Houston Defender: February 19, 2015

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NATIONAL JULIÁN CASTRO promotes Internet for poor

P3 ENTERTAINMENT CRAIG ROBINSON stars in ‘Hot Tub’ sequel

P5 HS ZONE

OBAMA TALKS BLACK Black college supporters upset H PAGES 3

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Chris Preston

Danuel House

Missouri City Councilmember Chris Preston strives to be a catalyst for change in the Houston area and beyond. Hear what he says about young people making a difference. Meet three other up-and-coming Houstonians committed to their communities.

Former Fort Bend Hightower AllAmerican Danuel House began his college basketball career at the University of Houston, but has gotten a fresh start at Texas A&M University. Learn why he decided to move on. Find out about his impressive season.

promotes change

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CURTLON WESLEY holds double distinction

TOP EVENTS

scores for A&M

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Miss Black Texas and J-Mac at State of Black Houston forum

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015

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newstalk

Grier gives State of the Schools

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lacing a strong emacademic success, but also phasis on college readies them to compete attendance and globally. completion, HISD “In HISD, we have Superintendent Terry Grier global expectations for our unveiled plans to expand graduates,” Grier said. “These the district’s EMERGE are not your grandparents’ program and double the schools. These are schools number of college counselin which students are being ors available to high school placed on a path toward bilinstudents. gualism and life skills.”

Grier announced Grier also pointed to the the plans during his district’s efforts to implement sixth annual State of the Linked Learning, a philosoSchools address, which phy that combines rigorous was attended by educators, academics with exposure to administrators, community real-world professions and is members and public school currently offered at eight of supporters.

HISD’s high school feeder The district plans to patterns. use a $5.5 million grant Grier said the concept provided by Houston would be expanded to an Endowment to expand additional 10 high schools EMERGE, which now next year, with the remainserves 25 high schools, to ing balance of high schools all 45 high schools. coming on board the followA $3 million matching year. ing grant from Houston The district’s achieveEndowment will be used ments included: to deploy 28 new college • Last year, HISD HISD Superintendent Dr. Terry Grier shares his plans for the district in 2015 and beyond. counselors to campuses students passed 8,248 collegeacross the district as part of level Advanced Placement efforts to boost college attendance rates by 20 percent over exams, an 80 percent increase from 2007. the next three years.

• Since 2007, HISD has doubled the number of stuThroughout his speech, Grier focused on the imdents taking the SAT. portance of increasing academic achievement. He said • Last year, HISD seniors were offered $255 million in providing students with a global education not only ensures scholarships, up from $51 million in 2009.

New Metro network gets green light The Metro board of directors recently approved a complete revamp of the local bus system. According to the transit agency, its system reimagining plan will offer a better match with where Houstonians live, work, play and learn.

It is designed to be simpler and more frequent with seven-day-a-week service connecting more places faster.

“The bus system is the bedrock of Metro and this new system is going to be great,” said Board Chairman Gilbert Garcia. “Ultimately, it’s a lot of work and I’m grateful to everyone who rolled up their sleeves and did it.”

“The reason I have been pushing this plan is because I am a bus rider,” said Board Member Christof Spieler. “This is transformative. This is the most important thing any city can do to improve their transit system.”

“It’s a good foundation for transit growth,” said Metro President & CEO Tom Lambert. “It’s an improved map and improved network because of engagement with the community.”

The new bus network will be ready to implement in August 2015. Changes include: • Late-day service expansion, minimizing name and number changes • An additional $9.3 million for route changes and later service • Improved connections from Northeast Houston to jobs at Bush Intercontinental Airport • A color-coded frequent network in which customers will know, without a schedule, that service runs every 15 minutes or better

localbriefs UNINSURED TEXANS who started the Affordable Care Act enrollment process through the Health Insurance Marketplace but were unable to finish due to an issue online or with the enrollment hotline will have until Feb. 22 to complete their application (the original deadline was Feb. 15). The special enrollment period means Texans who are currently uninsured may still be able to select a plan that will begin March 1. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit www. healthcare.gov or www.getcoveredamerica.org/ connector........A TEXAS JUDGE issued a temporary court order stopping President Obama’s executive action that bypassed Congress and sought to shield

millions of illegal immigrants from deportation. U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen in Brownsville left in disarray U.S. policy toward the estimated 11 million people illegally in the United States. Hanen sided with Texas and 25 other states that filed a lawsuit opposing Obama’s initiatives. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton hailed the ruling as a “victory for the rule of law in America and a crucial first step in reining in President Obama’s lawlessness.” Houston State Sen. Sylvia Garcia said the ruling was a setback not only for the Latino and immigrant communities, but the entire State of Texas. “The estimated 594,000 Texas immigrants that would benefit from the President’s

executive action would increase Texas’s tax revenues by $338 million over the next five years, while creating a surge of economic benefits to local economies,” Garcia said. The administration said it would appeal the ruling……..MINORITY STUDENTS who want to attend law school are invited to apply to the Diversity Legal Scholars (DLS) program offered by Texas Appleseed, a non-profit that promotes social and economic justice. DLS provides LSAT preparation assistance and mentoring and covers preparation course costs. The deadline to apply is Saturday, Feb. 28, which means students must plan to take the LSAT on June 8. Visit www.TexasAppleseed.net.

