Houston Defender: April 09, 2015

NEWSTALK

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATES TRUANCY SYSTEM IN TEXAS P2 defendernetwork.com

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 84 | Number 19

APRIL 9, 2015 |FREE

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FEATURE HEZEKIAH WALKER honored by Black Press

P4 SPORTS TONY SIPP pitches for Astros

P14 HS ZONE SAFA ANYA earns gold swimming

TAMELA & DAVID MANN star in new sitcom H PAGE 6

P15 TOP EVENTS

Former President George Bush and Barbara Bush at Center for Houston’s Future luncheon

P16

Cuney Homes gets $3 mil grant

Sexual assault things to know

The Houston Housing Authority is excited about a new program that will increase the earned income of Cuney Homes residents. See why the program is considered a “pathway to greater prosperity.” Read about the $3 million grant that makes it all possible.le.

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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to shed light on an issue impacting society. Learn how you, your family and friends can reduce the risk of being attacked.

Find out about sexual assault misconceptions. See how survivors are being helped.

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 2015

newstalk

Justice Dept. probes truancy

$3 million jobs grant helps Cuney Homes

The Houston Housing Authority is receiving a $3 million grant from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help residents at the Cuney Homes housing development increase their earned income and become self-sufficient.

The announcement was made by HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Dominique Blom, Congressman Al Green and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Nationally, HUD announced a total of $24 million to nine grantees.

HUD’s Jobs-Plus Pilot Program supports work readiness and connects public housing residents with employment, education and financial empowerment services. HUD said it is a model proven to help public housing residents find and keep jobs.

“Jobs-Plus is not just an initiative, it’s a pathway to greater prosperity for folks across the nation,” Blom said. “With today’s funding, the Houston Housing Authority will be able to help its residents find employment in today’s job market so they can build a better tomorrow.”

Tory Gunsolley, president and CEO of the Houston Housing Authority said, “HHA is excited to be selected for this innovative new program that will provide residents at Cuney Homes an opportunity to achieve their education and training goals to get to self-sufficiency.

“Along with HUD and our partners, we will use this opportunity to make the lives of Houston families better every day.”

Located in Third Ward, Cuney Homes was the first development opened by the Housing Authority in 1938, and has received extensive rehabilitation over the years.

The current average household income of the 553 families in Cuney Homes is $9049, which is 20 percent lower than the average for all public housing residents. It is estimated that 57 percent of those able to work currently have no earned income.

The HHA, in partnership with Workforce Solutions, Texas Sothern University, Houston Community College, SER Jobs for Progress, the Urban League, and United Way THRIVE, will use its grant to assist up to 300 Cuney residents with job training and career counseling over the four years of the program.

It will also provide other necessities for workforce development, such as child care, transportation, after-school care and supplies. The Houston Food Bank will provide food scholarships as an incentive.

More information is available at www.hud.gov.

The Justice Department has opened an investigation of Dallas County, Texas’s Truancy Court and Juvenile District Courts.

The investigation will focus on whether the courts provide constitutionally required due process to all children charged with the criminal offense of failure to attend school, including whether those protections apply to children whom the county charges with contempt.

The investigation will also focus on whether the courts provide meaningful access to the judicial process for children with disabilities.

Houston State State Sen. Rodney Ellis Sen. Rodney Ellis, who sent a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder requesting an investigation, said he was pleased with the DOJ’s actions.

“I have serious concerns about how quickly many jurisdictions turn to the criminal justice system to address truancy, as well as the disproportionate targeting of minority and special education students,” Ellis said.

“Education is the most important key to unlocking the doors of opportunity and avoiding the school-to-prison pipeline. But the Texas truancy system is pushing students who often face economic and social hardships out of school and further away from those opportunities.”

According to a Texas Appleseed study, in 2013, Texas prosecuted 115,000 truancy cases, more than twice the number of all other states combined. Statewide, 80 percent of students sent to court for truancy are lowincome, and African-Americans, Latino, and special education students are disproportionately impacted.

localbriefs MICKEY LELAND COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY community members turned out to hear about the latest plans for the school’s new 21st century campus.

More than 125 people attended the presentation given by the architect and project manager, which offered the opportunity to view renderings up close and give feedback. The new school will be built on the site of the former Wheatley/E.O. Smith building in Fifth Ward despite protests last year from alumni. “I’m glad we can help preserve the history of the Fifth Ward in our new school,” said Dameion Crook, principal of Leland Prep. “I am happy with the plans and very excited to move forward with construction.” As part of HISD’s

bond program, $42.4 million was budgeted to build the new school, which will accommodate up to 1,000 students. For information on the school visit houstonisd. org.……..A “TALK, TEXT, CRASH” CAMPAIGN is urging Texas drivers to give their full attention to the road. The Texas Department of Transportation recently kicked off the campaign, which coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April. “Nearly one in five traffic crashes in Texas is caused by a distracted driver,” said TxDOT Deputy Executive Director John Barton. “Last year, 468 people were killed because someone took their attention off the road.” Distracted driving-related crashes in Texas

are highest among 16- to 24-year-olds. TxDOT urges drivers to refrain from texting, checking email, eating and drinking, grooming, reading, programming a navigation system or adjusting music or other audio device……..A JOBS RESOURCE FAIR will be held Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2600 Holman.

Partners include Trinity UMC, the Greater Southeast Management District, Third Ward Community Cloth Cooperative and University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. Job-hunters should bring resumes. The event is open to the public. For more information visit www.communitycloth.org.

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APRIL 9 | 2015 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs PRESIDENT OBAMA gave 22 federal prisoners a second chance by granting them clemency. All of the prisoners were sentenced at various times for intent to distribute drugs, with 14 off the 22 incarcerated cases involving possession or distribution of cocaine. “Had they been sentenced under current laws and policies, many of these individuals would have already served their time and paid their debt to society,” White House counsel Neil Eggleston said. Prisoners’ advocate groups hope Obama’s decision is the beginning of a wave of future commutations that would disproportionately impact African-Americans held in federal prisons……..FORMER AMBASSADOR ANDREW YOUNG spoke about today’s issues, including the police killings of unarmed Black men, during an appearance in Sacramento. Young, 83, was a close confident of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and went on to become a Georgia congressman and mayor of Atlanta. He said white supremacy “is a sickness,” and having ill will toward it can create more problems. “The thing that worries me more than [the death of unarmed Black men] is that 93 percent of the Black men killed are killed by other Black men,” Young said. “That’s self-hatred. Also, about 86 percent of the white men killed are killed by other white men. So we don’t have a race problem.

