless. Ira B. Bryant noted in his book “The Development of Houston Negro Schools” that “Professor Henderson was very largely responsible for the excellent manner in which relief was brought to the unfortunate” during the fire.

He also helped form an organization to alleviate the conditions created by the fire that later became known as the Colored Federated Charities.

Henderson served as elder of Gregg Street Presbyterian Church (now Pinecrest Presbyterian). When the Houston Negro Hospital (now Riverside Hospital) opened in 1926, Henderson played an active role.

As principal of Bruce Elementary from 1909 to 1942, Henderson helped shape

Alexandra Bowman When Hurricane Harvey hit, Alexandra Bowman coordinated mobilization and welcomed volunteers at an area Red Cross Shelter. She secured clothes and money, fostered pets, and coordinated transportation for those in need.

Patrick Britton Patrick Britton of the Port Arthur Police Department commandeered a boat and rescued countless citizens for 17-straight hours. He ensured safety and life-transitioning assistance for more than 500 Port Arthur residents.

Honoring Unsung Heroes in the African American community

Carl Butler, Jr. Carl Butler, Jr. used his truck and trailer to rescue storm victims from high water during Harvey. He provided salvation to others, including an insulin-dependent diabetic and heart-device reliant individual.

In every community there are people who go above and beyond to positively impact countless lives. Their stories deserve recognition. Ford Freedom Unsung celebrates these extraordinary individuals and organizations within communities across the country whose achievements may otherwise go unacknowledged.

Ashaia Clark Soon-to-be 12-year-old Ashaia Clark focused not on her upcoming birthday, but those victimized by the storm.

Raising more than $400, she secured clothing, bedding and nonperishable items for others.

Made possible by a grant from Ford Motor Company Fund, Ford Freedom Unsung salutes and honors those who have positively impacted communities and whose achievements serve to enlighten and inspire others.

Marian Dever Marian Dever rescued neighbor Billy and provided him with meals and support. She also opened her home to displaced persons and animals, and even today, still houses those displaced from Harvey.

This special Hurricane Harvey Edition will celebrate individuals who went above and beyond to support the Houston region during this difficult time.

Honorees are selected based on outstanding accomplishments including unique and valiant acts that positively impact lives in their immediate or widespread community. Their actions affect many and impart triumphant outcomes.

In partnership with the

James Dixon II James Dixon II fortified his Community of Faith Church as a disaster relief center. He helped thousands by providing clothing, food and shelter, and management of financial payments (including rent)

of donations.

FordFreedomUnsung _ Ad HP H_ HoustonDefender.indd 1

Keith Downey Despite recovering from knee replacement surgery, Keith Downey used social media to activate boats, helicopters and rafts to rescue neighbors during Harvey. He continues to help thousands by generating truckloads

activities.

Taranieshia Grigsby Taranieshia Grigsby added a smile to children affected by Harvey by securing the Peter Piper Pizza facility for October birthdays. Using her personal funds and donations, the children received personalized cakes and enjoyed

Terence Narcisse Terence Narcisse developed volunteer networks, enabled the distribution of more than $40,000 in gift cards, distributed $4 million of products, established “Pop-Up” medical clinics, and created Christmas for 250 families.

Alma Ogletree Using her raincoat, boots, courage, fortitude, and a shopping cart, Alma Ogletree rescued 21 people from Harvey.

She sheltered many in her home and provided “good southern hospitality”.

Houston Hands The Houston Hands team of Teylor Bonner, Laura Jackson and Kellie Richard, formed a social media-driven outreach effort that acts as a digital broker and clearing house, it effectively identifies immediate needs and goods and services.

Nikishia Price Nikishia Price organized friends to help the Davis’ (a couple in their 60’s) restore their home after Harvey. The Davis’ household was restored to proper living conditions, and stocked with supplies.

Street Kings of Houston The Street Kings of Houston rescued residents, organized food, supplies and water drives, and distributed funds, goods and materials into the possession of those victimized

by Harvey.

Hilton Koch Hilton Koch and his staff organized and delivered donations at the Dobie Shelter.

He continues to help those in need by offering discounts on furniture to help refurnish their homes.

the lives of thousands of students. He and his faculty provided clothing and food for needy students. Henderson saw the school progress from classes being held in what was known as the Old Red Barn to the construction of a modern facility in 1920.

Henderson’s educational leadership began long before moving to Houston. After graduating from what is now Prairie View A&M University in 1885, he returned to his hometown of Columbus, Texas and served as principal of the Columbus Colored School for 12 years. He then served as principal of a school in Weimar, Texas. Henderson pursued further studies at Fisk University, the University of Chicago, Columbia University and Tuskegee Institute.

Before moving to Houston, Henderson served as deputy revenue collector in the Third District of Texas (Galveston), appointed by President William McKinley. At least once, he was a delegate to the Republican National Convention.