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FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs U.S. STUDENTS ARE GRADUATING from high school at a higher rate than ever before, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The nation’s high school graduation rate hit 81 percent in 2012-13, the highest level since states adopted a new uniform way of calculating graduation rates five years ago. “America’s students have achieved another record-setting milestone,” Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “We can take pride as a nation in knowing that we’re seeing promising gains, including for students of color.” Duncan credited students, their parents, teachers and principals for the improvements........

BLACKS ACCOUNT FOR MORE than one-third (36 percent) of the jail population, and the system is often overlooked by the public and misused by law enforcement according to a new report from the Vera Institute of Justice, a nonpartisan research and policy group. The report, titled, “Incarceration’s Front Door: The Misuse of Jails in America,” details the practices and policies that funnel a disproportionate number of Black men and women in and out of jails. Unlike state prisons, which almost exclusively hold people serving state sentences, jail populations are more diverse, making them particularly challenging to manage. “The misuse of jails is neither inevitable nor irreversible. To both scale back and improve how jails are used in a sustainable way, localities must engage all justice system actors in collaborative study and action,” the report stated……..A 26-YEAR-OLD MOTHER OF FOUR who won an estimated $188 million Powerball prize said she will set up a college fund for her children, buy a home and give back to her church. Marie Holmes of North Carolina previously worked at McDonald’s and Walmart but quit work to care for her children, one of whom has cerebral palsy.

Holmes said she was in the process of looking for a new job when she won the lottery.

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Obama meets with Black caucus, some upset

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uring a meeting at the White House, President Obama and members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) discussed such as issues as criminal justice, unemployment and the economy.

Some lawmakers, however, were troubled by Obama’s comments about Black colleges. They said that Obama felt the focus of HBCUs should be on colleges changing their ways of doing business rather than on changes in federal policy. He was specifically President Obama discusses pressing issues with Congressional Black Caucus critical of graduation rates and members. loan policies.

“As if we needed any more “I was concerned about what the President said evidence, President Obama’s recent meeting with because it feeds into a narrative about the value of members of the Congressional Black Caucus rethese institutions and whether they are [equipped] to vealed a deep-seated hostility toward the plight of educate our students and what the cost is for doing so. struggling HBCUs,” said NNPA columnist George “Many of these institutions have not had mainCurry in an editorial. tenance of effort on the part of states or the federal U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson of Georgia, a gradugovernment and over time that wears on their ability ate of Clark Atlanta University, told blogger Lauren to maintain standards or even advance beyond a cerVictoria Burke that Obama said there were some tain level. It was very clear that he doesn’t have the HBCUs that were not good at graduating students same level of appreciation for what these institutions and if they did not improve they would have to go have done and could do in the future given the right by the wayside. support systems.”

“In other words he didn’t show much empathy Obama acknowledged the hard work and persefor struggling HBCUs,” Johnson said. “It was like verance demonstrated by the CBC to address pressing show me the numbers and if the numbers aren’t issues. He expressed concern regarding the Black unemployment rate and said he was committed to where they need to be, that’s it. It was a somewhat policies that will help hardworking families make callous view of the unique niche HBCUs fill.” ends meet.

U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke of New York said,

HUD chief seeks broadband access for poor VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 12 FEBRUARY 19, 2015

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall

Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

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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Julián Castro, the secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, wants to provide broadband access to public housing residents in an effort to increase socioeconomic mobility among poor and low-income families.

“We think [broadband access] is important because the world requires a connection to the Internet now,” Castro said.

HUD wants to launch the program, which is still in its early planning stages, in 20 major metropolitan areas working with private sector telecommunication companies to wire the communities or provide wire-

less in a free or very low-cost way.

Castro said that in most public housing communities, there is no connectivity.

According to a 2014 report by the Pew Research Center, most households with incomes below $20,000, “do not have an Internet subscription for a computer, cell phone or other device, though they may have free access at a local library or elsewhere.” Roughly 25 million American households, “have no regular Internet access at all, either at home or elsewhere.”

Castro said that a respectable number of people have Internet connection through their cell phones, but it’s not the same as having access in your home where it’s more stable.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 defendernetwork.com

Black history calendar Saturday, Feb. 21

The African American Library at the Gregory School presents a program in conjunction with the exhibit Organized Love: Ideas on Non-Violence at 2 p.m. at 1300 Victor. Participating artists will discuss the processes for creating their works in the exhibition and there will be readings by Thomas Meloncon and Garry Reece.

Contact: www.houstonlibrary.org or 832-393-1313.

