Houston Defender: March 11, 2021

Brandon Williams

Philonise Floyd

Rodney Floyd

George Floyd family says:

‘THIS IS BIGGER THAN OUR BROTHER’ EXCLUSIVE Volume 90, issue 19 March 11, 2021

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DN On the web

This image provided by Harpo Productions shows Prince Harry, left, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, speaking about expecting their second child during an interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Message from the Managing Editor Goodbye, Grenita

Royal problems

As a product of the Houston Independent I’ll admit, I’m not one to be too conSchool District, I will always root for the cerned with the Royal family. But I did district to succeed and I was hoping that catch tidbits of Prince Harry and Meghan’s board members would see the woman to explosive TV interview and all I can say help them do that, was the woman that is, wow. During the two-hour appearance HAS been helping them do that. Unforwith Oprah Winfrey, Harry revealed the tunately, despite the fact that Dr. Grenita problems had ruptured relations with Lathan has led the district through one his father, Prince Charles, and brother, crisis after another, the district showed Prince William, illuminating the depth her no love, using and abusing her until of the family divisions that led the couple she finally said ‘Enough!’ And I’m not ReShonda Tate Billingsley to step away from royal duties and move even mad at her for shooting the district to California last year. The most shocking I love, the deuces. Dr. Lathan is headed to Springfield, thing (although it really shouldn’t be)….the couple talking Missouri, where she will continue to make an impact and about concerns from some about the skin color of their son, hopefully be appreciated. Our loss is Springfield’s gain.

Archie. All kinds of scandal in the palace, but y’all worried about that baby’s skin color. Okay. Of course, the right is Back in business bashing the couple for doing the interview. I say talk on.

Well, it’s official: Texas is 100% back in operation. I know Take the hood off the racist culture in Buckingham. And that sounds insane considering the fact that Houston just oh, yeah, Oprah is still queen. crossed the threshold of 2,000 COVID-19 deaths, we have new variances popping up all over the city, and people Trump is still all about Trump continue to die. But hey, Gov. Greg Abbott appeased his There’s a battle brewing with the Republican National Combase and that’s all that matters. No, seriously, that’s all that mittee and Donald Trump. The RNC is using Trump’s name matters. But don’t gripe about it, be about it. Vote in 2022. in fundraising appeals and the former wanna-be dictator isn’t feeling it. The RNC said they have “every right to Cancel culture refer to public figures as it engages in core, First AmendI was among the thousands who tuned into the “Coming 2 ment-protected political speech and will continue to do America” sequel. Yes, it was extra. Yes, it was different from so in pursuit of these common goals.” Basically, Trump the first. But I laughed like I haven’t in a long time (and said he doesn’t want his money used for anyone he doesn’t we all could use some laughter). So imagine my surprise like. Don’t they know Trump is about Trump and the when I saw some folks ready to cancel the movie because only person he wants making money off his name is him. of a “rape” scene. What scene, you ask? (So did I). When #TrumpAintLoyal Leslie Jones’ character drugged Eddie Murphy’s character and they had sex. A few weeks ago, we canceled Dr. Seuss In this week’s paper because of racist images in his old books. This week, it was • Dr. Grenita Lathan moves on from HISD. Pepe Le Pew. The French cartoon skunk that was always • Comcast RISE is doling out dollars. trying to force himself on another skunk is being ripped to • Sports reporter Jodie Jiles profiles two of the top players shreds for “promoting rapist culture.” Sometimes we stay in high school basketball right now. doing the most. At the rate our cancel culture is going, when it comes time for real issues, real concerns, real things On the web worth canceling - nobody will listen. I’m not saying you • Once you read the centerfold on George Floyd, head over don’t have to be concerned that Pepe tried to force his kisses to DefenderNetwork.com to view our video series. onto another skunk...but I am saying...though we are not • How the Me Too movement is gaining new steam a monolithic people, don’t we have bigger battles to fight? • Old vs. new school: the best rap album debate at the Grammys.

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DN News

Dr. Luzine Bickham, Sr., former Professor and Dean of the Jesse H. Jones School of Business, has died.

He served Texas Southern University with distinction for 48 years.

What people are saying She’s been serving, for example, quote-unquote, as an ‘interim superintendent’ during some of the most challenging times in the history of our city and the history of any school district anywhere in the country. I think she’s done an exceptional job. I hate to see her go. I wish she was staying.”

-Mayor Sylvester Turner It’s just literally amazing, and yet astounding, that a superintendent could perform at that level and be so disrespected and disregarded. And we believe, for sure, that this would not have been the case, except for the fact that she is an African American woman.”

-James Dixon, President, NAACP

Dr. Grenita Lathan working with a student. -HISD

Goodbye Grenita HISD’s Interim Supt. moves on

Houston Public Media

HISD’s Interim Superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan has decided to move on from the state’s largest school district, ending three years at the helm of HISD that has seen one crisis after another.

