Houston Defender: May 09, 2019

FEATURE

TEXAS LEGISLATORS ADDRESS REDISTRICTING, U.S. CENSUS P10

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NEWSTALK ERIC JOHNSON heads to runoff for Dallas mayor

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 88 | Number 28

MAY 9, 2019 |FREE

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CELEBRATING MOTHER’S DAY

P2 NATIONAL PHILANDO CASTILE family questions city settlement

P4 H.S. SPORTS ELLINGTON FULLER scores in soccer for Ridge Point

P15 TOP EVENTS

Linda Lorelle and Mary Sias at the Evening of Women’s Empowerment

P16

Readers share words of wisdom H PAGE 8

Michael Ealy returns to screen

The talented actor stars along with Meagan Good as a happy couple just looking to lay down roots in a new home in “The Intruder.” The only problem: the disturbed former owner (Dennis Quaid) is none too pleased about giving up his abode. Ealy talks about the psychological thriller.

Ralph Sampson

looking for entrepreneurs The 7-foot-4 charter member of the original Twin Towers, was back in familiar territory recently. Sampson, the No. 1 pick in the 1983 NBA draft chosen by the Houston Rockets, returned home to present Pitchfest, his latest project that promotes entrepreneurship, .

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

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Could next Dallas mayor be Black?

Defender News Services

Democratic State Rep. Eric Johnson is vying to become the next mayor of Dallas. Johnson will face off with Councilmember Scott Griggs in the runoff election on Saturday, June 8. The two emerged as the top candidates in a crowded field of nine.

Griggs and Johnson said they want to boost public safety, lure more businesses and jobs to the city of Dallas, and lower property taxes. But they do have differences.

Griggs is focusing on his record. “Leadership and experience at City Hall. I’ve been here for the people of the city of Dallas on municipal issues for many years helping them out with a

proven track record of results,” he said.

Johnson, though, said he believes the council is divided. “I’ve not served on the City Council and I’m hoping I can unify that council behind some big ideas for the city. Clearly, the council is not working together as efficiently as it can,” he said.

Johnson added that leading a city like Dallas is not easy and he would offer a balance.

“I don’t think it’s as simple as saying everything that’s not a pothole is a vanity project or everything that’s not fixing a street is a boondoggle. We need to have a certain amount of big dreams and big ideas but we also need to make sure the city works for its residents,” he said.

Dallas State Rep. Eric Johnson is in a runoff for mayor.

Sandra Bland video of traffic stop surfaces Associated Press

Cellphone video recorded by Sandra Bland, a Black woman found dead in a Texas jail following a confrontational 2015 traffic stop, shows for the first time her perspective as a white state trooper draws his stun gun and points it at close range while ordering her out of her car.

The 39-second clip revealed by the Investigative Network, a nonprofit news organization in Texas, first aired on Dallas television station WFAA .

Bland was found hanging in her jail cell outside Houston three days after her arrest.

Her death and dashcam video showing Trooper Sandra Bland died in the Waller County Jail three days after being arrested.

Brian Encinia trying to pull the 28-year-old Encinia has opened Bland’s car door and draws his stun Chicago-area woman out of her vehicle became gun as she tries to steady her phone’s camera. The flashflashpoints in the debate over the treatment of Black lights on the stun gun flick on and Encinia yells, “Get out people by police. of the car! I will light you up. Get out!”

The clip begins at the most dramatic moment of the Bland exits the car and continues to record Encinia July 2015 traffic stop near Prairie View A&M University.

as he orders her onto the sidewalk. The stun gun is still pointed at her and the flashlights remain on. He instructs her to get off the phone, to which Bland replies, “I’m not on the phone.

I have a right to record. This is my property.”

The video ends seconds later after Encinia tells her to put the phone down.

Cannon Lambert, an attorney for the Bland family who settled lawsuits against the state of Texas and the Waller County Jail that totaled nearly $2 million combined, said he never saw the clip until it was recently shared by a news reporter.

Houston State Rep. Garnet Coleman, who in 2017 sponsored the “Sandra Bland Act,” said he would look into why the family never saw the footage.

The Texas Department of Public Safety disputed the premise that the video was not provided, saying it was included as part of a large hard drive of evidence from the investigation.

localbriefs A TRIAL HAS BEGUN TO DETERMINE IF RESIDENTS can be compensated after their homes and businesses were flooded by two reservoirs during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The trial, currently underway in Houston federal court, is focusing on 13 flooded properties serving as test cases to determine whether the federal government would be liable for damages. Residents allege their properties became storage facilities used by the federal government to hold water from the two dams run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Lawyers for the U.S. Department of Justice said flooding from a storm of Harvey’s size was “inevitable.” Harvey caused an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas and flooded

thousands of Houston-area homes………LAWMAKERS ARE CONSIDERING A BILL TO GRANT Texas homeowners a tax break when their property has been damaged by disasters such as Hurricane Harvey. The bill would give homeowners an opportunity to challenge unjust property tax bills after a natural disaster. It would basically remove cities, counties and other governmental agencies from the disaster reappraisal decision-making process. It also includes guidelines on how appraisers must complete the work. The proposal passed the Senate and the House could vote on it soon…….STUDENTS INTERESTED IN EARNING semester credit hours by taking a three-week “mini” semester in May and June have

the option at Texas Southern University. TSU will offer classes in a variety of subjects that will allow students to accelerate their pathway toward graduation. The classes begin Monday, May 20, and run through Tuesday, June 4. For more information visit www.tsu.edu/informationfor/mytsuweb........WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS IS OFFERING FREE, ongoing, two-hour customized Fast Pass to Work job readiness workshops for young adults who need soft skills and etiquette to help them become successful in their first-time jobs. Topics include workplace basics, effective communication, professional conduct and meeting employer expectations. Visit http://www. wrksolutions.com

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

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U.S.briefs

The family of Justine Damond (left) received $20 million in connection to her police shooting death while the family of Philando Castile (right) received $3 million.

