Houston Defender: March 19, 2015

HS ZONE

STERLING RAIDERS REFLECT AFTER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME P11 defendernetwork.com

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 84 | Number 16

MARCH 19, 2015 |FREE NEWSTALK

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SEN. RODNEY ELLIS opposes open carry law

Black women

P2 NATIONAL

SECRETS OF SUCCESS

LORETTA LYNCH supported

by Black leaders

P3 OPINION PRESIDENT OBAMA receives Republican disrespect

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P4

Shad Moss stars in series

Mike Davis

Shad Moss, the rapper and actor known to many fans as Bow Wow, can be seen each week in a “CSI: Cyber,” a new installment of the “CSI” franchise. Find out what he likes about his character, a former hacker. See what he says about rap, basketball and stereotypes.

The Texas Southern University men’s basketball team captured the SWAC basketball tournament crown, giving coach Mike Davis back-to-back championships. Read what Davis says about the team’s mindset. Meet the players taking TSU to March Madness.

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TOP EVENTS

coaches champs

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Dr. Jasmin Sculark and Pastor Terrance Johnson at Higher Dimension Church’s “March Gladness”

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

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newstalk

Senate approves open carry bill The Texas Senate gave its final approval to a bill that would allow Texans to openly carry holstered handguns with a permit.

The bill, introduced by State Sen. Craig Estes of Wichita Falls, would create a single license to cover both concealed and open carry weapons.

Twenty Republicans voted in favor of the legislation 10 Democrats voted against it.

Estes said the same requirements currently in place for the concealed carry license, including background and mental health checks, would remain in place. Additionally, private property owners would be permitted to ban open carry on their premises in the same manner they can ban concealed carry today.

“I personally think that we’ve got about 800,000 concealed licensees in the state that I feel like have been vetted, have been trained and can be trusted to decide what’s best for them, whether they carry concealed or open,” Estes said.

Houston State Sen. Rodney Ellis opposed the bill.

“I’m disappointed we’ve chosen to concentrate our energy and precious

taxpayer dollars on arming more Texans with guns,” Ellis said.

“Instead, we should be focusing on arming the hardworking people of this state with 21st century educational opportunities to compete in today’s economy, better paying jobs and fairer wages, and access to quality, affordable health care.”

Houston State Sen. John Whitmire also opposed the legislation.

“Have you thought about what dangers you’re fixing to expose the men and women who make up our law enforcement across the state to?”

Whitmire asked.

Whitmire added that most of the state’s police chiefs and sheriffs oppose the bill.

Estes dismissed concerns about public safety if the bill becomes law.

“In other states that have taken this step … it’s been deemed pretty much a non-event,” Estes said. “We have searched really hard far and wide for problems, and we haven’t found any.”

Estes’ bill must still pass the House and be signed by Gov. Greg Abbott to become law.

Abbott supports the legislation and tweeted, “I’m warming up my signing pen.”

Free wills for qualified residents

The Houston Bar Association’s Elder Law Committee will sponsor a “will-a-thon” to provide simple wills and basic medical directives, free of charge, for senior citizens 60 and over, disabled persons, and veterans of any age who meet the income guidelines.

Those who qualify will be given an appointment to meet with a volunteer attorney

on April 8 at the Third Ward Multi-Purpose Center, 3611 Ennis, Suite 118. The documents will be completed and executed on May 13 at the multi-purpose center.

To apply for assistance, call 713-2280735 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.,

by Friday, April 3 to complete a screening application over the phone.

localbriefs THE HISD Board of Education declined to consider proposals to reduce classroom overcrowding throughout the district by making adjustments to a handful of elementary school attendance boundaries. Trustees had been set to review the proposals during the March board meeting. Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones withdrew the agenda items with the support of fellow board members. As a result, trustees could not discuss or vote on the proposals. Board members have since asked district administrators to bring forward a more comprehensive plan to address classroom overcrowding. The proposals were originally drafted in an effort to relieve anticipated overcrowding in the coming years and

comply with state law, which requires kindergarten through fourth-grade classes to have no more than 22 students per classroom. Classes that exceed that number must request a state waiver………IMMIGRATION HAS CONTRIBUTED significantly to the growth and diversity of the Houston metropolitan area, which is the nation’s most diverse and rapidly expanding major U.S. metro area, according to a new Migration Policy Institute report. The Latino and Asian shares of the area’s population have doubled over the past 20 years. In 2013, the Houston metropolitan area was home to 6.3 million people, of whom 1.4 million were foreign born – a 59 percent increase from 2000. That rate of immi-

grant population growth is nearly twice the national rate of 33 percent over the period…….. THE ENERGIZEHOUSTON program will join UpSkill Houston in what is described as a major step toward addressing the region’s workforce challenges.

EnergizeHouston is a petrochemical recruitment and training initiative launched by ExxonMobil and nine community colleges, including Houston Community College. UpSkill Houston is a Greater Houston Partnership regional workforce initiative focusing on middle skills jobs. Today, 1.4 million positions in Houston are considered middle skills jobs, which require education beyond high school but not a four-year degree.