Lathan, who called the decision bittersweet, has served Houston’s 200,000-plus students and staff for six years. She’ll start her new job as superintendent of the Springfield Public School District in Missouri in July. She’s agreed to stay on at HISD until the end of the school year.

“Our promise to our students, parents, staff and trustees is that I will continue to work as hard in my final weeks here in HISD as I’ve done over the past six years,” Lathan said. “I love this district and want to see the most orderly transition possible as we move forward.”

Lathan has acted as interim superintendent for the state’s largest school district since the previous leader, Richard Carranza, left abruptly for New York City in March 2018.

During her tenure, she’s had to deal with the district’s recovery from Hurricane Harvey, the global pandemic and its deep effects on public education, the recent winter storm crisis, and the threat of a state takeover because of long-struggling schools — a possibility that continues in the courts.

The state also investigated HISD’s special education services, which resulted in the installation of two state conservators in January.

Members of the HISD school board who supported Lathan made several runs at having her named the superintendent of the district, but were repeatedly unsuccessful in getting her status moved up from Interim. In fact, in October 2018, she was demoted from that status and a successor chosen — an action reversed

Major Accomplishments • Expanded mentoring programs for young men and women of color • Brought a number of chronically failing schools up to state standards • Expanded the International Baccalaureate program.

about a week later after outcry from the Black community. Other members of the board remained opposed to awarding her the top permanent position — at least not until after a national search for other candidates — and a push in November 2020 to name her the superintendent was defeated in a 6-3 vote. With the three Black board members voting in favor of keeping Lathan on board.

It was the second time the board passed over her leadership. Previously, in the fall of 2018, some HISD board members had tried to oust Lathan after coordinating secretly. Lathan was quickly reinstated, though her abrupt ouster triggered a state investigation into the district’s governance.

Lathan told reporters Monday that she had initially considered applying for the permanent job at HISD. But various recruiters had contacted her even before the board decided to conduct a national search, she said.

And when the hiring firm for the Springflied district reached out, Lathan decided it was time to move on.

“After conducting my research, I realized that that was where I needed to go and where I needed to be at this time in my life,” Lathan said.

I am devastated by HISD’s loss of Dr. Lathan! I was in tears on Monday.

I’m happy for her because she’s an educational rock star with that certain #BlackGirlMagic! It’s unfortunate and sad and deplorable that she was treated with such disrespect by Board members Deigaard, Santos, Sung, Vilaseca, Hernandez, Cruz. Diegaard, Sung, Vilaseca and Santos are up for re-election in November of this year. I’m hopeful that Black voters will remember that they attacked Black women specifically and Black people, in HISD generally. I was told that they want a Hispanic Superintendent so we’ll see if their plan to hire a Hispanic comes to fruition. It’s against the law to make decisions based on race but various board members don’t give a you know what. Dr. Lathan is now a permanent superintendent in Missouri and I’m willing to bet you money that Dr. Lathan will raise the bar for Springfield and Springfield will have better educated students than HISD. I respect you Dr. Lathan. I miss you already! Anti-Racism is required and I did that while a board member. It was hard serving with anti-Black board members. I know it was hard for Superintendent Lathan to serve with them but she was superb and is the epitome of grace under pressure. Truth is an absolute defense to libel, slander and defamation.”

-Jolanda Jones, Former HISD Trustee Dr. Lathan has served the HISD community with dignity, grace and and unmatched proficiency. She has risen to every obstacle with fortitude and turned practically every negative into a positive. It was my pleasure to serve alongside her. Her presence will be missed, but legacy will remain in generations of students who benefited from her stellar leadership. It’s bittersweet but she earned this new rung on her ladder. I wish her well and can’t wait to see what her Black Girl Magic does next!”

-Rhonda Skillern Jones, Former HISD Trustee I don’t blame her for leaving. Go somewhere where people appreciate you.”

-Brooke Washington, Parent It’s for the best. The demographics of the district are shifting and we need someone who adequately represents that shift.”

-Louisa Ganza, Parent

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DN News

Attorney Benjamin Crump, left, holds up the hand of Kenneth Walker during a rally on the steps of the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky. AP

A protestor holds up a defund the police sign. AP

Poll

Less than 20 percent of Americans support ‘defund the police’ Defender News Service

Despite calls for police reform, many Americans are not in favor of defunding the police.

A new study by Ipsos and USA Today disclosed that most Americans are not in favor of defunding the police.

While many activists call for police reform, the strategy that suggests redistributing funds allocated for police departments has been met with major criticism.

The poll questioned 1,165 Americans between March 1st and 2nd.

The term began to gain momentum in 2020 after the death of George Floyd, who died due to police brutality.

Activists like Tamika Mallory have been instrumental in leading the charge for police reform and said some assume the term calls for police abolishment, even though that is inaccurate.

BY THE NUMBERS: Oppose defunding

Support defunding

Support reallocating

58% 18% 43% 67% 28% police funds

whites

Blacks

Source: USA Today

“Number one–it’s not what I think defund means, I know what it means, because there’s a big difference between abolishment and defunding,” said Mallory to The Jasmine Brand in December.