Sunday, Feb. 22

Antioch Missionary Baptist Church celebrates its 149th church anniversary and kicks off its 150th year church sesquicentennial celebration at 10:15 a.m. at 500 Clay. Guest speaker is Dr. John “Bobby” Adolph of Beaumont. Contact: www.antiochdowntown.org or 713-652-0738.

The Community Music Center of Houston hosts a free Black History Month Concert at 5 p.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 3530 Wheeler. It features Spirituals, classical and popular music styles, and a performance by the Scott Joplin Youth Orchestra. Contact: cmchouston.org or 713-523-9710.

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Thursday, Feb. 26

The Houston Public Library hosts author and illustrator Don Tate’s presentation of “My Two Hats.” It will be held at 9:30 a.m. at Carnegie Library, 1050 Quitman; 1 p.m. at McCrane-Kashmere Gardens Library, 5411 Pardee; and at 6 p.m. at Parent Resource Library at the Children’s Museum of Houston, 1500 Binz. Tate is known for his critically acclaimed children’s books. Contact: www.houstonlibrary. org or 832-393-1313.

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Continued on Page 9

Tickets are still available for the following performances: Tuesday

3 Eric Church Value Wednesday

Hunter Hayes Thursday

5 Miranda Lambert Friday

6 John Legend Saturday

7 Alan Jackson Sunday

8 Fall Out Boy Monday

Celebrate Black Heritage Day,

9 Justin Moore Tuesday

10 Tim McGraw Value Wednesday

with special exhibits and events,

11 Brantley Gilbert

Friday, March 6,

12 Zac Brown Band

sponsored by Kroger.

rodeohouston.com

John Legend

Thursday

1 15

Saturday

Billy Currington Sunday

La Arrolladora Banda El Limón and La Maquinaria Norteña

Monday

16 Dierks Bentley Value Wednesday

18 Florida Georgia Line Friday

20 The Band Perry

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FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Craig Robinson

stars in ‘Hot Tub Time Machine 2’ last time. The familiarity was wonderful.

KW: Did you worry about raig Robinson is best running the risk of being known for his role as emtypecast by agreeing to do the ployee Darryl Philbin on sequel?

NBC’s Emmy-winning CR: Not at all. I’ve been sitcom “The Office.” Yet regardless typecast already. I was first of the role, he is definitely a world typecast after playing a bouncer in away from his original career “Knocked Up.” Right away, I had intentions. four or five offers to play another Before deciding to pursue his bouncer. People kept saying, “Hey comedy career full time, Robinman, I got this role for you as a son was a teacher in the Chicago bouncer.” But in my mind, I was public school system. He earned thinking, “Well, I’ve done that.” his undergraduate degree from Then, when I was playing Illinois State University and his Darryl on “The Office,” some master’s in education from St. people started hating on me, sayXavier University. ing I was best in small doses after It was while studying educaCraig Robinson is joined by (l. to r.) Adam Scott, Rob Corddry and Clark Duke in “Hot Tub Time Machine 2.” a publication announced that I had tion that he discovered his love of KW: What was the primary challenge you faced landed a lead in a movie. So, I’m not acting and comedy when he joined the famed Second in getting back into the hot tub? going to worry about being typecast, I’m just going to City Theatre.

CR: With the addition of Adam Scott to the princontinue doing what I do.

As a stand-up comic, Robinson first made a cipal cast, the primary challenge was whether there KW: You made a pilot for a TV series called splash at the 1998 “Just for Laughs” Festival in would be chemistry. But that worry quickly changed “Mr. Robinson.” When’s the show coming on?

Montreal. That year, he also won the Miller Genuine to “Oh, it’s on!” So, the initial concern was about CR: We don’t have an air date yet, but we’ve Draft Comedy Search. what was going to happen. Besides that, the heat was already taped the premiere and the second episode in He went on to perform on “The Jimmy Kimmel an issue at times, since we shot in New Orleans for a front of a live studio audience. We’re having a blast.

Show” and on “Real Time with Bill Maher.” Now couple months.

It’s about me as a substitute music teacher whose first headlining venues and festivals across the country, KW: What was it like getting back together with love is playing with my band. he performs solo acts as well as sets with his sevendirector Steve Pink and your co-stars Rob Corddry We use my actual band, the Nasty Delicious. And piece band, the Nasty Delicious. and Clark Duke? you get introduced to my childhood sweetheart from Success on “The Office” led to roles in films CR: There’s nothing but love and trust there, so it many years ago. She’s now a teacher at our old high such “Knocked Up,” “Pineapple Express” and “Zack was great. It was like being with friends, with people school. I start subbing there just to be near her, but I and Miri Make a Porno.” you already know. So, you have a sense of what fall in love with the school and I’m so good with the Here, he talks about reprising the role of Nick in makes each other tick and what makes each other kids that I’m offered a permanent position. I take the “Hot Tub Time Machine 2,” a sci-fi comedy. laugh. Plus you bring along what you’ve learned since job, and hijinks ensue.

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

C

what’sup BET celebrates Black excellence with the eighth annual “The BET Honors” special on Monday, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. WAYNE BRADY is the host.