The Nat Q. Henderson Elementary School was built not far from where he lived and worked in the heart of Houston.

distribute supplies.

Bobby Rouse Bobby Rouse and his wife Erica transformed their home into a temporary shelter for families, established a GoFundMe account that assisted 10 under-insured families and coordinated “Pop-Up Shops” to

Jerome Love Jerome Love, founder of the Texas Black Expo provided more than $28,000 in emergency funds which helped assist 28 local business enterprises cover fixed expenses and immediate costs.

Thelma Scott Thelma Scott, founder and primary operator of the Barbara Jordan Endeavors volunteered at shelters and provided one-on-one counsel. Today, she conducts monthly “Relief After Harvey” events to help storm victims.

Kay Matthews Kay Matthews, founder of the Shades of Blue Project helped others escape Harvey’s flooding. She collected clothes, water and food and conducted group sessions for families providing emotional support.

Donald Specht Donald Specht developed an efficient plan of execution to identify needed supplies and services. He also provided, free of charge, debris removal service, structural repair, and material and labor supply.

Marsha McCray Marsha McCray, founder of the Brunch Beauty Empowerment Network assisted families throughout Harvey by providing toiletries, restoring homes, supplying gift cards, and distributing more than 100 school supply backpacks to children.

Marguerite Stewart High School Principal Marguerite Stewart set aside scheduled surgery to assist thousands stricken by Harvey.

She transformed Westside High School into a shelter that provided food, water, clothes, and personal hygiene products.

Eric & Kathy Stone Eric & Kathy Stone, James & Shannon Vultaggio, and Corey & Maritza Woodard, collectively aided Cedra Sims and her three children after Harvey.

Together, they refurbished the Sims home through debris removal and restoration of utilities.

Chrystopher Terry Chrystopher Terry of CIII Consulting, offered “free-credit” repair to survivors resulting in immediate financial assistance to more than 450 Houstonians and small businesses, helping at least 1,000 individuals affected by the storm.

The Relief Gang Trae the Truth and DJ Mr. Rogers created The Relief Gang, a group that rescued countless people trapped during Harvey.

They continue their support by providing essentials and structural refurbishment for storm victims.

Megan Turner Megan Turner provided support to students and families of Dickinson High School. She located them in shelters, coordinated boats and vehicles for transport, fostered pets and removed debris from homes.

James & Shannon Vultaggio James & Shannon Vultaggio, Eric & Kathy Stone, and Corey & Maritza Woodard, collectively aided Cedra Sims and her three children after Harvey.

Together, they refurbished the Sims home through debris removal and restoration of utilities.

Corey & Maritza Woodard Corey & Maritza Woodard, James & Shannon Vultaggio, and Eric & Kathy Stone, collectively aided Cedra Sims and her three children after Harvey.

Together, they refurbished the Sims home through debris removal and restoration of utilities.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Ensemble Theatre artistic director wins $250k grant Defender News Service

Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director Eileen J. Morris is among five women artistic leaders selected as the first in the nation awarded a $250,000 grant as part of the inaugural BOLD Theater Women’s Leadership Circle. The program supports theaters run by female artistic directors and offers support for initiatives focused on women artists.

“We are incredibly proud of Eileen J. Morris and her work on behalf of the Ensemble Theatre,” said Ensemble Board President Jesse Tyson. “We congratulate her and the work of the Pussycat Foundation and Northern Stage for creating this phenomenal opportunity.”

“It is an overwhelming honor to be among this first group of phenomenal women in the arts,” Morris said.

“Our industry has long been in need of broadening opportuniEileen J. Morris ties for female artistic leaders.”

The BOLD Theater Women’s Leadership Circle grant, funded by the Pussycat Foundation and led by Carol Dunne, producing artistic director of Northern Stage, will provide $1.25 million in support for Northern Stage and four other theaters run by female artistic directors during the 2018-2019 season.

Each theater will receive a $250,000 grant. The BOLD Circle’s mission is to create a network of women artistic directors in professional theaters across the United States and empower them to address the issues preventing women from advancing in theater leadership.

The circle will offer major support of artistic initiatives focused on women artists and will create a formal mentorship program to train and prepare future women artistic directors to lead, to create, to innovate, and to deepen the impact of theater on American culture.

Each of the artistic directors chosen for the circle has demonstrated artistic excellence and a deep impact on community.

The leaders have also demonstrated a strong history of mentoring, and will work together to elevate the next generation of artistic directors.

“We were overwhelmed by the applicants for the BOLD Circle,” said Dunne, noting that the foundation received over 40 applications. “The stories that our country’s women artistic directors had to tell should be required reading for anyone interested in why women hold such a small percentage of leadership positions in the American theater. I am confident that this first cohort of visionary artistic directors will pave the way for countless others.”

Jordan clashes with Chadwick Boseman, who is in the title role.