Minneapolis wrongful death settlement draws public ire Defender News Services

The city of Minneapolis has awarded the family of an Australian woman who was shot and killed by an onduty police officer a $20 million settlement in connection to the 2017 incident.

The payout is the largest in the city’s history. It serves as a civil settlement for Justine Damond’s family.

Days earlier, Mohamed Noor, the Somali-American officer who opened fire on Damond in an alley nearly two years ago, was found guilty of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter charges.

The settlement marks the first time an officer was found guilty of murder for an on-duty shooting in Minneapolis’ recent history. City officials said Damond’s family will receive $18 million and donate the remaining $2 million to the Minneapolis Foundation’s Fund for Safe Communities.

“This is not a victory for anyone, but rather a way for our city to move forward,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “I do believe we will move forward together, united in the shared belief that such a tragedy should never occur in our city.”

He noted the unprecedented circumstances led in part to the final judgment.

“As the proceedings made clear, there was not a clear threat before the use of force was made, as per Mr. Noor’s statements,” Frey said.

Noor shot and killed Damond when she suddenly appeared by his squad car in July 2017 as he and his partner were pulled into an alleyway. Noor argued that he opened fire to protect his partner. Damond had called 911 to report a possible rape behind her home.

Noor is set to be sentenced on June 7 and faces

up to 25 years in prison for the murder charge and a maximum of 10 years in prison for manslaughter.

As news of the settlement spread, many on social media remarked on the relatively little sum the family of Philando Castile received after he was shot and killed by St. Anthony, Minn. officer Jeronimo Yanez during a traffic stop in July 2017.

Valerie Castile, the victim’s mother who was a trustee in the case, received $3 million in the settlement. The difference in the settlements prompted reactions on Twitter.

“I am trying to understand how the city of Minneapolis can give 20 mil to the Justine Damond family but not give 20 mil to the Philando Castile family?” said one tweet.

“Minneapolis to pay $20M to family of Justine Damond killed by cop…Guess Black lives don’t matter. Philando Castile’s family got $3 million for his murder,” said another tweet.

“Ummm yeah…Philando Castile’s family got $3M for his death. Justine Damond’s family got $20M. Her life was worth 7X that of his,” said yet another tweet.

The municipalities involved in the two cases are not the same. The Castile family settled with the city of St. Anthony, a Minneapolis suburb.

During the fatal incident, Castile had alerted Yanez, who was ultimately acquitted of manslaughter and two lesser charges stemming from the case, that he was armed and licensed to carry. The aftermath of the shooting was captured on video by Castile’s girlfriend, whose young daughter was in the back seat when the elementary school cafeteria worker was shot and bled out.

DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE KAMALA HARRIS went through a laundry list of issues with President Trump while calling on the media to stop overlooking Black voters in their discussions of “electability.” While speaking at the NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner, an annual event given by the organization’s Detroit chapter, Harris said Trump uses hateful rhetoric to stir the pot. Harris went further in her critiques by calling out media pundits who talk about “electability” in the Midwest, by overlooking “people in this room who helped build cities like Detroit,” a likely nod to majority Black populations in the region’s urban areas……..IN AN EFFORT TO CRACK DOWN ON what it says is hate and bigotry, Facebook has banned Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan, farright conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and other “extremists,” saying they violated its ban on “dangerous individuals.” The move signals a renewed effort by the social media giant to remove people and groups it feels promotes objectionable material..…..BALTIMORE’S NEW MAYOR VOWED TO clean up the city after being thrust into office by his predecessor’s resignation amid corruption investigations, but he inherits serious, longstanding problems. Bernard “Jack” Young, a longtime City Council leader, said he intends to serve only the remainder of former Mayor Catherine Pugh’s term and has no interest in running for mayor in 2020. If the Democrat doesn’t change his mind, his tenure would last less than two years. Pugh stepped down, mired in a scandal that’s put her in the crosshairs of federal, state and city investigators trying to unravel the murky financial arrangements of her self-published children’s books. “I’m sorry for the harm that I have caused to the image of the city of Baltimore and the credibility of the office of the mayor,” Pugh said in a statement.

“Baltimore deserves a mayor who can move our great city forward.”

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 28 MAY 9, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Tate Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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Three Black women win U.S. pageant titles Associated Press

When Cheslie Kryst won the Miss USA crown, it marked more than a personal triumph: It meant that for the first time, three Black women are the reigning Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America.

The North Carolina lawyer completed the historic triple recently with pageant winners 2019 Miss America Nia Franklin and recently crowned 2019 Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris.