The honorees are USHER, KANYE WEST, PHYLICIA RASHAD, former Spelman College President Dr. JOHNNETTA B. COLE and Microsoft Chairman JOHN W. THOMPSON. Performers and presenters include MARY J. BLIGE, NE-YO, ANTHONY ANDERSON, CHARLIE WILSON, JILL SCOTT, K. MICHELLE, PATTI LABELLE, DIAHANN CARROLL and TREY SONGZ……..“Focus,” the new drama starring WILL SMITH, hits theaters on Feb. 27. Smith portrays a veteran con

artist who takes a novice (MARGOT ROBBIE) under his wing. Things get complicated when they become romantically involved. Smith admitted that his wife, JADA PINKETT SMITH, encouraged him to get fit for the film. “She looked at Margot and said, ‘Do not embarrass me on camera with that girl. Get yourself together.’ ” Smith, 46, said it’s harder to get in shape for roles but he enjoys working out. “I love it. I enjoy the discipline of it. For me, working on your body is the beginning of everything; your mind starts to work better, you’re a better husband, father, friend and life is just better when you care for your body at the highest level,” he said.……..

DRAKE recently released a surprise album on iTunes titled “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” It includes 17 tracks and features LIL WAYNE, TRAVI$ SCOTT and Canadian singer PARTYNEXTDOOR……..NICKI MINAJ continues to occupy the No. 1 spot for streaming on the Billboard Top 200 Chart with her album “The Pinkprint.” The album has also dominated the Billboard Rap Chart for five weeks………

LANCE GROSS, known for his roles on NBC’s Crisis and TYLER PERRY’S “House of Payne,” is preparing to shoot a new pilot for NBC titled “Warrior.” Gross will portray an Interpol agent and former Navy SEAL.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015

Anita Barksdale

YOU PEO

Age: 34 Education: B.B.A., Computer Based Information Systems, Howard University; J.D., Georgetown University Law Center Position: Employee Relations & Compliance, CHI St. Luke’s Health Involvement: American Bar Association, United Way Young Leaders, Houston Lawyers Association Foundation, Texas Young Lawyers Association board member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. board member

Q: What are the opportunities and challenges facing a young people-led revolution?

A: The biggest challenge is being strategic. The Civil Rights Movement had key people doing key work in key areas so that the end result would be obtaining the goals they envisioned. Even when unexpected work in the movement happened, the movement was able to quickly adjust and incorporate that into their greater plan. Youth could learn a lot about how to politically plan and navigate from older revolutions in order to effectuate change.

Q: Why are young people so important to enact change in America?

A: Young people dream bigger dreams.

As you age, your experiences shape how you view the world. When you’re young, anything is possible. We need people who dream and have vision in order to show us hope.

Q: What will it take to mobilize young African-Americans to effect change?

A: Education. We need to educate ourselves about who we are, how to strategize and implement action plans, what injustices we face, the right avenues to address those injustices, how to motivate and influence others, and how to strengthen our mindset to withstand the trials that will come with the work that we are trying to engage in.

We survived slavery and segregation, but now we need to address laws that are “equal” on their face but “unequal” in their application.

In order to do that, we need to change how people are held accountable for equality and eventually change people’s mindsets so when they view others they view an equal. This is tough work, but when you are young, gifted and educated, you can mobilize yourself by influencing others to strive toward real change.

Edward Pollard Q: How does your community involvement help fight social injustice?

A: The more people who speak out on issues that affect our community, the more serious lawmakers and the general public will take us. There is power in numbers. Numbers show influence and strength and I know if we participate and stay engaged in fighting social injustices, then collectively it will make us stronger.

Q: Why are young people so important to enact change in America?

A: Young people are the future of this country, and as such, we have substantial stake in the

landscape of American culture going forward. Without a youth component of advocacy, seniors may be enacting change that young people may not agree with but young people will be left to live with. There should always be a balance in any effort to include everyone and have multiple voices at the table, both young and old.

Q: What will it take to mobilize young African-Americans to effect change?

A: It starts at home, and then at school. Our young people should be getting the fundamental principles of how and why or government operates and the importance of voting and being

CATALYSTS F

By LAGLORIA Defe

February is the time when we c by recognizing African-American they helped build the foundation down with four up-and-coming H and other young people can becom add another chapt

Age: 30 Education: B.A., Political Science, Morehouse College; J.D., Thurgood Marshall School of Law Position: Attorney, Harris Law Firm Involvement: Houston Black American Democrats president, Leadership Houston, Suits For Success, Harris County Democratic Lawyers Association, Tejano Democrats, Sharpstown Democrats, Antioch Baptist Church Brotherhood, Morehouse College Houston Alumni Association

engaged from their parents and teachers. I am also a realist and I know young people are impressionable, especially by what they see on television and hear on the radio.

As such, it would be great to see some

of our most popular athletes and entertainers, those who the youth look up to, stand up and speak out on social issues. By doing so, it will make things such as voting “the cool thing to do.”