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FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Quincy Jones spilling all the tea

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Defender News Service

n his decades in the entertainment industry, Quincy Jones has seen it all. Now, the 84-year-old record producer, composer, musician and executive is telling all in a raw, unfiltered interview.

Jones recently sat down with Vulture Magazine for a wide-ranging interview where he opened up about everything from working with Michael Jackson to dating Ivanka Trump.

Some of his shocking claims may seem out there, but a few have already been confirmed to be true.

Here’s a wrap-up of some of his biggest revelations.

On dating Ivanka Trump After calling his former acquaintance Donald Trump a “megalomaniac, narcissistic” and “crazy motherf—er,” Jones added as an aside, “I used to date Ivanka, you know.”

Jones went on to claim that he and Ivanka dated 12 years ago, after she asked designer Tommy Hilfiger to set up a dinner for them. Twelve years ago, they would have been 72 and 24.

“She had the most beautiful legs I ever saw in my life,” Jones said. “Wrong father, though.”

On Marlon Brando and Richard Pryor Jones alleged that the legendary duo had a sexual relationship, claiming that Brando would “f— anything.

Anything! He’d f— a mailbox. James Baldwin. Richard Pryor. Marvin Gaye.”

Pryor’s widow Jennifer confirmed the rumor, saying that her late husband was always open about his bisexuality with friends and would not be ashamed that the relationship was revealed publicly. Pryor’s daughter, Rain, however, disputed those claims.

On the Beatles being the “worst” musicians Jones called the Beatles “no-playing motherf—ers.”

“Paul was the worst bass player I ever heard. And Ringo? Don’t even talk about it,” he said. “I remember once we were in the studio with George Martin, and Ringo had taken three hours for a four-bar thing he was trying to fix on a song. He couldn’t get it.”

Jones recalled telling Starr to take a break and calling jazz drummer Ronnie Verrell.

“Ronnie came in for 15 minutes and tore it up,” he said. “Ringo comes back and says, ‘George, can you play it back for me one more time?’ So George did, and Ringo says, ‘That didn’t sound so bad.’ And I said, ‘Yeah, motherf—er because it ain’t you.’ Great guy, though.”

On Michael Jackson lifting music “I hate to get into this publicly, but Michael stole a lot of stuff. He stole a lot of songs,” Jones said. He cited Donna Summer’s “State of Independence,” from which he said Jackson lifted the riff for his hit “Billie Jean.”

The producer added, “He was as Machiavellian as they come. Greedy, man. Greedy.”

On whether Oprah Winfrey should run for president “I don’t think she should run. She doesn’t have the chops for it,” he said. “If you haven’t been governor of a

state or the CEO of a company or a military general, you don’t know how to lead people.”

That said, he isn’t a big fan of Trump. “He doesn’t know s—. Someone who knows about real leadership wouldn’t have as many people against him as he does. He’s a f—ing idiot.”

On the lack of “innovation” in modern music “It’s just loops, beats, rhymes and hooks. What is there for me to learn from that? There ain’t no f—ing songs,” Jones said. “The song is the power; the singer is the messenger. The greatest singer in the world cannot save a bad song. I learned that 50 years ago, and it’s the single greatest lesson I ever learned as a producer. If you don’t have a great song, it doesn’t matter what else you put around it.”

what’sup Actor NATE PARKER is gearing up for a show biz rebound with a new web series titled “Baselines.”

While Parker’s team has yet to confirm all the specifics surrounding the 38-year-old’s latest project, the Hollywood Reporter describes the short-form digital series as one that depicts the ins-and-outs of a family attempting to “protect their aspiring pro basketball player from the dangers of inner-city Los Angeles.” The project will be the first for the controversial actor after details of a college rape trial were made public during the promotion of his then passion project, “The Birth of a Nation.”……..

Actress STACEY DASH is mulling a run for

Congress. The Republican tweeted her followers, asking their opinions on whether she should officially enter politics. “A number of people online and off have suggested I run for political office,” she tweeted. “I wanted to see what my online community thinks of this idea as I mull the possibilities.

Thoughts?” The response seems to have been enough because Dash issued a follow-up tweet announcing that she was considering a run…….IDRIS ELBA and his 29-year-old girlfriend Sabrina Dhowre are engaged – or at least they appear to be. The 45-year-old actor popped the question on Saturday at Rio Cinema in London, before a screening of

his big screen directorial debut for “Yardie”……..

Nearly 23,000 kids will have the opportunity to see Marvel’s “Black Panther” thanks to the #BlackPantherChallenge. The fundraiser, created

by New York-based activist Frederick Joseph, has amassed more than $300,000 since going viral and spawning almost 300 campaigns. The GoFundMe page for the challenge states that donations came from all over the country and across the world……..REG E. CATHEY, the actor who won an Emmy for playing Freddy on “House of Cards” and appeared in “The Wire,” died on Feb. 9 at age 59. He reportedly battled cancer.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018

Larry and Jaquetta

FINDING Love

Should you try online dating?