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MARCH 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs THE MAN ACCUSED OF SHOOTING two police officers in Ferguson said he was not targeting police or aiming at demonstrators at a late-night protest. Jeffrey Williams, a 20-year-old Black man, was arrested on charges of felony assault, armed criminal action and a weapons offense. Both wounded officers were released from the hospital.

St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar called the attack an ambush and said both officers could have been killed. Williams told authorities he was aiming at someone with whom he had a dispute, not the officers……..

PEOPLE WITH HIV develop cancer at higher rates than would be expected in the general population according to a recent study by the National Cancer Institute. The finding has particular health implications for African-Americans, who suffer the worst HIV infection rates of any group in the United States. The study found that, “An estimated 7,760 cancers occurred in 2010 among HIV-infected people, of which 3,920 cancers were in excess of expected. The most common excess cancers were non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, anal cancer and lung cancer.” Blacks accounted for 46 percent of HIV diagnoses between 2009 and 2013 despite being only 13 percent of the population……..THE SECRET SERVICE is under fire again after a recent drunk-driving scandal. Two senior agents, including a top member of President Obama’s protective detail, crashed a car into a White House barricade following a late-night party, and it is suspected that they had been drinking.

On-duty law enforcement wanted to arrest the agents and conduct sobriety tests, but was overruled by a supervisor. “I am extremely upset about it,” said Congressman Elijah Cummings of Maryland. “It’s extremely frustrating to see an agency that is supposed to be the number one elite protective agency in the world – protecting the most powerful person in the world – operate like this.”

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Blacks want vote on Lynch confirmation

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frican-American leaders are urging the U.S. Senate to move ahead with the confirmation vote on Loretta Lynch’s nomination for attorney general. Lynch, who was chosen by President Obama to replace Attorney General Holder, has had to wait longer for a confirmation vote than any AG nominee in 30 years.

Lynch would become the first Black woman to hold the post.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell warned that he wouldn’t hold a vote on Lynch’s confirmation before the Senate finishes a human trafficking bill that has hit a roadblock over a provision regarding funding for abortions.

“The Senate Republican majority is using every excuse it can find to Loretta Lynch is President Obama’s choice to replace Attorney General Eric Holder delay or obstruct Lynch’s confirmation,” said Wade Henderson, president nomination are deplorable and opposition to her nomination and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and is nothing more than a political ploy to once again use any Human Rights means necessary to show their disdain for President Obama,” “And the one thing these excuses all have in common Butterfield said. is that none of them have anything to do with the nominee Congresswoman Marcia Fudge of Ohio said Lynch’s herself. We know that senators can walk and chew gum at the qualifications to serve as U.S. attorney general have never same time and that this is just the latest turn in what has been been in dispute. the most mishandled and manipulated confirmation process in “President Obama and our nation are left waiting for memory.” a confirmation vote for no reason other than the petty and Congressman G. K. Butterfield, chair of the Congresmean-spirited political gamesmanship of Senate leadership,” sional Black Caucus, said the CBC is “disturbed” that Lynch’s Fudge said. confirmation has taken four months to receive an “up or down The White House also blasted McConnell for holding up vote” and is calling on the Senate to swiftly confirm her. confirmation and said the “unconscionable delay” was a stain “The politics that Republicans have played with her on his leadership.

Number of former workers without benefits up VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 16 MARCH 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).

NNPA News Service

With no federal unemployment insurance and rapidly disappearing state coverage, the percentage of people benefiting from unemployment insurance is at its lowest level in more than three decades, according to a report by the Economic Policy Institute.

EPI said the unemployment insurance recipiency rate tumbled to 23.1 percent in December 2014, beating the previous record low of 25 percent set in September 1984.

States continue to slash jobless benefits, enacting policies that make it harder for programs to work effectively. The policies have a disproportion-

ate impact on unemployed Blacks who often face greater challenges than whites as they struggle to stay connected to the labor market and search for jobs.

“Many critics of unemployment insurance [UI] programs wrongly assume that the lion’s share of jobless workers get benefits,” stated the report.

“The U.S. short-term recipiency rate was 34.7 percent in 2014, meaning that over 65 percent of shortterm jobless workers did not get state UI benefits.”

Researchers suggested that throwing more federal money at states that want to keep UI programs “as small and stingy as possible” won’t fix the problem. The focus should be on setting federal standards for benefits and financing.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

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opinion

Below-the-belt attacks on Obamas

By GEORGE E. CURRY NNPA Columnist

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o United States president has been more disrespected than Barack Obama – and his family.

The hatred for the nation’s first African-American president is so deep that all but seven Republicans in the U.S. Senate were willing to write a letter to Iran that amounted to treason on a grand scale.

In an effort to derail talks that would limit Iran’s nuclear weapons, 47 Republican senators signed an “open letter” to Iran’s leaders claiming any deal they reach with the administration won’t last after Obama leaves office.

The issue caused the Republican senators to be labeled traitors in a New York Daily News headline. An editorial said: “Regardless of President Obama’s fecklessness in negotiating a nuclear deal with Iran, 47 Republican U.S. senators engaged in treachery by sending a letter to the mullahs aimed at cutting the legs out from under America’s commanderin-chief.

“We join GOP signatories in opposing the pact as outlined, but we strenuously condemn their betrayal of the U.S. constitutional system.”