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

erfold

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Chris Preston

UNG OPLE

FOR CHANGE

A WHEATFALL ender

commemorate Black History Month n contributions in the past and how n for our future. The Defender sat Houston leaders to discuss how they me catalysts for change and one day ter to Black history.

Kaleb Taylor Q: Why are young people so important to enact change in America?

A: Recently, I asked a pastor why he wasn’t more involved in the demonstrations and protests. He told me that he supported us and that we were an inspiration, but he had simply gotten too old. This is one of the reasons why youth are necessary to bring about change. Young people have the energy, fire and determination to really take to the streets and demand justice.

Q: The saying, “A youth-less revolution is a use-less revolution” has become a theme. Do you agree or not?

A: I agree completely. In every movement worldwide it is always young people who take the lead.

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College students have led protests and demonstrations for democracy in Hong Kong. In the Arab spring demonstrations it was primarily young people who led the way.

Malcolm X was in his 20s when he gained nationwide attention. Martin Luther King Jr. was only 26 years old when he led the Montgomery Bus Boycott…If this movement is going to be effective, the older generation must help mobilize youth. The torch must be passed from generation to generation to keep the flame of liberty and justice lit for all ages.

Q: What will it take to mobilize young African-Americans?

A: For young African-Americans to bring about change they must first learn to look past the surface.

This generation has not had first-

he Houston area for over 80 years

Age: 28 Education: B.A., Political Science, Morehouse College Position: Missouri City At-Large Councilmember; Economic Development Committee chair, Interlocal Relations Committee member Involvement: Emerging Ambassadors founder and executive director, NAACP, Habitat for Humanity, Ft. Bend Women’s Shelter

Q: Why are young people so important to enact change in America?

A: Youth symbolize the future, not just in America, but also around the world.

The youth of the world are, and always will be, the most critical link in fostering a better and brighter tomorrow.

Q. What will it take to mobilize young African-Americans to effect change?

A. It takes showing those disengaged how much their voice, ideas and futures matter. More importantly, it takes their

communities taking time to listen and willingness from the old guard to embrace the younger generation.

Q. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s message is more relevant today than ever. What can youth do to continue his legacy?

A. Make a personal commitment to contribute toward the greater good of society by assisting the downtrodden in reaching a higher educational, economic and social standard in our society.

defendernetwork.com

Young Black Houston leaders speak about the struggle http://defendernetwork.com/videos/2015/feb/18/1615/

Age: 21 Education: Political science/ pre-law major, Texas Southern University Position: Student activist Involvement: Pre-Law Society vice-president, Political Science Club treasurer, Collegiate 100 Black Men of America Education Committee co-chair, Texas NAACP Education Committee member

hand experience with segregation and publicly supported racism. Just because racism isn’t in your face anymore doesn’t mean it’s not still there. Our schools and neighborhoods are more segregated now than they were back in

the ‘60s. When a grand jury decides that taking an unarmed young Black man’s life is lawful, that’s just as bad…When Black people begin to realize how alive and real racism still is in this country, I believe we will see change.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 defendernetwork.com

Comcast celebrates innovators During Black History Month, Comcast is highlighting the work of African-American technology entrepreneurs and content creators.

Comcast is featuring a special collection of programming across Xfinity TV platforms.

The celebration will culminate on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. with a two-part, livestreamed online talk show featuring a panel of rising stars making an impact in the world of tech and content.

The talk show will be accessible to all on Xfinity.com/celebrateblacktv.

“We are thrilled to focus this Black History Month on the contributions of entrepreneurs and innovators in the African-American community who are making history today,” said Keesha Boyd, executive director of Multicultural Consumer Services.

“Highlighted in our special programming and throughout our celebration are some of the best creative and pioneering minds in tech and entertainment. Comcast’s goal is to support their efforts and create an opportunity for our customers to learn more through their dynamic stories.”

Presented by Xfinity and moderated by MSNBC’s Touré, the panel will showcase innovators who will discuss the challenges and successes of pushing boundaries in tech, TV and film.

Featured entrepreneurs include Kimberly Bryant, founder, Black Girls Code; Matthew Burnett, co-founder, Makers Row; Luvvie Ajai, founder, AwesomelyTechie.com and AwesomelyLuvvie.com; and Angela Benton, founder/CEO, NewME Accelerator.

The second segment will content creators, including Smokey Fontaine, chief content /creative officer, InteractiveOne; Eunique Jones Gibson, founder, Because of Them We Can; Courtney Kemp-Agboh, showrunner for “Power” on Starz; and Baratunde Thurston, co-host, TakePart Live, and CEO/co-founder of Cultivated Wit. In addition, Xfinity offers a collection of Black History Month programming with a special focus on content featuring AfricanAmerican icons who have achieved historic firsts.

All programming will be featured on Xfinity’s Celebrate Black TV website and on Xfinity On Demand, with select content available on mobile devices via the Xfinity TV Go app.