“The three young women who have focused their energy on demonstrating how standards of Black beauty speak for American standards of beauty are to be commended,” said Thomas DeFrantz, a professor in the Department of African and African American Studies at Duke Nia Franklin Cheslie Kryst Kaliegh Garris University. won her crown in April, and hopes to become a “These three standard-bearers trauma nurse. prove that Black beauty is at the heart of a 21st cenKryst, a former Division I athlete and attorney tury American ideal,” he added. at Poyner Spruill LLP in Charlotte, N.C., won her Franklin, from New York, won her title in Sepcrown in Reno. She holds an MBA from Wake Forest tember in Atlantic City, becoming the first woman University. also to win the Miss America crown without having “Mine is the first generation to have that forto don a swimsuit. Garris, from New Haven, Conn.,

ward-looking mindset that has inclusivity, diversity, strength and empowered women. I’m looking forward to continued progress in my generation,” said Kryst, after accepting her crown. She now advances to the Miss Universe competition.

The oldest of the three is the Miss America pageant, which began in 1921 but women of color were barred from participating until the 1940s by a rule that said contestants must be of “the white race.” Frustration led to the creation of Miss Black America contest.

In 1970, Cheryl Browne became the first Black woman to participate in the Miss America pageant. Since then, more than a dozen Black women have been named either Miss America or Miss USA, including actress Vanessa Williams, the first-ever Black Miss America in 1983.

The Miss USA contest was created in 1952 and crowned the first African-American contestant – Carole Anne-Marie Gist – in 1990. A year later, Janel Bishop won the Miss Teen USA title, becoming the first African-American winner.

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SOCIETY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Bringing the World’s Best to Houston

COMPLEXIONS

CONTEMPORARY BALLET

Defender News Services

The Houston Public Library (HPL) presents the John P. McGovern Summer Reading Program. Beginning June 1 through Aug. 1, kids ages 5-12 and teens 13-18 are invited to explore the unknown by participating in this year’s program, where they will earn reading and activity badges and unlock prizes. Free summer meals are available too for youth ages 1 -18 at participating libraries.

There will be animals, music, sto-

rytimes, performances, balloon shows, workshops and more. Kids can log in anytime to track the days and titles they’ve read. If they read at least 20 minutes, they can count that day. They can also unlock badges by logging minutes and attending programs.

Parents and caregivers can read this summer as well and families who complete the program will win a prize. The summer reading program is free and open to the public. Visit houstonlibrary.org/ summer or call 832-393-1313 for details.

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MAY 9 | 2019 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Michael Ealy stars in film ‘The Intruder’

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Defender: “The Intruder” is an independent film financed by Taylor and Robert Smith, a private equity titan who has appeared on Forbes’ list of wealthiest Americans. It was then picked up by Sony’s Screen Gems after it premiered at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. Did the independent angle appeal to you?

Ealy: When it comes to doing an independent, you really know who wants to be there because of the project. That’s why we were there. We didn’t know the outcome of it when we signed up. We just knew it worked artistically and creatively. It’s for us by us, so let’s make it. The process was extremely collaborative. Taylor said he trusted each of the actors and welcomed changes to the script. He encouraged us to follow their instincts.

Defender News Services

n the psychological thriller “The Intruder,” a married couple, played by Michael Ealy and Meagan Good, buys a gorgeous, $3.5 million home in Napa Valley from a widower, played by Dennis Quaid, who plans to retire to Florida.

Although the pair expects to settle into their new abode peacefully, chaos erupts when they realize the previous owner refuses to let go of the property.

Ealy, whose career spans the gamut from comedies like “Barbershop” to action films like “2 Fast 2 Furious” to TV dramas including “The Good Wife” and “Being Mary Jane,” talks about his latest film, which is now in theaters.

Defender: Is the movie’s central theme – an older white man refusing to cede ground to a young Black couple – a metaphor in the movie?

Michael Ealy: I think that’s something that an audience might deduce on their own, but there’s not an ounce of that in the script.

Defender: This is the first time that Dennis Quaid is taking on a darker role and you’ve said that you were thrilled to be learning a lot from one of the best actors in the game.

Ealy: Right. In sports, they say you get better by playing people that are better than you. When I read the script, I had the luxury of knowing that Meagan Good was attached and Dennis was attached. For me, it was a no-brainer. I knew I’d get better and I’d be challenged.

Defender: You are known for romantic comedies.

Does this thriller represent another move in the conscious effort to explore different types of roles?

Ealy: After “Think Like A Man,” I had this reputation about being the romantic comedy guy. I was like how can I change that? I was able to executive-produce a film called “The Perfect Guy.” That was the first time I went to the dark side. Interestingly enough, I did that and then I got the offer for “The Following.” When I talked to the creators, I realized that I got to go to a different place

with this one.

Defender: You are in a position to take different kinds of roles thanks to your big break in “Barbershop” and make no secret that you will always be grateful to Ice Cube, who vouched for you to get into the movie.

Ealy: “Barbershop” will always be a turning point in my life, not my career. It changed my life.

It came out in 2002 and my life changed after that weekend. Before that, I was able to go places and nobody knew who I was. Ironically, I flew down to Miami to start shooting ‘2 Fast 2 Furious.’ Miami was my first exposure. I had been to South Beach before, but I hadn’t been to South Beach like this. It was bananas. I was down there with Martin Lawrence and Michael Bay at some club called Bed and everyone wanted to take our picture.