Will you get a third stimulus check?

Defender News Service

A third round of stimulus payments is expected to be on the way later this month.

The payments are included in a sweeping $1.9 trillion COVID relief package that was approved by the Senate on this past weekend and could be signed by President Joe Biden soon after the House takes a final vote.

Roughly 90% of American households will be eligible, according to an estimate from the Penn Wharton Budget Model.

Here’s what you need to know: How much will you get?

The payments are worth up to $1,400 per person, including dependents. So a couple with two children could receive up to $5,600. Unlike prior rounds, families will now receive the additional money for adult dependents over the age of 17.

The full amount goes to individuals earning less than $75,000 of adjusted gross income, heads of households

(like single parents) earning less than $112,500 and married couples earning less than $150,000. But then the payments gradually phase out as income goes up.

Do you make too much money to be eligible?

Individuals who earn at least $80,000 a year of adjusted gross income, heads of households who earn at least $120,000 and married couples who earn at least $160,000 will be completely cut off from the third round of stimulus payments -- regardless of how many children they have.

On what year are the income limits based?

The most recent return. If they’ve already filed a 2020 return by the time the payment is sent, the IRS will base eligibility on their 2020 adjusted gross income. If not, it will be based on the 2019 return.

When can you expect the money?

Within days of Biden signing the bill.

Judge ends shooting case against Breonna Taylor’s boyfriend Associated Press

A judge in Kentucky has signed an order permanently closing a criminal case against Breonna Taylor’s boyfriend, who shot a police officer during the deadly raid that killed Taylor.

Prosecutors dismissed an attempted murder of a police officer charge against Kenneth L. Walker in May, about two months after Taylor’s death. But prosecutors left open the opportunity to revisit the charge against Walker if new evidence surfaced.

Taylor was fatally shot by police who burst through her door with a narcotics warrant on March 13, 2020.

She and Walker had settled in for the night when police arrived and knocked down the door. Walker said he thought an intruder was breaking in and he fired a single shot that struck an officer in the leg.

A motion from Walker’s attorney asking for the permanent dismissal said Walker “acted in self-defense and that he did not know that police were on the other side of the door.”

Jefferson Circuit Judge Olu Stevens’ order dismissed the 2020 indictment against Walker with prejudice, meaning it can’t be reconsidered.

VOLUME 90 - NUMBER 19 - MARCH 11, 2021 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Billingsley

Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Creative Director Michael Grant

Photographers Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288

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WE STAND BEHIND THE VACCINE Here’s why our experts support the COVID-19 vaccine:

TESTED

TRUSTED

EFFECTIVE

There has been thorough testing and rigorous external review. Previous research and new technology allowed the vaccine to be developed faster, yet still follow the standard FDA process for emergency review before approval.

Most side effects are minimal, like other vaccines — including sore arms, muscle aches and fever. These flu-like symptoms indicate that the vaccine is doing its job — helping your body develop immunity to the virus. Other side effects are rare.

Current evidence indicates the vaccine is safe and up to 95% effective. COVID-19 can be fatal or debilitating. The risks of experiencing serious symptoms or being hospitalized from the disease are far greater than the risks associated with getting the vaccine.

Many different organizations across Greater Houston are providing vaccines as quickly as they can get them. We encourage you to get the first vaccine available to you when it is your turn according to the state’s prioritization plan. Visit houstonmethodist.org/vaccine for the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines. #ProtectedTogether

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL DEFENDER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: GEORGE FLOYD FAMILY SAYS

‘THIS IS BIGGER THAN OUR BROTHER’

By Von Jiles The family of George Floyd has been on an unbelievable journey since his death. As a community, we have seen the impact of George Floyd’s death on our country and the world but what about his relatives. What does the George Floyd’s family think about the juror selection process in Minnesota, the passage of the George Floyd Act, and what can the Black community do to help were just a few of the questions answered

by George’s brothers Philonise and Rodney along with nephew Brandon during the exclusive interview with the Defender.

JUROR SELECTION Brandon: All in all, we just pray that it’s a fair selection. My family just wants justice as we deserve. I think when it comes to jury duty, they have a real strategic way of picking jurors. All we want is just fairness, just a fair trial, just everything fair. I think the situation is so high profile that no matter the jurors that you select, people have already seen the video. I don’t think it’s a person in the world that haven’t seen the video or heard the name, George Floyd or is not familiar with the situation.

So, we just want fairness.

Rodney: Well, just echoing what Brandon said say? Honestly, we want fairness, we want a jury of our peers and hopefully everyone just be fair and honest. They know the job they signed up for.

George Floyd

George Floyd Family members: Nephew Brandon Williams and Brothers Philonise and Rodney Floyd.

GEORGE FLOYD JUSTICE IN POLICING ACT NEXT CHAPTER Brandon: I think we’re happy that it passed through the house. We actually had the chance to go out to Washington DC and sit in the Capitol while the bill was being voted on. That was a great experience. We know that we have a long way to go with getting it through the Senate, but you can only think positive. I think the Senate needs to focus on what the bill actually stands for. You know, it stands for better policing, holding them accountable.