Comcast is also expanding “His Dream Our Stories” – launched in 2013 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington – with new interviews and an extended collection of videos that will feature key moments in civil rights history.

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YOUR PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE.

VALID 2/20 ’TIL 2PM OR 2/21/15 ’TIL 2PM. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER. Also excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic apparel, shoes and accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services, macys. com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

VALID 2/20 ’TIL 2PM OR 2/21/15 ’TIL 2PM. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER. Also excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic apparel, shoes and accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services, macys.com.

Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $50 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 2/20 & 2/21/2015.

OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

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FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER Bun B will be a spelling bee celebrity participant on Feb. 28 at Houston Community College.

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classifieds HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

The Houston Independent School District located in the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center at 4400 West 18 th Street Houston, Texas 77092 will accept proposals, until the stated date and time deadlines, in the Board Services Office, Level C1. 

Project 15-02-02 – Beverage Drink Dispensary & Machines (Nutrition Services) – with a deadline of 2 P.M. March 3, 2015.

The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 2C04 at the above stated address on February 19, 2015 at 3:00 P.M.

Proposals are available on the HISD web-site at www.houstonisd.org.

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or, to accept the proposal that is most advantageous to the District.

The District sells obsolete assets on-line at www.PublicSurplus.com.

Black History Calendar... Continued from page 4 The University of Houston African American Studies presents a screening of the film “Blacklock” at 11:30 a.m. at Agnes Arnold Hall 628. The film is produced and directed by UH graduate Dana Maule. Contact: www.uh.edu/ class/aas/ or 713-743-2811.

Saturday, Feb. 28

The African American National Spelling Bee Championships, Inc. will host a spelling bee at 10 a.m. at Houston Community College Heinen Theater, 3517 Austin.

Middle-school students from Houston, Alief and Fort Bend ISDs will compete for scholarships and prizes. Grammynominated hip hop artist Bun B will be a celebrity participant. José Griñan of “Fox 26 Morning News” is the master

of ceremonies. Contact: www.bee-aboutit.org.

The Houston Symphony and Fisk University Alumni Association present a “Choral Celebration of Black History Month” featuring the CityWide Grassroots Chorus and the renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers at 2 p.m. at Wortham Center’s Cullen Theater, 500 Texas Ave. Admission is free but tickets are required and are limited. Contact: www. houstonsymphony.org or 713-224-7575.

The African American Library at the Gregory School presents a discussion titled Du Bois Was Wrong: The Problem of the 20th and 21st Century is the Color Line at 2 p.m. at 1300 Victor. The discussion will be led by Dr. James Jones III, an instructor in Prairie View A&M University’s History Department. A reception will follow. Contact: www. houstonlibrary.org or 832-393-1313.

MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY will be accepting qualifications for the following:

Catered Food for Agency Meetings Specifications may be secured from MHMRA of Harris County, Purchasing Department located at 7011 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100 in Houston, Texas 77074 and/or via MHMRA website www.mhmraharris.org beginning Tuesday, February 24, 2015.

Qualification responses must be submitted to Purchasing Department, Room 100, 7011 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 on Tuesday, March 17, 2015 by 2:00 p.m., in a sealed envelope. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Joycie Adeyemi, Buyer II / Sharon Brauner, Buyer III, via fax (713) 970-7682 or email questions to joycie.adeyemi@mhmraharris.org cc: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org. MHMRA reserves the rights to reject any and/or all proposals it deems to be in its best interests, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015

sports

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Danuel House

House stars at A&M

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By MAX EDISON Defender

ocal recruit Danuel House was supposed to help turn the University of Houston Cougar basketball program around. House, a 6-foot-7 small forward from Fort Bend Hightower, was a high school All-American with an outgoing personality who wanted to stay close to home.

Unfortunately for the Cougar faithful, UH coach James Dickey was not the guy to guide the program back to prominence, and after four years Dickey (64-62) resigned. After two years of success at UH House decided to move on as well.

“I left U of H to start over,” House said.

“The people who recruited me moved on. A lot of my teammates were leaving. It just seemed like going somewhere new and rededicating myself to the game was the best option for me.”

With the former Conference USA Freshman of the Year pondering his next move, there was no shortage of suitors. Rumors were rampant that House was heading west to UCLA. At the end of the day House did go west – to Texas A&M University in College Station.

“I really liked the coaching staff,” he said of his decision to become an Aggie. “Rick Stansbury [assistant coach] recruited me and I knew about his history previously at Mississippi State winning two SEC titles,” House said. “[Head coach Billy Kennedy] had success at Murray State. Together they sold me on their vision for the program and what my role could be. Plus I knew the program had enjoyed some recent success with guys like Acie Law, DeAndre Jordan and Chris Middleton.”

Not only did House change schools, but he also changed conferences, with the Aggies playing in the SEC, which has spawned numerous national champs and a different brand of basketball.

“The SEC is really, really physical,” House said.