Michael Ealy, one of Hollywood’s busiest actors, plays Meagan Good’s husband in “The Intruder.”

what’sup 2019 is definitely proving to be REGINA KING’s year. The director, producer, and award-winning actress has already been recognized for her talent many times this year. She was named one of Time Magazine’s most influential people of 2019 and won an Academy Award for best supporting actress for her role in the film “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Now, Netflix recently announced that the multi-talented entertainer just signed a first-look deal with the streaming service. King will produce films and series for Netflix. REINA KING, her sister, will work as head of the production……..A spinoff

of the ABC sitcom “black-ish” will focus on a young Rainbow Johnson and her challenges growing up in the 1980s. ABC said that the new series, titled “mixed-ish,” will be narrated by TRACEE ELLIS ROSS. She stars in “black-ish” as the adult character with the nickname of Bow. In the spinoff, preteen Bow and her mixed-ethnicity family face the dilemma of assimilation or staying “true to themselves,” according to ABC. Bow and her siblings also must adapt to suburbia and a mainstream school after their parents move from a commune. TIKA SUMPTER will play Bow’s mother. An airdate for the spinoff wasn’t

announced……..BUSHWICK BILL, 52, of the legendary Houston rap group the GETO BOYS, revealed that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. The news came as a complete shock to the rapper because he previously underwent testing for a mass on his pancreas, but doctors said it was benign. In fact, it wasn’t until the cancer was advanced before they knew what he actually had. The Jamaica-born rapper also explained that he decided to go public with his illness because keeping it to himself isn’t helping him. He was born Richard Stephen Shaw in Kingston and joined the Geto Boys in 1986.

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

Sharing looks, advice and more

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By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

hether they like it or not, many daughters are often an extension of their mothers, reflections of their values and aspirations, and of course, their looks.

This Mother’s Day, the Defender asked readers to share their best “mother-daughter look-alike” photos, along with their fondest memories and the best advice they received.

JAVAN & DENISE HAMILTON

Denise’s fondest memory: “My mother was my nurse for several years. I battled a catastrophic illness from age 11-16 and my mother was my hero. She got me out of the wheelchair and back on track for the life I have now. She pushed me and challenged me. I didn’t always like it, but I wouldn’t be on my feet and pain free if she hadn’t. We work together now at WatchHerWork and I love seeing her onstage challenging and empowering other women just like she did for me.”

Best advice from Javan: “My mother always tells me to believe in myself, to trust my judgment and always have the courage to act as my own advocate.”

SONIA & MAYA WHITE

Maya’s fondest memory: There’s one family trip that makes me smile every time it comes across my mind. My mom and I were both awake pretty early on this specific vacation and decided to go for a run on the beach. We’ve gone on plenty runs together in the past, so I’m not entirely sure if it was the beauty of the ocean or just the conversation, but we talked about the future and past. We just talked and enjoyed each other being together and alive…We were able to get away and breathe, together, and it definitely added value to our relationship from then on.”

Sonia’s best advice: “Travel the world, build a business and live your life before you settle down with anyone.”

DEBORAH SIMMONS & SHERRON ELISE

Sherron’s fondest memory: “My fondest memory is when she used to sew clothing for my Barbie dolls and come outside to hulahoop with me.”

Deborah’s best advice: “Whenever you reach a pinnacle of success, never lose sight of God. And always remain humble because the same people that witness your rise will also witness your downfall.”

TERRI & LAURYN HARDIN

Lauryn’s fondest memory: “When we both graduated with our associate’s degree from Blinn College. We both walked across the stage and our family (Lyndon, I and our mom) was featured on the news.

Terri’s best advice: “Be yourself, trust God and pray about it...I guarantee you in five years a lot of this won’t matter.”

PHYLLIS BURTON & PRINCESS JACKSON

Princess’ fondest memor “Traveling state to state with m mom hosting sock campaigns where we give new socks to the less fortunate through my nonp it organization Sock Out Povert Inc. We spend time together wh serving the community.”

Phyllis’ best advice: “Be the best me and always have a servant’s heart.”

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‘Words of wisdom from my mother’

Though many of us carry our mother’s wisdom with us daily, there’s no better time than Mother’s Day – May 11 – to reflect on some of the best life lessons they’ve given us over our lifetime. Whether it’s advice on everything from relationships to religion, lessons from our mothers remain with us forever and keep guiding us. Often, we end up passing those lessons on to our own children.

Here, daughters and sons share life lessons from their mothers.

“Pretty is as pretty does.” ~Gloria Clouser, mother of Lynn Clouser

“You’re classed with the company you keep.” ~Anna Titus, mother of Shelley Price

“Do not try to stick things in the electrical socket and do not try to pry out the plastic cap after being told not to.” ~Joan Gray, mother of Maurice Gray

“You cannot change what you do not acknowledge.” ~Sharron Houston, mother of Angela Reed

“Always put yourself at the top of the list!! In other words, take care of yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. That lesson has proven true time and time again.” ~Ida Turner Robertson, mother of Shylondia Jones Peters “Never worry about anything money can replace.” I now have much more than I had when I left! Praise God!” ~Mother of Patsy Crowder-Latin (after leaving an abusive marriage)

“If you stay with a man after he cheats on you, you ain’t seen nothing yet.” ~Gwen Robinson, mother of D’Nisha Smith “It’s a poor dog that won’t wag his own tail.” ~Willie Johnson, mother of Pam Gaskin.

“Don’t leave home with one and come back with two!” ~Josephine Dunlap Bryant, mother of Ernice Bryant Blann “Be careful of the tail you step on today; it might be tied to the one you’ll have to kiss tomorrow.” ~ Ruby Hartsfield, mother of Tarnisha Hartsfield

DefenderNetwork.com More words of wisdom KAYE & SHALA LaDON WALKER

DefenderNetwork.com See more mothers & daughters KIMBERLY BALL & TANESHA L. WILLIAMS

Tanesha’s fondest memory: “When she took me to college and the emotional connection we both felt the day she had to leave me to my adulthood.”