We have a violence problem. Sometimes we make a mistake when we put everything in racial terms,” he said……..CONGRESSMAN DONALD PAYNE of New Jersey and Congressman Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma have joined together in a bi-partisan effort to improve the health and well-being of men and boys by co-chairing the newly reauthorized Congressional Men’s Health Caucus. The caucus is dedicated to raising awareness of health issues and promoting legislation that will have a positive impact on males and their families. The caucus will work closely with Men’s Health Network, a non-profit health organization.

VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 19 APRIL 9, 2015

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

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall

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

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

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Black businesses help reduce youth crime

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NNPA News Service

ne of the most powerful agents in curtailing Black youth crime in major cities is the presence of Black business owners, according to Karen Parker, professor of sociology and criminal justice at the University of Delaware.

Parker is author of the study, “The African-American Entrepreneur – Crime Drop Relationship: Growing African-American Business Ownership and Declining Youth Violence.”

“By looking at business ownership, we’re seeing [Black business owners’] presence in their neighborhoods…and how they are having a very positive impact on the violence there, specifically among youth,” she said.

Her research analyzes the growth in Black entrepreneurship compared to Black juvenile arrests in large cities, as well as a few independent variables such as deindustrialization and income inequality.

The data comes from the beginning of the 1990s and the beginning of the 2000s. Both periods saw specific job losses (manufacturing jobs in the ‘90s, professional jobs in the 2000s) and rises in Black entrepreneurship.

During the weak economic times following the September 11 attacks, the number of Black-owned businesses rose more than 60 percent – “more than triple the national rate of 18 percent for all U.S. businesses according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

At the same time, violent offenses involving Black youth dropped about 29 percent in large cities

across the nation.

By her analysis, the positive influence of visible Black business owners seems to flow in two ways.

“First, minority-owned businesses, through the lives of their owners, employees, and families, can serve an important function – as role models to urban youth in the community,” she writes. “Business growth also means an inflow of resources into the community, reducing the level of economic disadvantage that has been linked to urban violence.”

Culturally, the presence of Black business owners in a community, particularly if there is poverty or other socioeconomic disadvantage, often raises morale and staves off the cynicism that social scientists have tied to high crime among youth.

Parks, Tubman finalists in $20 bill campaign Civil rights heroine Rosa Parks (1913-2005) and abolitionist Harriet Tubman (1822-1913) are among the top four finalists in a grass roots campaign aimed at convincing the U.S. Treasury Department to put a woman on new $20 bills.

The other two finalists are diplomat and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) and Cherokee Chief Wilma Mankiller (1945-2010). More than 250,000 voters cast ballots online over a five-week period.

“There are so few reminders in our everyday lives of great women who’ve contributed to the shaping of our nation,” said Susan Ades Stone, executive

director of the nonprofit movement titled Women on 20s. “It’s time to correct that and putting a woman on a $20 is like having a little pocket monument.”

The group’s goal is to replace Andrew Jackson with one of the four women by 2020, the 100th anniversary of passage of the 19th Amendment that gave women the right to vote.

The Treasury Department has no comment on the campaign, but the group’s founder, Barbara Ortiz Howard, said it’s time for a change.

“We have an opportunity for a rich history lesson every day as we use our money,” she said.

For information visit www.womenon20s.org.

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

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Crump named NNPA Newsmaker of the Year Crump credited Blackowned news media for daring enjamin Crump, to write and talk about the the lawyer who phenomenon he called the skyrocketed to ‘‘Houdini handcuffed suicide national prominence killings” of young people of color by representing the family of in the back of police cars.

Trayvon Martin, the unarmed “Without the Black Press I Florida teenager who was shot don’t know where we would be in to death by George Zimmerthese campaigns of justice for all man, said that since the 4th these unknown, unnamed people of grade, he always knew that he color who are killed every day all wanted to grow up and fight across the world and swept under for the community. the rug,” Crump said.

“The measure of a man is Jennifer S. Carroll, the former defined by the impact that they lieutenant governor of Florida, was make on the world,” Crump honored with a Torch Award for said. “Every day we have to her successful political career. She get up and ask, ‘What impact also thanked the Black press for are we going to make on the sharing her story. world?’ and we have to do it, “Had it not been for the because our children are watchBlack Press, my accomplishments ing us.” would not have been told at all in NNPA President and CEO Benjamin Chavis Jr. (left) and Publisher Natalie Cole present the Newsmaker of the Year During the 2015 Black mainstream media,” Carroll said. award to attorney Benjamin Crump.

Press Week, the National News“We have an audience that needs to paper Publishers Association “Making people know the name of Trayvon Marbe informed and the Black press fills (NNPA) Foundation honored Crump as the Newstin, the name of the Michael Brown, know the name that vacuum that exists in mainstream press.” maker of the Year for his service to the community, of the Tamir Rice, know the name of Chavis Carter, In a separate ceremony, the late Francis Page Sr., especially to the families of young people of color know the name of Kendrick Johnson in Valdosta, founder and publisher of the Houston NewsPages, and who had been brutalized or killed by law enforceGa., know the name of Victor White III in New Iberia, Dr. Ludwaldo O. Perry, co-founder of the Tennessee ment officials.

La., know the name of Alesia Thomas in Los AngeTribune with his wife, Rosetta Miller-Perry, were Crump, 45, said that giving a voice to the voiceles…the list goes on and on,” said Crump. “If this was enshrined in the Gallery of Distinguished Black less has been the most important part of his career. happening to white children, it would be a war.”

Publishers at Howard University.

NNPA News Service

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Hezekiah Walker receives Torch Award

By ELAINA JOHNSON Howard University News Service

Grammy Award-winning artist Bishop Hezekiah Walker can add the 2015 Torch Award for religion to his list of accomplishments as a gospel music artist and pastor of Love Fellowship Tabernacle, a mega church in Brooklyn, N.Y. NNPA honored Walker during Black Press Week

in Washington for his diligence in spreading the gospel through music, radio and ministry.

“I was extremely shocked when I heard that I won this honor,” Walker said. “I quickly changed my plans to make sure I was there to receive it.”

Walker, 52, was born and raised in the Fort Greene housing projects in Brooklyn. He formed the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir when he was in his 20s and has been releasing music with the choir and solo since then.

Walker is also the senior pastor of Love Fellowship Tabernacle, a church that he founded in 1994. The church has brought together diverse members of differing races, socio-economic backgrounds and ages.

He also launched the “Hezekiah Walker Afternoon Praise” radio show on 1190 WLIB in New York City followed by the “Sunday Morning Celebration” radio show on 107.5 WBLS. He received Grammy Awards in 1994 and 2001.