1.Meet people who want to meet you When you’re dating online, you’re connecting to a diverse, multifaceted pool of people with completely different personalities and interests. any of us go online for everything – where to eat, However, they all have one thing in common. They’re single (or at least they where to shop, and where to live. Now, a growing claim to be), and they’re seriously committed to meeting new people, dating number of people are turning to the Internet to find and searching for the one. The most complicated dating obstacle has been love. removed – you don’t run the risk of hitting it off with someone and then disAccording to covering that they’re not interested. It means that the Pew Research everything is much more straightforward, there The diversity of online dating Center, there are 40 million Americans isn’t any awkwardness and you can meet plenty using online dating websites and those of people.

At DefenderNetwork.com users range from young to old.

2. Great way to become more confident Yet, in this era of “catfishing” Approaching someone in a shop, bar or cafe (where people lie or create false identirequires serious guts, and many of us might find ties behind the computer screen), looking for love on the internet can seem a it far too frightening to walk up to someone that we like the look of, only to bit daunting. risk rejection. However, sending a message is much less scary, and the more MySingleFriend.com founder Sarah Beeny explains that if you want to we try, the better we get at communicating. meet someone special, it’s worth stepping out of your comfort zone.

3. When it comes to making a first impression, you’re in control.

“Good things happen to people who take risks. If you sit at home nothWhen you’re online, you don’t have to worry about being nervous and ing is going to happen,” she said. awkward. You’re in charge of the way you communicate, and you can set Is online dating for you? The Defender compiled some things to conthe tone. You can compose your message and be charming, funny and direct sider before looking for love online. without worrying about tripping over your words, or flubbing the punchline

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By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

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O O

20% OF

of a joke. You can choose which picture sh 4. Once you find someone you like, Match.com dating consultant, Helen that connecting online is really only the in “It’s a misnomer that they call these said. “They should be called ‘introducing go out and go and meet the person yours It’s that advice that Adeola Saul say dating waters.

“When I dated online I had a few ru “1) I always took the conversation t as a woman the longer you email with so for me I always wanted to take steps into was real. Meaning if that person did not i would do it myself. If they did not agree, “2) After moving over to text, I thin time to meet in an open space for someth happy hour – anything that I could get ou the daytime hours. For me I really liked t seeing what I liked, but most of all, I like that I was not the only one they had met she said.

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a Akins

40%

OF AMERICANS USE ONLINE DATING

Dating stories “We met online - on a free dating site called POF and have been married for the last five years and have the cutest little four year old. It has been a wonderful adventure. I am not regretful. I feel like it was just another method to meet somebody. It was no different than putting and ad in the newspaper years ago.” - Akina Brodeak

53%

20%

OF PEOPLE LIE ON THEIR ONLINE DATING PROFILE

of women surveyed by Opinion matters admitted to using a photo from when they were younger.

F CURRENT, COMMITTED RELATIONSHIPS BEGAN ONLINE

hows you in your best light. you can take it offline.

Fisher says it’s important to note nitial connection. e things ‘dating services,’ ” she g services.’ They enable you to self.” ys helped her navigate the online

ules,” Saul said. to text after a few emails. I think omeone, the more you invest so o making sure my investment initiate moving this to text, I , I gladly bowed out. nk it is important to arrange a hing light [such as] coffee or ut of in 30 minutes and during the luxury of having options, ed being totally upfront realizing so why beat around the bush,”

Popular online dating sites PlentyofFish.com Match.com EHarmony.com OKCupid.com BlackPeopleMeet.com Tinder.com *Tell us your favorite online dating site at Facebook.com/DefenderNetwork

the Houston area for over 85 years

“Met my husband on E-Harmony. Met each other face2face about 1 month after connecting.

Dated for 4 years, and now we’ve been married for 5 1/2 years!” – Jaquetta Houston Akins “I married a guy I met when we were playing Bejeweled Blitz. We couldn’t be happier.”

– Ashara Jones “I dated online quite a bit. I’ve had good and bad experiences. I see no problem with meeting people online. It was like shopping, and who doesn’t love that? I think what most people forget is that the people you meet online are a microcosm of who you will meet in the world.” – Adeola Saul “After a bitter divorce, I had a hard time getting back in the dating scene. Going online was a chance for me to feel out people with no strings attached. I had a couple of dates that didn’t click, but I was able to find someone who I had so much in common with through the Words With Friends game. She lived on the other side of town so I don’t think we would’ve ever met had we not connected online.” – Wayne Lewis “Catfished on POF. Identity stolen on Black People Meet. Christian Mingle with people with no religion whatsoever. EHarmony asked too many *#&* questions. Unless Mr. Right rings my doorbell, it’s just not happening for me.” – Sheryl Parker “I did usual things you do to meet people, church, work, hobbies and never met anyone to date. I met my current husband in a chat room back when yahoo had them. We dated briefly in 2007 and parted as friends. We reconnected after I ran an ad on Craigslist in 2016.