As a black man, we often fear encounters with law enforcement because so many of us have been killed while unarmed. So many of us have been killed or injured and we did nothing wrong. All we want is better policing; we just want them to be held accountable.

And I think that what a lot of people won’t see or read is that the bill is asking for de-escalation. Oftentimes law enforcement is able to deescalate situations and choose not to. We want to have a relationship. We want the officers getting involved in the communities.

That way you get to know the people, you can have a better relationship with them, and don’t instantly look at them as guilty or a suspect, just look at them as people.

Rodney: We got invited out to the House (of Representatives) and we sat in that room together, watching everyone voting. We saw the hard work that

FRIDAY: ON DEFENDERNETWORK.COM LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW: AS THEY DESCRIBE THE FAMILY JOURNEY SINCE THE DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD AND REMEMBER PERSONAL EXPERIENCES WITH THEIR BROTHER

men and women put in. That meant a lot to me seeing that firsthand and all of us as well. Hopefully the Senate understands the importance of this bill. It means a lot to us as a family member cause we lost our brothers due to these police practices. This bill addresses no knock warrants, qualified immunity and I also want police programs, better police programs. We want to work with the police officers, help them understand where the minority is coming from.

So hopefully the Senate understands this bill means a lot to us just as it means (a lot) to the rest of America.

HOW THE BLACK PRESS AND BLACK COMMUNITY CAN HELP Rodney: The best way our community can help is to understand and know our past and the past civil rights movements. All of this is entwined. To help us is to educate yourselves on voting for your local councilmen and women; educate yourself on voting in general. We out here marching, we going strong. The Philonise & Keeta Floyd foundation is a way you can help and just show support and love.

Brandon: I think --just don’t let his legacy die. I will continue to let the world, know exactly who he was. He was stolen from us. You know he has a daughter that has to grow up without a father for basically no reason. It’s really no excuse. So just continue to support us, bringing everybody together and making sure we don’t let his legacy die.

Philonise: We have to stick together because we’re stronger in numbers. As a lot of times, we forget who we are. We are people that need to stand up because it’s not just what happened to my brother, it is bigger than my brother. You have people dying after my brother died. So, in order for us to get the respect that we need, we have to keep fighting and we have to keep fighting for justice at all times. It’s important that all newspapers, especially with the Black press, we all have to go out let people know that people are dying every day. You have people in the communities that don’t understand why they’re dying. So I started the Philonise and Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change and we were trying to work diligently with law enforcement and also federal officials, elected officials, anybody that’s willing to listen to us because we’re in a lot of pain. We can never let this go.

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DN Feature COVID-19

Houston reaches grim milestone Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee proposes directing vaccines to cities, counties rather than state

We’ll wear masks. We’ll socially distance.

Businesses, we want you to be successful. We’re sending dollars to help you over the bridge of trouble, but we hope that you will not immediately go to full capacity with 100%.”

Houston Public Media

A new proposal from Houston congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee would divert COVID-19 vaccines away from Texas agencies and instead provide direct aid to local cities and counties, in response to Gov. Greg Abbott’s decision to drop the state’s mask mandate.

Speaking at a food and water distribution center at Houston’s Holy Name Catholic Church, Jackson Lee said that Abbott’s move to lift the mask mandate violated both President Biden’s mask order and directives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevenction.

In response, the congresswoman said she’ll propose cutting the state government out of the vaccination program when she meets with the president’s COVID taskforce in coming days.

“I think that states that refuse to comply should have the doses that were given to them directed directly to our local jurisdictions,” Jackson Lee said. “Send them straight to Dallas, straight to San Antonio, straight to Austin, straight to South Texas, straight to Houston and Harris County, all of the counties that are struggling to (contain) this virus. They should get the state’s share.”

Abbott has directed the state’s mask mandate for restricting the spread of COVID-19

U.S. Rep Sheila Jackson Lee -Screenshot/KTRK

Sheila Jackson Lee

Walgreens pharmacist Chris McLaurin prepares to vaccinate Lakandra McNealy, a Harmony Court Assisted Living employee, -Rogelio V. Solis

will end on Wednesday. The decision came, Jackson Lee said, as the U.S. was registering 65,000 new cases of COVID per day.

Texas is not the only state that has dropped its mask mandate in recent days. Jackson Lee

said her proposal would also apply to Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina.

But she reserved her harshest criticisms for Abbott, whom she argued undercut the work of the Texas congressional delegation to help

the state fight the virus.

“This was a reckless, without thought, action that did not even engage the members of Congress, who are in fact the advocates for getting the vaccine to the state in the first place,” she said.

Jackson Lee called on local governments, businesses and individuals to do what she said the state government under Abbott would not.

“I pray that our community right here in Houston, Harris County and throughout the state will be self-controllers, if you will – will be self-regulators,” she said. “We’ll wear masks.