In case there is any doubt, the liberal political website PoliticusUSA stated: “According to the dictionary definition, a traitor is one who betrays a person, a principle, or especially their country. It is of no consequence why someone, or a group, chooses to work in opposition to their nation, or fellow citizens’ well-being, because if their intent and result of their actions is to deliberately damage or cause harm to their country or fellow citizens, they are by definition traitors.”

It wasn’t all that long ago that Democrats and Republicans observed the rule that while we might have our internal debates, when it comes to foreign policy, we speak with one voice – that of the president.

House Republicans ignored that long-standing custom by inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress, knowing he would be critical of ongoing negotiations by the U.S. and its allies to freeze Iran’s nuclear weapons. The White House was not consulted on the invitation, a sharp departure from established protocol.

The disrespect for Obama and the presidency itself has reached such a low point that a headline in the Washington Post summed it up this way: “Republicans are beginning to act as though Barack Obama isn’t even the president.”

Many argue that the hatred extends well beyond partisan politics.

PolitcusUSA stated: “It is likely that throughout America’s short history, except for the traitorous Confederacy, no group of individuals has exhibited the character-

istic betrayal of a traitor more than conservatives in general, and Republicans in particular. What makes their actions all the more despicable is that their traitorous actions are founded on racial animus for one man; and allegiance to foreigners and one tiny segment of the population.”

The attacks on Obama began when he first ran for president, with some conservatives openly questioning whether he was a U.S. citizen.

Marilyn Davenport, a member of the Orange County Republican Party in California, e-mailed a cartoon in 2010 with the face of President Obama superimposed on a chimpanzee. Also pictured were two older chimpanzees described as “parents.” The inscription on the cartoon read: “Now you know why – No birth certificate.”

And who could forget Rep. Joe Wilson [R-S.C.], interrupting a 2009 presidential address on health care to Congress by shouting, “You, lie!”

The personal attacks have not been limited to President Obama – his entire family has been attacked.

Recently, Emmy-winning Univision host Rodner Figueroa was fired for saying, “Michelle Obama looks like she’s part of the cast of Planet of the Apes.”

Michael O’Neal, Speaker of the Kansas House, circulated an email referring to the first lady as “Mrs. Yo’ Mama.”

Even Sasha and Malia have been targets of conservatives. They have been upbraided from everything from taking their spring break in the Bahamas to the clothes they wore when their father pardoned a Thanksgiving turkey.

No stunt is too low or too vile for conservatives who hate everything about Obama, including his race.

Handgun bill: Has Texas lost its mind?

Obviously, the Texas Senate has lost its mind when it comes to its recent approval of the licensed, open carry of holstered handguns in the state.

The scenario seems to be close your eyes and return to the wild, wild West, except it’s 2015.

Not only does the bill put law enforcement in more danger, but since many crimes are emotionally driven, it creates an environment for more tragic incidents.

Instead of creating a law-based society, it

appears we’re creating a lawless atmosphere with Senate Bill 17.

We believe in the right to bear arms and protect your family and home but this is ridiculous.

The Senate obviously has its priorities mixed up. Republican legislators have been quick to slash education funds and refuse Medicaid expansion, things that impact the quality of life for many Texans. Yet they rally around B.S. legislation that could lead to increased violence in

our state. Why can’t they focus on what really matters?

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is a proponent of open carry and has promised to sign the bill if it reaches his desk. We hope that the state’s House of Representatives will stop Senate Bill 17 before it goes too far.

If you oppose open carry, let your elected official know. Call, write or e-mail your representative in the House and let him or her know how you feel about the open carry of handguns. A life might depend on it.

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MARCH 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Also known as Bow Wow

Shad Moss co-stars on ‘CSI: Cyber’

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had Moss, the rapper and actor better known as Bow Wow, is all grown up. He’s now 28 and a co-star on the new drama “CSI: Cyber,” which airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on CBS. It is the fourth installment of the “CSI” franchise, and revolves around the Cyber Crime Division of the FBI, a unit at the forefront of solving illegal Internet activities.

Moss, who was also known as Lil’ Bow Wow, portrays Brody Nelson, a former hacker who chose to work for the FBI over a life of cyber-crime. He likes the fact that his character is different.

“When we were still filming ‘Cyber’ episodes, ‘Empire’s’ first episode premiered,” he said.

“Fans were saying, ‘Man, you should have been on the show.’

But we all don’t rap or play basketball. We can do so many things.

“There are young African-Americans who are intelligent enough to work at the FBI. That’s what’s so bright. Hopefully, I can help start a new wave of young Black actors who don’t want to stereotype themselves.”

Moss is a native of Columbus, Ohio. He began rapping at age 5 under the name of Kid Gangsta. In 1993 he performed at a concert in Los Angeles and was noticed by Snoop Dogg, who gave him the name Lil’ Bow Wow.

He was featured on Snoop’s album “Doggystyle.”

He later teamed up with Jermaine Dupri for his 2000 solo debut release, “Beware of Dog.” He eventually produced six No. 1 singles and has sold more than 10 million albums.

In 2002, Moss dropped “Lil” from his stage name and made his first movie appearance in “All About the Benjamins.” That same year, he starred in “Like Mike.”

He later appeared in such films as “Johnson Family Vacation,” “Roll Bounce” and “Madea’s Big Happy Family.”