“I really feel in my heart that out of all the awards I’ve won,

the Torch award is the best award I could have ever received in my life,” he said. “Music is the foundation of our people. It’s one thing when others recognize you, but it’s another thing when your own people recognize you.”

There is, however, one honor that meant more to him than receiving either a Grammy or the Torch Award. That was finding out that his music helped to save the life of a 9-yearold boy.

Willie Myrick, 9, was grabbed from the streets last March and forced into a car by an unidentified man while playing with his dog outside his home in Atlanta.

Myrick, who was awarded the NNPA’s Junior Newsmaker Award, continuously sang Walker’s hit song “Every Praise” for three hours straight until the kidnapper finally released him and drove away.

“I have had many great things happen in my life, but just to save that young boy’s life really meant a lot to me,” Walker said. “When you begin to sing and put music out, you never know how many lives you touch across the world.”

Hezekiah Walker

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APRIL 9 | 2015 | DEFENDER LegaL Notice

Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Economic and Property Damages Settlement The Deadline to file a Claim is June 8, 2015 June 8, 2015 has been established as the deadline to submit a claim in the Economic and Property Damages (“E&PD”) Settlement with BP Exploration & Production Inc. and BP America Production Company (“BP”) related to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

So if you are eligible to file a claim, you must act soon.

Who

is included?

The E&PD Settlement Class includes people, businesses, other entities, and properties in the states of Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi, and certain counties in Texas and Florida, that were harmed by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill that occurred on April 20, 2010. The website DeepwaterHorizonSettlements.com has detailed descriptions and maps of the included geographic locations to help you determine whether you are a part of the E&PD Settlement Class. Additionally, you can call 1-866-992-6174 or e-mail questions@ DeepwaterHorizonEconomicSettlement.com to find out if a geographic location is included.

What

are the payment

categories?

The settlement provides payments if you had economic loss or property damage because of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

By submitting a claim, you can request a payment in one or more of the following seven categories:

Economic Damage  Loss of Subsistence  Vessel Physical Damage Real Property Sales Damage Vessels of Opportunity Charter Payment  Coastal Real Property Damage  Wetlands Real Property Damage



Economic Damage payments are available for Individuals and Entities that lost profits or earnings as a result of the Deepwater Horizon Incident. Coastal Real Property payments are available for property that was physically damaged in connection with the Deepwater Horizon Incident. Detailed descriptions of all seven categories are available at the website.

There is no limit on the total dollar amount of the E&PD Settlement. All qualified and timely claims will be paid in full once they are approved. The Settlement also allowed for Seafood Compensation claims, but the deadline for those claims has passed.

hoW

do i request a payment?

You must submit a Claim Form to request a payment. You can get a copy of the various Claim Forms by visiting the website or by calling 1-866-992-6174. Claims can be submitted online or by mail. If you have questions about how to file your claim, you should call the toll-free number for assistance.

The claims process can be complex, so if you are eligible to file a claim, you should act now so you may complete your claim before the June 8, 2015 deadline.

DeepwaterHorizonSettlements.com



1-866-992-6174

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

entertainment

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David & Tamela Mann in new sitcom Real-life husband and wife team David Mann and Tamela Mann of “Meet the Browns” fame are reuniting on screen as well as behind the scenes with the debut of their new original sitcom “Mann & Wife.”

The Manns are executive producers of the show, which airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on Bounce TV. They play newlyweds Daniel and Toni Mann. Their lives are turned inside out when Daniel, a police officer from Atlanta, and Toni, a school teacher from Dallas, meet on a dating site and fall in love.

When they decide to marry and Toni moves into Daniel’s house in the Atlanta suburbs, the honeymooners – along with four kids between them – all have to adjust to their new lives together. They also have to deal with David’s overbearing live-in mother and his jet-setting ex-wife.

Vivica A. Fox portrays Daniel’s ex-wife, Tony Rock portrays his new partner, JoMarie Payton is his mother and Tiny Lister is his boss.

In real life, the Manns have been married 26 years and have four children and eight grandchildren. David Mann said their relationship has priority.

“We never balance our marriage with our careers,” he said. “Anytime you are balancing something, you have to give it an equal amount of time. Our marriage comes first and outweighs anything we will do in this [entertainment] industry. We never balance anything. We give time to our marriage and then whatever else comes after that.”

ns n a M e h t t u Abo orn in Fort Worth

b Franklin and • Both were rs with Kirk e re ca g in g ir sin • Began the y “I Can Do ily m the Fa ut in the pla b e d g in ct a her • She made yself” ea Goes to M y B ll Bad A vies as “Mad o m ch su in red • She appea arkle” p o. 1 on Bill“S d n Jail” a debuted at N s” ay D st e “B • Her album art el Album ch ard for sp o G ’s board and BET Aw rd a w A r lla Ste • She won a c si u m l e comedian gosp , s a stand-up a s rm y TV shows o rf e p • He in Tyler Perr n w ro B r.

M d • He portraye lays p d r acting n a s ie mov ge Award fo a Im P C A A N up n Music Gro • He won an t of Tillyman n e d si re p is • He

David Mann and Tamela Mann (right) are joined on “Mann & Wife” by JoMarie Payton (left), Tony Rock and Vivica A. Fox.

what’sup KEVIN HART will receive the MTV Comedic Genius Award during the 2015 MTV Movie Awards that will air live on Sunday, April 12 at 8 p.m. The award will honor Hart for his “bold and irreverent comedic style” that has captivated audiences from his movies, sitcoms and stand-up comedy routines… …..“Furious 7” earned an astounding $384 million its first weekend in theaters, including $143 million in the United States. Its stars include VIN DIESEL, DWAYNE JOHNSON, LUDACRIS, TYRESE GIBSON and the late PAUL WALKER, who died in a car crash in 2013. Gibson said Walker’s death made

completing the film difficult. “He was the nicest guy ever. So we all felt the trauma. It wasn’t just a death. It wasn’t just a loss. It was traumatic because of the way he died,” Gibson said.……..GRACE GEALEY, who portrays TERRENCE HOWARD’S scorned fiancée on “Empire,” spoke out about skin color.

Gealey, who is from the Cayman Islands, moved to the U.S. when she was 18. She said she was taken aback by “the whole light-skinned/dark-skinned dynamic” for women of color. “Back home we understand that you can look like a variety of things and still be from the same culture,” she said. “I

never felt like I was a light-skinned Black woman.”

She said that changed when she came to America.

“I realized that was a thing here,” Gealey said……..