Kimberly’s best advice: “Never depend on anyone.”

he Houston area for over 88 years

VICKEE GRAY & JASMINE SYES

Shala’s fondest memory: “Our adventures on our many travels together.

Every year we take a mother-daughter trip to visit a new destination. We’ve gone on safaris in South Africa, whale watching in Alaska, wine tasting in Australia, exploring in New Zealand, and many more. People are always surprised that we can spend so much time together and still get along so well. I am very thankful for our relationship.”

Kaye’s best advice: “I have two favorite pieces of advice that my mother has given me. The first is, ‘Don’t take any wooden nickels!’ She says this just about any time I travel without her. It’s an old saying that basically means stay alert and don’t let anyone get over on you. She also taught me to work hard professionally and intentionally enjoy every moment we’re blessed to spend on this earth.”

Jasmine’s fondest memory: “Being taught how to cook great Southern food such as fried chicken, homemade biscuits and molasses, macaroni and cheese, greens, cornbread and dressing.

Vickee’s best advice: “Live my life without regrets and create my own opportunities; don’t wait on others to do it for me.”

INOR HOLMES TAYLOR & REBECCA TAYLOR PORTER

Rebecca’s fondest memory: “When she came to take care of me after giving birth to my son.”

Inor’s best advice: “Whatever happens between your parents is their business. Even if we divorce, he is your dad; respect him always, no matter what. I teach that to others to this day.”

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

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State Rep. Senfronia Thompson

State legislators address redistricting, census

By ALEXIS TATUM Defender

The Texas Legislature has been tied up in a political battle over controversial redistricting practices for most of the last decade. This legislative session, Black state legislators are working against gerrymandering and pushing for what they call a smart redistricting plan.

During the Texas Legislative Black Caucus (TLBC) Summit, State Rep. Senfronia Thompson, D-Houston, said an accurate 2020 Census count is vital to ensuring that Texas gets the necessary federal funding and fair votes in the coming election cycles.

“For years, the United States Supreme Court said that partisanship was a legitimate basis to draw political lines on,” Thompson said. “Because African-Americans so traditionally align with the Democratic Party, politicians used this basis to undercut our political power.”

Maria Campos, a partnership specialist in the United States Census Bureau, said the census is crucial to many communities because it determines how nearly all federal funds are distributed in the state.

“The census is the primary determining factor in how the federal government decides where funds go and what communities really look like,” Campos said. “Inaccurate counts mean that Texans miss out on funds, and this has been a continuous problem in communities of color.”

The main function of the census is to analyze where and how people live throughout the country so that the federal government can provide resources, Campos added.

In addition to deciding where federal funds are distributed, the census count can have an impact on how citizens of color vote. In February, the Supreme Court agreed to take on the Trump administration’s request to add a mandatory citizenship question to the upcoming

past. This practice may violate federal protections for voters of color, by packing a minority community into one voting district or splitting them • The decennial census is the once-a-decade between two or more districts, diminishing their population and housing count of all 50 states, the voting power.

District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Island Areas.

Last year, the Supreme Court ruled that the • Each year, the federal government distributes more Legislature did not intentionally discriminate in than $675 billion to states and communities based on drawing the political maps. Originally, a lower Census Bureau data. court ruled that state lawmakers intentionally re• The census determines how many representatives drew maps to reduce the voting power of Latino each state gets in Congress and is used to redraw and Black communities. district boundaries. Redistricting counts are sent to the As the 2020 states by March 31, 2021.

Census approaches, • Residents use the census to support community This story was Thompson and other initiatives involving legislation, quality-of-life and produced by a TLBC members said consumer advocacy. partnership with the the state must adopt • Local government officials use the census to ensure University of Texas at complete count compublic safety and plan new schools and hospitals.

Austin and Hustonmittees to ensure fair • Businesses use Census Bureau data to decide where Tillotson University. redistricting and fund to build factories, offices and stores, and these create Alexis is a UT student distribution. jobs. who covered the According to • Real estate developers and city planners use the Texas Legislative Black the Center for Public census to plan new homes and improve neighborhoods Caucus Summit.

Policy Priorities, • In 2020, new technology will be implemented to complete count commake it easier to respond to the census. For the first mittees will make time, you will be able to respond online, by phone, as sure that Texans don’t lose out on critical federal well as by mail. The Census Bureau will use data that tax dollars or Congressional representation. The the public has already provided to reduce follow-up committees that are currently being formed by visits, and says it is “building an accurate address list the Census Bureau focus on rural counties, coland automating our field operations – all while keeping lege towns, and communities along the border, your information confidential and safe.” where historically inaccurate counts have been Source: U.S. Census Bureau recorded, according to Campos.

“The complete count committees are in the educational phase right now at the Census Bureau, but they’re forming all across the state of census questionnaire.

Texas,” Campos said. “They encourage participation and Thompson and Campos both said the question could educate on the importance [of the census]. It’s important be detrimental by causing a lower participation rate. that those committees be chaired by people from the Other critics say that the question will ultimately cause communities that have been historically undercounted.” discriminatory redistricting, or gerrymandering.