He appeared on such TV shows as “Moesha,” “Ugly Betty” and “Entourage.”

Shad Moss works with the FBI’s Cyber Crime Division on “CSI: Cyber.”

what’sup RIHANNA provides the voice of Tip, a girl who befriends an alien in the animated film “Home.”

It arrives in theaters on March 27 and stars JIM PARSONS, JENNIFER LOPEZ and STEVE MARTIN. Rihanna is also the first Black woman to become the face of Dior, and will appear in ads for the French fashion house this spring……..

DWAYNE “THE ROCK” JOHNSON will host “Saturday Night Live” for the fourth time on March 28. He first hosted the show in 2000 when he was a full-time wrestler with WWE. Johnson next stars in the hit franchise “Furious 7,” which hits theaters on

April 3. His co-stars include VIN DIESEL, the late PAUL WALKER, DJIMON HOUNSOU, TYRESE GIBSON and LUDACRIS……..“Selma” director AVA DUVERNAY recently delivered a keynote speech at the SXSW Festival in Austin. Although “Selma” did not receive Oscar nominations for directing or acting, DuVernay attended the Academy Awards. “It was a room in L.A.,” she said of the ceremony. “Not anything but a room in L.A. with very nice people dressed up.

It’s very cool, but my work’s worth is not based on what happens in or around that room. This cannot be the basis of what we do. That for me was a revelation,” she

said……..”Scandal” star KERRY WASHINGTON will play ANITA HILL in an HBO film about Clarence Thomas’ 1991 Supreme Court confirmation hearings.

The air date is to be announced. The film will be titled “Confirmation,” and Washington is among its executive producers. Hill made headlines in 1991 when she accused Thomas of sexual harassment when she worked for him……..Rapper 50 CENT is going to court in June. He is accused of placing footage of RICK ROSS’ ex-girlfriend having sex on YouTube. The video of Lastonia Leviston with another former boyfriend was seen by more than 3 million viewers.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

Health In order to live well-balanced lives, AfricanAmerican women must take charge of their health and seek the care they need. According to Dr. Zenithe C. Pierre, a primary care provider with Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center-Pearland, the top three health problems for Black women are heart disease, cancer and stroke.

“Although you lack the power to change some risk factors – such as family history, sex or age – there are some key prevention steps you can take,” Pierre said.

Here is Pierre’s advice on good health.

Defender: What are the main things healthy women have in common?

Pierre: While many determinants of health are largely out of our control, in general, healthy women exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet loaded with fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water. Healthy women Dr. Zenithe C. Pierre know it’s essential to find an exercise program that works for them, and then work at it, day-in and dayout.

Healthy women also watch their alcohol consumption, don’t smoke, practice safe sex, and have a good relationship with their doctor.

This means taking medication as prescribed, and having regular health exams and tests to help find problems before they start. Finally,

it’s important for women to make stress management a priority and to take care of themselves. Find time to enjoy friends and family, get enough sleep, and don’t forget to reserve some “me” time to recharge.

Defender: What is your advice to a woman who says she is too busy to exercise or eat right?

Pierre: Maintaining an exercise program is easier if you are having fun and reaching your goals. Turn exercise into a social activity by working out with friends, family or a group.

Change the activity often to avoid boredom and don’t tackle more than you can do.

Fast food makes it easy to get a quick, cheap meal. But, it is possible to find fast meals that are still healthy. Instead of a jumbo cheeseburger, try grilled chicken, sliced meats, or even a regular hamburger on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Instead of fried chicken or taco, try grilled chicken or salad but watch out for high-fat dressings and ingredients such as croutons, cheese and bacon.

Drink water, a small juice, 1-percent fat or fat-free milk or a diet soft drink. Have healthy snacks on hand [such as] carrots, cherry tomatoes, grapes, celery sticks, unsweetened fruit cups, fat-free crackers and unsalted nuts.

Parenting Being a mother is one of the most rewarding roles a woman will ever have. Here is advice on successful parenting from Patrice Tartt, a speaker, coach, Huffington Post contributor and author of the bestselling book, “Mommy Divas on the Move: 16 Successful Secrets for Mompreneurs.”

Defender: How can women be successful when it comes to parenting?

Tartt: By learning their child; that simply means that you learn what works and what does not work with and for your children.

Patrice Tartt You first must be tuned in and be attentive to the subtle signs that the average person won’t even notice about your child. Most children don’t express themselves or feelings for that matter through verbal communication. They act out through naughty behavior or resort to bullying or other things. It’s our

job to successfully parent so that we are raising children with high self-esteem and confidence who are emotional stable.

Defender: What are some tips for balancing motherhood with a career?

Tartt: The main tips are to never lose focus of your duties, which are to parent; to be a mother. You must also take time for yourself, so never forget about “mommy time,” No matter if you just need to run to the spa or nail salon for a manicure and pedicure. A glass of wine never hurt anyone, and paired with a nice candle-lit bubble bath puts the cherry on top.

Defender: When parents are frustrated, what would be your best advice for dealing with their children?