NBC News executives are pleased with LESTER HOLT. He took over anchor duties in February after BRIAN WILLIAMS was suspended for falsely recounting a story that he was in a helicopter hit by ground fire in Iraq in 2003. Holt recently experienced his best ratings, and the “NBC Nightly News” audience increased for a second straight week. The broadcast remains No. 1 among total viewers. Holt began his career with CBS in 1981.

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APRIL 9 | 2015 | DEFENDER

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Offer ends 4/12/15. New residential customers only. Not available in all areas. Requires subscription to Starter XF Triple Play with Digital Starter TV, Performance 50 Mbps Internet and XFINITY Voice Unlimited®. Two-year term agreement required. Early termination fee applies. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including regulatory recovery fees, Broadcast TV Fee (up to $3.50/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $1/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after the promo. After 12 months, service charge for Starter XF Triple Play increases to $114.99 for months 13–24. After 12 months, regular monthly charge applies to DVR service (which includes HD technology fee). Additional outlet fee applies to multi-room viewing. After applicable promotional periods, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast’s service charge for Starter XF Triple Play is $144.95–$154.95/ mo., depending on area, and for DVR service is $19.95/mo. (pricing subject to change). TV and Internet service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. Voice: $29.95 activation fee applies. Service (including 911/emergency services) may not function after an extended power outage. Two-year term agreement with qualifying HD Triple Play required with prepaid card and tablet offers. Early termination fee applies. Prepaid card mailed to Comcast account holder within 18 weeks of activation of all required services and expires in 90 days. Card issued by Citibank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa® U.S.A. Inc. and managed by Citi Prepaid Services. Card will not have cash access and can be used everywhere Visa® debit cards are accepted. Call for restrictions and complete details. © 2015 Comcast. All rights reserved. Samsung and Galaxy Tab are registered trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Screen images simulated.

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cente

DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

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S

exual assault is defined as any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient. This includes forced sexual intercourse, forcible sodomy, child molestation, incest, fondling, attempted rape, sexual threats and intimidation, human sexual trafficking and other forms of unwelcome, coerced or nonconsensual activity.

While you can never completely protect yourself from sexual assault, there are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of being attacked. Here is some advice from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization.

1. Be aware of your surroundings.

Knowing where you are and who is around you may help you to find a way to get out of a bad situation.

2. Try to avoid isolated areas. It is more difficult to get help if no one is around.

3. Walk with purpose. Even if you don’t know where you are going, act like you do.

4. Trust your instincts. If a situation or location feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it probably isn’t the best place to be.

5. Try not to load yourself down with packages or bags as this can make you appear more vulnerable.

6. Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged and that you have cab money.

7. Don’t allow yourself to be isolated with someone you don’t trust or someone you don’t know.

8. Avoid putting music headphones in both ears so that you can be more aware of your surroundings, especially if you are walking alone.

9. When you go to a social gathering, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, check in with each other throughout the evening, and leave together.

ways to reduce the risk 10. If you see something suspicious, contact law enforcement immediately by calling 911.

11. Don’t leave your drink unattended while talking, dancing, using the restroom, or making a phone call. If you’ve left your drink alone, just get a new one.

12. Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know or trust. If you choose to accept a drink, go with the person to the bar to order it, watch it being poured, and carry it yourself. At parties, don’t drink from the punch bowls or other large, common open containers.

13. Watch out for your friends, and vice versa. If a friend seems out of it, is way too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol they’ve had, or is acting out of character, get him or her to a safe place immediately.

14. If you suspect you or a friend has been drugged, call 911. Be explicit with doctors so they can give you the correct tests.

15. Take control of your online life.

Think twice before you share personal information. Constantly posting social media updates on your whereabouts, activities or even class schedules may allow someone to track your every move.

16. Educate your children. Talking openly and directly about sexuality teaches children that it is okay to talk to you when they have questions.

17. Teach children the names of their body parts so that they have the language to ask questions and express concerns about those body parts.

18. Teach children that some parts of their body are private.

19. All children should be told that it’s okay to say “no” to touches that make them uncomfortable or if someone is touching them in ways that make them uncomfortable and that they should tell a trusted adult as soon as possible.

20. Abusers will sometimes tell a child that the abuse is a secret. Let your children know that if someone is touching them or talking to them in ways that make them uncomfortable that it shouldn’t stay a secret.

Sexual assault

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

By MARILYN MA Defende

April is Sexual Assault Awareness M awareness about sexual violence and to prevent it. It’s estimated that every 107 sexually assaulted. Children and young assault, but it’s a crime that can happen Defender looks at the problem and poss

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

erfold

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ARSHALL er

Month, a time to raise public o educate communities on how to 7 seconds, someone in the U.S. is g adults are most at risk of sexual n to anyone at any age. Here, the sible prevention.

he Houston area for over 80 years

9

Women’s center assists survivors For more than 35 years, the Houston Area Women’s Center has worked to help survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The center offers domestic abuse and sexual assault services, shelter, 24-hour hotlines, counseling services, children’s services and community education and training.

In a Q&A with the Defender, center president and CEO Rebecca White discussed sexual assault.

Defender: Why is Sexual Assault Awareness Month important?

White: Sexual assault is very common in our society, yet it’s rare that people talk about it beyond what’s making news headlines. Sexual assault is also a very traumatic experience, not just during the assault itself, but also afterwards.

Survivors can experience crippling feelings of shame and isolation, and it’s not unusual for a survivor to wait years before telling someone about the assault or abuse. That’s why talking about sexual assault and clearing up misconceptions is so important. But the most important thing is letting survivors know that they are not alone, that the assault was not their fault, and that help is available.

Defender: What are the biggest misconceptions about sexual assault?

White: That sexual assaults are usually committed by strangers, and the survivor must have done something to deserve it.

The fact is, most sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the survivor, often someone that the survivor trusts. That’s true for adults and especially true for children.

As for blaming the survivor, as a society, we tend to place a lot of scrutiny and blame on the survivor, asking questions like “What were you wearing?” or “Didn’t you watch your drink?” Conversely, we tend to make excuses for perpetrators and look for ways to explain away their behavior. The reality is that no one deserves to be sexually assaulted. Sexual assaults happen because someone chooses to assault another person.

Defender: Where are sexual assaults most likely to

occur in Houston?

White: Unfortunately, sexual assaults occur everywhere and, because of that, it’s hard to predict specific locations.

There are also certain factors that are important to recognize.

First, this type of crime is very underreported. Second, survivors can feel very disoriented during and after an assault, and they may not know what to do or whom to tell after it happens. They also might experience feelings of shame or blame themselves for what happened.

That’s why our 24-hour hotline at the Houston Area Women’s Center is so important. Whether an assault happened 15 minutes ago, or 15 years ago, anyone can call our confidential number (713-528RAPE) for support, advocacy, and resources.