We resumed dating and got married this past November. I caught a lot of flak from people regarding online dating mostly from people who were already married.” – Mary Bowie

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Texas Southern launches entertainment law institute of our students due to the steady growth of online education and degree programs,” said TSU President Austin Lane. “Full online degree programs Texas Southern University’s Office of provide more flexibility in achieving a college Continuing Education has increased its online education for our diverse community of learners.” certificate programming with the addition of the Ricky Anderson, a noted Houston entertainAttorney Ricky Anderson Entertainment Law Institute Virtual Campus (ARAELI). The institute’s ment lawyer, said, “With online education rapidly e-learning certificates are designed to prepare stu- developing and the number of online educational dents and lifelong learners for today’s competitive programs increasing, [TSU] is committed to supporting and exceeding the current needs of our global entertainment and media marketplace. full-time and part-time students.

ARAELI is a customized, self-paced “The fully online certificate programs program. Featured courses include artist promoprovide even more flexibility in achieving an tion and representation management, music publishing, production and distribution, recording, advanced education for our diverse community of learners.” performance agreements, merchandising, touring Enrollment for ARAELI began last month. film and television agreements, and music in The programs are taught by experienced faculty cyberspace. and will be delivered through a virtual campus “Texas Southern University is committed learning management. to supporting and exceeding the changing needs T:4.75” Defender News Service

History isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you make every day.

T:8.5”

This Black History Month and 365 days a year, McDonald’s® celebrates all those who lead our community by taking chances, stepping up, making a difference and creating greatness throughout the world.

Deeply rooted in the community®

©2018 McDonald’s

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FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Don’t fall victim to myths about Medicare

By BOB MOOS

Navigating Medicare can be challenging under the best of circumstances. It becomes even more difficult when someone new to Medicare falls victim to the myths, or misconceptions about the health care program.

Let’s take a look at the most common myths in hopes that you’ll avoid the confusion that could cost you time or money.

Myth No. 1: Medicare is free.

Medicare’s hospital insurance, known as Part A, has no premium if you’ve worked throughout your life. But the outpatient services coverage, or Part B, does have a monthly premium, as does the prescription drug insurance, or Part D. In addition, there are deductibles and co-payments for certain services. Overall, the traditional Medicare program covers about 80 percent of your costs, which means you’re responsible for the other 20 percent.

Many people buy a “Medigap” supplemental health insurance plan from a private company to help cover those out-of-pocket costs. Or they opt out of the traditional Medicare program and purchase a Medicare Advantage plan from a private insurer to receive their Medicare benefits.

Myth No. 2: Medicare covers everything.

Though traditional Medicare pays for many health care services, it doesn’t cover all of them. For example, it doesn’t pay for standard dental, vision or hearing care. If you’re interested in any of those services, you may want to consider a Medicare Advantage plan that offers extra benefits.

Myth No. 3: You’ll be automatically enrolled

when it’s time.

That’s only partially true. If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65. (You’ll still need to sign up for Part D.) If you’re not on Social Security yet, you must enroll in Medicare yourself.

For most people, the best time to apply for Medicare is during the three months before your 65th birthday, the month you become 65 and the three months after you turn 65. So, let’s say your birthday is Aug. 15. That means you can sign up from May 1 through Nov. 30.

Myth No. 4: Everyone pays the same for Medicare.

If your annual income is below $85,000, or $170,000 for a married couple, you pay the standard Part B and D premiums. But if it’s more, you pay a surcharge. In 2018, the surcharge for Part B ranges from $53.50 to $294.60 per month, depending on your income. That’s in addition to the standard $134 premium.

Myth No. 5: Having poor health will disqualify you.

Medicare can’t reject you, or charge you higher premiums, because of a health problem.

It can’t discriminate based on a pre-existing condition. In fact, about two-thirds of Medicare beneficiaries live with at least two chronic conditions.

Myth No. 6: Medicare covers long-term care.

Many people don’t realize until it’s too late that Medicare typically doesn’t pay for long-term “custodial” care – the kind of personal care that helps you with such day-to-day tasks as getting in and out of bed, bathing, dressing and eating.

Medicare does cover some skilled nursing or rehabilitative care if a physician orders it after a hospital stay of at least three days. You pay nothing during the first 20 days of your care and then part of the cost for the next 80 days.

Myth No. 7: Medicare and Medicaid are the same thing.

The two programs are often confused.

Medicare covers health care for people 65 and older and for people with certain disabilities.

Medicaid helps cover health care for people with low incomes and few resources. Some people qualify for both.