Tartt: When parents are dealing with frustration, whether it stems from the child’s behavior or another personal matter, you must ALWAYS take a step back

Black women

SECRETS OF SUCCESS

By MARILYN MARSHALL and RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY

March is Women’s History Month, a women who have made invaluable cont In honor of the observance, the Defen women to find success in four key areas Here, experts in each area offer their ins

and pull yourself together. The absolute worse thing that you can do is to attempt to parent the way that you do under normal circumstances when you are frustrated. It is a recipe for disaster and saying or doing the wrong things, can scar a child for life. Take a deep breath, understand that your frustration is only temporary, and if you need a “mommy moment,” by all means, take it.

Defender: What’s the biggest difference you’ve seen between parenting in the past and today?

Tartt: The biggest change that I’ve seen is in the way that parents discipline. My thoughts on this is to do what you feel is best for both you and your child. I would never condone child abuse in any form, however time-outs simply don’t work for every child. You must find a form of discipline that works with your child. It doesn’t have to be physical either.

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defendernetwork.com • Serving th

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time to pay tribute to generations of ributions to society. nder explores what it takes for Black s: health, parenting, career and romance. sight.

ealthy women also watch their ohol consumption, don’t smoke, actice safe sex, and have a good relationship with their doctor. his means taking medication as prescribed, and having regular alth exams and tests to help find problems before they start.

he Houston area for over 80 years

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Career There are more opportunities than ever for women in the workplace. What does it take to get ahead? Here is some advice from April Day, president of the Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance, which is committed to increasing business opportunities for women-owned businesses and corporate members.

Defender: What are the top things successful career women have in common?

Day: In my experience of consulting and coaching women, the three things successful career women have in common are: 1) Charisma. Successful women embrace innovation and can April Day empower people to move beyond their own boundaries to achieve greatness. They are influencers, motivators and connectors. 2) Sense of urgency. Women on the move have an “act now” attitude. 3) High degree of emotional intelligence. Successful women are “tuned” in to their own awareness, the awareness of others, and that of their company or organization. There is an uncanny ability to rise above the fray, lead with grace in times of uncertainty and maintain connections.

Defender: How can a woman make the most of her career if she does not have a college degree?

Romance

Whether they’re married, dating or still waiting, women desire loving, supportive relationships with their mates. Dr. Alvia Baldwin, a licensed marriage therapist at SALT Christian Counseling, LLC, offers advice on successful relationships.

Defender: What do you recommend for married couples?

Baldwin: Couples who go through a structured pre-marital counseling program will have a leg up on their counterparts. A good program highlights important elements each specific couple faces during that romantic phase Dr. Alvia Baldwin couples are in which usually causes couples to downplay or overlook issues unless challenged by a trained and trusting outside party.

Big-button issues like finances, roles expectations, blended family issues and boundaries, sexual expectations throughout marriage, and raising children that bring most couples to counseling are addressed in pre-marital counseling, which most of couples in marriage counseling admit they did not do.

Defender: How can women ensure that they keep their relationship strong?

Baldwin: Keep the end in mind…Couples must decide what their marriage/family goals are and periodically check in and update them. Other than love and society/family pressures, why are we getting married?

Why did I chose you? How do we really feel about divorce and why? When couples have these foundational questions in mind, it helps them to make better decisions along the way. It also makes it easier to identify areas in

Day: While obtaining a degree is a plus, women can climb the ladder of success by becoming a self-learner. Read everything about your industry. Strive to read two books a month and find a mentor. Lastly, I recommend joining a trade organization.

Get acclimated, lead a committee and get recognized as an industry leader.

Defender: What is the No. 1 piece of advice you have for a woman who wants to own a successful business?

Day: Find out where the free business resources are in your community and write a business plan.

Defender: There remains a pay gap in the U.S. where women are paid 78 percent of what men are paid. The gap is even wider for women of color. What can women do to help level the playing field?

Day: Pay it forward ladies. When you are in a position of power, leverage your influence to lobby/vote for equal pay.

Be prepared to negotiate your salary, bonuses and raises at the front end and teach other women how to do so. Develop mentoring programs for women that encourage knowing selfworth. Volunteer at local high schools and colleges, hire interns from your volunteer efforts and teach them how to negotiate their hiring terms. Finally, support each other.

the relationships that are working against the agreed upon goals Defender: How can couples learn to “fight right?”

Baldwin: Have fun, faith, and forgiveness as cornerstones of your marriage. Life is hard. Consequently, joining two people together to experience life together but from their own perspective is really hard.

So, to make it the journey most successful, a commitment to having fun, faith, and forgiveness is essential. Black women have to challenge what “ being strong” really means.

Sometimes, being vulnerable with your partner is a great strength and can remind our partners of why they feel in love with us.

Black women [must] maintain standards in the relationship. People should know what we will and won’t deal with, and it shouldn’t change from day to day. That consistency allows partners the freedom and responsibility to love us correctly. Not perfectly, but correctly.

Every marriage will eventually experience some fighting/ arguing. However, we must remember that ultimately we are still on the same team. This happens when we have established and understood our marriage goals.

Fighting fair includes knowing what you are actually fighting about, which requires listening and clarifying. Many times couples fight over something that they actually agree on but understand in different ways.