Defender: Some statistics show that African-American women are disproportionately victims of domestic violence.

Does the same hold true for sexual assault?

White: Sexual assault affects people from all walks of life, all ages, all genders, and all ethnicities. RAINN.org offers statistics showing that African-American women are slightly more likely to be victims of rape or attempted rape. Another important factor to consider: While sexual assault is, in general, a very underreported crime, some studies suggest that it’s even more underreported in the African-American community.

Defender: What advice can you give if a woman is being attacked?

White: For too long, we as a society have placed the responsibility for preventing a sexual assault on the survivor.

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with a woman or man taking steps to feel safe, we want to flip the script and shift the focus to the perpetrators of sexual assault. Until we do, these types of crimes will continue to happen.

Anyone can call our confidential number (713-528-RAPE) for support, advocacy and resources

The Houston Area Women’s Center Spring Gala is Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m. at the Royal Sonesta Houston Hotel.

Honorees are Reliant and Houston Texan Andre Johnson, both longtime center supporters. Visit www.hawc.org or call 713-528-6798, ext. 2233.

Free defense course offered Women interested in learning defensive tactics and techniques can sign up for the Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) System, a free, fiveday, 15-hour program. It is offered by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit.

The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive course for women that begins with awareness,

prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. It is not a martial arts or weapons program.

Courses are taught by certified instructors at various locations. For more information call 713-759-9454.

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

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health

New methods flush out sinus infections

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ew sinus therapeutics, including baby shampoo sinus irrigation and probiotic sinus rinses, can lessen symptoms and ward off sinus infections, according to doctors at Baylor College of Medicine.

“These new therapies are targeting the bacteria in ways that haven’t been utilized in the past,” said Dr. Mas Takashima, director of the Sinus Center at Baylor.

“These techniques are helping those with chronic and acute sinusitis. Whenever I tell my patients about the new therapeutic protocols they’re very surprised, but they get the results they want and need.”

He said the concept behind baby shampoo irrigation is cleansing the naval cavity with a surfactant. By doing this, the biofilms, or oily layers that bad bacteria create to protect itself from irrigation, are broken down.

“We tell our children to wash their hands with soap, not with plain water, in order to clean bacteria from their hands. The same concept is being used in the sinuses,” said Takashima, also an associate professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at Baylor.

“Bacteria have learned to adapt to common sinus infection irrigation treatments such as neti pot irrigations and salt water irrigations, which mean that the biofilms don’t get flushed out as easily with traditional techniques,” Takashima said.

“Because baby shampoo is a surfactant it is able to

break that barrier.”

This irrigation should be a half teaspoon of shampoo in 8 ounces of saline. He said individuals should consult their doctor for further instructions before trying the irrigation at home.

Takashima also is investigating the use of probiotics for treating chronic and acute sinusitis in patients.

Many patients are aware of taking probiotics to improve gastrointestinal health after taking antibiotics, he said.

Probiotics for the sinuses work in a similar fashion.

Frequently when patients are placed on antibiotics they’re killing good and bad bacteria, and killing the good bacteria means that there is nothing in the nasal cavity to help protect against the buildup of bad bacteria, he said.

“I often encounter previously healthy patients who tell me, ‘I haven’t been able to shake this sinus infection and multiple courses of antibiotics and steroids aren’t helping.’ This tells me that something must have occurred to cause a change in the patient’s natural ability to fight off sinus infections,” Takashima said.

“Current research in my field suggests this may be caused by the disruption of the natural bacterial habitat of the sinuses by the antibiotics, which is why more doctors are utilizing probiotics.”

Reduce springtime allergy, asthma triggers Springtime brings warmer weather, flowers in bloom and more hours of daylight. For some, however, spring also brings on frustrations associated with asthma and allergies. Here are helpful hints on dealing with the season from the American Lung Association.

Identify triggers. A trigger can be something in the environment like pollen, a chemical that you are exposed to, stress or emotions. In order to control your asthma, it is important to know what may trigger your asthma symptoms and how to limit your exposure to that trigger.

Dust mite excretion, pollen and pet dander are all common allergens and are known triggers for people with asthma. Work with your healthcare provider to identify what may be causing your symptom.

Check outdoor air quality. If you plan to enjoy physical activity outside, remember to scope out the environment first and be aware of any obvious triggers. The quality of the air we breathe outdoors affects each of us and can be especially troublesome for people with asthma. Check daily air quality levels and air pollution forecasts in your area. Visit the American Lung Association website at www.lung.org for tips on protecting yourself from unhealthy air.

Beware of pollen. Before working in the yard, check the local pollen count and consider gardening in the early morning or evening when the count is at its lowest. Fertilizers and freshly cut grass can worsen asthma symptoms. When working the yard, consider wearing a particle mask available at hardware stores to keep from breathing in tiny particles.

Watch insects, repellants. Citronella candles and bug spray may keep mosquitoes at bay but can also trigger an

asthma episode. It may help to stay several feet away from any strong smelling candles, and when using mosquito repellent, choose lotions that are unscented instead of aerosol sprays.

To lessen mosquito bites, empty flower pot liners or other containers holding water, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outside, and stay indoors at sunrise and sunset when mosquitoes are most active.

Know inside hazards. Dusting, vacuuming and cleaning indoor surfaces can help to eliminate many potential asthma and allergy triggers, but can also introduce new ones into the home environment.

Beware of cleaning products. Reduce the impact of chemicals by ensuring that there is good ventilation. Look for recognized labeling that reflects safer products. Read labels if fragrances trigger your asthma.

Get rid of pests or decrease exposure. Pests such as cockroaches and dust mites can be triggers for many asthma and allergy sufferers. Regular house cleaning, indoor humidity levels kept below 50 percent and the use of dustmite resistant pillow and mattress covers may eliminate the breeding grounds for these common household bugs.

Use medications as prescribed. Always be sure to use your controller medications as prescribed, even if you are feeling well. Remember to keep your quick-relief medicine (i.e. Albuterol) close at hand in case of a flare-up.

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APRIL 9 | 2015 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

business

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Avoid small business tax prep mistakes

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ax time brings with it a sense of urgency and pressure, and mistakes can follow.

Here are tips on avoiding some of the most common tax preparation mistakes from the Small Business Administration.

Be aware of new business expense. New business owners can write off the expense they incurred before technically opening their doors for business.

Don’t overlook this important deduction.

Be clear on car deductions. A lot of confusion exists about what constitutes a legitimate business driving deduction. When you travel from your office to see a customer or vendor, this constitutes business driving. If you commute from home to your office (and back), this is a nondeductible personal expense.