Myth No. 8: A lot of doctors don’t take Medicare.

11

The vast majority of doctors accept Medicare. The traditional Medicare fee-for-service program offers the broadest possible access to health care professionals. You can go to any provider who’s taking new Medicare patients.

Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, often require you to go to doctors within their network of providers or pay more for getting care elsewhere. So, before signing up for a particular Advantage plan, make sure you’re satisfied with its network of providers.

Bob Moos is Southwest public affairs officer for the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. For more information visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-633-4227.

R YAN W HITE P LANNING C OUNCIL M EETINGS FOR 2018 February 8 March 8 April 12

May 10 June 14 July 12

August 9 September 13 October 11

November 8 December 6

Meetings are open to the general public; only Council members are allowed to vote but public comment is always welcome at the beginning of every meeting.

The Council meets at Noon at our offices located in the Galleria area (near METRO bus route 82). Call the office for the date/location of meetings, to request a membership application or more info -- or check our online calendar. Meeting materials are posted on the calendar about one week prior to each meeting.  Attend a Meeting  Apply for Membership  Be a Participant 

The calendar of all Council and Committee meetings and a wealth of other information is available at www.rwpcHouston.org. Check the calendar regularly for topics of specific interest to you. We hope to see you soon!

Houston Ryan White Planning Council 2223 West Loop South, Suite 240; Houston, TX 77027 Phone 713 572-3724 TTY 713 572-2813 Fax 713 572-3740

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Floyd Norman Award winning animator

Phil lamarr veteran voice over artist

Ruth E. Carter costume designer

Behind the Mask

This month, Xfinity introduces you to some of the elite men and women making our heroes super.

From illustrators and studio execs, to costume designers and more. Just say, “Black History Month” into your X1 Voice Remote to hear their stories and see their work at Black Film & TV on Xfinity On Demand, where Black History is always on.

To go behind the mask, visit xfinity.com/discovermore

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity TV with On Demand required. © 2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

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FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

13

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John Peavy Jr.

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Peavy will be honored with portrait, ceremony

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Defender News Services

A portrait unveiling and dedication ceremony will commemorate the public service of Retired Federal District Court Judge John W. Peavy Jr., an icon of the Texas judicial system. It will be held Friday, Feb. 23 at 1:30 p.m. at Ceremonial Courtroom, 201 Caroline St., 17th floor.

Peavy is a man of many “firsts.”

Upon his appointment by Gov. Dolph Briscoe in 1977, he became the first African-American to serve as the first family law judge in the state for the 246th District Court of Texas (1977-1994).

In 1995, he became a senior district court judge. Prior to his appointment, he was also selected by Harris County Commissioners Court to serve as the first African-American justice of the peace in Texas for Precinct 7, Position 2.

Peavy’s public service career includes his tenure as an at-large member of Houston City Council, where he initiated the International Committee and chaired the Regulatory Affairs Committee.

A native Houstonian and son of noted civic leader and educator John W. Peavy Sr., Judge Peavy worked as a White House staffer to President Lyndon B. Johnson while attending law school.

He is a graduate of Phillis Wheatley High School, Howard University School of Business and Howard University School of Law. He is married to Diane Peavy and has four children.

Three other judges who will be honored with Peavy include Judge Don Ritter, Judge Jim York and Judge Charley Prine Jr.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 com

sports

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Faces of color at 2018 Winter Olympics

By MAX EDISON Defender

The 2018 Winter Olympics have officially begun in PyeongChang County, South Korea. The games, which air on NBC, feature close to 2,900 athletes, representing 92 nations in 102 events in fifteen sports disciplines.

If you’re inclined to watch any of the competitions and you’re hoping to see people of African descent, focus your attention on events focusing on speed, as in speedskating and bobsledding. Here are athletes Maame Biney to watch: SHANI DAVIS – When it comes to African-American success in the Winter Olympics, attention immediately turns to Chicagoan Shani Davis. He was the first Black athlete to win a gold medal in an individual event at the Winter Games, winning the speedskating 1000-meter event in 2006 in Turin, Italy. He also captured a silver medal in the 1500-meter event as well.

To show that 2006 was no fluke, Davis repeated his ’06 success in 2010 at the Winter Games in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Davis did not medal in either of the 3 events he competed in in 2014 Games in Sochi, Russia. At 35, Davis has had a remarkable international career. It will be interesting to see if he has enough left in the tank to medal one more time in his fourth Olympic Games.

MAAME BINEY – A 17-year-old native of Ghana, she is the first Black woman to qualify for a U.S. Olympic speedskating team. Biney came to visit her dad who was living in the U.S. when she was 5. She decided she liked it and stayed. She began figure-skating at 6, but a coach convinced her to switch to speedskating and the rest is history. She’ll compete in the 500 meters.