Leave mamas, major embarrassments, and private disclosures out of the arguments! Hurtful and unfair topics discussed in the heat of battle will damage the marriage well after the arguments cools down.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

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“Some people may not have filed because they didn’t make much money, but they may still be entitled to a refund.”

classified NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Tax refunds totaling $1 billion waiting When tax returns are not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. The window closes this year for 2011 returns.

Federal income tax refunds totaling $1 billion may be waiting for an estimated 1 million taxpayers who did not file a return for 2011, the Internal Revenue Service announced. To collect the money, taxpayers must file a 2011 tax return with the IRS no later than Wednesday, April 15.

If no return is filed to claim a refund within three years, the money

becomes property of the U.S. Treasury In Texas, an estimated 101,800 people did not file a 2011 return with a potential refund. The median potential refund is $743.

“People could be missing out on a substantial refund, especially students or part-time workers,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “Some people may not have filed because they didn’t make much money, but they may still be entitled to a refund.”

Half of the potential refunds for 2011 are more than $698. There is no penalty for filing a late return that qualifies for a refund.

The IRS reminds taxpayers seeking a 2011 refund that their checks may be held if they have not filed tax returns for 2012 and 2013. In addition, the refund will be applied to any amounts still owed to the IRS, or their state tax agency, and may be used to offset unpaid child support or past due federal debts, such as student loans.

By failing to file a tax return, people stand to lose more than just their refund of taxes withheld or paid during 2011. Many low-and-moderate income workers may not have claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For

Some Texans can still get Obamacare Although the deadline to sign up for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act has passed, some uninsured Texans may still have an opportunity to get coverage during a special enrollment period this tax-filing season.

Through April 30, uninsured Texans who are subject to the fine for not having health coverage because they did not understand how it would affect them will have a second chance to enroll in a plan for 2015.

“We’re pleased to see that more than 1.2 million Texans

got health coverage through the Marketplace during the last open enrollment period,” said Mimi Garcia, Get Covered America Texas state director.

“If you still need coverage, and think you meet the qualifications to enroll, act now to ensure you are covered in 2015 by a quality, affordable health care plan.”

Texans who believe they qualify for the special tax-filing special enrollment period can visit healthcare.gov or GetCoveredAmerica.org/connector or call 1-800-318-2596.

2011, the credit is worth as much as $5,751. The EITC helps individuals and families whose incomes are below certain thresholds.

For information visit irs.gov or call 800-8293676.

Sealed bids, in duplicate, addressed to Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority will be received at 410 Pierce Street, Suite 355 Houston, TX 77002, until 2:00 pm, Tuesday, April 14th, 2015. Bids will be publicly opened at 2:00 p.m. and read at 2:15 PM on Thursday, April 16th, 2015, for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and incidentals, as required, for the construction of Fourth Ward Affordable Housing Project - “3-Shotgun Houses”, in Houston, Texas. CONTRACT DOCUMENTS may be examined at the following locations: (1) Associated General Contractors, 2400 Augusta, Suite 305, Houston, TX; (2) Virtual Builders Exchange, 7035 W. Tidwell, Building J, Suite 110, Houston, TX, (3) AMTEK, 4001 Sherwood Lane, Houston, TX and (4) Houston Minority Business Development Center, 2900 Woodridge, Suite 124, Houston, TX 77087. The right is reserved, as the interest of the Owner may require, to reject any and all bids, and to waive any informality in bids received. Plans, specifications and bidding documents may be obtained at the offices of ESPA/ KCI, 801 Travis St., Suite 2000, Houston, Texas 77002 (713-6800080) for a nonrefundable fee of $60.00 per set. Make checks payable to Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority. A pre-bid conference will be held at 410 Pierce Street, Suite 355 Houston, TX 77002 in the 3rd Floor Large Conference Room on Tuesday March 31, 2015 at 10:00 am. It is requested, but not mandatory, that each bidder be represented at the pre-bid conference.

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MARCH 19 | 2015 | DEFENDER

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T:13”

Exhale! This is the redesigned 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid. Unexpectedly beautiful and …Inhale! …technologically “green.”

The Toyota hybrids are only a part of our commitment to better living. Working with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, The Toyota Green Initiative finds and shares ideas to help us all breathe a little easier.

#toyotagreen Options shown. ©2014 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

sports

TSU men win tournament

By MAX EDISON Defender

T

he dust has settled and the Texas Southern University men’s basketball team has captured the SWAC basketball tournament crown to go along with their regular-season conference championship.

As a result the Tigers received an invitation to go dancing during March Madness.

TSU was named a No. 15-seed in the West region, facing No. 2 seed Arizona in the first round.

Senior guard The TSU men’s basketball team won the SWAC title at the Toyota Center.

Deverell Biggs was the hero in the SWAC championship game against Southern University. His clutch two free throws with seconds remaining helped secure the victory.

“Growing up I always wanted to play in a situation like that, but never had been in one,” Biggs said. “To have that moment occur in a championship game in college was incredible. I practice that situation in practice every day, I wasn’t nervous. I asked to be that guy to take the critical free throws. I like pressure.”

For conference Player of the Year, senior Madarious Gibbs, winning the championship is an important milestone.

“It’s a great feeling,” Gibbs said. “It started my freshman season and it’s even better as senior to go out a champion.”

The Tigers face a formidable Deverell Biggs, a senior guard, helped secure the Tigers’ victory. challenge from a very good Arizona team but are not intimidated.