If, however, you work from a home office for which you claim a tax deduction, then travel from home to any business location (and back) is treated as deductible business driving.

Also, the mileage deduction for tax year 2014 is 56 cents per mile.

Another big mistake that business owners make is to limit their deductions to mileage. If you can prove that they are business expenses, you can also deduct other costs including gas and oil, tires, insurance, lease payments, tolls and parking fees.

Don’t forget the small stuff. Petty cash purchases, magazine subscriptions, educational classes and more – these “small” expenses can add up quickly. Make sure you track all your expenses and check with your tax advisor about what you can and can’t deduct.

Don’t exaggerate your deductions. Your accountant can ensure you don’t overdo or exaggerate your deductions – something that can raise the possibility of an IRS audit. For example, many small business owners mistakenly assume that they can deduct 100 percent of meal costs while traveling or client gifts. They are actually only partly deductible.

Likewise, if your expenses are a lot higher this year than last or not considered typical for your in-

dustry or business type, the IRS may get inquisitive.

It’s not all about the IRS. The IRS is only one piece of the tax pie. Don’t forget about your other tax obligations – property, payroll, local taxes, excise tax, self-employment taxes, etc. These can all come back to bite you if you aren’t compliant in a timely manner.

Separate personal and business. Intermingling your personal and business bank accounts is a big cause of confusion around tax time, making it hard to track income and expenses. Furthermore, if you operate a home business, make sure you keep that space distinct and separate from the rest of the home so that you can correctly claim the home office deduction.

Avoid payroll mistakes. Payroll tax compliance is something that many small business owners struggle with. The financial consequences of get-

Young Professionals host seminar The Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals (HAULYP) will present the annual Know Your Money seminar during Houston Money Week. It will be held Thursday, April 16, at 6 p.m. at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, 1801 Allen Parkway.

Guest speakers are Willie Miles, owner of Miles Wealth Management, and Irving Moses Jr., regional vice president of Primerica.

Houston Money Week is a community-wide initiative to empower families and individuals with financial education. The seminar will provide insight about the wealth disparities in America and equip attendees with basic tools of wealth building “Know Your Money is about understanding wealth disparities, and how we as a community can close that gap and achieve our financial goals,” said Deion Dorsett, HAULYP professional development chair and event organizer.

HAULYP is an auxiliary group of the Houston Area Urban League. Its mission is make a positive impact on the local community through service and advocacy.

To register for the free seminar visit https://haulyp.org/event/know-your-money/.

ting it wrong aren’t pleasant either. Statistics show that approximately 40 percent of small businesses incur an average of $845 per year in IRS penalties.

To make sure that your payroll taxes are deposited correctly, outsource your payroll function to a payroll company. The benefits often far outweigh the fees.

Keep your records up to date. This is a common problem for small businesses and often leads to missed opportunities for reducing your taxable income for the year. Make sure your expenses are reconciled, tracked and supported with receipts (the IRS requires it).

Spend time each week to review your accounts – receivable, payable, credit card transactions, cash flow, etc. if your business is growing, consider accounting software (which synchronizes all your financial transactions and activities in one centralized dashboard) or retain the services of an accountant.

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APRIL 9 | 2015 | DEFENDER

opinion Jailing educators for ‘cheating to the test’

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By JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA Columnist

leven Atlanta teachers have been convicted of altering student test scores on standardized tests. They are charged with racketeering and conspiracy. The muchcelebrated Superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools Beverly L. Hall was among the indicted but was too ill to stand trial. She died on March 2.

Another group of teachers, principals and administrators took plea bargains. A total of 178 people were accused of taking part in the cheating “scam” and in 2011 Hall reminded observers that “we have over 3,000 teachers in Atlanta,” and just a few were part of the cheating scandal. She also denied having any knowledge of the cheating. Until her illness, she insisted that she wanted to stand trial and clear her name.

In what was described as the largest cheating scandal in the nation’s history, District Attorney Paul L. Howard Jr. prosecuted the educators under a law originally designed to snare organized crime figures. Of the 12 defendants, 11 were convicted of racketeering, a felony punishable up to 20 years.

One defendant, Dessa Curb, a former elementary school teacher, was acquitted.

Those 11 convicted were taken straight from the courtroom to jail. Sentencing should take place any day now. On top of the 20 years maximum sentence for racketeering, they could be convicted on other charges including making false statements. It is interesting to note that most of these teachers are African-American.

You can serve as few as 15 years for second-

degree murder in Georgia, and as little as a year for involuntary manslaughter. Further, most convicted offenders get a day or even months to go home and straighten out their affairs before reporting to prison.

But not this group of educators.

These Atlanta teachers aren’t the only teachers involved in similar cheating scams. A year ago, 130 Philadelphia educators were accused of cheating. In September, several were ordered to stand trial.

Why have those who chose a low-paid and littleregarded profession stoop to cheating on standardized tests? Are they judged by the number of students who pass these flawed tests, and the number who fail? Is there a culture of cheating in too many of our nation’s schools? Is there a culture of “teaching to the test”?

There is no excuse for the cheating in Atlanta, or Philadelphia, or in El Paso, where the school superintendent was imprisoned for reporting faulty test scores. While there is no excuse, it would be foolhardy

to ignore the pressure that many face when federal laws mandate the use of standardized tests to “prove” that teachers and schools are doing their jobs.

In some districts, including Atlanta, teachers are given bonuses when their students do well on tests, and may be terminated when students do not. Even now, after revisions in teacher evaluation, half of teacher performance is based on standardized tests. Teachers can be reassigned, or schools can be closed if there are too many poor-performing students enrolled.

It makes sense to look at the many ways that the system encourages teachers to manipulate, if not outright cheat, when they administer standardized tests.

When teachers spend too much time focused on standardized testing and not enough on course content, are they cheating students? I’m referring to teachers who choose to teach content that they know will show up on the test, or those who spend tens of hours in “practice sessions” with old copies of tests used as drills. From my perspective students are being cheated when there is too much emphasis placed on standardized testing.

Obviously, there must be some way to measure progress among students, and proficiency among teachers. Still, standardized test results should not be tied to teacher compensation, or to threats of school closings.

It makes sense, though, to ask if there is a racial dynamic to leading nearly a dozen teachers, mostly African-American, out of a courtroom in handcuffs. And it makes sense to wonder if the charge of racketeering is being applied to harshly for what is clearly illegal misconduct.

While teaching to the test is not against the law, isn’t it cheating our students nearly as much as the scams?