The 2020 Census questionnaire will be distributed The Texas Legislature has been accused of using nationwide on April 1, 2020. race as a determinate in drawing political maps in the

Census facts

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MAY 9 | 2019 | DEFENDER

health

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

11

People of color get skin cancer

BY KENNE OGUNMAKIN, M.D.

P

eople of color often believe they’re not at risk for skin cancer, but the truth is anyone can get skin cancer.

Most skin cancers are associated with overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or indoor tanning beds. While KENNE OGUNMAKIN, M.D. darker skin produces more of the pigment melanin that helps protect skin, that doesn’t mean people of color still can’t get sunburned or develop skin cancer from UV damage.

The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma, which is the deadliest form.

A July 2016 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology concluded that non-Hispanic black people have the lowest rates of melanoma diagnoses but are the most likely to be diagnosed at a later stage of the disease and more likely to die from skin cancer.

Furthermore, certain skin cancers are caused by factors other than UV – such as genetics or environmental influences – and may occur on parts of the body rarely exposed to the sun. For example, people who have dark skin are more susceptible to acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), an especially dangerous form of melanoma that typically appears on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or beneath the nails.

Because of its location, ALM often goes unnoticed longer, which is one reason why people of color are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer at a later stage.

Early detection is key

It’s vital that skin cancer is detected early, when it is easiest to treat and most likely to be cured. Do a monthly skin self-exam and see a dermatologist at least once a year – or immediately if any of the warning signs appear: • A bump, patch, sore, or growth that bleeds, oozes, crusts, doesn’t heal, or lasts longer than a month.

• An ulcer, scaly red patch, or wart-like growth that sometimes crusts or bleeds.

• New or existing moles that are asymmetrical, have an irregular border, are more than one color, are larger than a pencil eraser, or change in any way.

Pay special attention to suspicious spots on the hands, soles of the feet, or under the nails, which could signify ALM.

Skin cancer prevention tips

To avoid premature aging and damage that can lead to skin cancer, everyone should practice these sun-safe habits: • Use sunscreen every day. Apply a broad-spectrum (meaning it helps protect against ultraviolet-A and -B rays) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher 20 to 30 minutes before exposure. Reapply every two hours and after swimming.

• Limit exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

That’s when UV rays are most damaging.

• Dress sun smart. Wear sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and sun-protective clothing (found in sports apparel stores) when outdoors for extended periods.

• Wear sun protection even on overcast days.

Solar rays can penetrate clouds and deliver a damaging sunburn.

Dr. Kenne Ogunmakin is a board-certified dermatologist at Kelsey-Seybold’s Tanglewood Clinic.

To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

Get KelseyConnected

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Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, you have an entire healthcare team that can share your medical history through one electronic medical record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you.

Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: n

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Locations close to home and work. Choose the location most convenient for you at kelsey-seybold.com/locations.

24-Hour Nurse Hotline. Speak with a Kelsey-Seybold nurse after 5 p.m. and on holidays and weekends.

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MyKelseyOnline. Email your doctor’s office, make appointments, refill prescriptions, view test results, and more.

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Appointments today! Book a Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics appointment online at kelsey-seybold.com/NOW.

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

Dyson commencement speaker at PVAMU Defender News Services

Noted author and radio host Dr. Michael Eric Dyson will deliver the spring commencement address at Prairie View A&M University on Saturday, May 11, at 9 a.m. Doors open for guests at 7:30 a.m.

For the second year, PVAMU’s commencement will be held at Panther Stadium at students’ request to hold a single ceremony that Dr. Michael Eric Dyson could accommodate more family, friends, alumni and supporters.

More than 830 students (undergraduate and graduate) from nine colleges and schools will come together to celebrate the 138th spring commencement ceremony.

Dyson is an award-winning author, a

widely celebrated Georgetown University professor, a prominent intellectual, noted political analyst and New York Times contributing opinion writer. A native of Detroit, he is also an ordained Baptist minister.

He has authored nearly 20 books, including “Making Malcolm: The Myth and Meaning of Malcolm X,” “Between God and Gangsta Rap,” “I May Not Get There with You: The True Martin Luther King Jr.,” “Holler if You Hear Me: Searching for Tupac Shakur” and “Why I Love Black Women.”

His latest book, “Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America,” looks at the state of race relations in the U.S.

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defendernetwork.com

MAY 9 | 2019 | DEFENDER

13

Woods awarded medal, motive questioned Associated Press

If there were a Mount Rushmore for golfers, Tiger Woods would probably be on it. But President Donald Trump’s decision to award the nation’s highest civilian honor to Woods has raised questions about whether the president should be boosting the profile of a business associate of the Trump Organization.

Trump recently presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Woods during a White House ceremony. The president announced his intention to do so after Woods won the Masters Tournament last month, capping a remarkable recovery from injury and years of personal troubles that had left some wondering whether he would ever win again President Donald Trump presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Tiger Woods. at the professional level.

Woods earned his 15th major golf championship with his Masfirst Masters victory in 1997. The place was mobbed. Two ters win and his 81st overall on the PGA Tour, both ranking thousand fans showed up as Woods walked down a 320-foot second. red carpet, some of them storming steel barricades to get a Trump has been using Woods’ cachet to attract fans to closer look. his properties for decades. Trump got Woods to show up at Trump has also struck business deals with Woods. his Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City, a day after the golfer’s Golfers at Trump’s club in Doral, Fla., can stay at the

Tiger Woods Villa. At a ribbon-cutting ceremony in 2014, Woods lavished praise on the future presidential candidate, calling changes he made to the club “phenomenal.”