We’ll socially distance. Businesses, we want you to be successful. We’re sending dollars to help you over the bridge of trouble, but we hope that you will not immediately go to full capacity with 100%.”

Fort Bend allocates $250k for family childcare Defender News Service

A new $250,000 child care voucher program in Fort Bend County will help support families impacted by the pandemic, county leaders announced The program will utilize CARES Act funding to provide some families a $500 voucher per child.

Families will be limited to up to three vouchers in total, and will be able to use the vouchers at more than 180 licensed child care facilities in Fort Bend County, according to Fort Bend County Judge KP George.

George added that the county is planning to allocate additional money to the program once more funds are available.

“This is becoming a very popular program for (one) simple reason,” he said. “It

gives the freedom for our parents to go back to work.”

To qualify, families must meet specific criteria, such as: • Must be a Fort Bend County resident at the time of application • Child must be under 13 years of age • Income has been negatively impacted

by COVID-19 • Meet the Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) level criteria: 80% of the 2019 LMI income levels Those who want to apply can do so at coronavirusfortbend.gov.

Mandi Kimball, vice president of child advocacy group Children at Risk, said programs that provide child care assistance can help alleviate potential financial and emotional stress.

“Finding child care for your children

is extremely stressful,” she said. “What Fort Bend County has done is really relieve some of the financial stress, but

also emotional stress that parents have when trying to make the right decision for their children.”

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DN Feature Houston artists support Lyric Chanel during her cancer battle Defender News Service

Lyric “Yhung” Chanel captured hearts across the U.S. with her positive outlook on life despite her years-long battle with brain cancer and anaplastic ependymoma, a tumor that forms when cells in the central nervous system begin to multiply rapidly. In children, the tumor often occurs in the brain. And some of her biggest supporters - from Beyonce to Trae the Truth - publicly spoke out after the GA native recently lost her battle with the deadly disease at age 13.

In November of 2020, Lyric had surgery in the Texas Medical Center to remove a tumor, but unfortunately, the tumor grew back and spread to various parts of her brain within two months. Doctors informed the family that there was not much else they could do to save Lyric’s life.

Lyric and her family documented her journey through Instagram where her platform grew as a source of inspiration. Her page @Yhung.Chanel earned over 500k followers offering support and joy in her comment section.

“Just got news from Dr that Lyric is Dying and only have days to live…. These are the hardest words to have to hear,” her Instagram read days before her death.

After news of her passing spread last week, Beyoncé sang some of her hit songs like “Brown Skin Girl,” “Halo” and “Love on Top” as videos and pictures of Chanel danced across the screen.

Trae the Truth supporting Lyric.

When Beyoncé sang “Love on Top,” she switched the song lyrics from “baby” to “Lyric.” “Lyric, it’s you,” she sings.

“I love you with all of my heart,” Beyoncé said concluding the video.

This wasn’t the first time the Houston mega-star honored Lyric. In September, Beyoncé sent Chanel flowers while she was recovering from her fourth brain surgery.

OBIT Jerry Burnett Baldwin 1937 – 2021 Jerry B. Baldwin expired on Sunday January 31, 2021 at the age of 83, in HCA Houston Healthcare Pearland, Pearland, Texas.

Jerry Burnett Baldwin was born June 9, 1937 in Richards, Texas.

He was the seventh (7TH) child born to the union of Mr. Jeremiah (Jerry) Baldwin and Mrs. Georgia Bookman Baldwin. Jerry (J.B.) began his early childhood education in Richards, Texas.

He continued his education in Houston and Fort Worth, Texas.

J.B. completed his early childhood education graduating from High School in Fort Worth, Texas. Jerry went on to pursue his educational journey through higher education.

Jerry began his post-secondary education at Prairie View A & M University, Prairie View, Texas. He graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a B.S degree in Industrial Education, and Educator Certifications in Automotive Technology and Driver’s Education. While pursuing his post-secondary education at Prairie View A&M University, he met and fell in love with Alma V. Lewis, the “Love of his life.”

Subsequent to graduating from Prairie View A & M University, Jerry married the “Love of his life,” Alma Vivian Lewis Baldwin in November of 1964, St. Paul United Methodist Church, Double Bayou, Texas. To this union, seven (7) years later two (2) endearing children were born.

Jerry is survived by his loving family, Arnold B. Baldwin, son; Arlieta I. Baldwin Prince, (Tony), daughter; Rhoda Jackson Tremble, goddaughter, all of Houston, Texas; Dr. Xavier D. Lewis, godson of Anahuac, Texas. Floyd Baldwin, brother; and Lois J. Baldwin Rison, sister both of Houston, Texas. Sister-in-laws; Ida M. Lewis Ashford; Cordell Green Lewis; and Beverly F. Douglas Lewis, all of Houston, Texas. Aunt-in-law; Elga O. Jackson of Anahuac, Texas and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The Jerry B. Baldwin Family will host a Viewing/Reception/Repast from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Friday February 19, 2021, Sugar Land Mortuary, 1818 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, Texas 77478.

The Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM on Saturday February 20, 2021, Trinity United Methodist Church, 2600 Holman Street, Houston, Texas 77004, with Livestream: https://trinityhtx.online.church/. Interment services immediately following at Martha Godfrey Cemetery, 338 Church Road, Double Bayou, TX 77514 (Anahuac), with graveside viewing from 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

Chanel’s family shared Beyoncé’s tribute on Lyric’s Instagram account with the caption thanking the entertainment icon: “I’m so grateful that Lyric was able to hear you sing to her before she left this world.”

Rapper Trae The Truth also supported young Lyric as she documented her journey through Instagram. The rapper and Lyric grew to share a bond, as he often referred to her as his “niece,” despite no genetic relation. He shared a post on Instagram for Lyric after learning of the heartbreaking news.

“I Got Tha Call U Needed Me & I jumped on the First Flight Out….. Promised I would Make It To U and I Did….

I Dont Care What the Doctors Said, God Has The Last Say So… Until Then Just Know Yo Unc Fightin Side By Side Wit You…. Love You.” the Texas rapper wrote on Instagram after he learned of the news she had been given days to live. “I Appreciate Everyone Prayin to uplift Her .. She Still Fightin Strong.”

In October, Lyric was gifted a coveted Ivy Park box from Beyoncé containing merchandise from the fall release.

She reportedly received the full line of clothing, shoes and accessories.

“Thank you so much @beyonce this couldn’t have come at a better time,” she wrote in the caption to one of the videos highlighting her new gear according to the report. “[I] just got back from getting Chemo and look at the surprise that was waiting. I love you so much.”

Funeral arrangements have not been announced by the family at this time. A tribute video was shared to her Instagram page.

Lyric was also honored by other celebrities, including Cardi B, and Beyoncé’s mom, Tina Knowles-Lawson.

Knowles-Lawson said Lyric brought “light and hope to the world.”

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Greater Southeast Management District solicits sealed Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for Professional Engineering and Environmental Phase Services for the Griggs Road and Mykawa Road Rail Safety Improvements Project, located in Houston, TX. SOQs are due by 2:00 PM (CDT), 3-26-2021.

Respondents must register at www.CivCastUSA.com to view and download documents at NO CHARGE. For more information, visit https://houstonse.org/notices-2/.

The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following:

OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT OF KITCHEN SERVICES Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7281, The HARRIS CENTER website www.theharriscenter.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Tuesday, March 16, 2021. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Tuesday, March 30, 2021. Proposals must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 13, 2021 in a sealed envelope marked “PROPOSAL - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021, OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT OF KITCHEN SERVICES”. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Frances Otto, CTCD, Buyer II and Sharon Brauner, C.P.M., Purchasing Manager, via E-mail to frances.otto@theharriscenter.org cc: sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org or fax at (713) 970-7682. Historically Underutilized Businesses, including Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

10 | March 11, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Rockets guard John Wall could be traded to the Miami Heat before the NBA trade deadline, according to some publications.

University of Houston freshman guard Tramon Mark knocked down a 3-pointer at the buzzer to lift the No.9 Cougars over Memphis, 67-64, at the Fertitta Center.

PV PANTHERS FOCUSED ON TOURNAMENT SEASON

Prairie View point guard Cam Mack drives to the basket against Grambling State. PV Athletics

By Terrance Harris

mindset right now.”

There were a few smiles and some hugs Much of that has to do with the challengafter the Prairie View men’s basketball team ing stop-and-start season the Panthers have defeated Alcorn State to endured to even get to finish the turbulent regthis point due to the panPRAIRIE VIEW ular-season as the threedemic all sports are trying AT A GLANCE time SWAC champions. to play through. Prairie But that’s where the celView experienced a few Record: ebration ended. shutdowns because of 14-4 (overall), As far as the Panthers COVID-19 protocol, the 13-0 (in SWAC) are concerned the real most recent being a 20-day work begins now as they stoppage in the middle of Coach: Byron Smith embark up the tournament the league schedule.

Leading Scorer: season that began this week But the Panthers were Jawaun Daniels, in Birmingham, Ala. with able to finish what they 16.2 points the SWAC Tournament, started to end the reguand then hopefully a berth lar-season 13-0 in SWAC Leading Assists: in the NCAA Tournament. play and share the title Cam Mack, 8.4 assists “No disrespect to anywith also undefeated one but we don’t feel like Jackson State, which went SWAC Rankings: nobody prepared the way 11-0. The two undefeated we prepared. We don’t No. 2 in scoring offense league teams had both of 70.6 points per game feel like nobody put in the their head-to-head games No. 2 in scoring defense canceled due to COVID-19 time we’ve put in with this 63.4 points per game whole quarantine and dealprotocol. ing with the shutdowns “It’s been super difficult. that we’ve dealt with,” said At the beginning of this junior guard Jawaun Daniels. “We are look- year, I kind of made a statement to everyone ing at it as we are 0-0 and we need to go 3-0 that the people who can adjust best to this in Birmingham to get to the NCAA Tourna- thing are going to be successful,” said Panment. We are locked in and have a different thers coach Byron Smith, whose team also

went 14-4 overall. “Obviously, you have all of the safety and health protocols which are a challenge on you. You are social distancing, wearing the masks. So, your life changes so much because you can’t do normal things or go places. It’s been a heck of a challenge.”