ERIN JACKSON – She is third African-American to make the U.S. Olympics team for speedskating. A native of Ocala, Fla., Jackson is a threetime Female Athlete of the Year for roller skating and inline skating. Remarkably, she has only been ice skating for four months.

AJA EVANS – Evans, 29, is another former track and field star who has made a smooth transition to winter sports. Evan, also a Chicagoan, earned a bronze medal in 2014 as a member of the U.S. women’s bobsledding team.

After an unsuccessful bid to make the Summer Olympics in Rio (2016) due to injury, she’s looking for gold in the snow on this year’s bobsledding team.

NIGERIAN WOMEN’S BOBSLED TEAM – Another Winter Olympics first features the first competitors from an African nation. Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga all have athletic roots that started in track and field. Omwmuere competed in the All-African games, and Adigun made it to the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, where she competed in the 100-meter hurdles. When they’re not travelling to cold weather destinations to train, all three of the women make their homes right here in Houston. Even though they’re not on the American team, we’ll Shani Davis be cheering for their success.

Nigerian bobsled team members

Aja Evans

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h.s.zone Gambrell has Madison gunning for playoffs on varsity since he was a freshman and Dashawn has three years on varsity. That’s a ton of experience. halk one up for film study. The “Kylon did a great job for us on the boards Madison High School boys tonight,” Maura said. “That’s one of the few held league-leading Furr games that we’ve actually won the battle of scoreless for the first the boards.” seven minutes of their Gambrell said the team had a difDistrict 24-5A rematch ferent mindset going against Furr the and steamrolled to a 74-49 victory at second time around.

Butler Fieldhouse.

“The first time we played them we Madison head coach Craig Maura lost on careless mistakes from lack of said the playoff-bound Marlins tirehustle and not getting back on defense,” lessly studied film of the first-round he said. loss to Furr and cleaned up some mis“This game we came out prepared takes. “We saw that most of their points to play defense, cut off the baseline, came in the paint,” he said. hustling for rebounds and we were “We tried to make them more energized,” Gambrell score from the outside and said. “We learned from our take the paint away this mistakes.” time. We created some Madison (11-3) trails problems for them,” Furr by one game and Maura said. both teams have two Leading scorer league games remainJeremiah Gambrell (23 ing. Houston Sterling is ppg) scored four of the also still in the hunt for a first eight points for district title.

Madison and had 12 Gambrell has comin the first half as the mitted to Western KenMarlins took a 41-14 tucky after de-committing advantage into interfrom Baylor. The 6-footmission.

2 senior point guard There was no patterns his game after letup in the second Stephen Curry and Kyrie half as Madison led Irving. by as many as 28 “My shot has been points (64-36) followa little off lately but my ing a three-pointer by goal is to shoot like Steph Kevon Green in the and handle like Kyrie,” he fourth quarter. said.

Gambrell scored a Gambrell has been game-high 20 points to playing basketball since he lead a balanced attack was four years old and he that included key concame into his senior year tributions from Green with a spirited game plan.

(12 points), Dashawn “I’m trying to get Birth date - Jan. 12, 2000 Williams (six points), T.J. a state championship for my Birth sign – Capricorn Moore (six points), Ronald team,” he said.

“My freshman Favorite school subject – Math Harleston (18 points) and and sophomore years we lost Favorite food – Nachos Kylon Bryant (8 points). early in the playoffs so I need How he relaxes – Spends time “Jeremiah brings us to up my game and maybe avleadership and he makes us with family and plays video games erage 30 points and 12 assists go,” Maura said. “He’s been to help us go farther.”

World problem he would solve –

C

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

about Jeremiah Gambrell

Crime

FEBRUARY 15 | 2018 | DEFENDER

15

sportsbriefs PVAMU tops attendance In the baseball movie “Field of Dreams,” we heard the phrase, “If you build it, they will come.” That is certainly the case at Prairie View A&M University, where fan support is impressive. Armed with a beautiful state-of-the art athletic complex, the Panthers football program led the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and ranked eighth in attendance nationally in the Football College Subdivision (FCS), according to numbers released by the NCAA. In 2017, the Panthers averaged 17,803 for five home dates, including the State Fair Classic, where PVAMU was the home team last season. The NCAA counts neutral site attendance in matchups of FCS vs. FCS teams. Among HBCUs, only Florida A&M (19,048 average, four games) had a higher attendance.

Rockets add quality depth The Rockets have signed seven-time NBA All-Star Joe Johnson for additional depth as the team eyes the playoffs. Johnson, formerly with Utah, was recently involved in a three-team deal with Cleveland and Sacramento. The Kings reached a buyout with Johnson and now he’s a Rocket. Johnson is familiar with Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni, having played for him in Phoenix (2003-2005). In addition, the Rockets will add front court depth by signing backup center Brandan Wright, previously with the Memphis Grizzlies. At 6-feet-10, Wright will be another big body that can help keep Clint Capela and Nenê fresh by reducing their regular season minutes in preparation for the playoffs.