Ethics officials have criticized Trump for not selling off his assets completely and holding the money in a blind trust. Instead, he set up a trust to hold his assets, handed day-to-day management responsibilities to two sons and hired an ethics lawyer to vet business deals. Trump can draw money from the trust and can benefit if his properties increase in value.

Christopher Devine, an associate professor of political science at the University of Dayton, said Trump may have a business angle.

Still, Devine said, when he stacks up Woods’ accomplishments against other recipients, he believes Woods is deserving and calls his Masters victory “the greatest comeback in sports of all time.”

“If President Obama or Hillary Clinton had given the award to Tiger, no one would have batted an eye,” Devine said.

Devine also noted that previous presidents have presented the award to supporters and political donors. For example, Obama awarded the Medal of Freedom to Bruce Springsteen, who performed in concerts to support Obama’s election efforts.

He also awarded it to his vice president, Joe Biden.

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DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

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sports

Ralph Sampson

Former Rocket promotes entrepreneurship

R

By MAX EDISON Defender

alph Sampson, the 7-foot-4 charter member of the original Twin Towers, was back in familiar territory recently.

Sampson, the No. 1 pick in the 1983 NBA draft chosen by the Houston Rockets, returned home to present his latest project that promotes entrepreneurship.

The event, titled Pitchfest, is a joint project between Puma and venture capital platform SeventySix Capital. Sampson is a Puma brand ambassador. The Ralph Sampson Pitchfest is a contest that gives Houston-area entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch innovative business and philanthropic ideas (for-profit and not-for-profit) related to sports, technology and community to a panel of judges. At stake is a prize of $20,000 in start-up funding.

“In today’s market you have a lot of young people who have ideas of becoming entrepreneurs,” Sampson said. “They want to build something special, but they don’t have vehicles to get money or capital or networking opportunities to make things happen. Pitchfest is a creative way to Sampson presented a check to Win-Win CEO Mike Brown. help these business people get the help they need.

Forty companies pitched their ideas and the final six made “All of these companies bring ideas that highlight the their presentations in downtown Houston. The judging panel use of innovative technology,” he said. “This is the first of included: Sampson; Matthew Growney, head of Special Projects its kind opportunity where a shoe company and a venture at PUMA and managing partner of Fabulous Brands; Chad capitalist group can interface and network with them. It’s Stender, managing director of SeventySix Capital; and Kiotti our hopes that we can do it in multiple cities, but Houston is Brown, 97.9 The Box. First-, second- and third-place winners first.” were awarded $20,000, $10,000 and $5,000 respectively.

Sampson explained how Houston became the site of the When the dust settled Houston native Mike inaugural Pitchfest.

Brown, CEO of Win-Win, walked away with first “Houston is where it all started for me,” he said. “Getplace. His start-up combines giving with gaming by ting drafted here and being the number one pick in 1983 was having professional athletes host fantasy sports style very special. I just decided we had to start things off in Houston. tournaments where donors compete to win prizes The moment I got off the plane and got that first little breath of and experiences. humidity, I said I’m home. My son lives here now, so Houston is An athlete chooses a featured charitable just a great place to be. cause so that as fans enter the tournament, they “I haven’t been real flamboyant with a lot of the projects can make voluntary, tax-deducible donations of I’ve been involved in,” Sampson said. “With the market the way any amount. To incentivize user transaction, it is, now there’s an opportunity to do some additional things that fans earn perks and advantages, including benefit the community. virtual currency, based on their donation “I’m really excited by the possibilities based on our turnout amount. here tonight. If we stay focused on what I call the MAP program Win-Win retains a percentage of ev– self-Motivated, great Attitude and have a Plan, we can colery donation transaction that happens lectively do big things.” on the platform and brand partners Pitchfest also gives Sampson the opportunity to reconnect pay for customized sponsorship of with the shoe company that he represented throughout his playthe fan-funding campaigns. ing career, Puma.

Basketball Hall of Famer Ralph Sampson visited Houston with his Pitchfest project.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

Sampson played for the Rockets from 1983 to 1988, forming the Twin Towers with Akeem Olajuwon. He later played for three other NBA teams. He became a college coach in 1992 and was a Phoenix Sun assistant coach from 2012 to 2013.

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h.s. sports

MAY 9 | 2019 | DEFENDER

Zach Evans No. 1

Galena Park North Shore running back Zach Evans was named the No. 1 prospect in the nation according to ESPN’s 300 for the 2020 class. At the Opening Regional, a local combine for the top prospects in the city, Evans put himself in the 99th percentile nationally. In the 40-yard dash, Evans posted a 4.51 second official time (4.40 unofficially), a 37-inch vertical jump and a 3.84 second time in the shuttle drills. Evans is considering Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Texas and Texas A&M to name a few.

Ellington Fuller makes plays for Fort Bend ISD’s Ridge Point High School, which won the 20-6A district soccer title.

Ridge Point midfielder

Ellington Fuller scores in soccer

F

everything except football. They asked me to pick one of the sports and I picked soccer because I wanted to play a sport that allowed me to travel internationally. With soccer I have been to the Bahamas, Mexico, rom the age of 4, junior Ridge Point High School midGermany, Spain and I am about to travel to France after the school year fielder Ellington Fuller has dedicated his mind, body and ends. soul to the game of soccer.