“With the non-conference schedule we had Find out about the Texans’ it prepares us for opportunities like this,” Gibbs latest moves said. “We won’t be intimidated.”

TSU coach Mike Davis now has back-toback championships and trips to March Madwas mindful of TSU’s strength of schedule. ness. The Tigers avoided a No. 16 seed, an “We beat Michigan State and Kansas State indication that the NCAA Selection Committee on the road,” Davis said. “For a SWAC school

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to beat two BCS schools on the road is a big feat.

We had Auburn beat with 11 seconds left.

That gives us the confidence and the mindset that we can do it.”

For Davis it all begins with a mindset and a vision.

“You have to have a vision and get [the team] to buy into it,” Davis said. “Our mindset was to go to a higher level. Once our mindset goes to a higher level, then anything is possible. I say this all the time, anything that can be done in college basketball can be done right here at Texas Southern.

“I’m just trying to get high school basketball players, junior college basketball players and transfer players to think, ‘Why not Texas Southern?’ We might take some bus rides, but I’d rather ride the bus and go to the tournament than fly and stay at home.

“Our goal is to be the best team in Houston,” Davis continued. “That’s no disrespect to any other schools here. I want when people walk around in this city and talk about basketball, they talk about Texas Southern. We have a lot of recruits who want to come here because we beat Michigan State and Kansas State. I’m excited for this team and what we can do here.”

Davis is not surprised by the success of his squad. A tough preschedule schedule that included SMU, Tennessee, Baylor, Auburn, Gonzaga, Michigan State and Kansas State prepared the Tigers for tournament success in hostile environments.

“I wanted to go out and play the toughest [pre-conference] schedule that could be played,” Davis shared.

“I want our guys to be on national TV a lot, to know what that feels like. Those things prepare you for the tournament.

“It goes back to October and November, and how we practice and prepare every day. If you’re waiting until right now to get ready for a game like this it’s way too late.”

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h.s.zone Sterling reflects, celebrates at state

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

SAN ANTONIO – There were a few tears of anguish shed on the floor of the Alamodome following a gut-wrenching defeat in the Class 4A high school boys’ state championship basketball game.

Yet those were quickly replaced by tears of joy and accomplishment as the Ross Shaw Sterling Raiders filed one-by-one to the locker room following a disappointing 83-53 loss to playoff neophyte Bridgeport. It wasn’t the way they wanted The Sterling High School basketball team made it to the state championship game. to end a 31-6 season. Yet the reality was that it was a historical beginning and not rebounds and four assists. a demoralizing ending.

A lot of what Sterling does is predicated on the “I feel like we have laid down the foundation for presence of Wesley in the middle. “That hurt us quite a the Sterling Raiders and there will be more state runs to bit because they out-rebounded us on both the offensive come besides us,” said standout center Curtlon Wesley, and defensive boards,” said Corey Burks, who led Sterwho will return to the Alamo City to play collegiate ball ling with 18 points, including two 3-pointers. “Without at Incarnate Word this fall. “I believe we have inspired Wesley it was hard to stop No. 12 [Smith] from going our neighborhood, community and school to push them- to the hole and getting offensive rebounds as well as selves and become better.”

No. 2 [Patterson].”

Although no stranger to the postseason, it was Trailing 33-16 to start the third quarter, Sterling Houston Sterling’s first trip to the state tournament. began converting more shots but couldn’t slow down Bridgeport was coming off a 12-17 season, but fortified Bridgeport on the other end. by the arrival of four key “We aren’t used to being transfers. The 35-4 Bulls down that much at halftime,” were also making their first said Sterling swingman state tournament appearSee how Clear Lake fared in the Joshua Young, who finished ance. championship game with 17 points and nine reTrailing by five points bounds. “I told my teammates (14-9) after the first quarter, to get their heads up and keep Sterling was outscored 19-7 in the second stanza and playing. Do not give up and play as hard as you can no never could mount a comeback. The Raiders could only matter what the score is. Just go out and have fun.” convert 21-of-58 field-goal attempts (36 percent) and Coach Young said his team will benefit in the futhe results weren’t any better from the foul line (8-ofture from this experience.

21/38 percent).

“This experience has been good for us and will “It was a bad shooting night for us,” said Sterling help us build the program through the years,” he said. head coach Andrea Young. “We had some good shots, “We had success on the freshman, junior varsity and we had some good looks, but they just didn’t fall and varsity levels this season. With what we have coming that worked to our detriment.” up, we feel pretty good about the situation.

With the 6-foot-7 Wesley laden with two early “Some kids don’t get the opportunities other kids fouls, the Raiders were hampered defensively trying to get,” Young said. “This was a big opportunity for my contend with Bridgeport’s one-two punch of 6-6 post kids to get out and see some things around the city and Devonte Patterson and guard Caleb Smith. Patterson state. Hopefully, they’ll want to build beyond some of finished with 29 points and 15 rebounds. Smith was their current personal situations and try to experience named championship game MVP with 23 points, eight other exciting things like this.”