All-Americans honored Cate Reese of Cypress Woods High School, Charli Collier of Barbers Hill and Queen Egbo of Fort Bend Travis have all been selected for the 17th annual McDonald’s All-American Girls High School Basketball Team.

The local trio will join 21 other team members chosen nationally for the McDonald’s All-American Game set for March 28 at Philips Arena in Atlanta. Both the boys’ and girls’ games will air on ESPN networks. The girls were selected from a nationwide pool of more than 700 nominated high school seniors. Reese, Collier and Egbo were honored with a McDonald’s jersey presentation at their respective schools.

North Forest boys rolling The Class 4A No. 21 state-ranked North Forest High School Bulldogs improved to 8-3 in District 24-4A with a 73-61 victory over Wheatley at Barnett Fieldhouse. Jermaine Drewey led a balanced-scoring attack with 24 points, including a monster dunk in the fourth quarter that brought the crowd to its feet. Demond Demas had 17 and Isaiah Davis finished with 15 and a trio of 3-pointers. The teams were tied at 15-15 following the opening stanza. Drewey and Demas combined to score 16 of the Bulldogs’ 22 points in the second quarter to give the Bulldogs a 37-25 advantage at halftime. Davis tallied seven points in the third quarter to put the Bulldogs up by nine. “We’re battling with Scarborough for second place [behind league-leading Yates] and if we tie, then it will probably come down to a coin flip for playoff seeding,” said North Forest head coach Aaron Proctor. “We’re definitely looking forward to the playoffs.”

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 15 | 2018

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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

MAYOR TURNER’S HISTORY MAKERS……..Mayor Sylvester Turner showcasing over 35 of his works. UHD’s Dr. Doveanna Fulton and Mark teamed with Comcast to host the inaugural Mayor’s History Makers Awards, a Cevenka gave opening remarks followed by Newsum sharing words about his art and Black History Month event honoring 10 community volunteers. The luncheon his calling. Attendees at the overflowing exhibit, which will run through March 29, held at the Houstonian Hotel paid tribute to the honorees’ difference-making included Felicia Harris, Crystal Guillory, Phillip Ellison, Liza Alonzo, Cynthia efforts of volunteerism, mentorship, advocacy and civic engagement. Khambrel Russell, Debora Evans, Reyna Romero, Marvin Butler, Bonita Barnes, Alyssa Marshall served as emcee. Comcast executives Steven A. White and Ray Rebollar, Creshema Murray, Arva Howard, Stennis and Jeta Lenoir, Dune Purser, along with Turner, greeted each awardee – Patten and many more……..MO CITY 2018 BLACK HISTORY Barbara Curtis, Pamela Joubert Davis, Marilyn MONTH CELEBRATION……..The 2018 Missouri City Black Defender TOP EVENTS Douglas-Jones, Carol Freeman, Dr. Bernard Harris History Month Celebration, a two-day affair, was an undeniable More photos on defendernetwork.com Jr., Dr. Bobbie Henderson, Elexa Orrange, Michael success. A dance showcase featuring the Fort Bend Academy of Arts Pearson, Christina Porter and Dr. Thomas F. Freeman, & Dance, Stomp Out HIV/AIDS Step Show, hip-hop entertainment, winner of the Living Legend Award. Ashley Turner, City Councilmember Jerry panel discussions on education and economic empowerment, food trucks and more Davis, Laura Mayorga, Michael Bybee, Misha McClure, Ashley Small, State were enjoyed by those in attendance including Mayor Allen Owen, Fort Bend County Rep. Ron Reynolds, Michael Harris and many others attended as well……..

Commissioner Grady Prestage, State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Councilmember Jeffrey FLOYD NEWSUM EXHIBIT….. The University of Houston-Downtown’s Boney, Tammy Boutte, Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre, Dr. O’Kane Gallery hosted an opening reception for “Floyd Newsum: A Survey–1970 Madeline Burillo-Hopkins, Janice Edwards, Anthony Snipes, Fheryl Prestage, to 2018.” The event celebrated the renowned art of UHD professor Floyd Newsum, Sola Oyewuwo, Cheryl Dixon, Adrianna Nixon, Troy Carter and scores more.

Steven A. White, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Ray Purser

Floyd Newsum, Dr. Doveanna Fulton, Mark Cervenka

Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen, Commissioner Grady Prestage

Theresa Porter, Christina Porter

Johnathan Leonard, Creshema Murray

Angel Patton, Dawn Hurd, Danielle Green, Cheryl Dixon

Vanessa Reed, Michael Harris, Lucy Bremond

Dune Patten, LaShawn Morrison, Victor Taylor

Madison Akindele, Faith Marshall, Chloe Marshall

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