Cuney Homes jobs program offers opportunity The Department of Housing and Urban Development – better known as HUD – should be commended for awarding the Houston Housing Authority a $3 million grant to assist residents at Cuney Homes.

The Third Ward housing complex has been a Houston fixture for 77 years, and Houstonians from all walks of life – including some community leaders – grew up there.

With this grant, HUD recognizes that low-income residents need jobs as much as they need housing. They want to improve the quality of their lives, and the grant and resulting Jobs-Plus Pilot Program can open the doors of opportunity.

Residents of public housing are sometimes stereotyped as lazy and lacking ambition but that is an unfair indictment. For residents who dream of a better life, the opportunity to become self-sufficient and increase

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their earned income is welcome.

Their children will also benefit. They will see the difference a good job and good work ethic can make, which will positively impact generations to come.

Programs to help public housing residents aren’t new, whether it’s an effort to secure Internet access or assisting the disabled. The Jobs-Plus Pilot Program is a new step in the right direction, and one that is urgently needed.

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

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sports

2015 Astros ready to compete

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By MAX EDISON Defender

here is a quiet optimism that permeates the Astros clubhouse as the 2015 season begins. After years of futility, the stage is set for the team to finally become a legitimate contender.

There is a new manager in A.J. Hinch and a roster that features 2014 AL batting champ Jose Altuve and Gold Glove pitcher Dallas Keuchel. The team even spent a little money in free agency to shore up the pitching staff and other needed areas.

It’s easy to conclude that Hinch, age 40, has been on the major league fast track. In his second stint as a manager (Arizona 2009-2010), he also brings front office experience serving as the Padres’ vice president and assistant general manager from 2011-14. He hopes to employ a simple philosophy with the Astros.

“Win today’s game,” Hinch said. “I expect us to bring our best every day. You build an identity that our best is good enough today.

“We have a good team that is versatile and well-balanced. I think we have a nucleus of guys that are jelling well together. I like the pace in which we play, I like the attention

Tony Sipp

Sipp, relief pitcher, has one of the Astros’ most dependable arms.

to detail we have. Ultimately, I think we have multiple ways to be successful, which is a good sign.”

“I think we have a deep bullpen with guys that have done it before, guys that are very comfortable pitching in a lot of different roles,” Hinch continued.

“I think our lineup is longer than some people know in terms of guys hitting at the bottom of the order, guys like Jason Castro, Jed Lowrie, Colby Rasmus, Jake Marisnick, and Robbie Grossman and Alex Presley if they’re in there,” Hinch said.

“There’s comfort in having that quality of guys at the bottom of the order. You need that to have a wellrounded offense that can threaten to score in every inning.”

Any lineup looks good when you have Altuve, Chris Carter and George Springer in it.

Altuve, who hit .341 last season, became the first player in over 80 years to reach 130 hits and 40 stolen bases before the All-Star Game. A two-time AllStar, he is a catalyst offensively and a solid defensive player.

Designated hitter/first baseman Carter started the

season slow but picked up momentum. During a torrid 52-game stretch from early July through early September, Carter was the AL’s hottest slugger, hitting .296 with 23 homers and 55 RBIs. He finished with 37 homers, second in MLB. In order for the Astros to contend, Carter must continue to be a force offensively starting at the beginning of the season.

The arrival of former No. 1 draft pick George Springer to the big league squad last season highly anticipated. At 6-foot-3, 215 pounds, Springer is all he’s been advertised to be.

A rare blend of speed and power, he had 37 home runs and 45 stolen bases between Double-A and Triple-A in 2013. The talented right fielder hit 20 homers and drove in 51 runs in 78 games last season before a quadriceps injury ended his season. “[Springer] is a really energetic player, loves to play,” Hinch said. “He has the ability to impact the game in every way possible and those players don’t often come around.”

The Astros expect left-handed reliever Tony Sipp to be a mainstay in the bullpen. One of the unsung success stories of 2014, Sipp began last year at TripleA El Paso before the Astros picked him up in early May. Almost immediately he became one of their most dependable arms. He went 4-3 with a 3.38 ERA with four saves in 56 games, posting the second-lowest opponents’ average by a relief pitcher in Astros history (.157). For his effort he was rewarded with a one-year deal worth $2.4 million.

“I’m blessed to be where I am right now,” Sipp said. “It’s definitely a big turnaround from where I was last year, fighting for a job. This year, I can come in and kind of pace myself and get ready for the season however I want. It makes a big difference and takes a lot of stress off.”

defendernetwork.com Springer, a right fielder, is a rare blend of speed and power.

George Springer

Meet UT’s new basketball coach

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h.s.zone Anya earns gold at state swim meet arrived at HCAP. “We actually got him into a

regimented program to

deal with the system afa Anya entered of his strokes and the the doors of the systematic training.

Harris County “Safa came to Aquatics Propractice religiously gram as a novice and worked hard every swimmer when he was 9 day,” Means said. “So years old. The graduating it was no surprise to me senior at Houston’s Lamar when he became one of High School will exit those the top age-group swimsame doors as a recentlymers in the country. He’s crowned state swimming tough, relentless, strong champion. and developed a good Anya won the gold feel for the water. Some medal in the Class 6A state kids can’t reach out and 100-yard breaststroke with get the efficiency in their a time of 55.41 seconds strokes. He was able to to become the first Lamar do that.” male swimmer to win Means added that Lamar High School senior Safa Anya is also coached by Johnnie Means at an individual University Anya is among the top Interscholastic League (UIL) the Harris County Aquatics Program.

20 breaststroke swimstate championship. mers in the U.S. for his “It was a progressive thing. The age group (17), but that he excels in all first year I went to state (9th grade), I the different strokes. Anya finished sixth didn’t qualify in an individual event,” in the state 100-yard butterfly competiAnya said. “I only participated in tion with a school-record time of 49.54 relays. Last year, I was fourth in seconds. He was also on the 200-yard Birth date – Aug. 29, 1997 the 100-breststroke and sixth in the freestyle relay that finished sixth with 100-butterfly. But my main competiBirth sign – Virgo another school-record time of one minute, tion was graduating in the breast25.32 seconds.

Favorite subject in school – stroke.

“We teach them to be good allPhysics and computer science “I watched a video of that race around swimmers in every stroke so he’s Favorite pastime – Video games and noticed some things that were versatile,” Means said. “Now he’s got to (Battlefield 4) slowing me down,” Anya said. “I make up his mind where he wants to go Favorite celebrity – Childish worked on fine-tuning some technical from here.” aspects of my race for the past year.”