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MARCH 19 | 2015 DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs NFL’s Smith still the man DeMaurice Smith was recently re-elected as NFL Players Association executive director. Player representatives acting on behalf of the 32 NFL teams elected Smith on the first ballot to a three-year term. “I am proud to represent the best athletes in the world,” Smith said. “There will always be those who will sacrifice their dignity in a race to the bottom so that they can climb over others to get to the top. I will not join them, and no human should.” Smith was first elected to the position in 2009 to succeed the late Gene Upshaw. He was unanimously re-elected to the post in 2012.

Kentucky team to beat The Kentucky Wildcats are the team to beat as March Madness begins. They are the overall top seed and the first team in 23 years to be No. 1 in the Associated Press’ college basketball poll from the preseason rankings to the final top 25. Duke accomplished a similar feat in 1992. The Wildcats hope to become the first undefeated men’s national champion since Indiana in 1976. “I think I have the best team and the best players,” said Kentucky coach John Calipari, who is trying to lead the Wildcats to their ninth national title. “Does that mean we’ll win? No, it doesn’t.” On a local note, Kentucky is paced by the dynamic backcourt play of twins Andrew and Aaron Harrison from Fort Bend Travis. The talented sophomores are averaging 9 and 11 points per game respectively.

Young experiences firsts Despite numerous playoff appearances during coach Andrea Young’s tenure, the 2014-15 high school season provided a number of firsts for the Sterling program. This was the school’s first appearance at the state basketball tournament and playing in a large facility like the San Antonio Alamodome.

“The biggest difference in the Alamodome and the gyms we’ve been playing in is the extra amount of open space the kids had to get used to,” Young said. The Raiders shot almost 42 percent from the field and 86 percent from the foul line in a 66-57 victory over La Marque in the state semifinals. Those numbers dropped significantly (36 percent from the field/38 percent from the line) in the state championship game loss to Bridgeport.

This was the first time in Young’s career that his best player (Curtlon Wesley) didn’t have to be the top scorer for the team to win. “Teams usually double-team Curtlon and he finds the open man well,” Young said.

State tournament tidbits A crowd of 10,049 attended the Houston Sterling-Bridgeport Class 4A boys’ state championship game at the San Antonio Alamodome.......2015 marked the first time in the 94-year history of the UIL state basketball tournament that it was played outside of Austin…....With the renaming of the UIL conferences, this was also the first time a 6A champion was crowned…....The first dunk in a UIL girls’ state tournament game was in 2009 by Brittney Griner of Aldine Nimitz.

Griner is currently a center with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury.

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DEFENDER | MARCH 19 | 2015

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

topevents

GHBC SCHOLARSHIP BREAKFAST……..The Greater Houston Black encouraged guests to power forward as this year’s theme was embodied throughout Chamber presented by Comerica, hosted its 39th Annual Educational Achievement the entire event. Each night hosted a different message and concert that help add Scholarship Awards Breakfast at the Toyota Center. The organization honored 11 to the success of the overall experience. Guest speakers included Dr. Jasmin students with a $1,000 scholarship to use toward college expenses. Honorary chair Sculark, Tye Tribbett and Dr. Chris Hill. Musical performances were by James Duer Sharp, commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Fortune & FIYA, Anthony Evans and Canton Jones. The host was comedian and gave remarks as the scholarships were presented. Scholarship recipients included radio personality Marcus Wiley. Others in attendance included Colisa Burnett, Alexis Allen, Karina Barbosa, Titus Bryant, Malachi Cole Rose and 2 Crunk 4 Jesus, and Zacardi Cortez……..

Connor, Lundyn Davis, Jarvis Dillard, Chancellor SWAC TOURNAMENT……..The 2015 Toyota Southwestern Defender TOP EVENTS Johnson, Khloe Madox, Jillian Maxcy, Samantha Smith, Athletic Conference (SWAC) Basketball Tournament featured More photos on defendernetwork.com and Jasmine Washington. Showing their support of the the men’s and women’s teams vying for the conference title See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ event were chair Vernita B. Harris, Janette E. Hammond, and a chance to advance to the NCAA championship. Teams with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Michael Harris, Vanessa Reed, Lucy Bremond, Courtney competing were from Texas Southern University, Prairie View Johnson Rose, Carol Guess and Errol Allen all showed A&M University, Alabama A&M, Alabama State, Alcorn State, their support to make the event a success. Congrats to the scholars……..HIGHER Grambling State, Jackson State, Mississippi Valley State, Southern and ArkansasPine Bluff. In addition to the games, concerts and a number of networking events D MARCH GLADNESS……..Pastor Terrance H. Johnson and First Lady Torsha Johnson of Higher Dimension Church held the 2015 March Gladness took place throughout the city. Congratulations to the TSU men’s basketball team community event. This three-day spiritual experience was jam-packed and and the Alabama State women’s basketball teams, the tournament champions.

Carol Guess and Vanessa Reed

Natasha Smith, Vernita Harris and Charlotte Bryant

Dr. Jasmin Sculark and Pastor Terrance Johnson

Cole Rose and 2 Crunk 4 Jesus

Alabama State’s Britney Wright, coach Freda FreemanJackson and Jasmine Peeples

Southern University cheer squad members

Titus Bryant, Jarvis Dillard and Chancellor Johnson

James Fortune and FIYA

Southern’s Trelun Banks, coach Roman Banks and Tre Lynch

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