Defender: What else do you love about being on the soccer field?

He has made his name known in the amateur ranks Fuller: It’s my passion. [Brazilian soccer legend] Ronaldinho with powerhouse programs that include the Houston once said, “I learned all about life with a ball at my feet.” The same Dynamo Academy, Rice and the Albion Hurricanes. In thing goes for me. I grew up playing soccer and just fell in love with it Fuller’s junior season at Ridge Point, he showcased his capabilities of as a kid and I just love being out there. I love to run and soccer is the scoring and getting his teammates most demanding sport in running. involved by accounting for 10 goals Defender: What advice do you For game & crowd photos of and 14 assists on the season. have for younger soccer players bi-district baseball playoffs visit IG Equally impressive is his ability who wants to achieve what you have @DefenderHighSchoolSports to excel in the classroom. Fuller has achieved? maintained a 3.5 GPA, is a Texas SciFuller: The biggest thing is that ence Olympiad participant, achieved they have to really think about it and ask, “Do I want to commit to this high marks on his most recent SAT (which he admits he still wants to sport?” That is what I had to do. After that, it is all about the work and take again) and helped lead his high school robotics team to two conthe time they put in. You have to put in the time to become a better secutive third-place finishes at a state tournament. player. It’s not just going to happen on its own. I’ve seen a lot of young The Defender spoke with the stellar student-athlete about his players who think they can just come to practice two or three times a playing style, love of the game and how he manages to balance sports week and get better. But you have to do a lot of work on your own if and school. you really want to be a good player. Connections for opportunities to Defender: How would you describe your style of play as a play overseas is also essential. midfielder?

Defender: How have you been able to balance school and your Fuller: I’m a technical player who is good on the ball. I can dedication to soccer at the same time? receive the ball under pressure. I am calm on the ball and pick the right Fuller: It is a lot of staying up and studying because when you pass-outs. come home from practice you are tired. It’s all about time management Defender: How did you get into the game of soccer? and being able to understand that I have to practice on this at these times Fuller: When I was a kid my parents put me in pretty much and I need to study at these times.

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

About Fuller

Twitter: @ellingtonhda_20 College considering: Howard University Soccer players he studies: Leroy Sane, Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi Favorite artist: Travis Scott Hobbies: Reading, giving back to the community Favorite TV Show: “The Jeffersons” World problem he would solve: Hunger Shout-outs: Howard University, Kenny at HBOT America and Sunshine

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15

16

DEFENDER | MAY 9 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

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

topevents

35th ANNUAL BP MS150……..The National MS Society recently hosted its 35th Simmons, Judge Germaine Tanner, Robin Paoli, Gabriela Rodriguez and others.

Annual BP MS 150, a bike ride fundraiser, that saw nearly 10,000 cyclists on 415 The pre-reception featured food samples from local female chefs and restaurant registered teams ride from Houston to Austin with an overnight stay in La Grange. owners. Other attendees included Denise Hamilton, Carla Lane, Dorita Hatchett, Total mileage for the cyclists was 140-170 miles, while the projected funds raised Emily Anderson, Linda Lorelle, Kimberly Robison, Aiesha Odutayo, Cherise were nearly $14 million. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive neurological disorder, Story, Cora Robinson, Stephanie Meads and many others.……..76th ANNUAL and an unpredictable and disabling disease of the central nervous system that CITYWIDE BEAUTICIANS & BARBERS ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body.

LUNCHEON……..The CityWide Beauticians & Barbers Association (CWBBA) hosted Participants in this year’s ride included Chef Jeff Lewis, David its 76th Annual Scholarship Luncheon at Kim Son Restaurant.

Hubbard, Defender Engagement Manager Margo Williams Elite professionals in Houston’s haircare industry were on hand Defender TOP EVENTS to not only discussion the future of cosmetologists and barbers Hubbard, the Ridin’ Dirty Bike Club and many more..……..

More photos on defendernetwork.com AN EVENING OF WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT…….. but award young, up-and-comers Kaila Jefferson and Melvin Houston City Councilmember Amanda Edwards along with Strong III with scholarships. Event coordinators Earker Coleman the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Watch and Jeanette Wright welcomed State Sen. Borris Miles and Her Work and Links, Inc. (Houston Chapter) hosted An Evening of Women’s Councilmember Michael Kubosh along with other attendees including Mack and Misty Empowerment at the Houston Chronicle Building. Participants were educated, Bishop, Kimberly Aitch, Janice Ward, Sabrina Kimble, DeKeisha Fitzgerald, Nancy equipped with critical tools, encouraged, and empowered by a dynamic set of Harris, Sandra Strahan, Jose Grinan, Nicholas Howard, Schewonda Kimbrough, trailblazing and inspirational women including Samina Farid, Donna Cole, Jade Stephanie Boxie, Sederia Thomas, Alycea Price and others.

David Hubbard, Joseph Ledet, Margo Williams Hubbard

Emily Anderson, Councilmember Amanda Edwards

Ridin’ Dirty Bike Club

Dorita Hatchett, Denise Hamilton, Carla Lane

Earker Coleman, Jeanette Wright, Jose Grinan, Janice Ward, Kimberly Aitch

Sabrina Kimble, DeKeisha Fitzgerald, Kaila Jefferson, Nancy Harris

BP MS150 Riders

Linda Lorelle, Mary Sias

Shan Williams, Alycea Price, Alexys Price

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years