Gambino Anya is an honor student who is Anya recorded his personal best slated to finish among the top 10 percent World problem to solve time (55.41 seconds) while earning of a graduating class that numbers close – Apathy (“If we can stay the gold medal at the state meet. It to 800. He’s considering a college major motivated, we can accomplish was a result that didn’t surprise coach in computer electrical engineering and anything.”)

Johnnie Means, who has instructed contemplating a scholarship offer from Anya since the day he and his Virginia Tech. Anya has already two older brothers joined the been accepted at the University of HCAP. Texas in Austin and Georgia Tech.

“When you set your best Learn about free swimming “It’s basically come down to time that means you’ve done program those three schools to see where something different from all I’ll be studying and continuing to the other times that you’ve swim,” he said. competed in the race,” Means said. “You can always imYet when he ranks his list of achievements so far the gold prove on that [personal best time], but it shows progress.” medal at the state swimming meet brings a smile to his face. “I According to Means, Safa was a survival swimmer would say probably toward the top, if not No. 1” he said. who had just learned to paddle across the pool when he “That’s something that people might think is cool.”

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

S

Facts about Safa Anya

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APRIL 9 | 2015 DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs Williams dominates Serena Williams, the No. 1 ranked tennis player in the world, continued her dominance by recently winning the Miami Open. She made quick work of No. 12 seed Carla Suarez Navarro, defeating her 6-2 and 6-0 in the finals that lasted under an hour. It was the eighth time in her career she has won the Miami event. “It feels really good to have eight under my belt,” Williams said. “I can’t say I thought I would win eight, especially in the beginning of the week. It just feels really weird. It definitely feels good, and I’m happy to be able to get through it.” She dedicated the win to her father Richard, who was absent from the game. “I would love to dedicate this to my dad,” Williams said “He’s not here. I miss him. I hope he’s watching. I love you daddy – this one’s for you.”

Alabama tabs Johnson Sources are reporting that former Dallas Maverick and New Jersey Nets head coach Avery Johnson has been tabbed as the new head coach at the University of Alabama.

Johnson, a former Southern University AllAmerican, would replace Anthony Grant, who was recently fired after making only one NCAA tournament in six seasons. Johnson, also a former NBA Coach of the Year, has never coached on the collegiate level. His NBA record is 440 wins vs. 254 losses.

He played 16 seasons in the NBA, the lion’s share with the San Antonio Spurs, where he won an NBA title in 1999.

Girls’ showcase April 18 The 2015 Houston’s Choice Select Girls’ Basketball Showcase is slated for April 18 at Fonde Recreation Center, 110 Sabine. The session will begin at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at 1 p.m. Sanctioned by the Houston Coaches Association, the showcase will be conducted under the 2015-16 NCAA student-athlete guidelines. Admission is free and open to all female student-athletes from HISD schools. It includes player profiles, skills and drills breakdown, player evaluations, performance, competition and games. For more information contact coach Leslie Harris at 713-556-6913 or 713-556-6924.

Athletes shine at classic There were numerous standout performances from Houston area high school studentathletes at the 33rd annual Victor Lopez Classic hosted by Rice University on Easter weekend. Gerald Mills of Fort Bend Marshall posted the best time in the boys’ 200-meter dash when he crossed the finish line in a time of 21.49 seconds. FB Marshall also had the best time (41.32) in the boys’ 4x100 relay as Mills anchored a quartet that included Cederian Lynch, Shamon Ehiemua and Marcus Jones. Taylor Prier of Pearland Dawson won the girls’ triple jump with a gold-medal effort of 37 feet, 8.75 inches.

Caleb Parker of Stafford High School won the gold medal in the boys’ high jump with a leap of six feet, five inches. Derek Williams of Humble Atascocita took the silver medal with 6-3. Essance Sample of Cypress Springs had the best time in the girls’ 100-meter dash with a clocking of 12.16 seconds.

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DEFENDER | APRIL 9 | 2015

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

topevents

CENTER FOR HOUSTON’S FUTURE LUNCHEON……..The Center for Se7en emceed the event and featured artists Vanessa Bell Armstrong and chairperson Houston’s Future, a regional think tank, recently hosted the Future of Leadership Kathy Taylor also helped make the breakfast a success. Those in attendance included Luncheon. The event honored former First Lady Barbara Bush with the Eugene founder T. Hondre Outley, co-founder Cornelius Wright, Roy Wilkerson, Nakeya H. Vaughan Civic Leadership Award. Rev. William A. Lawson was the keynote Lancaster and Brandon McLain. Students who participated during the program speaker. Houston Children’s Chorus opened the luncheon singing the Star included Zyon Henderson, Gregory White, Ziyhon Hubert, Randall Thomas, Spangled Banner and Most Rev. Joseph A. Fiorenza gave the invocation. Those in James Beissel, Christian Pierre and Brian Clem, along with and family and friends attendance included Center for Houston’s Future president who showed their support…….. COMMUNITY ARTISTS’ and CEO Catherine Clark Mosbacher, Rick Jaramillo, COLLECTIVE MIXER……..The Community Artists’ Defender TOP EVENTS Larry Payne, James Campbell, Tammie Lang Campbell, Collective presented “A Taste of Art” mixer to showcase the Joan More photos on defendernetwork.com Davetta Daniels, Jannette Hammond, Mary Lynn Kallina Bristow’s artwork as well as featured artist Marcus Arceneaux.

See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Matthews, Laurie Robinson, Martha Macris, Alan C. The Collective’s mission is to provide the educational and cultural with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Watkins, Rev. Leslie Smith, Melanie Lawson and a host link among African-American artists and all communities, of others……..MUFASA’S PRIDE BREAKFAST & inspiring unlimited creativity. Art enthusiasts had the opportunity to mingle while viewing live painting, art collections and learning more about how to FUNDRAISER……..The Mufasa’s Pride organization held the Battle for Our Seed Breakfast and Fundraiser sponsored by the Houston Arts Alliance at the Power get involved. Those in attendance included executive director Michelle Barnes, Terry Center. The event highlighted the organization’s goal of making manhood mean St. John, Tiffany Rachann, Daniel Daigal, Marco Penton, Domonique Batts, Semaj Lee and other community supporters. more, which was showcased by the keynote speaker Pastor John Gray. Popular poet

Rev. William Lawson and Melanie Lawson

Kathy Taylor and T. Hondre’ Outley

Daniel Daigal and Michelle Barnes

Former President George Bush and honoree Barbara Bush

Ziyhon Hubert, Zyon Henderson and Gregory White

Domonique Batts, Marco Penton and Semaj Lee

Larry Payne and James Campbell

Cornelius Wright, Pastor John Gray and T. Hondre’ Outley

Artist Marcus Arceneaux

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