The Panthers made it through with talent and depth. After winning the regular-season last year but not being able to play the tournament season because of the pandemic outbreak, Smith brought in eight new players this season, including former Nebraska star point guard Cam Mack.

The old has been able to mesh with the new members to give Prairie View the depth that can make them dangerous this tournament season. The Panthers have four players ranked in the SWAC’s Top 25 in scoring with Daniels at No.6 with 16.2 points, while Mack is averaging 12.1 points and is second in the nation in assists per game with 8.2 dimes per game.

“I feel like guys bought in early,” Daniels said. “We don’t have beef with each other. We all love each other on and off the court. I guess it pretty much meshed from there.”

Now it’s about going as deep as their collective talent will take them.

“We are starving, we are hungry,” Daniels said. “We self-manifested all year, undefeated in conference, the SWAC tournament and then on to the Big Dance.”

Sports Briefs UT CENTER LEAVING EARLY FOR WNBA University of Texas junior post player Charli Collier has announced she is declaring for the 2021 WNBA Draft. ESPN’s Mock Draft projects Collier, who is from Mont Belvieu, to go No.1 to the Dallas Wings. She is averaging 21 points and 12 rebounds for the Longhorns this season.

ROCKETS RECALL PORTER FROM G-LEAGUE Look for troubled, second-year swingman Kevin Porter Jr. to make his debut with the Rockets during the second half of the season.

According to The Athletic, Porter has been recalled from the G League. Porter was acquired by the Rockets in a trade with the Cavaliers in January.

TSU’S TOP TWO QBS INJURED Texas Southern coach Clarence McKinney says both quarterbacks, Devin Williams and Thaddeus Peyton, suffered injuries during the Tigers’ opening loss to Prairie View.

Payton came in for Thaddeus Peyton an injured Williams late in the second quarter and led the team to 19 unanswered points in the loss to Prairie View. The Tigers have a byeweek Saturday.

PV HAD TWO QB PLAN Prairie View coach Eric Dooley said it was always part of the plan to give quarterbacks TJ Starks and Trazon Connley both playing time in the opener. Starks started the game and Connley played the second half and rallied the Panthers to the one-point victory over TSU.

March 11, 2021 |

| 11

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

NEXT KYNDALL HUNTER CY CREEK GUARDS

LEVEL & RORI HARMON

By Jodie B. Jiles

Cy Creek High School starting guards Kyndall Hunter and Rori Harmon, both University of Texas commits, are considered among the greatest backcourts in Texas high school basketball. Over the past two seasons Hunter and Harmon have earned Cy Creek a #7 national ranking after accumulating a 73-1 overall record. And while it is one thing to lead your team to three state championship appearances in four years, it is another to accomplish this feat while making it look like child’s play.

Hunter has become a scoring machine throughout her career shooting over 50% from three and scoring 20 to 30 points a game by creating instant offense with her ankle breaking crossover, attacking one drives and pinpoint passing game when doubled.

Harmon is just an unstoppable force. On defense, Harmon fights to get steals by any means necessary. If that requires jumping in front of the intended receiver for an interception - done. If that entails ripping the ball from her opponents’ hands - done.

Then on offense, Harmon finds her spots on the floor and creates her own shots with ease. And when all else fails Harmon just passes the ball to herself like she did in the state semifinals.

During a recent game, Harmon had no options to pass to from out of bounds so she inbounded the ball to herself off of an opponents’ back to assist herself for a layup.

When Cy Creek head coach Jennifer Alexander was asked what Kyndall and Rori have added to the program, Alexander stated, “Kyndall has personality and charisma for days. She is such a dynamic player that is an excellent scorer. On defense she has a game that can transfer to the next level.”

“Rori plays both sides of the basketball. She is just a true dawg that plays both sides of the basketball and is all about winning.”

The Defender spoke with Hunter and Harmon to discuss their games, leadership and the championship culture they helped create at Cy Creek.

Kyndall Hunter Rori Harmon

WINNING CULTURE Hunter: “I think our chemistry on and off the court is what makes us so good. We are very close and have been working for four years.”

LEADERSHIP Harmon: “I believe I have improved since my freshman year. I help bring the team together mentally, and make sure everyone is keeping their heads up after mistakes on and off the court.”

Hunter: “I have evolved into the leadership role after the last four years and I think it is just my teammates have

ABOUT KYNDALL HUNTER INSTAGRAM: @kyndallhunter PLAYERS SHE STUDIES: Skylar Diggings, Maya Moore, Dwayne Wade and Kyrie Irving HOBBIES: Tik Tok, Netflix and shopping

STYLE OF PLAY Harmon: “I think I am a facilitator of the game that gets to the baskets, gets my teammates involved and finds my own shot. I’m also a good defender that is an energy bringer.”