“I’ve put on weight since I’ve been here to prepare me for the difference in the style of play. We’ve got a great strength coach here in Darby Rich who has helped me prepare my body for SEC competition. I can tell the difference when I play, whether it’s playing defense, boxing out or leaping to get a rebound.”

Texas A&M has been one of the surprise teams in the SEC this season and House has been a major contributor. He leads the team in scoring, averaging 15.6 points per game, fourth in the SEC. He was recently named SEC Player of the Week. The Aggies are currently in third place in the SEC standings behind undefeated Kentucky and Arkansas.

“I think we’re a really good team that a lot folks thought was going to be just average,” House said.

“Our team has been successful because our guys know

their roles and they stick to what they do best. We work very hard in practice and guys know the payoff.”

The “payoff” for the Aggies would be a high seed heading into the SEC tournament and an opportunity to punch their ticket for March Madness.

“It’s been three years since we made the tournament,” House said. “We want to get to the tournament and see if we can make a run. It would give me and my teammates an opportunity to showcase our talent and skills.”

With three years of consistent progress under his belt one couldn’t blame House for having an eye on the NBA and projecting his skillset to the next level. House, however remains focused on the task at hand, namely performing well in the SEC tourney and getting a bid to March Madness.

“It’s too soon to think about [the NBA],” he said.

“There are a lot of games left in the SEC to play. I don’t want to leave college as a person who never went to the NCAA tournament. If I were to decide to leave I want to leave my school with a winning rep, a rep defined by hard work, dedication and making it to the tournament.”

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House, who leads the Aggies in scoring, was an All-American at Fort Bend Hightower High School.

(Photos courtesy Texas A&M Athletics)

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h.s.zone

FEBRUARY 19 | 2015 DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Madison halts Yates’ streak

Sterling High’s Wesley holds double distinction defense.

“We try to play as a family and enjoy each other’s success rather than play for urtlon Wesley bears a double distincindividual success,” said Wesley, who avertion at Houston’s Ross Shaw Sterling ages a double-double in points and rebounds.

High School. Wesley is one of the “That’s the importance of helping each other big men on campus and commands on defense. an even larger presence on the basketball “I realize that I have an important court. Here are the particulars. place on the team, but we all have The student body voted him important roles and it’s not just Mr. Sterling for the school’s me, it’s everybody,” he said. homecoming festivities last Against district rivals fall. And as a 6-foot-6 starting Wheatley, Booker T. Washforward on the boys’ varington, Kashmere, Worthing, sity basketball team that was Scarborough and Furr, Wesranked No. 2 in the state by ley heard a ton of verbiage the latest Texas Association of directed his way, some of Basketball Coaches (TABC) it rather unflattering.

Class 4A poll, Wesley may “I try to keep my be the team’s most valuable ears from dwelling on member according to head the negative,” he said. coach Andrea Young.

“I have a job to do “He brings toughness, a and that is to focus rebounding presence, an inon making us a better side presence and a defensive team. I can’t do that if I’m presence,” said Young, who in foul trouble or reacting to what guided his team to 21 victories the other teams are saying to me.” in 27 outings, including an unWesley credits Albert Birth sign - Sagittarius defeated mark in District 22-4A. Thomas Middle School coach “We filter everything around him.

Favorite color - Red Ronald Revis with jump-starting “As I often say, as he will go, his basketball career in the sixth Favorite subject - Science the team will go,” Young said. grade with the Houston Rock Possible college major – “He doesn’t necessarily have to Starz summer team. “Before that I Criminal justice score for us because teams are alwas just running up and down the ways double teaming him. When Favorite meal – French toast court,” he said. that happens, he passes the ball Now Wesley provides the World problem to solve – well and finds the open man. total package with his hustle, End all wars “We have three or four good determination, shot-blocking, Favorite pastime – shooters around him so when rebounding, passing and shooting we establish that inside presence Listening to music skills. Other key Sterling players and shoot well from the outside, include Avery Ragland, Joshua we’re tough to beat.”

Young, Corey Burks and Reginald Wesley came into his senior season highly touted Mitchell. and already the recipient of a college scholarship from “As we head into the playoffs, we need Wesley the University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio. He to calm down and play a little more under control,” realizes that every time he steps on the court, there’s a Young said. “He has to realize how valuable he is to massive target on his back. us and can’t play into our opponent’s hands.

“Coming into the season I just wanted to crash the “He’s got to understand that our opponents want boards every game and to play good defense,” he said. to take him away from us. They’re targeting him first “I wasn’t worried about my and then worrying about offense because we have a everybody else,” Young bunch of offensive players said. “Once he gets that Read how HISD honored late Yates on our team. The key to understanding, we’ll be coach Booker our success is playing good alright.”

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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

Facts about Curtlon Wesley

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The last time the Yates boys’ varsity basketball team lost a district game was on Jan. 31, 2007 to Booker T. Washington. Yet Yates won its final seven district games that season and the streak was underway. Greg Wise took over as the Yates head coach the following season and the Lions went 12-0. The next six seasons Yates went 14-0 in district play and advanced to the state tournament five times. The Lions won the first 11 district games this season (2014-15), including the first matchup with Madison, before the inevitable occurred. Madison recently upended Yates 83-70 behind a dominant performance from 6-foot-10 center Chris Harris (26 points, 10 rebounds, seven blocked shots) and the streak ended at 114 consecutive games.

Yates won back-to-back state titles in 2009 and 2010. The UIL awarded the Lions state championships in 2013 and 2014 when Dallas Madison forfeited.

Willowridge grad inducted Willowridge High School alumnus Gregory Parker was recently inducted posthumously into the Brown University Athletics’ Hall of Fame. Parker graduated from Willowridge in 1993 where he was a four-year letterman in football, basketball and baseball. While at Brown Parker played cornerback for the Bears’ football team from 1993 to 1996. Parker earned All-Ivy League honors three years, was selected All-American following his junior season and was named All-New England after his senior year. Parker shares the Brown University career interception record with 14. Parker died in 2006. His mother, Brenda Parker, accepted the award on behalf of her son.

Beverley wins challenge Congratulations go to Rockets point guard Patrick Beverley for winning the Taco Bell Skills Challenge during the NBA All-Star weekend.

Beverley is a great example of how it’s not when you get called as long as you get called.

Beverley was a late add-on to replace Washington Wizards point guard John Wall. Beverley came from behind in the semi-finals to defeat Atlanta’s Jeff Teague who had a big lead, but couldn’t hit the final three-pointer to clinch a ticket to the finals. Beverley defeated Milwaukee’s Brandon Knight to win the championship.

Once again Beverley came from behind after struggling in the passing portion of the challenge, but he was able to hit the big shot when it mattered.

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao?

The rumors continue to swirl that there has been an agreement reached for Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao to finally meet in the ring. The fight that fans have been anxiously waiting on for the last seven years is reported to be a $250-million payday. “Money” Mayweather is undefeated as a pro. Pacquiao’s record is 57-5-2. The fight is reported to be set for Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 2. Sources have indicated that most major issues, such as how to split the purse and pre-fight drug-testing, have already been decided. When questioned at the NBA All-Star game, Mayweather seemed optimistic. “It’s just been speculations and rumors. But hopefully we can make the fight happen,” Mayweather said.

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DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 19 | 2015

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

topevents

STATE OF BLACK HOUSTON……..The Houston Justice Coalition in conjunction community such as the importance of voting, how to react when interacting with law with the Houston Urban League and the NAACP-Houston Branch hosted a forum enforcement and education. Those in attendance included Michael Harris, Michael with notable Houstonians for a panel discussion on the state of Black Houston in Darby, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, Houston Black American Democrats President 2015. Topics ranged from criminal justice reform to understanding the modern Black Edward Pollard, Warren Luckett, Errol Allen II, Richard Chappell, Shari Bihm, family model, the local political arena and Black portrayals in the media. Guests had Jeff Nwabeke, Karen Y. Baker, Brandi Guidry, Art Fuller, Carter Womack and a chance to sign up for the different organizations and share Dr. Alexander Brown……..MY FORWARD LIFE COCKTAILS solutions to help make progress in the community. The panel & CONVERSATIONS……..The YWCA of Houston and the My Defender TOP EVENTS included Rhonda Skillern-Jones, Dr. James Douglas, Forward Life organization held the Cocktails and Conversation More photos on defendernetwork.com J-Mac, Cindy George, State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Larry portion of the Spark the Fire: Turn Your Passion into Purpose tour.

See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Payne, Bishop James Dixon, Ray Shackleford and Judson The event gave local women of all ages the opportunity to make with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Robinson III. Durrel Douglas, Shekira Dennis, Marlan new connections and learn from business and branding experts in Mitchell, Miss Black Texas, Kim Topps and Philippe Nassif order to achieve their personal goals. This leg of the tour included were also in attendance……..HOUSTON BLACK LEADERSHIP FORUM…….. cocktails, a dream wall, a candy station and an interactive forum to discuss how to plan for success in 2015. Showing their support were guest speaker Baylor Barbee, YWCA The National Black MBA Association in partnership with the Greater Houston Black Chamber presented the fifth annual Houston Black Leadership Forum sponsored by Executive Director Allison Booker Brooks, Melodie Wade, Marchella Simon and Target and Comerica. The panel addressed issues current issues affecting the Black Pam Coleman.

State of Black Houston organizers and panelists

Edward Pollard, Warren Luckett

Baylor Barbee

Lawrence Battle, Laura Welch, Paula Foreman, Marlan Mitchell

Courtney Johnson-Rose, Errol Allen II, Vernita Harris

Pam Coleman, Jasmin Brand

Ray Shackleford, Burt and Sandra Levine, Judson Robinson III

Art Fuller, Brandy Guidry, Dr. Alexander Brown, Carter Womack

Melodie Wade, Allison Booker Brooks

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