Hunter: “I think I am a very dynamic guard, I’m a good shooter and I just do anything to get rebounds.”

WORLD PROBLEM SHE WOULD SOLVE: Racism SHOUTOUTS: My whole family and Cy Creek High School.

grown to trust me a lot.

When I say something, they always know it is from a good place because I know what I’m talking about.”

DEFENSIVE INTENSITY Harmon: “Defense comes from the heart.

So, if you want to get the ball on defense you are going to go get it, and that is what I am going to do.”

THREE POINT SHOT Hunter: “I have been working on my shot a lot, trying to be more consistent so that when I go to college I will have a better shot.”

CHAMPIONSHIP RUN Hunter: “You have to stay humble and motivated to work hard every day in practice because when you do that you can take it all the way to a championship.”

UT SIGNING Harmon: “We are going to keep working together here first, and once we transition to college we will keep working to be the best we can playing for coach Schaefer.”

ABOUT RORI HARMON INSTAGRAM: @roriharmon PLAYERS SHE STUDIES: Kyrie Irving, Allen Iverson and Maya Moore HOBBIES: Drawing, painting, running and playing soccer

FAVORITE ARTIST: Beyonce SHOUTOUTS: My family

12 | March 11, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Business

Houston Black business owners get boost from Comcast RISE Initiative Defender News Service

Comcast is adding to the company’s initiative to support Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC)-owned small businesses impacted by COVID-19-Comcast RISE--with its newly announced Comcast RISE Investment Fund.

Comcast RISE had two phases. The first round focused specifically on providing support to Black businesses nationally hit hard by COVID-19. Round two extended that support to BIPOCowned small businesses.

In addition to this second phase, Comcast recently announced the Comcast RISE Investment Fund, providing $5 million in grants to hundreds of BIPOC-owned, small businesses in five cities nationwide, including $1 million in Houston. Now through March 14, eligible businesses in Houston, in addition to Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and Philadelphia, can apply for a $10,000 grant at www.ComcastRISE.com. A total of 100 grants in Houston, or 500 grants overall, will be awarded in May 2021. The Investment Fund is the latest extension of Comcast RISE, the multi-year, multi-faceted initiative launched in October 2020 that initially focused on Black-owned, small businesses to help those hardest hit by COVID-19.

The Comcast RISE Investment Fund is focused on small businesses who have been in business for three or more years with 1-25 employees. Businesses must be in the following geographic locations to be eligible: Houston, TX (Harris and Fort Bend Counties).

To help drive outreach about the program and provide additional support, training and mentorship, Comcast has also awarded more than $2 million to nearly 20 community-based organizations in the five cities, including Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston Black Chamber, Asian Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston LGBT, Houston East End Chamber and Cámara de Empresarios in Houston, as well as the Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO), Operation Hope, Ureeka, U.S. Black Chambers, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, National Asian American Chamber of Commerce.

“Small businesses have always played an integral role in Houston’s growth and future,” said Ralph Martinez, senior vice president for Comcast’s Houston region. “In the midst of the pandemic, these entrepreneurs provided many of the

Tomeka McKinney, owner of Nutrition Companions and recipient of Comcast RISE round one grant.

VISIT DEFENDERNETWORK.COM TO VIEW VIDEO TESTIMONIALS FROM LOCAL COMCAST RISE GRANT RECIPIENTS. COMCAST RISE INVESTMENT FUND DEADLINE IS MARCH 14 WWW.COMCASTRISE.COM

services and resources that have kept our communities up and running.”

Studies show that BIPOC-owned, small businesses have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic, and recent research by JPMorgan Chase Institute found that Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Houston and Philadelphia were in the top markets for sharp declines in local commerce spending. Additionally, the majority of applications for the Comcast RISE marketing and technology services component are from these five cities.

“Unfortunately, many small businesses in Houston were not able to withstand the many months of suppressed revenues. While we remain optimistic about our economic recovery, public-private

partnerships will play a vital role in minimizing the disruptions that so many small businesses, specifically minority-owned business, are facing,” said Vice Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum who chairs the City of Houston’s Economic Development Committee.

In October 2020 Comcast launched the Comcast RISE initiative, bringing together two of the company’s brands — Comcast Business and Effectv, both with expertise in the small business space — to empower business owners with the expertise and resources needed to navigate the economic effects of the pandemic. There were recipients in 285 cities in 29 states, and 43 of those small business owners were from Houston. With phase two, 75 Houston-area BIPOC-owned businesses were recently named Comcast RISE recipients.

The “RISE” in Comcast RISE stands for “Representation, Investment, Strength and Empowerment.” Round two recipients will be announced later this month, and will receive marketing services from Effecttv, the advertising sales division of Comcast Cable, and it’s creative agency, Mnemonic, and/or technology makeover

services courtesy of Comcast Business.

Raymond Angelus McFarlane, owner of Ravlin Martial Arts and recipient of Comcast RISE round one grant.